Case Histories

Bone Health and Genomics

A 65-year old Caucasian woman was diagnosed with osteopenia based on a recent bone mineral density test. Concerned about possible drug side effects, she wanted to improve her bone mineral density the results of a functional genomic test.

The genomic test showed SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) on two genes: calcitonin receptor (homozygous) and IL-6 (homozygous), indicating that bone formation was compromised by faulty calcitonin receptor sites and inflammation association with IL-6 cytokine was contributing to bone degradation.

To compensate for faulty calcitonin receptors and to inhibit IL-6, calcitonin nasal spray (Miacalcin, 200 IU) and a beta-sitosterol, an IL-6 inhibitor, (Sterol 117, 300 mg), respectively, were recommended each day. Furthermore, aerobic exercise (biking every other day from 3 to 6 miles) was recommended along with 1500 mg calcium, 750 mg magnesium and 400 IU vitamin D daily as a dietary supplement.

After 6 months, a bone mineral density test showed a 28 % improvement, resulting in a bone density comparable to a 20-year old.

References:

Polymorphisms of the Calcitonin Receptor Gene Are Associated with Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Italian Women
Masi L., L. Becherini, E. Colli, L. Gennari, R. Mansani, A. Falchetti, AM Becorpi, C. Cepollaro, S. Gonnelli, A. Tanini and MLBrandi.
Biochemical and biophysical Research Communications 248: 190-195 (1998)

Polymorphisms of the interleukin-6 gene are associated with bone mineral density.
Murray RE, F McGuigan, SFA Grant, DM Reid, and SH Ralston.
Bone 21: 89-92 (1997).