Age and motor score predict osteoprotegerin level in chronic spinal cord injury

J Musculoskelet Neuronal Interact, 2008 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 2008

Spinal Cord Injury Musculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study investigates bone health in men with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). It looks at how age, injury severity, and mobility relate to bone markers in the blood. The researchers found that more severe cervical SCI was linked to lower levels of a bone-protecting protein called OPG.

Study Duration

1.6 to 59.8 years post-SCI

Participants

64 caucasian men with chronic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Increasing age was significantly associated with increased OPG and CTx levels.
2
Injury severity was predictive of OPG levels; cervical motor complete and ASIA C SCI had significantly lower mean OPG levels.
3
Locomotive mode was not associated with differences in bone markers.

Research Summary

This study examined the relationship between circulating markers of bone turnover and circulating RANKL/OPG levels with the severity of SCI, aging, or to differences in mobility. The study found a significant relationship between increased age and greater levels of OPG and CTx. Severe cervical spinal cord injury is associated with decreased circulating OPG levels.

Practical Implications

Risk Assessment

Severe cervical SCI patients may be at higher risk for accelerated bone loss.

Potential Biomarker

OPG could be a potential biomarker for osteoporosis in SCI patients.

Therapeutic Target

Recombinant OPG replacement might prevent bone loss following neurological injury.

Age and motor score predict osteoprotegerin level in chronic spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Risk Assessment

Potential Biomarker

Therapeutic Target

Study Limitations

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Age and motor score predict osteoprotegerin level in chronic spinal cord injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Risk Assessment

Potential Biomarker

Therapeutic Target

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?