The role of sclerostin in lipid and glucose metabolism disorders

Lipid and glucose metabolism are critical for human activities, and their disorders can cause diabetes and obesity, two prevalent metabolic diseases. Studies suggest that the bone involved in lipid and glucose metabolism is emerging as an endocrine organ that regulates systemic metabolism through bone-derived molecules. Sclerostin, a protein mainly produced by osteocytes, has been therapeutically targeted by antibodies for treating osteoporosis owing to its ability to inhibit bone formation. Moreover, recent evidence indicates that sclerostin plays a role in lipid and glucose metabolism disorders. Although the effects of sclerostin on bone have been extensively examined and reviewed, its effects on systemic metabolism have not yet been well summarized. In this paper, we provide a systemic review of the effects of sclerostin on lipid and glucose metabolism based on in vitro and in vivo evidence, summarize the research progress on sclerostin, and prospect its potential manipulation for obesity and diabetes treatment.

Automated summary

Lipid and glucose metabolism are crucial for human activities and their dysregulation can lead to diabetes and obesity. Recent studies have shown that the bone, acting as an endocrine organ, plays a role in systemic metabolism through bone-derived molecules. Sclerostin, a protein produced by osteocytes, not only inhibits bone formation but also affects lipid and glucose metabolism. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the effects of sclerostin on lipid and glucose metabolism, discusses the progress in sclerostin research, and explores its potential manipulation for obesity and diabetes treatment.