The role of SOST protein (osteocalcin) regulatory mechanism in enhancing bone strength during endurance training: Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is a global health problem characterised by decreased bone density and degeneration of bone microstructure, leading to an increased risk of fractures.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to explore the role of SOST protein regulation mechanism in enhancing bone strength during endurance training.

METHODS

An animal model was constructed using 8-week-old male C57BL/6 mice and divided into five groups: blank control group, sham operation control group, endurance training group, SOST gene knockout (KO) control group, and SOST KO+endurance training group.

RESULTS

The results showed that the levels of bone formation markers PINP and BALP in serum were significantly increased (P < 0.05), while the levels of bone resorption markers CTX and TRACP-5b did not show significant changes.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, endurance training activates the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway by downregulating SOST protein expression. SOST protein is a core molecular target for endurance training to enhance bone strength.