Estrogen deficiency induces bone loss by increasing T cell proliferation and lifespan through IFN-gamma-induced class II transactivator

Differential Gene Expression Involved in Bone Turnover of Mice Expressing Constitutively Active TGFβ Receptor Type I

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is ubiquitously found in bone and plays a key role in bone turnover. Mice expressing constitutively active TGF-β receptor type I (Mx1;TβRICA mice) are osteopenic. Here, we identified the candidate genes involved in bone turnover in Mx1;TβRICA mice using RNA sequencing analysis. A total of 285 genes, including 87 upregulated and 198 downregulated genes, were differentially expressed. According to the KEGG analysis, some genes were involved in osteoclast differentiation (Fcgr4, Lilrb4a), B cell receptor signaling (Cd72, Lilrb4a), and neutrophil extracellular trap formation (Hdac7, Padi4). Lilrb4 is related to osteoclast inhibition protein, whereas Hdac7 is a Runx2 corepressor that regulates osteoblast differentiation. Silencing Lilrb4 increased the number of osteoclasts and osteoclast marker genes. The knocking down of Hdac7 increased alkaline phosphatase activity, mineralization, and osteoblast marker genes. Therefore, our present study may provide an innovative idea for potential therapeutic targets and pathways in TβRI-associated bone loss.

Systemic immunological responses are dependent on sex and ovarian hormone presence following acute inhaled woodsmoke exposure

BACKGROUND

Rural regions of the western United States have experienced a noticeable surge in both the frequency and severity of acute wildfire events, which brings significant challenges to both public safety and environmental conservation efforts, with impacts felt globally. Identifying factors contributing to immune dysfunction, including endocrinological phenotypes, is essential to understanding how hormones may influence toxicological susceptibility.

METHODS

This exploratory study utilized male and female C57BL/6 mice as in vivo models to investigate distinct responses to acute woodsmoke (WS) exposure with a focus on sex-based differences. In a second set of investigations, two groups were established within the female mouse cohort. In one group, mice experienced ovariectomy (OVX) to simulate an ovarian hormone-deficient state similar to surgical menopause, while the other group received Sham surgery as controls, to investigate the mechanistic role of ovarian hormone presence in driving immune dysregulation following acute WS exposure. Each experimental cohort followed a consecutive 2-day protocol with daily 4-h exposure intervals under two conditions: control HEPA-filtered air (FA) and acute WS to simulate an acute wildfire episode.

RESULTS

Metals analysis of WS particulate matter (PM) revealed significantly increased levels of 63Cu, 182W, 208Pb, and 238U, compared to filtered air (FA) controls, providing insights into the specific metal components most impacted by the changing dynamics of wildfire occurrences in the region. Male and female mice exhibited diverse patterns in lung mRNA cytokine expression following WS exposure, with males showing downregulation and females displaying upregulation, notably for IL-1β, TNF-α, CXCL-1, CCL-5, TGF-β, and IL-6. After acute WS exposure, there were notable differences in the responses of macrophages, neutrophils, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cytokines IL-10, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α. Significant diverse alterations were observed in BAL cytokines, specifically IL-1β, IL-10, IL-6, and TNF-α, as well as in the populations of immune cells, such as macrophages and polymorphonuclear leukocytes, in both Sham and OVX mice, following acute WS exposure. These findings elucidated the profound influence of hormonal changes on inflammatory outcomes, delineating substantial sex-related differences in immune activation and revealing altered immune responses in OVX mice due to ovarian hormone deficiency. In addition, the flow cytometry analysis highlighted the complex interaction between OVX surgery, acute WS exposure, and their collective impact on immune cell populations within the hematopoietic bone marrow niche.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, both male and female mice, alongside females subjected to OVX and those who had sham surgery, exhibit significant variations in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines, lung mRNA gene expression, and related functional networks linked to signaling pathways. These differences potentially act as mediators of sex-specific and hormonal influences in the systemic inflammatory response to acute WS exposure during a wildfire event. Understanding the regulatory roles of genes expressed differentially under environmental stressors holds considerable implications, aiding in identifying sex-specific therapeutic targets for addressing acute lung inflammation and injury.

Osteoporosis: interferon-gamma-mediated bone remodeling in osteoimmunology

As the world population ages, osteoporosis, the most common disease of bone metabolism, affects more than 200 million people worldwide. The etiology is an imbalance in bone remodeling process resulting in more significant bone resorption than bone remodeling. With the advent of the osteoimmunology field, the immune system's role in skeletal pathologies is gradually being discovered. The cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), a member of the interferon family, is an important factor in the etiology and treatment of osteoporosis because it mediates bone remodeling. This review starts with bone remodeling process and includes the cellular and key signaling pathways of bone remodeling. The effects of IFN-γ on osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and bone mass are discussed separately, while the overall effects of IFN-γ on primary and secondary osteoporosis are summarized. The net effect of IFN-γ on bone appears to be highly dependent on the environment, dose, concentration, and stage of cellular differentiation. This review focuses on the mechanisms of bone remodeling and bone immunology, with a comprehensive discussion of the relationship between IFN-γ and osteoporosis. Finding the paradoxical balance of IFN-γ in bone immunology and exploring the potential of its clinical application provide new ideas for the clinical treatment of osteoporosis and drug development.

Cistanche deserticola improves ovariectomized-induced osteoporosis mainly by regulating lipid metabolism: Insights from serum metabolomics using UPLC/Q-TOF-MS

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cistanche deserticola (C. deserticola) is an edible and traditional medicine widely used in China, which has been confirmed to be effective in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). Despite its proven efficacy, the exact role of C. deserticola in bone metabolism and its underlying mechanism has remained unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this research, we employed an in vivo model utilizing ovariectomized (OVX) rats to characterize the anti-osteoporotic activity and metabolic mechanism of the ethanol extract of C. deserticola (CHE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups including sham operation group, model group, 0.1 g/kg estradiol valerate (EV) group as the positive control, low (0.6 g/kg) and high (1.2 g/kg) dosage CHE groups. Biochemical parameter analyses and histopathological experiments were conducted to assess the pharmacodynamic effects. Metabolomic analysis was conducted on serum samples to examine the metabolic profiles, identify potential biomarkers, and elucidate the metabolic pathways associated with CHE in OVX rats.

RESULTS

CHE treatment demonstrated significant anti-osteoporosis activity by regulating serum biochemical markers of bone turnover, improving cancellous bone structure, and reversing the decrease in bone mineral density. Furthermore, the clinical equivalent dose group (CHL) achieved superior overall outcomes. The main interventions of CHE on OVX rats involved the modulation of several key pathways, including steroid hormone biosynthesis, arachidonic acid metabolism, tyrosine and tryptophan metabolism, biotin metabolism, regulation of TRP channels by inflammatory mediators, primary bile acid biosynthesis, regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes, and bile secretion. 23 potential efficacy-related biomarkers within the metabolic network were identified. Among them, long-chain unsaturated fatty acids (eg. DHA and docosapentaenoic acid), steroid hormones, amino acids and carbohydrates were strongly correlated with bone resorption and formation markers. Additionally, it was observed four pathways (nucleotide, carbon, amino acid, and lipid metabolism) were implicated in the effects of CHE.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that CHE improves bone loss in PMOP mainly through regulating lipid metabolism pathways, which provides an evidence base for CHE treatment of PMOP.

