Long-term effect of statins on the risk of new-onset osteoporosis: A nationwide population-based cohort study

Association between statin use and cataract formation in a retrospective cohort study using Japanese health screening and claims data

In this retrospective cohort study of data (recorded between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2017) from a commercially available health screening and insurance claims database of the working-age Japanese population, we examined the association of statin use with cataract formation. Using the health screening data, we identified 1,178,560 patients who met the dyslipidaemia criteria; among them, 724,200 patients were enrolled. Based on person-years, the cohort was categorised by statin non-use and new use. Unadjusted, age-sex-adjusted, and multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios (hazard ratios [HRs]; with their 95% confidence intervals [CIs]) were estimated, and intergroup comparisons were undertaken using Cox proportional hazards regression. An increased risk of cataract incidence was associated with statin use (adjusted HR [95% CI]) compared with statin non-use (1.56 [1.43-1.70]). The adjusted HRs [95% CI] for cataract incidence for low- and high-potency statins were 1.48 [1.30-1.70] and 1.61 [1.44-1.79], respectively, whereas those for lipophilic and hydrophilic statins were 1.56 [1.39-1.75] and 1.56 [1.38-1.75], respectively. The adjusted HR for statin use with incidence of cataract was 1.35-1.73, except for fluvastatin and simvastatin. In the middle-aged Japanese working population, statin use was associated with a 1.5- to 1.6-fold higher risk of cataracts.

Association of higher potency statin use with risk of osteoporosis and fractures in patients with stroke in a Korean nationwide cohort study

This population-based cohort study aimed to evaluate the risk of osteoporosis and fractures associated with higher-potency statin use compared to lower-potency statin use in patients with stroke, using data from the Health Insurance and Review Assessment database of South Korea (2010-2019). Patients who received statin within 30 days after hospitalization for a new-onset stroke (n = 276,911) were divided into higher-potency (n = 212,215, 76.6%) or lower-potency (n = 64,696, 23.4%) statin initiation groups. The primary outcome was a composite of osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures. Secondary outcomes were individual components of the primary outcome, including osteoporosis, vertebral fracture, hip fracture, and non-hip non-vertebral fracture. Cox proportional hazard models weighted by standardized morbidity ratios were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The risk of the composite outcome (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.93-0.97), osteoporosis (0.93, 0.90-0.96), vertebral fracture (0.95, 0.91-0.99), and hip fracture (0.89, 0.84-0.95) were significantly lower in higher-potency statin users, while the risk for non-hip non-vertebral fracture was not significant (0.98, 0.95-1.02). The use of higher-potency statins compared to lower-potency statins was associated with a lower risk of osteoporosis, vertebral fracture, and hip fracture in patients with stroke.

The pleiotropic effects of statins: a comprehensive exploration of neurovascular unit modulation and blood-brain barrier protection

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is the most central component of the neurovascular unit (NVU) and is crucial for the maintenance of the internal environment of the central nervous system and the regulation of homeostasis. A multitude of neuroprotective agents have been developed to exert neuroprotective effects and improve the prognosis of patients with ischemic stroke. These agents have been designed to maintain integrity and promote BBB repair. Statins are widely used as pharmacological agents for the treatment and prevention of ischemic stroke, making them a cornerstone in the pharmacological armamentarium for this condition. The primary mechanism of action is the reduction of serum cholesterol through the inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, which results in a decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and an increase in cholesterol clearance. Nevertheless, basic and clinical research has indicated that statins may exert additional pleiotropic effects beyond LDL-C reduction. Previous studies on ischemic stroke have demonstrated that statins can enhance neurological function, reduce inflammation, and promote angiogenic and synaptic processes following ischemic stroke. The BBB has been increasingly recognized for its role in the development and progression of ischemic stroke. Statins have also been found to play a potential BBB protective role by affecting members of the NVU. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive theoretical basis for the clinical application of statins by systematically detailing how statins influence the BBB, particularly focusing on the regulation of the function of each member of the NVU.

Advantages of statin usage in preventing fractures for men over 50 in the United States: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

OBJECTIVES

The relationship between statin treatment and fracture risk is still controversial, especially in in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). We aim to determine whether statin therapy affects the occurrence of fractures in the general US population and in patients with CVDs.

METHODS

Epidemiological data of this cross-sectional study were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2001-2020, n = 9,893). Statins records and fracture information were obtained from the questionnaires. Weighted logistic regressions were performed to explore the associations between statin and the risk of fracture.

RESULTS

Statin use was found to be associated with reduced risk of fracture mainly in male individuals aged over 50 years old and taking medications for less than 3 years, after adjusted for confounders including supplements of calcium and vitamin D. The protective effects were only found in subjects taking atorvastatin and rosuvastatin. We found null mediation role of LDL-C and 25(OH)D in such effects. Statin was found to reduce fracture risk in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs, OR: 0.4366, 95%CI: 0.2664 to 0.7154, P = 0.0014), and in patients without diabetes (OR: 0.3632, 95%CI: 0.1712 to 0.7704, P = 0.0091).

CONCLUSIONS

Statin showed advantages in reducing risk of fracture in male individuals aged over 50 years old and taking medications for less than 3 years. More research is needed to determine the impact of gender variations, medication duration, and diabetes.

