Abnormal variations of the key genes in osteoporotic fractures

Abstract

Abstract Objective: The classical osteoporotic signaling pathways include the four key genes(LRP5, Runx2, Osterix, and RANKL) influencing the regulation of osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. This study investigates the variations of these four genes in bone specimens associated with fractures in osteoporotic rats. Methods: Osteoporotic rats (Ovariectomised rats) as an osteoporotic group were randomly divided into three groups-group A, group B, and group C. Non-osteoporotic rats as control group were likewise divided into three groups-A0, B0 and C0, using the same method. The rats were killed on the third day of fractures in groups A and A0, on the seventh day of fractures in groups B and B0, and on the fourteenth day of fractures in groups C and C0. The bone specimens were taken from the femur, and expression level of each gene in the bone specimens was detected using RT-qPCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Results: LRP5, Runx2, and Osterix expressions were decreased in osteoporotic rat fractures and then increased over time. The expression of RANKL was elevated in osteoporotic rat bone specimens, which decreased after that. Conclusion: The four genes can inform practice in ideal interventions in the prevention and management of osteoporosis.