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Gut Microbiome and Bone: to Build, Destroy, or Both?

  • Osteoimmunology (M Humphrey and M. Nakamura, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Osteoporosis Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The gut microbiota can be considered a hidden organ that plays essential roles in host homeostasis. Exploration of the effects of microbiota on bone has just begun. Complimentary studies using germ-free mice, antibiotic, and probiotic treatments reveal a complicated relationship between microbiota and bone. Here, we review recent reports addressing the effect of gut microbiota on bone health, discuss potential reasons for discrepant findings, and explore potential mechanisms for these effects.

Recent Findings

Manipulation of microbiota by colonization of germ-free mice, antibiotics, or probiotic supplementation significantly alters bone remodeling, bone development and growth, as well as bone mechanical strength. Different experimental models reveal context-dependent effects of gut microbiota on bone.

Summary

By examining phenotypic effects, experimental context, and proposed mechanisms, revealed by recent reports, we hope to provide comprehensive and fresh insights into the many facets of microbiota and bone interactions.

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Funding Sources

This work was supported by NIH grants AG046257 from the NIA, AR062590 from the NIAMS, a Faculty Career Development Award from the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and the Bettina Looram Fund.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 60 Fenwood Road, 6002Q, Boston, MA, 02115, USA

    Jing Yan & Julia F. Charles

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  1. Jing Yan
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  2. Julia F. Charles
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Correspondence to Julia F. Charles.

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Julia Charles and Jing Yan declare no conflict of interest.

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This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Osteoimmunology

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Yan, J., Charles, J.F. Gut Microbiome and Bone: to Build, Destroy, or Both?. Curr Osteoporos Rep 15, 376–384 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11914-017-0382-z

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