Saturation Effect of Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP) Index on Spinal Bone Mineral Density: A Population-Based Study

Lipid accumulation product (LAP) has a positive effect on spinal bone mineral density (BMD). However, once LAP levels exceed 27.26, the rate of spinal BMD increase slow down or even decline. This indicates a biphasic relationship between lipid metabolism and BMD, suggesting potential benefits within a certain range and possible adverse effects beyond that range. This study aimed to investigate the potential association between LAP index and BMD in US adults, as well as to explore the presence of a potential saturation effect in this relationship. This study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning from 2007 to 2018. A multiple stepwise regression model was employed to examine the association between LAP index and total spinal BMD. Additionally, a generalized additive model and a smooth curve fitting algorithm were utilized to examine the relationship, and saturation effect study was conducted to determine the saturation level. The calculation formula of LAP used in the study was: (LAP = (waist circumstances (WC) (cm) - 58) × triglyceride (TG) (mmol/L)) for women, and (LAP = (WC (cm) - 65) × TG (mmol/L)) for men. The study involved a total of 7913 participants aged 20 years or older. Through multiple stepwise regression analysis, it was found that individuals with higher LAP scores exhibited higher total spinal BMD. In both the crude and partially adjusted models, total spinal BMD was significantly higher in the highest LAP quartile (Q4) compared to the lowest LAP quartile (Q1) (P < 0.05). Utilizing a generalized additive model and smooth curve, a nonlinear relationship between LAP and total spinal BMD was observed. Furthermore, the study identified the saturation value of LAP to be 27.26, indicating a saturation effect. This research highlights a nonlinear relationship between LAP and total spinal BMD, along with the presence of a saturation effect.

Crosstalk between Lipid Metabolism and Bone Homeostasis: Exploring Intricate Signaling Relationships

Bone is a dynamic tissue reshaped by constant bone formation and bone resorption to maintain its function. The skeletal system accounts for approximately 70% of the total volume of the body, and continuous bone remodeling requires quantities of energy and material consumption. Adipose tissue is the main energy storehouse of the body and has a strong adaptive capacity to participate in the regulation of various physiological processes. Considering that obesity and metabolic syndrome have become major public health challenges, while osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures have become other major health problems in the aging population, it would be interesting to explore these 2 diseases together. Currently, an increasing number of researchers are focusing on the interactions between multiple tissue systems, i.e., multiple organs and tissues that are functionally coordinated together and pathologically pathologically interact with each other in the body. However, there is lack of detailed reviews summarizing the effects of lipid metabolism on bone homeostasis and the interactions between adipose tissue and bone tissue. This review provides a detailed summary of recent advances in understanding how lipid molecules and adipose-derived hormones affect bone homeostasis, how bone tissue, as a metabolic organ, affects lipid metabolism, and how lipid metabolism is regulated by bone-derived cytokines.

Vitamin D3 deficiency and osteopenia in spastic paraplegia type 5 indicate impaired bone homeostasis

Hereditary spastic paraplegia type 5 (SPG5) is an autosomal recessively inherited movement disorder characterized by progressive spastic gait disturbance and afferent ataxia. SPG5 is caused by bi-allelic loss of function mutations in CYP7B1 resulting in accumulation of the oxysterols 25-hydroxycholesterol and 27-hydroxycholesterol in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of SPG5 patients. An effect of 27- hydroxycholesterol via the estrogen and liver X receptors was previously shown on bone homeostasis. This study analyzed bone homeostasis and osteopenia in 14 SPG5 patients as a non-motor feature leading to a potential increased risk for bone fractures. T-Scores in CT bone density measurements were reduced, indicating osteopenia in SPG5 patients. Further, we analyzed various metabolites of bone homeostasis by ELISA in serum samples of these patients. We identified a lack of vitamin D3 metabolites (Calcidiol and Calcitriol), an increase in Sclerostin as a bone formation/mineralization inhibiting factor, and a decrease in cross-linked N-telopeptide of type I collagen (NTX), a marker indicating reduced bone resorption. As statin treatment has been found to lower oxysterol levels, we evaluated its effect in samples of the STOP-SPG5 trial and found atorvastatin to normalize the increased sclerostin levels. In summary, our study identified osteopenia as a non-motor feature in SPG5 and suggests the need for vitamin D3 substitution in SPG5 patients. Sclerostin may be considered a therapeutic target and biomarker in upcoming therapeutical trials in SPG5.

Association of Decreased Bone Density and Hyperlipidemia in a Taiwanese Older Adult Population

Objective

This study aimed to determine if a combination of 2 abnormal lipid profiles revealed a stronger association with low bone mass than a single blood lipid abnormality alone.

Methods

This study enrolled 1373 participants who had received a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan from January 2016 to December 2016 in a medical center in southern Taiwan. Logistic regression was used to examine association between lipid profiles and osteopenia or osteoporosis after adjusting for covariates.

Results

Compared to people with total cholesterol (TC) < 200 mg/dL, those with TC ≥ 240 mg/dL tended to have osteopenia or osteoporosis (OR 2.61; 95% CI, 1.44-4.71). Compared to people with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) < 130 mg/dL, those with LDL-C ≥ 160 mg/dL tended to develop osteopenia or osteoporosis (OR 2.13; 95% CI, 1.21-3.74). The association of increased triglyceride and decreased bone mass was similar, although not statistically significant. Those with the combination of TG ≥ 200 mg/dL and TC ≥ 240 mg/dL had a stronger tendency to have osteopenia or osteoporosis (OR 3.51; 95% CI, 1.11-11.13) than people with only one blood lipid abnormality. Similarly, people with TG ≥ 200 mg/dL and LDL-C ≥ 160 mg/dL had a stronger tendency to have osteopenia or osteoporosis (OR 9.31; 95% CI, 1.15-75.42) than people with only one blood lipid abnormality, after adjustment for the same covariates.

Conclusion

Blood levels of TC, LDL-C, and TG were associated with osteopenia or osteoporosis. Results indicate that individuals aged older than 50 years with abnormal lipid profiles should be urged to participate in a bone density survey to exclude osteopenia or osteoporosis.

