Animal models to explore the effects of glucocorticoids on skeletal growth and structure

Abstract

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are effective for the treatment of many chronic conditions, but their use is associated with frequent and wide-ranging adverse effects including osteoporosis and growth retardation. The mechanisms that underlie the undesirable effects of GCs on skeletal development are unclear, and there is no proven effective treatment to combat them. An in vivo model that investigates the development and progression of GC-induced changes in bone is, therefore, important and a wellcharacterized pre-clinical model is vital for the evaluation of new interventions. Currently, there is no established animal model to investigate GC effects on skeletal development and there are pros and cons to consider with the different protocols used to induce osteoporosis and growth retardation. This review will summarize the literature and highlight the models and techniques employed in experimental studies to date.

Effect of Bisphosphonates on the Alveolar Bone of Rats With Glucocorticoids Induced Osteoporosis

“…The laboratory rat was used as a model in this study because it is convenient, easy and safe to handle, costeffective and is the most frequently used animal model for glucocorticoids induced osteoporosis followed by mice (29)(30)(31). Dexamethasone was used to induce osteoporosis as it was reported to be the most potent inductor of osteoporosis, among other corticosteroids, in animal models; moreover, it is characterized by its long-term action thus avoiding the need for daily injections (20,31). The dosage and interval used to induce systemic osteoporosis was documented to induced generalized osteoporosis (20,32).…”

Glucocorticoids Disrupt Skeletal Angiogenesis Through Transrepression of NF-κB–Mediated Preosteoclast Pdgfb Transcription in Young Mice

“…Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely used to treat various inflammatory and autoimmune disorders in childhood, such as muscular dystrophy, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, leukemia, kidney disease, and asthma. Approximately 10% of children receive GC therapy . Long‐term use of GCs results in irreversible effects on bone health including bone loss and growth retardation .…”

Adults With Idiopathic Scoliosis Diagnosed at Youth Experience Similar Physical Activity and Fracture Rate as Controls

“…Glucocorticoids act on all bone cells but also on chondrocytes in the growth plates, they also reduce growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1both playing roles in growth regulation (98,99). Further disturbances in the acquisition of bone mass during adolescence may be low rate of physical activity, dietary habits and intake of alcohol or cigarette smoke.…”