Deoxypyridinoline

Chemical structure of deoxypyridinoline

Deoxypyridinoline (DPD) is a biochemical marker of bone resorption. It is a crosslinking compound found in collagen of bone and dentin. DPD is released into the bloodstream during the process of bone degradation and is subsequently excreted in the urine.

Structure and Function

Deoxypyridinoline is a pyridinium crosslink that stabilizes the collagen matrix in bone. It is formed by the enzymatic action of lysyl oxidase on lysine residues in collagen. The presence of DPD in bone provides structural integrity and resistance to tensile forces.

Clinical Significance

The measurement of deoxypyridinoline levels in urine is used as a marker for bone resorption. Elevated levels of DPD are indicative of increased bone turnover, which can occur in conditions such as osteoporosis, Paget's disease of bone, and hyperparathyroidism.

Osteoporosis

In osteoporosis, the balance between bone resorption and bone formation is disrupted, leading to a net loss of bone mass. Monitoring DPD levels can help assess the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatments.

Paget's Disease

Paget's disease of bone is characterized by excessive and disorganized bone remodeling. DPD levels can be significantly elevated in this condition, reflecting increased bone resorption.

Hyperparathyroidism

In hyperparathyroidism, increased secretion of parathyroid hormone leads to increased bone resorption. DPD levels can be used to monitor the severity of bone turnover in affected individuals.

Measurement

Deoxypyridinoline can be measured using immunoassay techniques. Urinary DPD levels are often expressed relative to creatinine to account for variations in urine concentration. This measurement is non-invasive and provides valuable information about bone metabolism.

Related Pages

• Bone resorption
• Collagen
• Osteoporosis
• Paget's disease of bone
• Hyperparathyroidism