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(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Scientists searching for a new drug to mimic the bone-preserving effects of estrogen without raising the risk for cancer have come up short.
A new study conducted in mice bred to have osteoporosis reveals molecules called estrens, which the investigators had hoped would get the job done, can make bones stronger. They also cause an enlargement of reproductive organs and induce the proliferation of human breast cancer cells.
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Osteoporosis commonly strikes older women who have gone through the menopause, although men can be afflicted with the condition as well. The disease is characterized by increasingly weakening bones that are easily fractured. Prior to menopause natural levels of the female hormone estrogen are thought to keep the bones healthy and strong. After menopause, high doses of estrogen can keep the bones from weakening, but they also promote the development of breast and other cancers.
The Yale University investigators who conducted this study hope an effective replacement for estrogen can be found, but believe their study suggests estrens might not be it. "Overall, these results are incompatible with the development of these molecules for the treatment or prevention of osteoporosis," they write.
A fellow researcher writing in an accompanying commentary calls for more clinical studies on the value of estrens, but urges investigators to continue to look for a "blockbuster drug" to treat osteoporosis. "The search," writes Columbia University's Ushma S. Neill, "must continue."
This article was reported by Ivanhoe.com, who offers Medical Alerts by e-mail every day of the week. To subscribe, go to: http://www.ivanhoe.com/newsalert/.
SOURCE: Journal of Clinical Investigation, 2006;116:2500-2509, 2327-2329
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