Bone loss with age often leads to fractures and bone diseases such asOsteoporosis occurs due to aging bone marrow stem cellsoccur more frequently. However, these are extremely important for maintaining bone integrity. Now, German aging researchers at the Max Planck Institute have shown that reduced stem cell function in old age can be attributed to changes in their epigenome. They were able to reverse these changes in isolated stem cells by adding acetate. This rejuvenation of the epigenome could accordingly enable a novel treatment for bone loss in old age in the near future.
How sodium acetate affects stem cells in bone loss in old age
The Cologne research group examined the epigenome of mesenchymal stem cells to find out whether they are suitable for different types of tissue such as cartilage and fat cells. The researchers also wanted to know why these stem cells produce less material for building and maintaining bones as we age. This causes more and more fat to accumulate in the bone marrow. They were able to observe that the epigenome changes significantly as bone loss occurs with age. Genes that are important for bone structure are particularly affected. The researchers then investigated whether the epigenome of stem cells could be rejuvenated. To do this, they treated isolated stem cells from the bone marrow of laboratory mice with a nutrient solution containing sodium acetate. This treatment caused an impressive rejuvenation of the epigenome, improved stem cell activity and led to higher production of bone cells.
To clarify whether this change in the epigenome could also be the cause of the increased risk of bone fractures or osteoporosis in humans with age, the researchers examined human mesenchymal stem cells from patients after hip surgery. The cells from older patients who also suffered from osteoporosis showed the same epigenetic changes as before in the mice. Sodium acetate is also available as a dietary supplement. However, it is not advisable to use it in this form against osteoporosis because the effect observed is very specific to certain cells. However, experience with stem cell therapies for osteoporosis has already shown that this acetate works. However, the authors mustthis studyexamine the effects on the entire organism in more detail in order to rule out possible risks and side effects.
