Publication Date
4-2022
School
School of Health Sciences
Major
Biology: Biomedical Sciences
Keywords
osteoporosis, pathology of osteoporosis, osteoporosis treatments
Disciplines
Medical Physiology
Recommended Citation
Munnikhuysen, Shea, "The Pathology and Treatment of Osteoporosis" (2022). Senior Honors Theses. 1223.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/honors/1223
Abstract
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bone fragility and decreased bone mass. Osteocytes and signaling molecules regulate the function of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. The RANK pathway is a key regulator in osteoclastogenesis. When the osteoclastic function is greater than osteoblastic function, bone integrity decreases. Causes of osteoporosis include hormones, medications, and diet. Treatments for osteoporosis are hormonal, medicinal, and lifestyle changes. More research needs to be done to find more effective medications with fewer negative side effects to improve the overall quality of life for patients. Currently, lab trials are being done on potential new medications to treat osteoporosis.
