Circulating vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis

Introduction

The role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in osteoporosis has not yet been clearly established. Vascular endothelial growth factor is an important part of bone formation. In the literature, although the effects of VEGF on bone metabolism were investigated by different studies, there are very rare studies analysing the association between osteoporosis and VEGF. In the present study, our objective was to investigate serum VEGF concentrations in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) and the correlation of serum VEGF levels and bone mineral density (BMD).

Material and methods

This study was performed on 35 PMO patients, and 30 age-matched healthy controls. Serum VEGF concentrations were measured using a quantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay technique according to the manufacturer''s instructions. Bone mineral density values were determined by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).

Results

Serum VEGF concentrations were statistically significantly lower in PMO patients than in controls (150 ±65 pg/ml, 260 ±135 pg/ml respectively; p = 0.005). A positive correlation was found between serum VEGF concentrations and BMD values (r = 0.63, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations were decreased in PMO patients and VEGF may play an important role in bone health.