Scientists of Australia and Britain have recently found that about 2,000 genes out of the 20,000 in humans are responsible for the strength of bone. Researchers are of the view that their findings can help in treating osteoporosis. People above the age of 60 years are more likely to be affected with osteoporosis.

A study was conducted by the researchers of Garvan Institute of Medical Research and Imperial College London. During the study, the researchers turned off about 100 genes in mice. Later, they discovered that about nine genes played important role in strengthening and weakening the genes.

This made the researchers to conclude that about eight to 10% of the genes could does leave a significant impact over the bones. While concluding the study, Professor Peter Croucher said, “We wanted to see what screening the first 100 knockout mice off the pipeline would tell us about the impact of these genes on bone, and whether or not our approach was an effective one”.

The findings have helped the researchers to better understand the nature of bones. They have come to know that strong bones can also be weak if any of the main genes are missing.