Cystatin C is associated with osteoporosis and fractures: An observational study based on Mendelian randomization analysis.

Elevated levels of CysC are significantly associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures, and this association is more pronounced in females. Renal function and physical activity levels may be important factors influencing this relationship. The link between CysC and osteoporosis and fractures may be mediated by several mechanisms: Eelevated CysC may lead to abnormalities in vitamin D and mineral metabolism, thereby inhibiting bone formation; renal dysfunction may exacerbate inflammation, affecting bone resorption; or in the osteoporosis state, increased osteoclast differentiation may result in elevated CysC levels. These findings support the potential use of CysC as a biomarker for predicting the risk of osteoporosis.