About the IPM osteoporosis and osteosarcoma project
Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mineral density and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to an increased risk of fractures, predominantly of the hip, spine and wrist. Osteoporosis often arises as a result of vitamin D deficiency, which can generally be treated by vitamin D supplementation.
Dr. Edward Fox in Penn State Bone and Joint Institute has observed that, while most patients treated with vitamin D supplements show an increased level of circulating vitamin D, some do not. Investigators in the IPM will explore the genetic underpinnings of this lack of response both to understand the mechanism of vitamin D absorption as well as to provide a marker to redirect non-responsive patients to alternative treatments.