Bifidobacterium improves oestrogen-deficiency-induced osteoporosis in mice by modulating intestinal immunity

Osteoporosis has become one of the major diseases that threaten the health of middle-aged and elderly people, and with the growth of an ageing population, more and more people are affected by osteoporosis these days. In recent years, intestinal flora has been found to affect the host immune system, and an overactive immune system is closely related to bone resorption. Probiotics can effectively improve bone density and strength, reduce bone loss, and improve osteoporosis, but their mechanism of action and relationship with intestinal microbiota are still unclear. In this study, two strains of Bifidobacterium (Bifidobacterium bifidum FL228.1 and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis F1-7) that can alleviate intestinal inflammation were screened based on previous experiments. Through the construction of an ovariectomized mouse model, the improvement of osteoporosis by Bifidobacterium was detected, and the influence of Bifidobacterium on intestinal immunity was explored. The results show that Bifidobacterium treatment significantly improved bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume/total volume ratio (BV/TV), and trabecular number (Tb·N), and effectively suppressed bone loss. Furthermore, Bifidobacterium treatment could inhibit the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the gut, alleviate gut inflammation, and thus suppress excessive osteoclast generation. Its mechanism of action includes factors that protect the mucosal barrier, including occludin, ZO-1, claudin-2, and MUC2, and the reduction of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages. B. bifidum FL228.1 increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria in the colon, including Lactobacillus and Colidextribacter. B. animalis F1-7 increased the abundance of Bifidobacterium and decreased the abundance of Desulfovibrio and Ruminococcus in the colon. These research findings expand our understanding of the gut-bone axis and provide new guidance for the development of probiotic-based therapies for osteoporosis in the future.

Sex-Related Effect of Aging in Gingival Gamma-Delta T Cells

Aging affects the number and function of gamma-delta (γδ) T cells in a tissue-specific manner, modifying the risk for inflammatory disease. These aging-related γδT-cell variations in gingival tissues that could increase the risk for inflammation and periodontal disease remain unknown. Here we sought to identify quantitative and qualitative variations in gingival γδT cells associated with aging that could have an impact in oral immunoinflammatory responses. For this, gingival tissues from young (4 mo) and aged (24 mo) male and female mice were collected and analyzed by flow cytometry. Cell suspensions were stimulated and stained with eFluor450 (cell viability), anti-CD45 (hematopoietic cells), anti-CD3 (lymphocytes), anti-TCRγδ (γδT cells), anti-IL-15rα (cell proliferation), and anti-Notch-3 (senescence marker). Detection of intracellular cytokines IL-17A and interferon γ (IFNγ) was performed. Gingival expression of specific γ- and δ-chains and cytokines was evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. A significantly higher number of IL-17A-producing γδT cells and IL-17A expression levels were observed in gingival tissues from aged females but not males. Similarly, the number of gingival Notch-3+ γδT cells increased with aging only in females. IL-15rα was not detected in gingival γδT cells. Chains γ1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7 as well as δ1, 2, 4, and 6 were detected. Detection levels of all γ chains except γ1 as well as δ1 and δ2 changed with aging in males, females, or both. Interestingly, number of IL-17A-producing conventional T cells similarly increased with aging only in females. Both sexes showed increased IFNγ+ conventional T-cell numbers with aging; however, it reached significance only in females. In conclusion, the number of gingival IL-17A-producing γδT cells and IL-17A expression increase naturally with aging specifically in females. This sexual dimorphism in gingival γδT and conventional Th17 cell numbers and phenotypes suggests distinct aging-related mechanisms of periodontitis in males and females.

Differential expression of the inflammatory ciita gene may be accompanied by altered bone properties in intact sex steroid-deficient female rats

OBJECTIVE

The class II transactivator (CIITA), encoded by the CIITA gene, controls expression of immune response regulators, which affect bone homeostasis. Previously, we investigated a functional CIITA polymorphism in elderly women. Women carrying the allele associated with lower CIITA levels displayed higher bone mineral density (BMD), but also higher bone loss. The present exploratory study in a rat model sought to investigate effects of differential expression of Ciita on bone structural integrity and strength. Two strains DA (normal-to-high expression) and DA.VRA4 (lower expression) underwent ovariectomy (OVX) or sham-surgery at ~ 14-weeks of age (DA OVX n = 8, sham n = 4; DA.VRA4 OVX n = 10, sham n = 2). After 16-weeks, femoral BMD and bone mineral content (BMC) were measured and morphometry and biomechanical testing performed.

RESULTS

In DA.VRA4 rats, BMD/BMC, cross-sectional area and biomechanical properties were lower. Ciita expression was accompanied by OVX-induced changes to cross-sectional area and femoral shaft strength; DA rats had lower maximum load-to-fracture. Thus, while lower Ciita expression associated with lower bone mass, OVX induced changes to structural and mechanical bone properties were less pronounced.

CONCLUSION

The data tentatively suggests association between Ciita expression and structural and mechanical bone properties, and a possible role in bone changes resulting from estrogen deficiency.

Low-Dose Staphylococcal Enterotoxin C2 Mutant Maintains Bone Homeostasis via Regulating Crosstalk between Bone Formation and Host T-Cell Effector Immunity

Studies in recent years have highlighted an elaborate crosstalk between T cells and bone cells, suggesting that T cells may be alternative therapeutic targets for the maintenance of bone homeostasis. Here, it is reported that systemic administration of low-dose staphylococcal enterotoxin C2 (SEC2) 2M-118, a form of mutant superantigen, dramatically alleviates ovariectomy (OVX)-induced bone loss via modulating T cells. Specially, SEC2 2M-118 treatment increases trabecular bone mass significantly via promoting bone formation in OVX mice. These beneficial effects are largely diminished in T-cell-deficient nude mice and can be rescued by T-cell reconstruction. Neutralizing assays determine interferon gamma (IFN-γ) as the key factor that mediates the beneficial effects of SEC2 2M-118 on bone. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that IFN-γ stimulates Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling, leading to enhanced production of nitric oxide, which further activates p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) signaling and promotes osteogenic differentiation. IFN-γ also directly inhibits osteoclast differentiation, but this effect is counteracted by proabsorptive factors tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) secreted from IFN-γ-stimulated macrophages. Taken together, this work provides clues for developing innovative approaches which target T cells for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

A novel small molecule effectively ameliorates estrogen deficiency-induced osteoporosis by targeting the gut-bone signaling axis

Postmenopausal osteoporosis stems mainly from estrogen deficiency leading to a gut microbiome-dependent disruption of host systemic immunity. However, the underlying mechanisms of estrogen deficiency-induced bone loss remain elusive and novel pharmaceutical intervention strategies for osteoporosis are needed. Here we reveal that ovariectomy (ovx)-induced estrogen deficiency in C57BL/6 mice causes significant disruption of gut microbiota composition, consequently leading to marked destruction of intestinal barrier function and gut leakage. As a result, signals transportation between intestinal microbiota and T cells from the gut to bone marrow is identified to contribute to osteoclastogenesis in ovx mice. Notably, we show that icariside I (GH01), a novel small molecule naturally occurring in Herbal Epimedium, has potential to alleviate or prevent ovx-induced bone loss in mice through regulation of gut-bone signaling axis. We find that GH01 treatment can effectively restore the gut microbiota composition, intestinal barrier function and host immune status markedly altered in ovx mice, thus significantly ameliorating bone loss and osteoporosis. These findings not only provide systematic understanding of the gut-immunity-bone axis-associated pathophysiology of osteoporosis, but also demonstrate the high potential of GH01 for osteoporosis treatment by targeting the gut-bone signaling axis.

The Role of Sex Differences in Bone Health and Healing

Fracture healing is a long-term and complex process influenced by a huge variety of factors. Among these, there is a sex/gender disparity. Based on significant differences observed in the outcome of bone healing in males and females, in the present review, we report the main findings, hypotheses and pitfalls that could lead to these differences. In particular, the role of sex hormones and inflammation has been reported to have a role in the observed less efficient bone healing in females in comparison with that observed in males. In addition, estrogen-induced cellular processes such as autophagic cell cycle impairment and molecular signals suppressing cell cycle progression seem also to play a role in female fracture healing delay. In conclusion, it seems conceivable that a complex framework of events could contribute to the female bias in bone healing, and we suggest that a reappraisal of the compelling factors could contribute to the mitigation of sex/gender disparity and improve bone healing outcomes.

