A Breakthrough in Bone Health: Scientists Discover New Hormone

By: | July 31st, 2024

MBH in neurons (red) adjacent to other cells . (Image Courtesy: Ingraham Lab/UCSF)

A New Hormone Discovered

A revolutionary discovery in bone health has emerged from the scientific community. Researchers have unveiled a novel hormone that possesses the remarkable ability to significantly enhance bone strength. This groundbreaking finding could potentially revolutionize the treatment of bone-related conditions such as osteoporosis and fractures.

The hormone, dubbed Maternal Brain Hormone(MBH) or CCN3, was initially identified while scientists were investigating why breastfeeding women maintain strong bones despite increased calcium demands for milk production. Contrary to expectations, estrogen, a hormone typically associated with bone health, was not the primary factor responsible for this phenomenon.

How CCN3 Works

Instead, researchers discovered that neurons in the brains of lactating females produce CCN3, which travels to bone-forming cells, stimulating bone growth and density. Intriguingly, experiments have demonstrated that increasing CCN3 levels in mice led to substantial bone strengthening, even in the elderly, where fractures healed at a remarkably rapid pace.

While this research is still in its early stages, the implications for human health are profound. Scientists are optimistic about developing therapies based on CCN3 to treat osteoporosis, a condition affecting millions worldwide, and to accelerate bone fracture healing. This discovery marks a significant step forward in our understanding of bone health and holds the promise of improved quality of life for countless individuals.

Nidhi Goyal

Nidhi is a gold medalist Post Graduate in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences.

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