Research Progress on the Common Mechanisms of the DLAT Gene in Osteoarthritis and Osteoporosis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) and osteoporosis (OP) are two prevalent skeletal diseases that severely impair patients’ health and quality of life. In recent years, studies have found that the DLAT gene may share common mechanisms in both diseases. Dihydrolipoamide acetyltransferase, encoded by the DLAT gene, is a key enzyme in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, participating in cellular energy metabolism and maintenance of cellular function. Research indicates that DLAT plays a critical role in multiple mechanisms, including cuproptosis, metabolic reprogramming, crosstalk regulation of immune inflammation, and epigenetic modification. These mechanisms collectively contribute to the onset and progression of OA and OP. This review summarizes the mechanisms of the DLAT gene in OA and OP, explores its potential as a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target, and provides a theoretical basis for future research and clinical applications.