Theranostic Approach for the Management of Osteoporosis

Abstract

Osteoporosis (OP) is a bone-metabolic disorder, causing micro-architecture degeneration and a decrease in bone density. Nutritional deficiency, i.e., calcium, vitamin D, and hormonal imbalances are the primary cause for the occurrence of OP. Although conventional diagnostic techniques and therapies are available and found to be effective only at a later stage, though still lack prevention strategies. Thus, the patients tend to suffer incidence of fractures and many difficulties to manage their day-to-day activities at an elderly stage. Numerous nanomaterial(s) possessing unique physicochemical, optical, and electrical properties are reported nowadays to be employed for both early-stage detections of disease and its treatment. Amongst these nanomaterials, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) possessing strong magnetic susceptibility, less <i>in vivo</i> toxicity, and surface functionalities are extensively employed for MRI contrast imaging agents in the area of disease diagnosis, and drug delivery tools for various therapies. Therefore, this review highlights the pathophysiology of OP, conventional techniques of diagnosis, and the application of SPIONs for diagnostic and treatment purposes of osteoporosis.

Advancements in nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery in postmenopausal osteoporosis

“…Furthermore, hydrogels can promote bone regeneration, further enhancing their therapeutic potential. Gene therapy has also garnered significant attention in the treatment of osteoporosis [7] . This approach uses viral vectors or nanoparticles to deliver genes encoding bone-stimulating factors directly to bone cells.…”