Exploring the effects of homocysteine metabolism in osteoporosis management in Indian adult females.

Abstract

Objectives: Women are at a significantly higher risk of osteoporotic fractures, largely due to progressive bone demineralization and impaired bone microarchitecture. Low bone mineral density (BMD) is a common condition in women worldwide. Disrupted homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism has been linked to reduced BMD and increased risk of osteoporotic fractures. Hyperhomocysteinemia (Hhcy) affects osteoblast and osteoclast activity, interferes with collagen cross-linking in the extracellular matrix, and has a detrimental effect on bone health. This study aimed to establish the association between hematological and biochemical parameters and osteoporosis in adult females. Methods: We measured Hcy, creatinine, uric acid (UA), vitamin B12, and vitamin D levels. Significantly elevated Hcy (27.322 ± 0.816 vs 10.152 ± 0.381 µmol/L), creatinine (0.670 ± 0.012 vs 0.587 ± 0.011 mg/dL), and UA (5.118 ± 0.083 vs 2.786 ± 0.060 mg/dL) were found in osteoporotic females, while reduced concentrations of vitamin B12 (148.883 ± 2.192 vs 294.14 ± 6.505 pg/mL) and vitamin D (24.98 ± 0.621 vs 33.7 ± 0.652 ng/mL) were observed. Results: Hematological parameters were found differentially expressed in osteoporotic females. Elevated Hcy levels, combined with reduced vitamin B12 and vitamin D, were strongly associated with decreased BMD and a higher susceptibility to osteoporotic fractures. Women with increased Hcy levels also had lower T-scores compared to those without Hhcy. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Hcy plays a critical role in bone resorption and osteoporotic fractures. Regulating Hcy metabolism may serve as an effective therapeutic strategy for managing bone resorption and osteoporosis. We hypothesize that elevated Hcy levels are closely related to low BMD and an increased risk of osteoporosis.