Osteoporosis: Review of Etiology, Mechanisms, and Approach to Management in the Aging Population

Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease. With special respect to the aging population, it is very common, not only due to changes in lifestyle and diet but as a result of the aging process there is low-grade inflammation and immune system activation that directly affects bone strength and quality. This article provides a review of the incidence, etiology, and approach to screening and management of osteoporosis in the aging population. A thorough screening of lifestyle, environmental, and clinical conditions will be reviewed which identifies appropriate candidates for screening and treatment.

Extra-Gonadal and Non-Canonical Effects of FSH in Males

Recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is commonly used for the treatment of female infertility and is increasingly being used in males as well, as recommended by notable guidelines. FSH is composed of an α subunit, shared with other hormones, and a β subunit, which confers specificity of biological action by interacting with its surface receptor (FSHR), predominantly located in granulosa and Sertoli cells. However, FSHRs also exist in extra-gonadal tissues, indicating potential effects beyond male fertility. Emerging evidence suggests that FSH may have extra-gonadal effects, including on bone metabolism, where it appears to stimulate bone resorption by binding to specific receptors on osteoclasts. Additionally, higher FSH levels have been associated with worse metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes, suggesting a possible impact on the cardiovascular system. FSH has also been implicated in immune response modulation, as FSHRs are expressed on immune cells and may influence inflammatory response. Furthermore, there is growing interest in the role of FSH in prostate cancer progression. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the literature on the extra-gonadal effects of FSH in men, with a focus on the often-conflicting results reported in this field. Despite the contradictory findings, the potential for future development in this area is substantial, and further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and their clinical implications.

Sohlh1 loss of function male and female infertility model impacts overall health beyond gonadal dysfunction in mice†

Reproductive longevity is associated with health outcomes. Early menopause, loss of ovarian function, and male infertility are linked to shorter lifespan and increased adverse health outcomes. Here we examined the extragonadal effects of whole animal loss of spermatogenesis and oogenesis specific basic helix-loop-helix 1 (Sohlh1) gene in mice, a well-described mouse model of female and male infertility. Sohlh1 encodes a transcription factor that is primarily expressed in the male and female germline and regulates germline differentiation. The Sohlh1 knockout mouse model, just like human individuals with SOHLH1 loss of function, presents with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism and loss of ovarian function in females and impaired spermatogenesis in males, with a seemingly gonad restricted phenotype in both sexes. However, extragonadal phenotyping revealed that Sohlh1 deficiency leads to abnormal immune profiles in the blood and ovarian tissues of female animals, sex-specific alterations of metabolites, and behavior and cognition changes. Altogether, these results show that Sohlh1 deficiency impacts overall health in both male and female mice.

Interindividual differences contribute to variation in microbiota composition more than hormonal status: A prospective study

AIMS

Ovarian hormone deficiency is one of the main risk factors for osteoporosis and bone fractures in women, and these risks can be mitigated by menopausal hormone therapy. Recent evidence suggests that gut microbiota may link changes in estrogen levels and bone metabolism. This study was conducted to investigate the potential relationship between hormonal and bone changes induced by oophorectomy and subsequent hormonal therapy and shifts in gut microbiota composition.

METHODS

We collected 159 stool and blood samples in several intervals from 58 women, who underwent bilateral oophorectomy. Changes in fecal microbiota were assessed in paired samples collected from each woman before and after oophorectomy or the start of hormone therapy. Bacterial composition was determined by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene on Illumina MiSeq. Blood levels of estradiol, FSH, biomarkers of bone metabolism, and indices of low-grade inflammation were measured using laboratory analytical systems and commercial ELISA. Areal bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine, proximal femur, and femur neck was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

RESULTS

We found no significant changes in gut microbiota composition 6 months after oophorectomy, despite major changes in hormone levels, BMD, and bone metabolism. A small decrease in bacterial diversity was apparent 18 months after surgery in taxonomy-aware metrics. Hormonal therapy after oophorectomy prevented bone loss but only marginally affected gut microbiota. There were no significant differences in β-diversity related to hormonal status, although several microbes (e.g., Lactococcus lactis) followed estrogen levels. Body mass index (BMI) was the most significantly associated with microbiota variance. Microbiota was not a suitable predictive factor for the state of bone metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that neither the loss of estrogens due to oophorectomy nor their gain due to subsequent hormonal therapy is associated with a specific gut microbiota signature. Sources of variability in microbiota composition are more related to interindividual differences than hormonal status.

The associations of gut microbiota, endocrine system and bone metabolism

Gut microbiota is of great importance in human health, and its roles in the maintenance of skeletal homeostasis have long been recognized as the "gut-bone axis." Recent evidence has indicated intercorrelations between gut microbiota, endocrine system and bone metabolism. This review article discussed the complex interactions between gut microbiota and bone metabolism-related hormones, including sex steroids, insulin-like growth factors, 5-hydroxytryptamine, parathyroid hormone, glucagon-like peptides, peptide YY, etc. Although the underlying mechanisms still need further investigation, the regulatory effect of gut microbiota on bone health via interplaying with endocrine system may provide a new paradigm for the better management of musculoskeletal disorders.

Fracture Healing in the Setting of Endocrine Diseases, Aging, and Cellular Senescence

More than 2.1 million age-related fractures occur in the United States annually, resulting in an immense socioeconomic burden. Importantly, the age-related deterioration of bone structure is associated with impaired bone healing. Fracture healing is a dynamic process which can be divided into four stages. While the initial hematoma generates an inflammatory environment in which mesenchymal stem cells and macrophages orchestrate the framework for repair, angiogenesis and cartilage formation mark the second healing period. In the central region, endochondral ossification favors soft callus development while next to the fractured bony ends, intramembranous ossification directly forms woven bone. The third stage is characterized by removal and calcification of the endochondral cartilage. Finally, the chronic remodeling phase concludes the healing process. Impaired fracture healing due to aging is related to detrimental changes at the cellular level. Macrophages, osteocytes, and chondrocytes express markers of senescence, leading to reduced self-renewal and proliferative capacity. A prolonged phase of "inflammaging" results in an extended remodeling phase, characterized by a senescent microenvironment and deteriorating healing capacity. Although there is evidence that in the setting of injury, at least in some tissues, senescent cells may play a beneficial role in facilitating tissue repair, recent data demonstrate that clearing senescent cells enhances fracture repair. In this review, we summarize the physiological as well as pathological processes during fracture healing in endocrine disease and aging in order to establish a broad understanding of the biomechanical as well as molecular mechanisms involved in bone repair.

Plasma Growth and Differentiation Factor 15 Predict Longitudinal Changes in Bone Parameters in Women, but Not in Men

Bone fragility can progress with aging, but biomarkers to detect emerging osteopenia have not been fully elucidated. Growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) has pleiotropic roles in a broad range of age-related conditions, but its association with osteopenia is unknown. We examined the relationship between plasma GDF-15 levels and rate of change in bone parameters over 9 years of follow-up in 596 adults in the InCHIANTI study (baseline age, 65-94 years; women, 52.4%; mean follow-up, 7.0 ± 3.0 years). Plasma GDF-15 concentrations were measured using the 1.3k HTS SOMAscan assay. Eight bone parameters were measured in the right tibia by peripheral quantitative computed tomography; total bone density, trabecular bone density, medullary plus trabecular bone density, cortical bone density, total bone area, cortical bone area, medullary bone area, and minimum moment of inertia (mMOI). We ran sex-specific linear mixed-effect models with random intercepts and slopes adjusted for age, age-squared, education, body mass index, the rate of change in weight, smoking, sedentary behavior, cross-sectional areas of calf muscles and fat, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, calcium, diabetes mellitus, and follow-up time. We found a significant association of "baseline GDF-15 × time" in models predicting cortical bone density and the mMOI in women, suggesting that the rates of decline in these bone parameters increased with higher GDF-15 (false discovery rate <0.05). Higher plasma levels GDF-15 predicted an accelerated decline in bone parameters in women, but was less associated in men. Furthermore studies are needed to understand the mechanisms underlying these sex differences.

