The pivotal role of mitochondria in osteoporosis - From pathogenesis to future therapies

Sep 29, 2026

Osteoporosis is a prevalent metabolic bone disorder whose incidence rises with age, substantially lowering patients’ quality of life. Recent findings emphasize mitochondria as central regulators of bone metabolism through mitochondrial dysfunction’s impact on bone cell viability and function. Mitochondria also control apoptosis, oxidative stress, and calcium ion homeostasis, supporting bone health. Evidence links mitochondrial dysfunction to osteoporosis pathogenesis, while therapeutic opportunities remain challenging. This review explains these mechanisms, summarizes advances, and outlines future directions for prevention and treatment.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages10

Reading Time25 min

AccessFree to download

Introduction

Basic Function and Structure of Mitochondria

Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports 45 (2026) 102407 Contents lists available at ScienceDirect Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports journal [homepage:](homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/bbrep)[ www.elsevier.com/locate/bbrep](homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/bbrep) | The pivotal role of mitochondria in osteoporosis: From pathogenesis to future therapies
Ce Shia,1, Lei Chen b,1, Jinshuang Li c, Tingting Shia, Chun Yanga,*, Liguo Zhao d,**
a Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, 223800, China b Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, 223800, China c Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, 223800, China d Department of Hospital Management, The Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, 223800, China | | | | --- | --- | --- | | A R T I C L E I N F O | | A B S T R A C T | | Keywords:
Osteoporosis Mitochondria
Bone metabolism Mitochondrial dysfunction | | Osteoporosis, a prevalent metabolic bone disorder, exhibits an age-related increase in incidence, profoundly impacting patients’ quality of life. Recent studies have underscored the fundamental role of mitochondria in bone metabolism, emphasizing the intricate link mitochondrial dysfunction and the viability and functionality of bone cells. Beyond their role in energy production, mitochondria are critical in modulating cellular apoptosis, oxidative stress, and calcium ion homeostasis, all of which are essential for maintaining bone health. Emerging evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction plays an integral role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, yet significant challenges persist in this field. This review seeks to elucidate the critical role of mitochondria in osteoporosis research, examine their intricate relationship with bone metabolism, and synthesize current research advances alongside future directions. Ultimately, it aims to offer novel insights for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. | 1. Introduction Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by diminished bone mineral density and compromised bone microarchitecture, resulting in reduced bone strength and heightened fracture risk [1]. Recent research has underscored the critical role of mitochondria in bone metabolism [2]. Beyond serving as the primary source of cellular energy, mitochondria are integral to modulating key physiological processes, such as cell viability, apoptosis, and oxidative stress, all of which are essential for bone homeostasis [3]. Emerging evidence highlights mitochondrial dysfunction as a key contributor to osteoporosis pathogenesis, particularly in disrupting the delicate balance between bone formation and resorption [4]. Under physiological conditions, mitochondria sustain skeletal homeostasis by regulating osteoblast andosteoclast activities. In pathological states, however, mitochondrial dysfunction perturbs this equilibrium, thereby exacerbating osteoporosis development [5]. The dynamic properties and quality control mechanisms of mitochondria have garnered significant attention in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis [6]. Research indicates that mitochondrial fusion, fission, biogenesis, and mitophagy are critical for the viability and functionality of bone cells. Specifically, mitochondrial dynamics modulate the metabolic state and survival signaling of bone cells, thereby influencing bone metabolism homeostasis [7]. Consequently, mitochondria-targeted therapeutic strategies have emerged as promising interventions for osteoporosis-related conditions, particularly in managing diabetes-induced and postmenopausal osteoporosis [8]. Therefore, a deeper understanding of mitochondria’s role in bone metabolism and its underlying mechanisms is crucial for elucidating the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and fostering the development of innovative therapeutic

FAQs

What role do mitochondria play in bone metabolism related to osteoporosis?

Mitochondria regulate key processes in bone homeostasis by supporting cell viability and influencing apoptosis, oxidative stress, and calcium ion homeostasis. Mitochondrial dysfunction disrupts the balance between bone formation and resorption.

How does mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to osteoporosis pathogenesis?

Emerging evidence indicates mitochondrial dysfunction is integral to osteoporosis development, particularly by disturbing the equilibrium between osteoblast and osteoclast activities and worsening disease progression.

What future therapeutic directions are discussed regarding osteoporosis?

The review highlights mitochondria-targeted interventions, including modulation of mitochondrial dynamics, enhancement of mitochondrial biogenesis, and optimization of mitochondrial function, as promising avenues for future treatments.

Sep 29, 2026

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