A novel PPARγ agonist, KR62776, suppresses RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation and activity by inhibiting MAP kinase pathways

The Many Facets of PPAR-γ Agonism in Obesity and Associated Comorbidities: Benefits, Risks, Challenges, and Future Directions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Obesity is strongly associated with cardiometabolic disorders and certain malignancies, emphasizing the key role of adipose tissue in human health. While incretin mimetics have shown effectiveness in glycemic control and weight loss, a holistic strategy for combating obesity and associated comorbidities remains elusive. This review explores peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) agonism as a potential therapeutic approach, highlighting its benefits, addressing its limitations, and outlining future directions for developing more effective treatment strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Both natural and synthetic PPAR-γ agonists hold significant therapeutic potential as insulin sensitizers, while also demonstrating anti-inflammatory properties and playing a critical role in regulating lipid metabolism. However, the clinical use of natural agonists is limited by poor bioavailability, while synthetic agents like thiazolidinediones are associated with adverse effects, including fluid retention, weight gain, and bone loss. Current research is focused on developing modified, tissue-specific PPAR-γ agonists, as well as dual PPAR-α/PPAR-γ agonists, with improved safety profiles to mitigate these side effects. Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems also hold promise for enhancing bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the transformative potential of machine learning and artificial intelligence offers opportunities to accelerate advancements in this field. PPAR-γ agonists exhibit significant potential in addressing metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. However, their clinical use is restricted by safety concerns and suboptimal pharmacokinetics. Innovations in modified PPAR-γ agonists, nanotechnology-based delivery systems, and computational tools hold promise for creating safer and more effective therapeutic options for obesity and its associated disorders.

The ultimate microbial composition for correcting Th17/Treg cell imbalance and lipid metabolism disorders in osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a systemic bone disease characterised by decreased bone mass and a deteriorated bone microstructure, leading to increased bone fragility and fracture risk. Disorders of the intestinal microbiota may be key inducers of osteoporosis. Furthermore, such disorders may contribute to osteoporosis by influencing immune function and lipid metabolism. Therefore, in this review, we aimed to summarise the molecular mechanisms through which the intestinal microbiota affect the onset and development of osteoporosis by regulating Th17/Treg imbalance and lipid metabolism disorders. We also discussed the regulatory mechanisms underlying the effect of intestinal microbiota-related modulators on Th17/Treg imbalance and lipid metabolism disorders in osteoporosis, to explore new molecular targets for its treatment and provide a theoretical basis for clinical management.

Role of OSCAR Signaling in Osteoclastogenesis and Bone Disease

Formation of mature bone-resorbing cells through osteoclastogenesis is required for the continuous remodeling and repair of bone tissue. In aging and disease this process may become aberrant, resulting in excessive bone degradation and fragility fractures. Interaction of receptor-activator of nuclear factor-κB (RANK) with its ligand RANKL activates the main signaling pathway for osteoclastogenesis. However, compelling evidence indicates that this pathway may not be sufficient for the production of mature osteoclast cells and that co-stimulatory signals may be required for both the expression of osteoclast-specific genes and the activation of osteoclasts. Osteoclast-associated receptor (OSCAR), a regulator of osteoclast differentiation, provides one such co-stimulatory pathway. This review summarizes our present knowledge of osteoclastogenesis signaling and the role of OSCAR in the normal production of bone-resorbing cells and in bone disease. Understanding the signaling mechanism through this receptor and how it contributes to the production of mature osteoclasts may offer a more specific and targeted approach for pharmacological intervention against pathological bone resorption.

Puerarin Suppresses Macrophage Activation via Antioxidant Mechanisms in a CaPO4-Induced Mouse Model of Aneurysm

