Gene means higher risk of osteoporosis

WASHINGTON - A gene involved in bone development may put some women at a higher risk for osteoporosis, say researchers in Iceland.

They said certain versions of the gene, called BMP2, may compound the known risks which include small bones, a calcium-poor diet and a lack of exercise.

Researchers at deCODE Genetics in Iceland found the gene by screening a nationwide genealogical database of Icelanders. The database takes advantage of the small, inbred population that dates back to immigrants who settled the island 1100 years ago.

Unnur Styrkarsdottir and colleagues identified 207 extended families with several members who had osteoporosis and fingered BMP2 - the gene for bone morphogenetic protein 2.

Already known to be involved in bone development, the gene has several versions. The researchers found that about 30 per cent of those tested had one of three versions of the gene that gave them three times the risk of osteoporosis compared with others.

The team double checked using data from Danish women and confirmed their findings, they report in this week's issue of the Public Library of Science.

"There are over a million osteoporotic fractures per year in the United States, with a total direct medical cost exceeding US$10 billion ($16.5 billion) annually," deCODE said.

"By identifying those at elevated risk before they begin to lose bone mass, it may be possible to more closely monitor bone density and implement more targeted and effective prevention strategies, involving lifestyle changes and-or existing medications," it added.

- REUTERS