Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase as a biological marker of bone modelling and turnover in women in relation to their gonadal state

Abstract

SummarySerum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) is considered a biological marker of bone resorption as it is synthesised by osteoclasts. Oestrogens inhibit bone resorption, and this may justify the influence of this hormone on osteoclastic activity. Thus, we have quantified serum TRAP levels in women to define their biological profile and observe any changes in relation to their hormone status.The TRAP level of 18 girls under 5 years of age was 8–1 ± 1–7 u/1. This value decreased (P< 0–001) in girls aged 5 to 12 years (n = 20, mean 6–3 ± 1–3 u/1). Following the menarche, another decrease was observed in 12 to 15 year old girls (n = 25, mean 5.5 ± 0–6u/l, P < 0–01). The mean TRAP value continued to decrease during the childbearing years, 16 to 48 (n = 40, 3.8 ± 0–3 u/1, P < 0–001). Finally, the mean level increased again at the menopause (n = 26, 4–5 ±0–4 u/1, P < 0–001). In women, serum TRAP changes reflect the dependence of bone modelling and turnover on hormone status.