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Researchers have identified bioactive peptide sequences in PEPITEM molecules, and demonstrated the biological activity of the full PEPITEM molecule in counteracting key changes caused by osteoporosis.

Bone showing osteoporosis

The latest study published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy shows the whole PEPITEM molecule not only reduces bone resorption and increases bone formation, and but also promotes angiogenesis (the growth of capillaries from pre-existing blood vessels) in bone. 

The study was conducted by teams from NDORMS (James Edwards) and by Professor Helen McGettrick, Dr Amy Naylor, and Dr Kathryn Frost from the Department of Inflammation and Ageing at the University of Birmingham.

Professor Helen McGettrick said: 'The results show PEPITEM holds promise as a new therapeutic for osteoporosis and other disorders featuring bone loss.  The dual action of promoting bone formation, and reducing bone breakdown, has distinct advantages over existing drugs.  Excitingly, we are now closer to finding the mechanism for PEPITEM regulation of bone formation, angiogenesis and remodelling.'

PEPITEM (Peptide Inhibitor of Trans-Endothelial Migration) is a naturally occurring peptide (short protein), first identified at the University of Birmingham in 2015.  Since then, the PEPITEM research team has investigated its role in the body and the potential for novel therapeutics, revealing its role in immune function and immune-mediated disorders.

While previous studies have shown short sequences from the PEPITEM molecule can influence immune cells and inflammation, the latest study suggests the full PEPITEM molecule would offer the maximum efficacy in osteoporosis. 

Osteoporosis results from disruption to a tightly orchestrated process, involving a complex interplay between two cell types – osteoblasts, which form bone, and osteoclasts, which break down bone. 

Read the full story on the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences website.