Common Questions
What is the role of estrogen in bone health?
The physiologic effects of estrogen on bone are complicated and not completely understood; however, there are many theories as to the ways in which estrogen affects bone health:
- Stimulates bone formation by direct action on osteoblasts (bone-producing cells).
- Increases TGF-b, which seems to inhibit osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells).
- Has direct action on osteoclasts by inhibiting their function and promoting apoptosis.
- Has direct effect on bone angiogenesis.
- Fiorelli G and Brandi ML. Skeletal effects of estrogens. J Endocrinol Invest 1999; 22: 589-593.