The Role of Prunes in Modulating Inflammatory Pathways to Improve Bone Health in Postmenopausal Women

The prevalence of osteoporosis among women aged 50 y and older is expected to reach 13.6 million by 2030. Alternative nonpharmaceutical agents for osteoporosis, including nutritional interventions, are becoming increasingly popular. Prunes (dried plums; Prunus domestica L.) have been studied as a potential whole-food dietary intervention to mitigate bone loss in preclinical models of osteoporosis and in osteopenic postmenopausal women. Sixteen preclinical studies using in vivo rodent models of osteopenia or osteoporosis have established that dietary supplementation with prunes confers osteoprotective effects both by preventing and reversing bone loss. Increasing evidence from 10 studies suggests that, in addition to antiresorptive effects, prunes exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Ten preclinical studies have found that prunes and/or their polyphenol extracts decrease malondialdehyde and NO secretion, increase antioxidant enzyme expression, or suppress NF-κB activation and proinflammatory cytokine production. Two clinical trials have investigated the impact of dried plum consumption (50-100 g/d for 6-12 mo) on bone health in postmenopausal women and demonstrated promising effects on bone mineral density and bone biomarkers. However, less is known about the impact of prune consumption on oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators in humans and their possible role in modulating bone outcomes. In this review, the current state of knowledge on the relation between inflammation and bone health is outlined. Findings from preclinical and clinical studies that have assessed the effect of prunes on oxidative stress, inflammatory mediators, and bone outcomes are summarized, and evidence supporting a potential role of prunes in modulating inflammatory and immune pathways is highlighted. Key future directions to bridge the knowledge gap in the field are proposed.

Relationships of persistent depressive symptoms with subsequent lung function trajectory and respiratory disease mortality

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the longitudinal association between persistent depressive symptoms and future lung health in the general population.

METHOD

4860 middle-aged and older participants with repeated measurements of depressive symptoms at wave 1 (2002-2003) and wave 2 (2004-2005) and at least two measurements of lung function (waves 2-6, 2004-2013) from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, were included in this study. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD) was used to evaluate depressive symptoms. Participants who had depressive symptoms in both waves 1 and 2 were considered to have persistent depressive symptoms. Linear mixed models were applied to assess longitudinal associations. Cox regression models were fitted to analyze respiratory disease mortality.

RESULTS

During an 8-year follow-up, we found that women with persistent depressive symptoms suffered accelerated declines in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), percentage of the FEV1 predicted, percentage of the FVC predicted, and peak expiratory flow, compared with women without depressive symptoms at baseline. Likewise, an elevated risk of respiratory disease mortality (HR: 6.02, 95% CI: 2.30 to 15.79) was observed in women with persistent depressive symptoms compared with women without depressive symptoms. We also observed a dose-response relationship between cumulative depressive symptom scores and subsequent lung health outcomes in women. However, no such association was observed in men.

CONCLUSION

Long-term depressive symptoms might predict an accelerated decline of lung function and higher mortality from respiratory disease among women but not among men over an 8-year follow-up. Further studies are needed to verify our findings.

Osteocyte CIITA aggravates osteolytic bone lesions in myeloma

Osteolytic destruction is a hallmark of multiple myeloma, resulting from activation of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption and reduction of osteoblast-mediated bone formation. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the differentiation and activity of osteoclasts and osteoblasts within a myelomatous microenvironment remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that the osteocyte-expressed major histocompatibility complex class II transactivator (CIITA) contributes to myeloma-induced bone lesions. CIITA upregulates the secretion of osteolytic cytokines from osteocytes through acetylation at histone 3 lysine 14 in the promoter of TNFSF11 (encoding RANKL) and SOST (encoding sclerostin), leading to enhanced osteoclastogenesis and decreased osteoblastogenesis. In turn, myeloma cell-secreted 2-deoxy-D-ribose, the product of thymidine catalyzed by the function of thymidine phosphorylase, upregulates CIITA expression in osteocytes through the STAT1/IRF1 signaling pathway. Our work thus broadens the understanding of myeloma-induced osteolysis and indicates a potential strategy for disrupting tumor-osteocyte interaction to prevent or treat patients with myeloma bone disease.

Effects of Estrogens on Osteoimmunology: A Role in Bone Metastasis

Bone loss associated with estrogen deficiency indicates a fundamental role of these hormones in skeletal growth and bone remodeling. In the last decades, growing recent evidence demonstrated that estrogens can also affect the immune compartment of the bone. In this review, we summarize the impacts of estrogens on bone immune cells and their consequences on bone homeostasis, metastasis settlement into the bone and tumor progression. We also addressed the role of an orphan nuclear receptor ERRalpha (“Estrogen-receptor Related Receptor alpha”) on macrophages and T lymphocytes, and as an immunomodulator in bone metastases. Hence, this review links estrogens to bone immune cells in osteo-oncology.

Skeletal muscle mitoribosomal defects are linked to low bone mass caused by bone marrow inflammation in male mice

BACKGROUND

Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) is a critical regulator of skeletal muscle mass and function. Although muscle atrophy due to mitochondrial dysfunction is closely associated with bone loss, the biological characteristics of the relationship between muscle and bone remain obscure. We showed that muscle atrophy caused by skeletal muscle-specific CR6-interacting factor 1 knockout (MKO) modulates the bone marrow (BM) inflammatory response, leading to low bone mass.

METHODS

MKO mice with lower muscle OxPhos were fed a normal chow or high-fat diet and then evaluated for muscle mass and function, and bone mineral density. Immunophenotyping of BM immune cells was also performed. BM transcriptomic analysis was used to identify key factors regulating bone mass in MKO mice. To determine the effects of BM-derived CXCL12 (C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12) on regulation of bone homeostasis, a variety of BM niche-resident cells were treated with recombinant CXCL12. Vastus lateralis muscle and BM immune cell samples from 14 patients with hip fracture were investigated to examine the association between muscle function and BM inflammation.

RESULTS

MKO mice exhibited significant reductions in both muscle mass and expression of OxPhos subunits but increased transcription of mitochondrial stress response-related genes in the extensor digitorum longus (P < 0.01). MKO mice showed a decline in grip strength and a higher drop rate in the wire hanging test (P < 0.01). Micro-computed tomography and von Kossa staining revealed that MKO mice developed a low mass phenotype in cortical and trabecular bone (P < 0.01). Transcriptomic analysis of the BM revealed that mitochondrial stress responses in skeletal muscles induce an inflammatory response and adipogenesis in the BM and that the CXCL12-CXCR4 (C-X-C chemokine receptor 4) axis is important for T-cell homing to the BM. Antagonism of CXCR4 attenuated BM inflammation and increased bone mass in MKO mice. In humans, patients with low body mass index (BMI = 17.2 ± 0.42 kg/m² ) harboured a larger population of proinflammatory and cytotoxic senescent T-cells in the BMI (P < 0.05) and showed reduced expression of OxPhos subunits in the vastus lateralis, compared with controls with a normal BMI (23.7 ± 0.88 kg/m² ) (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Defects in muscle mitochondrial OxPhos promote BM inflammation in mice, leading to decreased bone mass. Muscle mitochondrial dysfunction is linked to BM inflammatory cytokine secretion via the CXCL12-CXCR4 signalling axis, which is critical for inducing low bone mass.

mTOR Signaling in the Regulation of CD4+ T Cell Subsets in Periodontal Diseases

Periodontal disease results from the inflammatory infiltration by the microbial community which is marked through tooth mobility and alveolar bone resorption. The inflammation in periodontal disease is mediated by CD4⁺ T cells through cytokine secretion and osteoclastogenetic activity. Historically, the inflammatory model in periodontal disease is described through disruption of the balance between two subsets of T helper cells which are T-helper type 1 (Th1) and T-helper type 2 (Th2). However, more and more studies have found that apart from subsets of helper T cells, regulatory T-cells and Th17 cells are also involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. Growing evidence proves that helper T cells differentiation, activation, and subset determination are under the strong impact of mTOR signaling. mTOR signaling could promote Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation and inhibit Treg commitment through different mTOR complexes, therefore we anticipate a regulation effect of mTOR signaling on periodontal diseases by regulating CD4⁺ T cell subsets. This review aims to integrate the topical researches about the role of different types of Th cells in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases, as well as the regulation of mTOR signaling in the specification and selection of Th cell commitment.

