Research progress on the regulatory mechanism of bone-fat balance

doi:10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.5.17

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Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy ›› 2026, Vol. 44 ›› Issue (5) : 621-624. DOI: 10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.5.17

Research progress on the regulatory mechanism of bone-fat balance

Wang Wei¹, Chen Sihui², Li Ou¹, Jiang Yuxin³, Zhu Jinyu²*

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Abstract

Osteoporosis (OP) is a skeletal disease caused by bone remodeling imbalance, where bone-fat balance-defined as the dynamic equilibrium between bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) and bone mass is crucial for normal bone remodeling. This article reviews the research progress on various regulatory mechanisms of bone-fat balance, with signaling pathways such as PPAR-γ serving as the regulatory foundation. Hormones and metabolic factors, including leptin and osteocalcin, regulate the differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells through endocrine and paracrine pathways. Additionally, multiple factors such as oxidative stress, ferroptosis, aging, and the nervous system are deeply involved in this regulatory process. Multi-omics technologies provide novel approaches for elucidating regulatory mechanisms, while the development of novel targeted drugs is evolving toward multi-target and precision therapies. As a key regulatory node, BMAT interacts bidirectionally with the aforementioned regulatory processes through complex mechanisms, collectively driving the onset and progression of OP. Further research is needed to elucidate the regulation of bone-fat balance, thereby formulating more effective prevention and treatment strategies and providing theoretical foundations for improving human skeletal health.

Key words

Bone marrow adipose tissue / / / Osteoporosis / / / Bone-fat balance / / / Regulation and control mechanism

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Wang Wei, Chen Sihui, Li Ou, Jiang Yuxin, Zhu Jinyu. Research progress on the regulatory mechanism of bone-fat balance[J]. Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy. 2026, 44(5): 621-624 https://doi.org/10.13418/j.issn.1001-165x.2026.5.17

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