[Genomic approaches to bone and joint diseases. Current state of disease genome research: osteoporosis].

The onset of osteoporosis is related to multiple genes and is influenced by environment factors. Studies of the effects of genotypes and life-style factors using genome research technology in a large cohort are required to clarify the risk factors of osteoporosis and to promote the prevention of osteoporosis. At the National Institute for Longevity Sciences (NILS), the relationships between osteoporosis and gene polymorphism are examined in a community-living population of more than 2,000 men and women followed up for 10 years, aiming to develop the system for the prevention of osteoporosis and fracture.