Bone resorption improvement by conditioned medium of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth in ovariectomized mice

Stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are mesenchymal stem cells with multipotent differentiation potential present in the dental pulp tissue of the deciduous teeth. SHED produce secretions that have immunomodulatory and regenerative functions. In the present study, we investigated the effects of SHED-conditioned medium (SHED-CM) on osteopenia induced by the ovariectomy (OVX) phenotype and its corresponding immunological changes. Eleven-week-old female C3H/HeJ mice were subjected to OVX. SHED-CM was administered intraperitoneally in these mice for 4 weeks starting immediately after OVX. SHED-CM improved bone mass after OVX and elevated the polarization of M2 macrophages in the peritoneal cavity. SHED-CM also suppressed an OVX-induced increase in interferon-γ (INF-γ) and interleukin-17 (IL-17) concentrations in the peripheral blood. Inhibition of M2 macrophage polarization with neutralizing antibodies did not reduce the concentration of IFN-γ and IL-17 in peripheral blood, which were increased by OVX, and did not alleviate osteopenia induced by the OVX phenotype. Mechanistically, these findings suggest that SHED-CM alleviates bone resorption by suppressing the activation of IFN-γ and IL-17 cells by polarizing M2 macrophages. In conclusion, our data indicate that SHED-CM contains active secretions that may have promising efficacy to ameliorate OVX-induced osteopenia. We suggest that SHED-CM has the potential to be used as a novel therapeutic agent to inhibit osteoporosis.

Role of the major histocompatibility complex class II protein presentation pathway in bone immunity imbalance in postmenopausal osteoporosis

Bone immunity regulates osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption and is a potential target for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). The molecular network between bone metabolism and the immune system is complex. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the involvement of the major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) molecule protein presentation pathway in PMOP remains to be elucidated. The MHC-II molecule is a core molecule of the protein presentation pathway. It is combined with the processed short peptide and presented to T lymphocytes, thereby activating them to become effector T cells. T-cell-derived inflammatory factors promote bone remodeling in PMOP. Moreover, the MHC-II molecule is highly expressed in osteoclast precursors. MHC-II transactivator (CIITA) is the main regulator of MHC-II gene expression and the switch for protein presentation. CIITA is also a major regulator of osteoclast differentiation and bone homeostasis. Therefore, we hypothesized that the MHC-II promotes osteoclast differentiation, providing a novel pathogenic mechanism and a potential target for the treatment of PMOP.

Osteal macrophages support osteoclast-mediated resorption and contribute to bone pathology in a postmenopausal osteoporosis mouse model

Osteal macrophages (osteomacs) support osteoblast function and promote bone anabolism, but their contribution to osteoporosis has not been explored. Although mouse ovariectomy (OVX) models have been repeatedly used, variation in strain, experimental design and assessment modalities have contributed to no single model being confirmed as comprehensively replicating the full gamut of osteoporosis pathological manifestations. We validated an OVX model in adult C3H/HeJ mice and demonstrated that it presents with human postmenopausal osteoporosis features with reduced bone volume in axial and appendicular bone and bone loss in both trabecular and cortical bone including increased cortical porosity. Bone loss was associated with increased osteoclasts on trabecular and endocortical bone and decreased osteoblasts on trabecular bone. Importantly, this OVX model was characterized by delayed fracture healing. Using this validated model, we demonstrated that osteomacs are increased post-OVX on both trabecular and endocortical bone. Dual F4/80 (pan-macrophage marker) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining revealed osteomacs frequently located near TRAP⁺ osteoclasts and contained TRAP⁺ intracellular vesicles. Using an in vivo inducible macrophage depletion model that does not simultaneously deplete osteoclasts, we observed that osteomac loss was associated with elevated extracellular TRAP in bone marrow interstitium and increased serum TRAP. Using in vitro high-resolution confocal imaging of mixed osteoclast-macrophage cultures on bone substrate, we observed macrophages juxtaposed to osteoclast basolateral functional secretory domains scavenging degraded bone byproducts. These data demonstrate a role for osteomacs in supporting osteoclastic bone resorption through phagocytosis and sequestration of resorption byproducts. Overall, our data expose a novel role for osteomacs in supporting osteoclast function and provide the first evidence of their involvement in osteoporosis pathogenesis. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

T-Cell Mediated Inflammation in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is the most prevalent metabolic bone disease that affects half the women in the sixth and seventh decade of life. Osteoporosis is characterized by uncoupled bone resorption that leads to low bone mass, compromised microarchitecture and structural deterioration that increases the likelihood of fracture with minimal trauma, known as fragility fractures. Several factors contribute to osteoporosis in men and women. In women, menopause - the cessation of ovarian function, is one of the leading causes of primary osteoporosis. Over the past three decades there has been growing appreciation that the adaptive immune system plays a fundamental role in the development of postmenopausal osteoporosis, both in humans and in mouse models. In this review, we highlight recent data on the interactions between T cells and the skeletal system in the context of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Finally, we review recent studies on the interventions to ameliorate osteoporosis.

Treatment with a long-acting chimeric CSF1 molecule enhances fracture healing of healthy and osteoporotic bones

Macrophage-targeted therapies, including macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF1), have been shown to have pro-repair impacts post-fracture. Preclinical/clinical applications of CSF1 have been expedited by development of chimeric CSF1-Fc which has extended circulating half-life. Here, we used mouse models to investigate the bone regenerative potential of CSF1-Fc in healthy and osteoporotic fracture. We also explored whether combination of CSF1-Fc with interleukin (IL)-4 provided additional fracture healing benefit in osteopenic bone. Micro-computed tomography, in situ histomorphometry, and bone mechanical parameters were used to assess systemic impacts of CSF1-Fc therapy in naive mice (male and female young, adult and geriatric). An intermittent CSF1-Fc regimen was optimized to mitigate undesirable impacts on bone resorption and hepatosplenomegaly, irrespective of age or gender. The intermittent CSF1-Fc regimen was tested in a mid-diaphyseal femoral fracture model in healthy bones with treatment initiated 1-day post-fracture. Weekly CSF1-Fc did not impact osteoclasts but increased osteal macrophages and improved fracture strength. Importantly, this treatment regimen also improved fracture union and strength in an ovariectomy-model of delayed fracture repair. Combining CSF1-Fc with IL-4 initiated 1-week post-fracture reduced the efficacy of CSF1-Fc. This study describes a novel strategy to specifically achieve bone regenerative actions of CSF1-Fc that has the potential to alleviate fragility fracture morbidity and mortality.

Etanercept prevents TNF-α mediated mandibular bone loss in FcγRIIb-/- lupus model

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus are at increased risk for alveolar bone loss due to periodontitis possibly as a result of a pathogenic immune response to oral bacteria and inflammation. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether an anti-TNF-α antagonist could prevent mandibular bone loss in the FcγRIIb^-/- mouse model of lupus. Mice lacking FcγRIIb had decreased cancellous and cortical bone volume at 6 months of age. Etanercept increased cancellous but not cortical bone volume in WT and increased both cancellous bone volume and cortical thickness in FcγRIIb-deficient mice. FcγRIIb deficiency decreased mRNA levels for osteoblast marker genes, Osx, Col1a1 and Alp without any change in osteoclast marker genes. Etanercept increased Osx, Alp, and Ocn in both WT and FcγRIIb^-/- mice. Osteoclast marker genes including TNF-α, Trap and RANKL/OPG ratio was decreased in WT. Serum markers of proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IFNγ, IL-6, and IL-17A, were increased in FcγRIIb^-/- mice and etanercept antagonized these effects in FcγRIIb^-/- mice. Etanercept increased serum PTH levels in the FcγRIIb^-/- mouse model of lupus. Our results suggest that deletion of FcγRIIb induces osteopenia by increasing the level of proinflammatory cytokines. Etanercept is effective in preventing mandibular bone loss in FcγRIIb^-/- mice, suggesting that anti-TNF-α therapy may be able to ameliorate mandibular bone loss in SLE patients with periodontitis.

