The researchers used a genetically modified mouse to show a particular protein had beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, specifically atherosclerosis.
One of the researchers, Elena Ambrogini, explained, “Together, the two studies provide proof of principle for a new therapy for two very common diseases, osteoporosis and atherosclerosis, simultaneously. In the case of osteoporosis, this would be a new anabolic therapy, meaning that it can build new bone as opposed to only preventing the loss of old bone.”
Dr. Ambrogini wrote, “We used mice overexpressing the antigen recognition portion of E06 (E06-scFv), or IK17-scFv, which block the effects of PC-OxPL or MDA, respectively. We found that E06-scFv transgene increases cancellous bone mass and attenuates the loss of cortical bone mass caused by high-fat diet in the LDL-receptor knockout model of atherosclerosis.”
Co-author Robert L. Jilka added, “We have known for quite some time that there was some sort of connection between osteoporosis, atherosclerosis and the high-fat diet. Investigators all over the world have been studying this for a while without much success as to the reason for this connection.”
The two studies combined reveal possible new treatment and prevention methods for not only cardiovascular disease but osteoporosis too.
Thus far, recommended prevention methods for osteoporosis include increasing calcium and vitamin D, partaking in weight-bearing exercises, avoiding smoking, alcohol, and caffeine, and maintaining a healthy weight. Women over the age of 50 are at the highest risk of osteoporosis which increases the risk of bone fractures and disability.
Also read:
- Can osteoporosis be reversed? 12 natural ways to treat osteoporosis
- Osteopenia vs. osteoporosis: Understanding the difference