Genetic Risk Factors for Stress Fractures

By

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACTII

LITERATURE REVIEW1

Introduction1

Search Strategy1

Data Collection1

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria2

Discussion2

Conclusion11

REFERENCES15

BIBLIOGRAPHY18

APPENDIX -A21

ABSTRACT

Despite the usefulness of BMD and our awareness of bone morphological traits and bone quality traits as determinants of bone mechanical function, the best predictor of fracture risk is a family history of fracture. As such, an individual's genetic background likely plays a role by establishing foundations and mechanisms for biological control of bone functionality. Thus, the genetic message is processed and filtered through levels of the bone structural hierarchy. Stress fractures can result in minor complications (pain) or more serious symptoms leading to disability.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Introduction

Bones are specialised organs that provide both form and function to nearly all vertebrates. Keeping in view the importance of stress fracture, this paper presents a comprehensive literature review about the genetic properties and functions of bone, prevalence of stress fractures, factors associated with the genetic and morphological development and treatment of stress fractures.

Search Strategy

The review began with an extensive search of the literature, with the aid of a librarian experienced in these kinds of searches. The PUBMED, MEDLINE and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL) databases were searched.

Data Collection

For this study, the researcher has used qualitative secondary research approach. A total of 17 research studies and articles were selected for this literature review. Most of the studies were selected from BONE, GENE, the two most coveted journals, providing relevant information about the concept and complications involved in studying the genetic linkage of stress fracture. In most of the studies, researchers have relied on the results of animal-based research. There were three studies, in which human beings were selected as sample population. Two of these studies were based on Finnish males, while one was based on Chinese female population.

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

The studies were selected for this literature review, on the bases of clarity of the content; appropriate definition and information about genetic factors related stress fracture; population characteristics; use of appropriate research design (including experimental, quasi experimental, design).

Discussion

In a recently published study, in the 2010 issue of Gene, researchers, Miraoui and Marie have highlighted the significant role of twist 1 in the development of skeletal structure. (Miraoui, Marie, 2010, 1). The authors have also discussed at length, the role of twist with regards chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiation of stem cells. The regulation of osteoblast differentiation tends to be negative when twist factor comes into play. (Miraoui, Marie, 2010, 2). The most important finding of this study relates to the fact that if the twist 1 expression is altered, skeletal disorders may consequently develop.

In another study, which was published in 2006, a team of researchers studied the role of IGF-I signalling in the regulation of Osteoclastogenesis. The researchers used histological analysis to evaluate three important factors that can influence the pattern of signalling. Those factors included trabecular bone volume (TV/BV), osteoclast number and the morphology of IGF-I. The researchers also used quantitative RT-PCR tests to record mRNA levels of oestoclast regulation markers (Wang, et ...