The Role of Intestinal Flora in the Regulation of Bone Homeostasis

Intestinal flora located within the intestinal tract comprises a large number of cells, which are referred to as the second gene pool of the human body and form a complex symbiotic relationship with the host. The knowledge of the complex interaction between the intestinal flora and various life activities of the host is a novel and rapidly expanding field. Recently, many studies are being conducted on the relationship between the intestinal flora and bone homeostasis and indicate that the intestinal flora can regulate bone homeostasis via the host immune, metabolic, and endocrine systems. What’s more, based on several clinical and preclinical pieces of evidence, changing the composition and function of the host intestinal flora through the application of probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation is being considered to be a potential novel target for the regulation of bone homeostasis. Here, we searched relevant literature and reviewed the role of the intestinal flora in the regulation of bone homeostasis and its modulating interventions.

Mice lacking DKK1 in T cells exhibit high bone mass and are protected from estrogen-deficiency-induced bone loss

The Wnt inhibitor Dickkopf-1 (DKK1) is a negative regulator of bone formation and bone mass and is dysregulated in various bone diseases. How DKK1 contributes to postmenopausal osteoporosis, however, remains poorly understood. Here, we show that mice lacking DKK1 in T cells are protected from ovariectomy-induced bone loss. Ovariectomy activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and increased their production of DKK1. Co-culture of activated T cells with osteoblasts inhibited Wnt signaling in osteoblasts, leading to impaired differentiation. Importantly, DKK1 expression in T cells also controlled physiological bone remodeling. T-cell-deficient Dkk1 knock-out mice had a higher bone mass with an increased bone formation rate and decreased numbers of osteoclasts compared with controls, a phenotype that was rescued by adoptive transfer of wild-type T cells. Thus, these findings highlight that T cells control bone remodeling in health and disease via their expression of DKK1.

T Cell Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase in Osteoimmunology

Osteoimmunology highlights the two-way communication between bone and immune cells. T cell protein tyrosine phosphatase (TCPTP), also known as protein-tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor 2 (PTPN2), is an intracellular protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) essential in regulating immune responses and bone metabolism via dephosphorylating target proteins. Tcptp knockout in systemic or specific immune cells can seriously damage the immune function, resulting in bone metabolism disorders. This review provided fresh insights into the potential role of TCPTP in osteoimmunology. Overall, the regulation of osteoimmunology by TCPTP is extremely complicated. TCPTP negatively regulates macrophages activation and inflammatory factors secretion to inhibit bone resorption. TCPTP regulates T lymphocytes differentiation and T lymphocytes-related cytokines signaling to maintain bone homeostasis. TCPTP is also expected to regulate bone metabolism by targeting B lymphocytes under certain time and conditions. This review offers a comprehensive update on the roles of TCPTP in osteoimmunology, which can be a promising target for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bone loss.

Estrogens as regulator of hematopoietic stem cell, immune cells and bone biology

Hematopoietic stem cells provide continuous supply of all the immune cells, through proliferation and differentiation decisions. These decisions are controlled by local bone marrow environment as well as by long-range signals for example endocrine system. Sex dependent differential immunological responses have been described under homeostasis and disease conditions. Females show higher longevity than male counterpart that seems to depend on major female sex hormone, estrogen. There are four estrogens - Estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), Estriol (E3) and Estetrol (E4) that spatially and temporarily present during different female reproductive phases. In this review, we discussed recent updates describing the effects of estrogen on HSC, immune cells and in bone biology. Estradiol (E2) being a major/abundant estrogen is extensively investigated, while effects of other estrogens E1, E3 and E4 are started to unravel recently. Furthermore, clinical effect of estrogen as hormone therapy is discussed in HSC and immune cells perspectives. The data presented in this review is compiled by searches of PubMed, database of American Cancer Society (ACS). We have included article from September 1994 to March 2020 as covering all article in chronological order is not fissile so we included relevant article with substantial information in this specific area of research by using the search term (alone or in combination) estrogen, hematopoietic stem cell, immune cells, gender difference, estrone, estriol, estetrol, therapeutic application, pregnancy, effect on bone.

The Dramatic Role of IFN Family in Aberrant Inflammatory Osteolysis

Skeletal system has been considered a highly dynamic system, in which bone-forming osteoblasts and bone-resorbing osteoclasts go through a continuous remodeling cycle to maintain homeostasis of bone matrix. It has been well acknowledged that interferons (IFNs), acting as a subgroup of cytokines, not only have crucial effects on regulating immunology but also could modulate the dynamic balance of bone matrix. In the light of different isoforms, IFNs have been divided into three major categories in terms of amino acid sequences, recognition of specific receptors and biological activities. Currently, type I IFNs consist of a multi-gene family with several subtypes, of which IFN-α exerts pro-osteoblastogenic effects to activate osteoblast differentiation and inhibits osteoclast fusion to maintain bone matrix integrity. Meanwhile, IFN-β suppresses osteoblast-mediated bone remodeling as well as exhibits inhibitory effects on osteoclast differentiation to attenuate bone resorption. Type II IFN constitutes the only type, IFN-γ, which exerts regulatory effects on osteoclastic bone resorption and osteoblastic bone formation by biphasic ways. Interestingly, type III IFNs are regarded as new members of IFN family composed of four members, including IFN-λ1 (IL-29), IFN-λ2 (IL-28A), IFN-λ3 (IL-28B) and IFN-λ4, which have been certified to participate in bone destruction. However, the direct regulatory mechanisms underlying how type III IFNs modulate the metabolic balance of bone matrix, remains poorly elucidated. In this review, we have summarized functions of IFN family during physiological and pathological conditions and described the mechanisms by which IFNs maintain bone matrix homeostasis via affecting the osteoclast-osteoblast crosstalk. In addition, the potential therapeutic effects of IFNs on inflammatory bone destruction diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA) and infectious bone diseases are also well displayed, which are based on the predominant role of IFNs in modulating the dynamic equilibrium of bone matrix.

CTLA-4Ig Improves Hyperalgesia in a Mouse Model of Osteoporosis

This study aimed to evaluate skeletal pain associated with osteoporosis and to examine the inhibitory effects of cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4Ig (CTLA-4Ig) administration in ovariectomized (OVX) mice. Eight-week-old female ddY mice were assigned to three groups: sham-operated mice (SHAM) treated with vehicle, OVX mice treated with vehicle (OVX), and OVX mice treated with CTLA-4Ig (CTLA-4Ig). Vehicle or CTLA-4Ig was injected intraperitoneally, starting immediately after surgery. After 4 weeks of treatment, mechanical sensitivity was examined, and the bilateral hind limbs were removed and evaluated by micro-computed tomography, immunohistochemical analyses, and messenger RNA expression analysis. Ovariectomy induced bone loss and mechanical hyperalgesia in the hindlimbs. CTLA-4Ig treatment prevented bone loss in the hindlimbs compared to vehicle administration in the OVX group. Moreover, mechanical hyperalgesia was significantly decreased in the CTLA-4Ig treatment group in comparison to the OVX group. The expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and sclerostin (SOST), as well as the number of osteoclasts, were increased, and the expression level of Wnt-10b was decreased in the OVX group compared with the SHAM group, whereas these parameters were improved in the CTLA-4Ig group compared with the OVX group. The novelty of this research is that CTLA-4Ig administration prevented bone loss and mechanical hyperalgesia induced by ovariectomy in the hindlimbs.

Osteoporotic Conditions Influence the Activity of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

BACKGROUND

Estrogen deficiency decreases bone density and increases the risk of osteoporosis and fracture, thereby necessitating reconstruction of bone regeneration. As bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSCs) lose viability and differentiation potential under osteoporotic conditions, it is impossible to use autologous BMSCs for osteoporosis treatment. As an alternative, adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) may serve as the source of therapeutic cells.

