- The study describes the ability of a PI3-kinase inhibitor to combat Heterotopic Ossification and Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva in murine preclinical models
- These results could have an impact on the treatment of patients with these diseases
A team of researchers from the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and the University of Barcelona (UB) have described the ability of an inhibitor of the PI3K£\ (BYL719) to block the ectopic bone formation in mice. This could lead to improve the treatment of two pathologies: heterotopic ossification and fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP, a rare bone disease). The study was led by Dr. Francesc Ventura, head of the Cell Signaling and Bone Biology group.
New Potential Target for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Bone Diseases
Loss of a key protein leads to defects in skeletal development including reduced bone density and shortening of the fingers and toes.
Loss of a key protein leads to defects in skeletal development including reduced bone density and shortening of the fingers and toes.
‘Novel study opens up a new avenue for treating two rare bone diseases. The study highlights the ability of a PI3-kinase inhibitor to fight Heterotopic Ossification (HO) and Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) in murine preclinical models.’
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Heterotopic ossification (HO) consists in the appearance of ossifications in inappropriate places (ectopic formation), such as tendons, muscles, and connective tissue. For this pathology, there are risk factors such as prolonged immobility, spinal injuries, burns, hip operations, and muscle traumas. "Despite knowing this we still do not have a full understanding of the causes and the most appropriate treatment for the disease," says Dr. Francesc Ventura.
On the other hand, the FOP is a rare disease very similar to HO but has its origin in a genetic mutation. FOP patients have mutations in the gene encoding a bone growth factors receptor (BMPs), the ACVR1. The disease is gradually induced by episodes of inflammation that eventually result in the progressive formation of bone in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These ossifications reduce drastically the mobility and life expectancy of those affected. There is currently no treatment for this disease.
Fibrous Dysplasia of the Bone – Causes – Symptoms – Diagnosis – Treatment – FAQs
Fibrous dysplasia is a condition with abnormal growth areas in one or more bones, where normal bone is replaced with fibrous bone tissue.
Fibrous dysplasia is a condition with abnormal growth areas in one or more bones, where normal bone is replaced with fibrous bone tissue.
The BYL719 inhibitor was approved by the FDA last May for its use in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Therefore, there is a large amount of information about the use of BYL719 in humans.
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Blame Your Genes for Bone Disease
After 10-years of research the scientists have found several new genes which are responsible for the inheritance of Paget's disease, a bone condition that affects 5% people over 55-years.
After 10-years of research the scientists have found several new genes which are responsible for the inheritance of Paget's disease, a bone condition that affects 5% people over 55-years.
Source-Eurekalert
Blood Samples from NASA Astronauts Help Scientists Develop Real-Time Bone Disease Test
By using calcium isotope ratios 42Ca and 44Ca in bone, healthcare providers may be able to optimize therapies for debilitating illnesses in the future.
By using calcium isotope ratios 42Ca and 44Ca in bone, healthcare providers may be able to optimize therapies for debilitating illnesses in the future.