Statins-Their Role in Bone Tissue Metabolism and Local Applications with Different Carriers

Statins, widely prescribed for lipid disorders, primarily target 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase competitively and reversibly, resulting in reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). This mechanism proves effective in lowering the risk of lipid-related diseases such as ischemic cerebrovascular and coronary artery diseases. Beyond their established use, statins are under scrutiny for potential applications in treating bone diseases. The focus of research centers mainly on simvastatin, a lipophilic statin demonstrating efficacy in preventing osteoporosis and aiding in fracture and bone defect healing. Notably, these effects manifest at elevated doses (20 mg/kg/day) of statins, posing challenges for systematic administration due to their limited bone affinity. Current investigations explore intraosseous statin delivery facilitated by specialized carriers. This paper outlines various carrier types, characterizing their structures and underscoring various statins' potential as local treatments for bone diseases.

Therapeutic Effects of Statins: Promising Drug for Topical and Transdermal Administration

Statins are HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors and decrease plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. They are well tolerated, and because of their LDL-C-lowering effect, they are utilized to decrease the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. However, statins have pleiotropic effects, including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer. Currently, oral administration is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved route of administration for statins. However, other administration routes have demonstrated promising results in different pre-clinical and clinical studies. For instance, statins also seem beneficial in dermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, hirsutism, uremic pruritus, and graft-versus-host disease. Topically applied statins have been studied to treat seborrhea, acne, rhinophyma, and rosacea. They also have beneficial effects in contact dermatitis and wound healing in animal studies, (HIV) infection, osseointegration, porokeratosis, and some ophthalmologic diseases. Topical and transdermal application of statins is a non-invasive drug administration method that has shown significant results in bypassing the first-pass metabolism in the liver, thereby reducing possible adverse effects. This study reviews the multifaceted molecular and cellular impacts of statins, their topical and transdermal application, novel delivery systems, such as nanosystems for topical and transdermal administration and the challenges concerning this approach.

Age- and dose-dependent effect of statin use on the risk of osteoporotic fracture in older adults

Previous studies have revealed the protective effects of statins on bone but the association of statins use with osteoporosis-related measurement has shown controversial results. In this study, we found an age, dose andduration-dependent osteoprotective effect of statins in general older population.

PURPOSE

Previous studies have revealed the protective effects of statins on bone but the association of statins use with osteoporotic fractures has shown controversial results.

METHODS

In this study with Korean National Health Insurance Service-Senior cohort database, a total of 365,656 elderly without previous history of osteoporosis and who were started on statin since January 1 2004 were included and observed until December 31 2012. Hazard rations (HR) for major osteoporotic fractures were calculated using the weighted Cox proportional hazards model with inverse-probability of treatment weighting method.

RESULTS

During 6.27 years of follow-up period, 54,959 osteoporotic fractures occurred and the majority of fractures (69.5%) were vertebral fractures. Compared with non-users, statin use was associated with a decreased risk of all outcomes with adjusted HR (95% CI) of 0.77 (0.72-0.83; P < 0.001) for major osteoporotic fractures, 0.49 (0.38-0.62; P < 0.001) for hip fractures, and 0.70 (0.64-0.77; P < 0.001) for vertebral fractures. When outcomes were examined separately by sex, the results were broadly comparable in terms of patterns of risk reduction by statin use. The patients with statin initiated at age ≥ 80 years had the highest risk reduction for most outcomes relative to non-users. Higher cumulative dose of statin was negatively associated with the osteoporotic fracture risk; 0.97 (0.91-1.02) for 30-364 cumulative daily defined dose (cDDD), 0.45 (0.40-0.51) for 365-1,094 cDDD, and 0.22 (0.15-0.33) for ≥ 1,095 cDDD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that statin use was associated with significant reduction in the risk of osteoporotic fractures in general older population.

Association between coronary artery calcium and thoracic spine bone mineral density: Multiethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Previously, osteoporosis and coronary artery disease were considered unrelated. However, beyond age, these two conditions appear to share common etiologies that are not yet fully understood. We examined the relationship between thoracic spine bone mineral density (BMD) and severity of coronary artery calcium (CAC) score.

METHODS AND RESULTS

MESA is a prospective cohort study of 6814 men and women between the ages of 45 and 84 years, without clinical cardiovascular disease. This study included participants who underwent non-contrast chest CT scans to determine CAC score and thoracic spine BMD. The thoracic spine BMD was categorized into osteoporosis (defined as T score: ≤ -2.5), osteopenia (T-score between: -2.5 and -1) and normal BMD (T-score ≥ -1). There were 3392 subjects who had CAC >0 at baseline. The prevalence of CAC >0 was 36% in normal BMD group, 49% in the osteopenia and 68% in osteoporosis group. After adjusting for risk factors of atherosclerosis, in multivariate regression models we found a significant association between CAC and osteoporosis (OR: 1.40, 95% CI 1.16-1.69, p value < 0.0004). Furthermore, we stratified our results by gender and found a statistically significant association in both men and women.

CONCLUSION

Results from this cross-sectional analysis of a large population based ethnically diverse cohort indicate a significant inverse relationship between thoracic BMD and CAC in both genders independent of other cardiovascular risk factors. Future studies need to explore the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms relating BMD and coronary artery calcification.

Pleotropic effects of statins: the dilemma of wider utilization of statin

BACKGROUND

Apart from reducing the circulating LDL-c and the number of cardiovascular cases as well as fatalities, statins have auxiliary non-lipid-related or cholesterol independent effects, the pleiotropic effects. The aim of the present review is to understand the pleotropic effects of statins.

