According to researchers- a gene mutation causing high bone density, which could open the way to new osteoporosis treatments. Bone is a dynamic material, which is being formed and destroyed all the time. When the bone loss side of the equation predominates, you are at risk of osteoporosis. But researchers at Texas University have been studying a family with unusually high bone density - the opposite of what happens in osteoporosis. They now report upon the gene that drives this process.
This family seems to have a higher set point for bone than the general population - bone is formed faster than it is destroyed. Discovering the gene involved may result in a new generation of osteoporosis drugs. Current treatments focus on preventing further bone loss - but it is difficult to encourage the body to build more bone, only if it is possible.
