Adiponectin is associated with bone strength and fracture history in paralyzed men with spinal cord injury

This study investigates the link between adiponectin levels and bone strength in paralyzed men with spinal cord injury. The researchers found an inverse relationship, meaning higher adiponectin levels were associated with lower bone strength. This suggests that adiponectin could be a useful biomarker for predicting fracture risk in this population. The study used finite element analysis of CT scans to quantify bone strength, measuring axial stiffness and maximal load to fracture of the distal femur. They also collected data on previous fractures to compare with adiponectin levels. The findings suggest that in paralyzed individuals with spinal cord injury, the bone-resorbing effects of adiponectin may dominate, leading to bone loss and increased fracture risk. Strength estimates and adiponectin levels may improve fracture risk prediction.

• 1
  Axial stiffness and maximal load were inversely associated with circulating adiponectin levels after adjusting for injury duration and lower extremity lean mass.
• 2
  Individuals with post-SCI osteoporotic fractures had lower distal femur stiffness and maximal load compared to those with no fracture history.
• 3
  Participants with osteoporotic fractures had significantly higher adiponectin levels compared to those who did not report an osteoporotic fracture.