Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Oestrogen, KISS1 neurons, CCN3 hormones
Why in the News?
- “Osteoporosis” is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, with over 10 million cases annually in India.
- It predominantly affects ageing women due to decreased oestrogen levels post-menopause.
| A recent study in Nature by researchers at the Universities of California uncovered a brain-derived hormone, CCN3, which increases bone mass in postpartum lactating mothers. |
What is Oestrogen?
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Role of Oestrogen in Bone Growth
- Oestrogen is crucial for bone growth and formation, acting as a manager signaling the bone construction crew.
- During breastfeeding, oestrogen production drops to focus on milk production, which should weaken bones.
- Contrary to expectations, mothers’ bones become stronger to meet their babies’ high calcium demands.
How does the ‘Hidden’ Hormone Keep Mice Mothers’ Bones Healthy?
- During breastfeeding, the body suppresses oestrogen production to focus on milk production, which should weaken bones.
- Despite low oestrogen, mothers’ bones strengthen.
| Researchers found that KISS1 neurons in the hypothalamus (a part of the brain) release the CCN3 hormone, which helps maintain and even increase bone mineralisation. |
Experimental Findings:
- In experiments with genetically modified mice, those lacking the oestrogen receptor alpha still maintained healthy bones due to CCN3.
- When CCN3 was introduced to skeletal stem cells, it significantly increased bone formation, showing its potential to strengthen bones independently of oestrogen.
PYQ:[2019] ‘RNA interference (RNAi)’ technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?
Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1, 2 and 4 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1 and 3 (d) 1 and 4 only |
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