Nutrients and Gene Expression Affecting Bone Metabolism

Abstract Bone mass, the principal determinant of bone health, is controlled mainly by genetic factors. Other genetically regulated elements, such as bone geometry and microarchitecture as well as remodeling, also contribute to the risk for fracture. Some modifiable factors, such as nutrition, may influence these elements by modifying the expression of genes that regulate transcription factors and proteins that intervene in the metabolic pathways of osteoclasts, osteoblasts, and osteocytes, the cells responsible for bone remodeling. The most-studied nutrients are calcium, vitamins A, B, C, and especially D, phytoestrogens, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. In in vitro studies, most of these nutrients have a beneficial effect, although there is no clear correlation with clinical studies.