The mystery behind magnesium-induced bone formation is revealed by linking the neuropeptide(s) from sensory nerves with the osteogenic differentiation of stem cells in the periosteum. Zhang and colleagues' study sheds light on the development of magnesium pills or calcitonin gene-related peptide-delivery system for the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis.

The translational potential of this article

For the first time, magnesium is shown to be beneficial for fracture healing at the weight-bearing site. In addition, calcitonin gene-related peptide-delivery system will also be another translational direction, as the promotive role of calcitonin gene-related peptide in fracture healing is supportive. These cost-effective and innovative treatment approaches will definitely bring a reduction not only in the suffering of patients, but also in the economic burden for their families and our society.