MAIN BODY

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is presently the major cause of patient misery as well as mortality among non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the world. Despite the fact that statins are the most extensively affirmed, prescribed and evidence-based lipid-lowering medicine worldwide that curtail low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) levels and the number of cardiovascular cases as well as deaths, statins also elicit auxiliary non-lipid-related or cholesterol independent effects, the pleiotropic effects. Improved endothelial function, significantly lowered oxidative stress, atherosclerotic plaque stabilization, immunomodulatory, cessation of vascular smooth muscle proliferation, effects on bone metabolism, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic effects, and reduced risk of dementia are among these pleotropic effects. Statins have also been explored for its uses in life threatening diseases like cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. They have been demonstrated to revamp vascular tone. Many research and review articles have been thoroughly studied for this systematic review.

CONCLUSIONS

Statins have not only shown to be benefitial in lowering the levels of LDL-C but have also been established to be advantageous in the treatment of cancer, neurological conditions like dementia, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease. Future high-quality trials are needed to include statins in the treatment of these conditions as per guidelines.

Effect of concomitant statin treatment in postmenopausal patients with hormone receptor-positive early-stage breast cancer receiving adjuvant denosumab or placebo: a post hoc analysis of ABCSG-18

Background

Statins are cholesterol-lowering drugs prescribed for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, statins may possess anticancer properties and interact with receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand expression. We aimed at evaluating a hypothetical synergistic effect of statins with denosumab in early-stage breast cancer (BC) patients from the Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group (ABCSG) trial 18.

Patients and methods

ABCSG-18 (NCT00556374) is a prospective, randomized, double-blind, phase III study; postmenopausal patients with hormone receptor-positive BC receiving a nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor were randomly assigned to denosumab or placebo. In this post hoc analysis, we investigated the effects of concomitant statin therapy on recurrence risk (RR) of BC, fracture risk and bone mineral density (BMD).

Results

In the study population (n = 3420), statin therapy (n = 824) was associated with worse disease-free survival (DFS) [hazard ratio (HR) 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-1.75; P = 0.023]. While no significant effect of lipophilic statins (n = 710) on RR was observed (HR 1.30, 95% CI 0.99-1.72; P = 0.062), patients on hydrophilic statins (n = 87) had worse DFS compared with patients not receiving any statins (HR 2.00, 95% CI 1.09-3.66; P = 0.026). This finding was mainly driven by the effect of hydrophilic statins on DFS in the denosumab arm (HR 2.63, 95% CI 1.21-5.68; P = 0.014). However, this effect subsided after correction for confounders in the sensitivity analysis. No association between statin use and fracture risk or osteoporosis was observed.

Conclusion

According to this analysis, hydrophilic statins showed a detrimental effect on DFS in the main model, which was attenuated after correction for confounders. Our data need to be interpreted with caution due to their retrospective nature and the low number of patients receiving hydrophilic statins.

•

Statin co-medication was initially associated with a worse DFS in hormone receptor-positive early-stage BC patients.

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This effect was mainly driven by patients on hydrophilic statins.

•

However, this effect subsided after correction for confounders in the sensitivity analysis.

•

No association between statin use and fracture risk or osteoporosis was observed.

Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy and Safety of Alendronate Combined with Atorvastatin in the Treatment of Osteoporosis in Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes is a chronic disease caused by defective insulin secretion in the body, resulting in metabolic abnormalities with persistent blood glucose elevation. Osteoporosis is the most common diabetes complication. The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of the effects of alendronate combined with atorvastatin compared with alendronate alone in the treatment of osteoporosis in diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

Two researchers independently used PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, Wanfang Data, CNKI, and VIP databases to search for all relevant studies that met the inclusion criteria and used RevMan 5.3 and STATA 16.0 for data analysis.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected, including 1456 patients. Among the data extracted in this meta-analysis, bone mineral density (BMD) was the primary outcome measurement, while total effective rate, VAS, osteoprotegerin (OPG), bone Gla protein (BGP), bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP), blood P and Ca, and adverse effects were secondary outcome measurements. Our results showed that alendronate combined with atorvastatin is more effective than alendronate alone, with higher BMD, OPG, BGP, and BAP, more significant pain relief, and fewer adverse events.

CONCLUSION

The results of this meta-analysis indicate that alendronate combined with atorvastatin is a better treatment for osteoporosis in diabetes mellitus, showing more effective and higher BMD and fewer adverse events than alendronate alone.

Lipid metabolism within the bone micro-environment is closely associated with bone metabolism in physiological and pathophysiological stages

Recent advances in society have resulted in the emergence of both hyperlipidemia and obesity as life-threatening conditions in people with implications for various types of diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer. This is further complicated by a global rise in the aging population, especially menopausal women, who mostly suffer from overweight and bone loss simultaneously. Interestingly, clinical observations in these women suggest that osteoarthritis may be linked to a higher body mass index (BMI), which has led many to believe that there may be some degree of bone dysfunction associated with conditions such as obesity. It is also common practice in many outpatient settings to encourage patients to control their BMI and lose weight in an attempt to mitigate mechanical stress and thus reduce bone pain and joint dysfunction. Together, studies show that bone is not only a mechanical organ but also a critical component of metabolism, and various endocrine functions, such as calcium metabolism. Numerous studies have demonstrated a relationship between metabolic dysfunction in bone and abnormal lipid metabolism. Previous studies have also regarded obesity as a metabolic disorder. However, the relationship between lipid metabolism and bone metabolism has not been fully elucidated. In this narrative review, the data describing the close relationship between bone and lipid metabolism was summarized and the impact on both the normal physiology and pathophysiology of these tissues was discussed at both the molecular and cellular levels.

Low dose hydrophilic statins are the preferred agents for females at risk of osteoporosis

Objectives

The correlation between atherosclerosis and osteoporosis, independent of age, is clear. Multifactorial co-dependence between bone mineral density (BMD) and statin dose has been proposed. It is hypothesised that inhibition of the synthesis of cholesterol will also inhibit the synthesis of sex hormones and Vitamin D, negatively affecting BMD. This study aims to evaluate hydrophilic and non-hydrophilic statins effect on osteoporosis and analyse any possible superiority of one agent over the other within the group.