METHOD

We evaluated the effects of osteoporosis on the functional characteristics of ADSCs. Osteoporosis was induced in ovariectomy (OVX) rat model, and the ADSCs from Sham and OVX groups were cultured and analyzed comparatively.

RESULTS

As a result, the viability was higher for the ADSCs from Sham group than those from OVX group. The analysis of the paracrine potential of ADSCs revealed the elevated levels of inflammatory and cellular senescence factors in the ADSCs from OVX group. The ADSCs from OVX group had much higher differentiation potential into adipocytes than those from the Sham group. Osteoporotic environment had no effect on the osteogenic potential of ADSCs.

CONCLUSION

Osteoporosis may reduce the activity and influence immune response of ADSCs by modulating paracrine action and adipogenic potential. These characteristics of ADSCs should be given consideration for therapeutic purpose.

Increased systemic inflammation and altered distribution of T-cell subsets in postmenopausal women

Aim

To investigate markers of systemic inflammation in pre- and postmenopausal women and identify possible predictors of systemic inflammation with menopause.

Methods

Cross-sectional study of 69 healthy women between 45- and 60 years. Blood samples were collected to assess leukocyte subsets and plasma cytokines. MRI and DXA scans were performed to assess body composition. Through uni- and multivariate analyses, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), visceral fat mass and age were evaluated as predictors of systemic inflammation in relation to menopause.

Results

Postmenopausal women tended to have higher leukocyte counts (5.4 x10⁹ vs. 4.9 x10⁹ cells/l, p = 0.05) reflected in increased total lymphocytes (1.8 x10⁹ vs. 1.6 x10⁹ cells/l, p = 0.01) and monocytes (0.5 x10⁹ vs. 0.4 x10⁹ cells/l, p = 0.02), compared to premenopausal women. Increased visceral fat mass was a strong predictor of high leukocyte subsets. Postmenopausal women had higher plasma TNF-α (2.24 vs. 1.91 pg/ml, p = 0.01) and IL-6 (0.45 vs. 0.33 pg/ml, p = 0.004) compared to premenopausal women and high FSH was a significant predictor of increased plasma TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. Menopause was further associated with increased T-cells (1,336 vs. 1,128 cells/μl, p = 0.04) reflected in significantly higher counts of exhausted-, senescent-, and memory CD4+ T-cell subsets.

Conclusions

Menopause is associated with increased systemic inflammation as well as exhausted- and senescent T-cells. We suggest, that both increased visceral fat mass and declining sex hormone levels might contribute to postmenopausal systemic inflammation and calls for further large-scale studies to confirm these findings.

New insights into IFN-γ in rheumatoid arthritis: role in the era of JAK inhibitors

The treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is now entering a new era, the era of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. JAK inhibitors target multiple cytokines including IL-6 and exhibit a beneficial treatment effect in patients with RA and inadequate response to conventional synthetic or biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Since the treatment effect of JAK inhibitors is promising even for patients refractory to anti-IL-6 therapy, it needs to be considered how multiple cytokines play roles in the pathogenesis of RA. It is also worth noting that an increased risk of herpes zoster is specifically related to the use of JAK inhibitors. Among cytokines targeted by JAK inhibitors, the current review focuses on IFN-γ, particularly on its role in synovial biology, autoimmunity, bone metabolism, pain, and varicella zoster virus infection. Recent studies provided new insights into IFN-γ in the pathogenesis of RA, which may account for the efficacy of JAK inhibitors.

Biochemical Signals Mediate the Crosstalk between Cartilage and Bone in Osteoarthritis

Osteochondral junction is a functional unit comprising the articular cartilage, calcified cartilage, and subchondral bone. Alteration in any component of this composite unit can disrupt the joint integrity and function directly or indirectly. Biochemical signals mediate the crosstalk between tissues and play an essential role in the initiation and progression of osteoarthritis. As osteoarthritis progresses, abnormal subchondral bone remodelling leads to increased angiogenesis and porosity of the subchondral bone plate, which further triggers biochemical signals to mediate the crosstalk between cartilage and bone, contributing to the progression of osteoarthritis. Notably, common biochemical signals include the TGF-β/Smad, Wnt/β-catenin, RANK/RANKL/OPG, and MAPK pathways. This biomarker crosstalk network is the basis of osteoarthritis pathogenesis, and some of their key regulators may be potential therapeutic targets for osteoarthritis drug therapy. This review summarised the biochemical crosstalk between cartilage and bone in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis, which may provide the basis for the discovery of osteoarthritis treatment targets.

The Interplay between Immune System and Microbiota in Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and alterations of bone microarchitecture, with an increased risk of fractures. It is a multifactorial disorder that is more frequent in postmenopausal women but can be associated to other diseases (inflammatory and metabolic diseases). At present, several options are available to treat osteoporosis trying to block bone reabsorption and reduce the risk of fracture. Anyway, these drugs have safety and tolerance problems in long-term treatment. Recently, gut microbiota has been highlighted to have strong influence on bone metabolism, becoming a potential new target to modify bone mineral density. Such evidences are mainly based on mouse models, showing an involvement in modulating the interaction between the immune system and bone cells. Germ-free mice represent a basic model to understand the interaction between microbiota, immune system, and bone cells, even though data are controversial. Anyway, such models have unequivocally demonstrated a connection between such systems, even if the mechanism is unclear. Gut microbiota is a complex system that influences calcium and vitamin D absorption and modulates gut permeability, hormonal secretion, and immune response. A key role is played by the T helper 17 lymphocytes, TNF, interleukin 17, and RANK ligand system. Other important pathways include NOD1, NOD2, and Toll-like receptor 5. Prebiotics and probiotics are a wide range of substances and germs that can influence and modify microbiota. Several studies demonstrated actions by different prebiotics and probiotics in different animals, differing according to sex, age, and hormonal status. Data on the effects on humans are poor and controversial. Gut microbiota manipulation appears a possible strategy to prevent and treat osteopenia and/or osteoporosis as well as other possible bone alterations, even though further clinical studies are necessary to identify correct procedures in humans.

LIGHT/TNFSF14 regulates estrogen deficiency-induced bone loss

Bone loss induced by ovariectomy is due to the direct activity on bone cells and mesenchymal cells and to the dysregulated activity of bone marrow cells, including immune cells and stromal cells, but the underlying mechanisms are not completely known. Here, we demonstrate that ovariectomy induces the T-cell co-stimulatory cytokine LIGHT, which stimulates both osteoblastogenesis and osteoclastogenesis by modulating osteoclastogenic cytokine expression, including TNF, osteoprotegerin, and the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). Predictably, LIGHT-deficient (Tnfsf14^-/- ) mice are protected from ovariectomy-dependent bone loss, whereas trabecular bone mass increases in mice deficient in both LIGHT and T and B lymphocytes (Rag ^-/- Tnfsf14 ^-/- ) and is associated with an inversion of the TNF and RANKL/OPG ratio. Furthermore, women with postmenopausal osteoporosis display high levels of LIGHT in circulating T cells and monocytes. Taken together, these results indicate that LIGHT mediates bone loss induced by ovariectomy, suggesting that patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis may benefit from LIGHT antagonism. © 2020 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Flavonoids compounds from Tridax procumbens inhibit osteoclast differentiation by down-regulating c-Fos activation

The total flavonoids from Tridax procumbens (TPFs) have been reported significantly to suppress on RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption in mouse primary cultured osteoclasts. However, the effects of ethyl ether fraction of Tridax procumbens flavonoids (TPF) on osteoclastogenesis remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of TPF on lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐induced osteoclast differentiation, actin ring formation, and explored its molecular mechanism in vitro. Matured osteoclast was counted as the number of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)‐positive multinucleated cells, and activity of osteoclast was assessed by performing the pit formation assays. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was performed for evaluation of the expression of osteoclast differentiation‐related genes. TPF reduced the TRAP‐positive multinucleated osteoclasts, inhibited TRAP and acid phosphatase (ACP) activities and decreased the expression of osteoclast differentiating genes, including cathepsin K, metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2), MMP‐9, MMP‐13 and osteoclast‐associated receptor (OSCAR). Furthermore, osteoclast‐dependent actin rings formation and resorption pits were dramatically inhibited by the treatment with TPF. TPF markedly decreased the expression levels of transcription factors such as c‐Fos, nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1) and activator protein‐1 (AP‐1). Taken together, our findings indicated that TPF suppressed both osteoclast differentiation and activities. Therefore, TPF might be a promising and emerging drug candidate for the treatment of bone diseases such as osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis from an Endocrine Perspective: The Role of Hormonal Changes in the Elderly

