Aging Reduces Skeletal Blood Flow, Endothelium-Dependent Vasodilation, and NO Bioavailability in Rats

Abstract

These data show that reductions in metaphyseal bone and diaphyseal marrow perfusion with old age are associated with diminished endothelium-dependent vasodilation through an impairment of the NOS mechanism. Such age-related changes in bone perfusion and vascular NO signaling could impact clinical bone loss, increase risk of fracture, and impair fracture healing in the elderly.