Methods

We identified 538 caucasian females who had a DEXA scan performed between 2002 and 2016 (age 60-89) in one DEXA center in Mid-West Ireland. A DEXA T-score results were analysed in the current study. Two hundred fifty females were not on statin therapy, and 323 females were on statin therapy. Females on therapy were separated into the atorvastatin group (N = 190), rosuvastatin group (N = 97), and pravastatin group (N = 36), comprising low dose and high dose groups. All anonymised data were analysed with SPSS statistical. To test the hypothesis that lower bone density is associated with high dose statins, an independent sample t-test was performed. The one-way between-groups ANOVA test was used to test the hypothesis that the BMD level depended on the statin's potency.

Results

Statin-naïve females have a statistically higher bone mineral density in the lumbar spine, t (538) = 3.42, p < 0.05 and in hip t (538) = 4.99, p < 0.05 than females on statin therapy. There was a significant difference in patient's age between the group, and no significant correlation was found between the patient's age and type of statin or bone density. In the atorvastatin group statistically, significant results were obtained both for spine and hip bone mineral density, t (188) = -5.61, p < 0.05 and t (188) = -3.62, p < 0.05, respectively. In the rosuvastatin group, statistically, a significant result was noted for bone mineral density of hip t (95) = -3.52, p < 0.05. This demonstrates a dose-dependency between bone mineral density and the dose of the statin. The independent between-group ANOVA yielded a statistically significant effect, F (2, 59) = 6.69, p < 0.05, η2 = 0.21 in the spine. Thus, patients on lipophilic statins had statistically lower BMD than females on hydrophilic statins. Multilinear regression analysis identified that age is not a statistically significant contributor in our analysis; however, the trend of decrease in bone mineral density with women's age is acknowledged by authors.

Conclusions

The study results support the theory that bone mineral density decreases with an increase in a statin dose, and hydrophilic statins, like pravastatin, have a better metabolic profile in the lumbar spine than lipophilic agents.

Association between Osteoporosis and Previous Statin Use: A Nested Case-Control Study

The relationship between statin use and osteoporosis is controversial; therefore, this study aimed to investigate this association. The ≥40-year-old population of the Korean National Health Insurance Service Health Screening Cohort was enrolled. The 68,592 osteoporosis patients were matched 1:1 with control participants for age, sex, income, and region of residence using propensity score matching. The histories of statin use for two years before the diagnosis of osteoporosis (index date) in the osteoporosis and control groups were compared using conditional/unconditional logistic regression. An increased number of days of statin use was not associated with osteoporosis (adjusted OR (aOR) = 0.97, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.94–1.00, p = 0.052). In the subgroup analyses, a large number of days of statin use was related to a reduced rate of osteoporosis in the <60-year-old female group, while the opposite was true in the ≥60-year-old female group. Both lipophilic and hydrophilic statins were related to a decreased rate of osteoporosis in the <60-year-old female group. Lipophilic statins, but not hydrophilic statins, were associated with an increased rate of osteoporosis in the ≥60-year-old female group. Statin use showed different associations in middle-aged and elderly women.

Low bone mineral density and coronary artery disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Coronary artery disease (CAD) and osteoporosis both cause significant morbidity and mortality. Recent interest in inflammation and the bone-vascular axis suggests a mechanistic link between the two conditions. This review and meta-analysis was conducted to examine the potential association between low bone mineral density (BMD) and CAD in adults. Two authors searched for studies that examined the association between low BMD and CAD. Risk of bias assessment was conducted using the modified Newcastle Ottawa score. Ten studies were selected from the 2258 unique records identified. Pooled analysis showed a significant association between low BMD and CAD (OR 1.65, 95%CI 1.37-2.39, p < 0.01). Subgroup analysis investigating males and females separately was not significant. The subgroup analyses looking for any differences across geographic locations and differences between coronary imaging modalities were also negative. Studies with adjusted ORs (n = 4) were also pooled (OR 3.01, 95%CI 0.91-9.99, p = 0.07). Low BMD is associated with CAD; however, it is unclear whether this result is confounded by common risk factors given the heterogeneity between study populations and methodologies. Further large-scale epidemiological studies are required.

The associations of statin intake and the trabecular bone score and bone mineral density status in elderly Iranian individuals: a cross-sectional analysis of the Bushehr Elderly Health (BEH) program

In recent years, a growing interest on the impact of statin intake on bone health has emerged, although the reported results are controversial. The results of this study revealed that BMD at lumbar spine has a significant association with statin intake. However, such association appears to be weaker regarding TBS values compared to BMD. This study was performed with the aim of evaluating associations of statin intake with BMD and TBS using data from 2426 individuals aged ≥ 60 years from the second phase of the Bushehr Elderly Health (BEH) program. We found a positive association between statin and BMD at lumbar spine, whereas association between statin and TBS was detected only in the men in the final model.

INTRODUCTION

In recent years, a growing interest has been established to evaluate the impact of statin intake on bone health, although the reported results are controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the association of statin intake with bone health status according to BMD and TBS.

METHODS

This cross-sectional analysis used data from the elderly Iranian individuals who participated in the Bushehr Elderly Health (BEH) program. Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) device was used to evaluate the BMD at lumbar spine (L1-L4), femoral neck, and total hip, as well as TBS at lumbar spine.

