The Epigenome at the Crossroad Between Social Factors, Inflammation, and Osteoporosis Risk

Abstract

Both genetic and environmental factors are involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and other skeletal disorders. Epidemiological studies have revealed an influence of a variety of social factors, including socioeconomic status (SES) on the risk of osteoporosis. The mechanisms involved are complex and still incompletely elucidated. Nevertheless, a variety of clinical risk factors known to influence skeletal homeostasis have been reported as being socially patterned, including nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyles, among others. These factors may impact the skeleton through a variety of mechanisms. Among them, there is increasing evidence for a role of DNA methylation and other epigen..