National Institutes of Health

“ Researchers have used a combination of mouse breeding and genetic technology to identify a gene that strongly influences peak bone mass in mice. The gene, which is present in humans as well as mice, was not previously known to be involved in bone biology, and hence represents a promising new target for development of drugs that could prevent or reverse the bone loss that leads to osteoporosis. Peak bone mass, acquired early in life, is thought to be an important factor in the risk for osteoporosis in humans. ”

“ Klein, "These results indicate that pharmacological inhibition of 12/15-LO in vivo can improve bone mass and strength during skeletal development as well as offset the bone loss that accompanies estrogen deficiency."
The results of this study merit further animal and human investigation of the role of 12/15-LO in the development of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is the most common bone and mineral disorder in all aging populations, resulting in fractures from minor trauma. ”

“ The use of these drugs resulted in an increase in bone mineral density (BMD) throughout the body in mice that were estrogen-deficient after removal of the ovaries. Reduction in estrogen production with menopause is the major cause of loss of BMD during later life. ”