RESULTS

Among 2426 (1260 women and 1166 men) study participants, 778 were statin users. A positive significant association, irrespective of sex, was observed between statin intake and BMD at L1-L4, even after controlling for potential variables in total population (β = 0.016, p = 0.013). The mean TBS values at L1-L4 were negatively associated with statin intake in total population (β =  - 0.009, p = 0.001), while in the full adjusted model, significant positive association between TBS and statin intake was detected only in men (β = 0.013, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study revealed that BMD at lumbar spine has a significant association with statin intake. However, such an association appears to be weaker regarding TBS values compared to BMD.

Age-Influenced Receptors of Advanced Glycation End Product Overexpression Associated With Osteogenic Differentiation Impairment in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

Preclinical studies have found impaired osteogenic differentiation to be associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), which is related to skeletal accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Our previous study also showed impaired osteogenic differentiation in peripheral blood-derived mononuclear cells (PBMC) isolated from patients with long-standing T2DM, which is conceivably due to the overexpression of receptor of advance glycation end products (RAGE) and the enhancement of cellular apoptosis. However, the existence of RAGE overexpression in earlier stages of diabetes remains unclear, as do the factors influencing that RAGE overexpression. This cross-sectional study enrolled 40 patients with T2DM treated with metformin monotherapy and 30 age-matched non-diabetic controls (NDM) to investigate the overexpression of RAGE in PBMC derived from patients with earlier stage diabetes, as well as to explore its determining factors. Almost all (90%) PBMC-isolated from NDM (NDM-pD) expressed osteoblast-specific genes including ALPL, BGLAP, COL1A1, and RUNX2/PPAR while only 40% of PBMC-derived from diabetic patients (DM-pD) expressed those genes. By using age- and pentosidine-matched NDM-pD as a reference, AGER and BAX/BCL2 expression in PBMC isolated from diabetic patients showing impaired osteoblast-specific gene expression (DM-iD) were 6.6 and 5 folds higher than the reference while AGER and BAX/BCL2 expression in DM-pD were comparable to the reference. AGER expression showed a significant positive correlation with age (r=0.470, p=0.003). The multivariate analysis demonstrated that both age and AGER expression correlated with the potential for osteogenic differentiation in the PBMC isolated from patients with diabetes. In conclusion, this study showed osteogenic differentiation impairment in approximately half of PBMC derived from type 2 diabetic patients receiving metformin monotherapy. Both AGER and BAX/BCL2 overexpression were demonstrated only in PBMC-isolated from diabetic patients with poor osteogenic differentiation. Therefore, this study not only illustrated the existence of RAGE overexpression in PBMC derived from patients with early stages of T2DM but also strengthened the linkage between that RAGE overexpression and the retardation of osteogenic differentiation. Age was also shown to be a positive influencing factor for RAGE overexpression. Furthermore, both age and RAGE overexpression were demonstrated as independent risk factors for determining osteogenic differentiation potential of the PBMC-isolated from T2DM.

Targeting autophagy by natural product Ursolic acid for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

With the growth of the aging population, osteoporosis is becoming a global health problem. Ursolic acid (UA) is an active ingredient existed in a variety of foods and nature plants and owns plenty of pharmacological effects especially in treating metabolic disease. Our predication from network pharmacology hinted that UA has potential for ameliorating osteoporosis. Firstly through in vivo experiment, we confirmed that UA administration obviously protected against ovariectomy (OVX)-induced osteoporosis in rats by improving microarchitectural deterioration of trabecular bone (P < 0.001), decreasing numbers of TRAP positive osteoclast in vertebra (P < 0.001), as well as decreasing serum osteoclast-specific cytokines release (P < 0.001). Besides, UA ameliorated kidney damage secondary to OVX-induced osteoporosis by ameliorating glomerular atrophy, decreasing BUN and creatinine levels in OVX rats. In vitro, UA noticeably decreased osteoclastic-special marker proteins c-Fos and NFATc1 expressions (P < 0.001) in response to RANKL stimulation in macrophagy. Importantly, autophagy pathway was activated in the process of osteoclast differentiation and blocked by UA pretreatment. Furthermore, autophagy inhibitors suppressed osteoclast differentiation (P < 0.001). Collectively, UA may ameliorate osteoporosis by suppressing osteoclast differentiation mediated by autophagy. Our research provides scientific support for UA treating osteoporosis and offers an optimal dose for daily intake of UA safely to prevent bone diseases.

Genomic Medicine: Lessons Learned From Monogenic and Complex Bone Disorders

Current genetic studies of monogenic and complex bone diseases have broadened our understanding of disease pathophysiology, highlighting the need for medical interventions and treatments tailored to the characteristics of patients. As genomic research progresses, novel insights into the molecular mechanisms are starting to provide support to clinical decision-making; now offering ample opportunities for disease screening, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Drug targets holding mechanisms with genetic support are more likely to be successful. Therefore, implementing genetic information to the drug development process and a molecular redefinition of skeletal disease can help overcoming current shortcomings in pharmaceutical research, including failed attempts and appalling costs. This review summarizes the achievements of genetic studies in the bone field and their application to clinical care, illustrating the imminent advent of the genomic medicine era.

