Breakthrough In Osteoporosis: Scientists Discover New Hormone That Builds Stronger Bones

During a mice study, researchers noted that a maternal brain hormone (CCN3) increases bone density and strength in female mice. (Credit: Image by jcomp on Freepik)

Researchers have discovered a new hormone that could be a breakthrough in the treatment of osteoporosis, a debilitating disease that results in brittle bones.

Over 200 million people worldwide suffer from osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and causes frequent fractures. Women are particularly at risk after menopause due to lower estrogen levels, which help form bones. Interestingly, despite low estrogen levels during breastfeeding, the bones of breastfeeding women stay strong even as they lose calcium to milk, indicating that another factor may promote bone growth.