Clinical Significance

C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen (βCTX) is a biomarker used to assess bone resorption.  Bone resorption is the process by which bone tissue is broken down by osteoclasts, releasing minerals like calcium into the blood.  βCTX is a fragment of collagen that is released into the bloodstream when bone is degraded.
    While βCTX alone is not used to diagnose bone diseases, it is part of a broader set of tests and evaluations to understand bone health and disease progression. Elevated βCTX levels are often seen in individuals with osteoporosis, as their bone resorption rates are typically higher.