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BONE density achieved in early adulthood is the major determinant of risk of osteoporotic fracture. Up to 60% of women^1,2 suffer osteoporotic fractures as a result of low bone density², which is under strong genetic control^3–6 acting through effects on bone turnover^7,8. Here we show that common allelic variants in the gene encoding the vitamin D receptor⁹ can be used to predict differences in bone density, accounting for up to 75% of the total genetic effect on bone density in healthy individuals. The genotype associated with lower bone density was overrepresented in postmenopausal women with bone densities more than 2 standard deviations below values in young normal women. The molecular mechanisms by which bone density is regulated by the vitamin D receptor gene are not certain, although allelic differences in the 3' untranslated region may alter messenger RNA levels. These findings could open new …