Nanotechnology for improved osteoporosis treatment and fracture recovery

Osteoporosis (OP) is a widespread skeletal disease that affects over 200 million people worldwide [1]. In healthy adults, bone remodeling involves the removal of bone by osteoclasts, then the addition of bone matrix by osteoblasts. In OP, an imbalance of osteoclast and osteoblast activity causes excessive resorption. This results in the defining characteristics of the disease, which includes decreased bone density, microarchitectural deterioration, and subsequently, significant risk for fatal fractures [2]. Affecting primarily people over the age of 50, OP fractures lead to increased mortality, chronic pain, and diminished quality of life [2,3]. Determining effective treatment options is crucial, especially considering the present issues with OP medications.