Introduction: Osteoporosis is increasingly prevalent in the elderly, with fractures mostly occurring in women and men who are older than 55 and 65 years of age, respectively. The aim of this review was to examine the evidence regarding the influence of hormones on bone metabolism, followed by clinical data of hormonal changes in the elderly, in the attempt to provide possible poorly explored diagnostic and therapeutic candidate targets for the management of primary osteoporosis in the aging population. Material and methods: An extensive Medline search using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library was performed. Results: While the rise in Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels has a protective role on bone mass, the decline of estrogen, testosterone, Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), and vitamin D and the rise of cortisol, parathyroid hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) favor bone loss in the elderly. Particularly, the AA rs6166 FSH receptor (FSHR) genotype, encoding for a more sensitive FSHR than that encoded by the GG one, is associated with low total body mass density (BMD), independently of circulating estrogen. A polyclonal antibody with a FSHR-binding sequence against the β-subunit of murine FSH seems to be effective in ameliorating bone loss in ovariectomized mice. Conclusions: A complete hormonal assessment should be completed for both women and men during bone loss evaluation. Novel possible diagnostic and therapeutic tools might be developed for the management of male and female osteoporosis.

Independent Roles of Estrogen Deficiency and Cellular Senescence in the Pathogenesis of Osteoporosis: Evidence in Young Adult Mice and Older Humans

Estrogen deficiency is a seminal mechanism in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. Mounting evidence, however, establishes that cellular senescence, a fundamental mechanism that drives multiple age-related diseases, also causes osteoporosis. Recently, we systematically identified an accumulation of senescent cells, characterized by increased p16^Ink4a and p21^Cip1 levels and development of a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), in mouse bone/marrow and human bone with aging. We then demonstrated that elimination of senescent cells prevented age-related bone loss using multiple approaches, eg, treating old mice expressing a "suicide" transgene, INK-ATTAC, with AP20187 to induce apoptosis of p16^Ink4a -senescent cells or periodically treating old wild-type mice with "senolytics," ie, drugs that eliminate senescent cells. Here, we investigate a possible role for estrogen in the regulation of cellular senescence using multiple approaches. First, sex steroid deficiency 2 months after ovariectomy (OVX, n = 15) or orchidectomy (ORCH, n = 15) versus sham surgery (SHAM, n = 15/sex) in young adult (4-month-old) wild-type mice did not alter senescence biomarkers or induce a SASP in bone. Next, in elderly postmenopausal women, 3 weeks of estrogen therapy (n = 10; 74 ± 5 years) compared with no treatment (n = 10; 78 ± 5 years) did not alter senescence biomarkers or the SASP in human bone biopsies. Finally, young adult (4-month-old) female INK-ATTAC mice were randomized (n = 17/group) to SHAM+Vehicle, OVX+Vehicle, or OVX+AP20187 for 2 months. As anticipated, OVX+Vehicle caused significant trabecular/cortical bone loss compared with SHAM+Vehicle. However, treatment with AP20187, which eliminates senescent cells in INK-ATTAC mice, did not rescue the OVX-induced bone loss or alter senescence biomarkers. Collectively, our data establish independent roles of estrogen deficiency and cellular senescence in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, which has important implications for testing novel senolytics for skeletal efficacy, as these drugs will need to be evaluated in preclinical models of aging as opposed to the current FDA model of prevention of OVX-induced bone loss. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Dysregulation of ectonucleotidase-mediated extracellular adenosine during postmenopausal bone loss

Adenosine and its receptors play a key role in bone homeostasis and regeneration. Extracellular adenosine is generated from CD39 and CD73 activity in the cell membrane, through conversion of adenosine triphosphate to adenosine monophosphate (AMP) and AMP to adenosine, respectively. Despite the relevance of CD39/CD73 to bone health, the roles of these enzymes in bona fide skeletal disorders remain unknown. We demonstrate that CD39/CD73 expression and extracellular adenosine levels in the bone marrow are substantially decreased in animals with osteoporotic bone loss. Knockdown of estrogen receptors ESR1 and ESR2 in primary osteoprogenitors and osteoclasts undergoing differentiation showed decreased coexpression of membrane-bound CD39 and CD73 and lower extracellular adenosine. Targeting the adenosine A2B receptor using an agonist attenuated bone loss in ovariectomized mice. Together, these findings suggest a pathological association of purine metabolism with estrogen deficiency and highlight the potential of A2B receptor as a target to treat osteoporosis.

Nuclear receptors, cholesterol homeostasis and the immune system

Cholesterol is essential for maintaining membrane fluidity in eukaryotes. Additionally, the synthetic cascade of cholesterol results in precursor molecules important for cellular function such as lipid raft formation and protein prenylation. As such, cholesterol homeostasis is tightly regulated. Interestingly, it is now known that some cholesterol precursors and many metabolites serve as active signaling molecules, binding to different classes of receptors including the nuclear receptors. Furthermore, many cholesterol metabolites or their nuclear receptors have been implicated in the regulation of the immune system in normal physiology and disease. Therefore, in this focused review, cholesterol homeostasis and nuclear receptors involved in this regulation will be discussed, with particular emphasis on how these cascades influence the immune system.

The Role of Macrophage in the Pathogenesis of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a systemic disease with progressive bone loss. The bone loss is associated with an imbalance between bone resorption via osteoclasts and bone formation via osteoblasts. Other cells including T cells, B cells, macrophages, and osteocytes are also involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. Different cytokines from activated macrophages can regulate or stimulate the development of osteoclastogenesis-associated bone loss. The fusion of macrophages can form multinucleated osteoclasts and, thus, cause bone resorption via the expression of IL-4 and IL-13. Different cytokines, endocrines, and chemokines are also expressed that may affect the presentation of macrophages in osteoporosis. Macrophages have an effect on bone formation during fracture-associated bone repair. However, activated macrophages may secrete proinflammatory cytokines that induce bone loss by osteoclastogenesis, and are associated with the activation of bone resorption. Targeting activated macrophages at an appropriate stage may help inhibit or slow the progression of bone loss in patients with osteoporosis.

Metabolic control and sex: A focus on inflammatory-linked mediators

Men and women have many differing biological and physiological characteristics. Thus, it is no surprise that the control of metabolic processes and the mechanisms underlying metabolic-related diseases have sex-specific components. There is a clear metabolic sexual dimorphism in that up until midlife, men have a far greater likelihood of acquiring cardio-metabolic disease than women. Following menopause, however, this difference is reduced, suggestive of a protective role of the female sex hormones. Inflammatory processes have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardio-metabolic disease with human studies correlating metabolic disease acquisition or risk with levels of various inflammatory markers. Rodent studies employing genetic modifications or novel pharmacological approaches have provided mechanistic insight into the role of these inflammatory mediators. Sex differences impact inflammatory processes and the subsequent biological response. As a consequence, this may affect how inflammation alters metabolic processes between the sexes. Recently, some of our work in the field of inflammatory genes and metabolic control identified a sexual dimorphism in a preclinical model and caused us to question the frequency and scale of such findings in the literature. This review concentrates on inflammatory-related signalling in relation to obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes and highlights the differences observed between males and females. Differences in the activation and signalling of various inflammatory genes and proteins present another reason why studying both male and female patients or animals is important in the context of understanding and finding therapeutics for metabolic-related disease. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on The Importance of Sex Differences in Pharmacology Research. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.21/issuetoc.