Comparison between high and low potency statins in the incidence of open-angle glaucoma: A retrospective cohort study in Japanese working-age population

Some findings on the association between glaucoma and statins in the Asian population have been reported. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using health insurance claims data maintained by the JMDC Inc., which comprises data on about three million individuals representing 2.4% of the Japanese population. The association between the potency of statins and open-angle glaucoma in Japanese working-age population was examined using a commercially available health insurance claims and enrollment database. We identified 117,036 patients with a prescription of statins between January 1, 2005 and March 31, 2014; 59,535 patients were selected as new statin users. Of these, 49,671 (83%) patients without glaucoma who were prescribed statins for the first time were part of the primary analysis. New users of statin were defined as those with a prescription of statin at the beginning of the study, but without a prescription six months earlier. The cohort comprised 29,435 (59%) and 20,236 (41%) patients with a prescription of high-potency statin (atorvastatin and rosuvastatin) and low-potency statin (pravastatin, fluvastatin, pitavastatin, and simvastatin), respectively. Using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated for glaucoma adjusted for baseline characteristics. Although some baseline characteristics were not similar between the high-potency and low-potency statin groups, the standardized difference for all covariates was less than 0.1. No associations were found between high-potency statin use and glaucoma (adjusted HR = 1.08; 95% confidence interval, 0.93-1.24) in the primary analyses, using the risk for glaucoma in the low-potency statin group as reference. The risk of glaucoma with individual statin use was not significantly different from that with pravastatin. No significant association was found between high-potency statins and the increased risk of glaucoma in Japanese working-age population. Further studies are needed to examine the association between statins and glaucoma in the elderly population.

Simvastatin inhibits the adipogenesis of bone marrow‑derived mesenchymal stem cells through the downregulation of chemerin/CMKLR1 signaling

Simvastatin is effective in the treatment of osteoporosis, partly through the inhibition of the adipogenesis of bone-marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). The present study focused on the mechanisms responsible for the inhibitory effects of simvastatin on adipogenesis and examined the effects of simvastatin on the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), chemerin, chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1), G protein-coupled receptor 1 (GPR1) and the adipocyte marker gene, adiponectin. BMSCs were isolated from 4-week-old female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, and adipogenesis was measured by the absorbance values at 490 nm of Oil Red O dye. The expression of each gene was evaluated by western blot analysis or reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The expression of chemerin increased during adipogenesis, while CMKLR1 exhibited a trend towards a decreased expression. On days 7 and 14, the simvastatin-treated cells exhibited a down-regulated expression of chemerin, whereas the upregulated expression of its receptor, CMKLR1 was observed. The results also revealed that CMKLR1 is required for adipogenesis and the simvastatin-mediated inhibitory effect on adipogenesis. Simvastatin regulated adipogenesis by negatively modulating chemerin-CMKLR1 signaling. Importantly, simvastatin stimulation inhibited the upregulation of PPARγ and PPARγ-mediated chemerin expression to prevent adipogenesis. Treatment with the PPARγ agonist, rosiglitazone, partially reversed the negative regulatory effects of simvastatin. On the whole, the findings of the present study demonstrate that simvastatin inhibits the adipogenesis of BMSCs through the downregulation of PPARγ and subsequently prevents the PPARγ-mediated induction of chemerin/CMKLR1 signaling.

Statin therapy: does sex matter?

OBJECTIVE

Statins are a class of drugs that competitively bind to the active site of HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, thereby inhibiting the initial steps in cholesterol synthesis. Originally approved for use in lowering serum cholesterol, a risk factor for developing atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease, statins have subsequently been noted to have myriad extrahepatic effects, including potential effects on cognition, diabetes, breast cancer, bone, and muscle. This narrative review assesses the current state of the science regarding the risks and benefits of statin therapy in women to identify areas where additional research is needed.

METHODS

Basic and clinical studies were identified by searching PubMed with particular attention to inclusion of female animals, women, randomized controlled trials, and sex-specific analyses.

RESULTS

Statin therapy is generally recommended to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. None of the current clinical guidelines, however, offer sex-specific recommendations for women due to lack of understanding of sex differences and underlying mechanisms of disease processes. In addition, conclusions regarding efficacy of treatments do not consider lipid solubility for the drug, dosing, duration of treatment, interactions with estrogen, or comorbidities. Pleiotropic effects of statins are often derived from secondary analysis of studies with cardiovascular events as primary outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Many of the trials that have established the efficacy and safety of statins were conducted predominantly or entirely in men, with results extrapolated to women. Additional research is needed to guide clinical recommendations specific to women. : Video Summary:http://links.lww.com/MENO/A462.

Diagnosis of osteoporosis in statin-treated patients is dose-dependent

OBJECTIVE

Whether HMG-CoA-reductase inhibition, the main mechanism of statins, plays a role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, is not entirely known so far. Consequently, this study was set out to investigate the relationship of different kinds and dosages of statins with osteoporosis, hypothesising that the inhibition of the synthesis of cholesterol could influence sex-hormones and therefore the diagnosis of osteoporosis.

METHODS

Medical claims data of all Austrians from 2006 to 2007 was used to identify all patients treated with statins to compute their daily defined dose averages of six different types of statins. We applied multiple logistic regression to analyse the dose-dependent risks of being diagnosed with osteoporosis for each statin individually.

RESULTS

In the general study population, statin treatment was associated with an overrepresentation of diagnosed osteoporosis compared with controls (OR: 3.62, 95% CI 3.55 to 3.69, p<0.01). There was a highly non-trivial dependence of statin dosage with the ORs of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis was underrepresented in low-dose statin treatment (0-10 mg per day), including lovastatin (OR: 0.39, CI 0.18 to 0.84, p<0.05), pravastatin (OR: 0.68, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.89, p<0.01), simvastatin (OR: 0.70, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.86, p<0.01) and rosuvastatin (OR: 0.69, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.87, p<0.01). However, the exceeding of the 40 mg threshold for simvastatin (OR: 1.64, 95% CI 1.31 to 2.07, p<0.01), and the exceeding of a 20 mg threshold for atorvastatin (OR: 1.78, 95% CI 1.41 to 2.23, p<0.01) and for rosuvastatin (OR: 2.04, 95% CI 1.31 to 3.18, p<0.01) was related to an overrepresentation of osteoporosis.

CONCLUSION

Our results show that the diagnosis of osteoporosis in statin-treated patients is dose-dependent. Thus, osteoporosis is underrepresented in low-dose and overrepresented in high-dose statin treatment, demonstrating the importance of future studies' taking dose-dependency into account when investigating the relationship between statins and osteoporosis.

