Abstract

Background: Bone is a dynamic tissue undergoing continuous turnover. Proper bone remodeling and good bone health are crucial for the overall well-being of individuals. Among a numerous markers depicting bone health, Vitamin D, Vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP) are the potential ones. Vitamin D exerts its principle actions by regulating the intestinal absorption of calcium, renal reabsorption of calcium and phosphate and mineralization of bones. VDBP may alter bone health by regulating vitamin D bioavailability (VDBP-bound vitamin is thought to be relatively unavailable to target tissues). BALP, synthesized by the osteoblasts play a major role in bone formation by hydrolysing inorganic pyrophosphate (which is a naturally occurring inhibitor of mineralization). Thus, being pivotal regulators of bone mineralization Vitamin D, VDBP, and BALP can be used as highly specific and vital indices for assessing the rate of overall bone turnover. Altered bone metabolism leads to an array of disorders including increased osteoporotic risk in future.

Aims and Objectives: The present study was planned to assess these bone health parameters (Vitamin D, VDBP and BALP) in apparently healthy individuals.

Materials and Methods: For this study, 40 male and 40 female healthy volunteers (of age group 25–45 years) were enrolled (n = 80). The Institutional Ethics Committee approval has been taken before the commencement of the study. After informed consent from patient, blood samples were collected and analyzed for routine biochemistry and special bone parameters. Data was analysed statistically using SPSS software.

Results: The study groups showed low levels of serum vitamin D and VDBP and increased BALP levels. Furthermore, a significant correlation was observed among VDBP and BALP.

Conclusion: From this study, we conclude that Vitamin D, VDBP, and BALP act as potential biomarkers for bone health.

Key words: Vitamin D; Vitamin D Binding Protein; Bone-specific Alkaline Phosphatase; Bone Remodeling; Osteoporosis; Bone Health