Role of oxidative stress in osteoporosis

Abstract

The maintenance of bone mass is influenced by genetic race, hormonal, mechanical and nutritional factors which modulate the local and systemic mechanisms regulating bone turnover. One of the factors significantly influencing bone mass is oxidative stress. This paper aims to provide a review of the state of the science of oxidative stress and osteoporosis. To reach this objective, a search of the literature using Medline/Index Medicus, EMBASE/Excerpta Medica and Chemical Abstracts were performed, and most of relevant citations were studied and summarized. It is concluded that oxidative stress by itself and by influencing the regulatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor and interlukins are involved in osteoporosis. Use of antioxidants can be helpful in the management of osteoporosis.