Regulation of calcific vascular and valvular disease by nuclear receptors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review addresses recent developments in studies of lipid regulation of calcific disease of arteries and cardiac valves, including the role of nuclear receptors. The role of lipid-soluble signals and their receptors is timely given the recent evidence and concerns that lipid-lowering treatment may increase the rate of progression of coronary artery calcification, which has been long associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Understanding the mechanisms will be important for interpreting such clinical information.

RECENT FINDINGS

New findings support regulation of calcific vascular and valvular disease by nuclear receptors, including the vitamin D receptor, glucocorticoid receptor, nutrient-sensing nuclear receptors (liver X receptor, farnesoid X receptor, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors), and sex hormone (estrogen and androgen) receptors. There were two major unexpected findings: first, vitamin D supplementation, which was previously believed to prevent or reduce vascular calcification, showed no cardiovascular benefit in large randomized, controlled trials. Second, both epidemiological studies and coronary intravascular ultrasound studies suggest that treatment with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors increases progression of coronary artery calcification, raising a question of whether there are mechanically stable and unstable forms of coronary calcification.

SUMMARY

For clinical practice and research, these new findings offer new fundamental mechanisms for vascular calcification and provide new cautionary insights for therapeutic avenues.

Increased risk of osteoporotic vertebral fracture in rheumatoid arthritis patients with new-onset cardiovascular diseases: a retrospective nationwide cohort study in Taiwan

INTRODUCTION

Both cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and osteoporosis are common comorbidities in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Although accumulating evidence indicates a link between CVD and osteoporotic fracture, whether CVD contributes to osteoporotic fracture risk in RA has yet to be explored. We examined the incidence rate and risk factors of osteoporotic vertebral fracture in RA patients with new-onset CVD (RA-CVD) and evaluated the effects of medications on such fracture risk.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted using a nationwide database from 2000 to 2010: 1267 RA-CVD and 1267 non-CVD patients were enrolled from 30,507 patients with newly diagnosed RA. The main outcome was the development of osteoporotic vertebral fracture. After being adjusted for age, gender, and comorbidities, the Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify independent factors contributing to osteoporotic vertebral fracture.

RESULTS

The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of developing osteoporotic vertebral fracture was 1.47-fold greater in RA-CVD group than in non-CVD group (95% confidence interval 1.19-1.81, p < 0.001). Both the age above 40 years and female gender were significant risk factors for developing osteoporotic vertebral fracture in RA-CVD patients. Using patients not taking medication as a reference group, the aHR of osteoporotic vertebral fracture was significantly lower in those receiving statins (0.50), low-dose corticosteroids (0.57), or hydroxychloroquine (0.12).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of osteoporotic vertebral fracture was significantly increased in RA-CVD patients, particularly women above 40 years of age, and could be reduced by statin therapy. However, the protective effect of low-dose corticosteroids or hydroxychloroquine on osteoporotic vertebral fracture risk needs further validation.

Modulation of Bone and Marrow Niche by Cholesterol

Bone is a complex tissue composing of mineralized bone, bone cells, hematopoietic cells, marrow adipocytes, and supportive stromal cells. The homeostasis of bone and marrow niche is dynamically regulated by nutrients. The positive correlation between cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis risk suggests a close relationship between hyperlipidemia and/or hypercholesterolemia and the bone metabolism. Cholesterol and its metabolites influence the bone homeostasis through modulating the differentiation and activation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. The effects of cholesterol on hematopoietic stem cells, including proliferation, migration, and differentiation, are also well-documented and further relate to atherosclerotic lesions. Correlation between circulating cholesterol and bone marrow adipocytes remains elusive, which seems opposite to its effects on osteoblasts. Epidemiological evidence has demonstrated that cholesterol deteriorates or benefits bone metabolism depending on the types, such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. In this review, we will summarize the latest progress of how cholesterol regulates bone metabolism and bone marrow microenvironment, including the hematopoiesis and marrow adiposity. Elucidation of these association and factors is of great importance in developing therapeutic options for bone related diseases under hypercholesterolemic conditions.

Association Between Cortical Bone Microstructure and Statin Use in Older Women

CONTEXT

Treatment with statins has been associated with increased bone mineral density, but whether this association depends on differences in cortical or trabecular volumetric bone microstructure is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate if treatment with statins is associated with bone microstructure and geometry in older women.

DESIGN SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Older women were included in a population-based study of 3028 women (mean age ± SD, 77.8 ± 1.6 years) from the greater Gothenburg area in Sweden. Information regarding medical history, medication, and lifestyle factors was obtained from validated questionnaires.

MAIN OUTCOME

Bone geometry and microstructure were measured at the ultradistal and distal (14%) site of radius and tibia using high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography.

RESULTS

The 803 women in the cohort who used statins had higher body weight, worse physical function, and more frequent cardiovascular disease and diabetes than nonusers (P < 0.05). Statin users had lower cortical porosity (radius, 2.2 ± 1.9 vs 2.5 ± 2.0%; tibia, 5.2 ± 2.4 vs 5.4 ± 2.5; P = 0.01), higher cortical bone density (radius, 1008 ± 39.1 vs 1001 ± 38.4 mg/cm3; tibia, 919 ± 42.6 vs 914 ± 41.5; P < 0.01), and greater cortical area (radius, 60.5 ± 9.6 vs 58.6 ± 9.7 mm2; tibia, 150.0 ± 23.6 vs 146.7 ± 23.8; P < 0.01) than nonusers after adjustment for a large number of confounders, including age, weight, smoking, other medications, and prevalent diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of statins was associated with better cortical bone characteristics in older women.