Aneurysm is characterized by balloon-like expansion of the arterial wall and eventual rupture of the aorta. The pathogenesis of aneurysm is associated with the degradation of matrix proteins by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) produced by activated macrophages. Although aneurysm is associated with significant mortality and morbidity, surgical intervention is the only proven treatment strategy. Therefore, development of therapeutic agents for aneurysm is greatly anticipated. Here, we demonstrated the protective effects of the major isoflavone puerarin, which is found in kudzu roots and vines. Aneurysms were surgically induced in ten-wk-old male mice using CaPO₄. Subsequently, animals were intraperitoneally injected daily with puerarin at 2.5 mg/kg body weight or with vehicle alone for 2 wk. CaPO₄-induced aneurysm was significantly suppressed by puerarin administration. In subsequent macrophage activation assays using Tumor necrosis factor (TNFα) and CaPO₄ crystals in vitro, puerarin decreased Mmp9 mRNA expression and secreted protein levels. Moreover, induction of IκB, ERK, and p38 phosphorylation by TNFα and CaPO₄ in macrophages was suppressed by puerarin treatments. Finally, puerarin attenuated reactive oxygen species production, following induction by TNFα and CaPO₄. Taken together, the present data demonstrate that puerarin suppresses macrophage activation by inhibiting IκB, ERK, and p38 activity and reactive oxygen species production in a CaPO₄-induced mouse model of aneurysm.

Inhibitory Effects of KP-A159, a Thiazolopyridine Derivative, on Osteoclast Differentiation, Function, and Inflammatory Bone Loss via Suppression of RANKL-Induced MAP Kinase Signaling Pathway

Abnormally elevated formation and activation of osteoclasts are primary causes for a majority of skeletal diseases. In this study, we found that KP-A159, a newly synthesized thiazolopyridine derivative, inhibited osteoclast differentiation and function in vitro, and inflammatory bone loss in vivo. KP-A159 did not cause a cytotoxic response in bone marrow macrophages (BMMs), but significantly inhibited the formation of multinucleated tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive osteoclasts induced by macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). KP-A159 also dramatically inhibited the expression of marker genes related to osteoclast differentiation, including TRAP (Acp5), cathepsin K (Ctsk), dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein (Dcstamp), matrix metallopeptidase 9 (Mmp9), and nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1 (Nfatc1). Moreover, actin ring and resorption pit formation were inhibited by KP-A159. Analysis of the signaling pathway involved showed that KP-A159 inhibited RANKL-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase1/2 (MEK1/2). In a mouse inflammatory bone loss model, KP-A159 significantly rescued lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced bone loss by suppressing osteoclast numbers. Therefore, KP-A159 targets osteoclasts, and may be a potential candidate compound for prevention and/or treatment of inflammatory bone loss.

Polycan suppresses osteoclast differentiation and titanium particle-induced osteolysis in mice

Particle-induced osteolysis is a major issue, and it is most likely the result of enhanced osteoclast activation in the pathogenesis of various skeletal diseases. This study investigated whether the inhibitory effect that Polycan has on osteoclast differentiation can be used to treat osteolysis induced by titanium (Ti) particles. To this end, the effects of Polycan were examined in terms of the cytotoxicity, osteoclast differentiation, cytokine expression, and Ti-induced calvarial osteolysis. Polycan had no significant cytotoxic effects on bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) but instead increased BMM proliferation. High levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-12, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) were expressed in BMM cells in the presence of Polycan, suggesting that Polycan drives the differentiation of BMMs into M1 macrophages. Polycan significantly inhibited osteoclast differentiation induced by M-CSF and the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL). The expression levels of the osteoclast marker genes significantly decreased, and Polycan induced and maintained the expression of IL-12, which suppressed osteoclast differentiation. In contrast, the RANKL signaling pathway was not inhibited by Polycan. An in vivo calvarial osteolysis model revealed that Polycan significantly decreased the osteoclast numbers and suppressed osteolysis. Our results suggest that the natural compound Polycan is a good candidate for therapeutic intervention against enhanced osteoclast differentiation and Ti particle-induced osteolysis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 1170-1175, 2016.

The 1,2,3-triazole derivative KP-A021 suppresses osteoclast differentiation and function by inhibiting RANKL-mediated MEK-ERK signaling pathway

The triazole family of compounds has been implicated in modulating various biological processes such as inflammation, tumorigenesis, and infection. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the effects of 1,2,3-triazole substituted biarylacrylonitrile compounds, including KP-A021, on the differentiation and function of osteoclasts. KP-A021 and its triazole derivatives, at a concentration that does not cause a cytotoxic response in bone marrow macrophages (BMMs), significantly inhibited osteoclast differentiation induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) as assessed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. KP-A021 also dramatically inhibited the expression of marker genes associated with osteoclast differentiation, such as TRAP, cathepsin K (Cat K), dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein (DC-STAMP), and nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1). Furthermore, KP-A021 inhibited actin ring formation in osteoclasts as well as resorption pit formation induced by osteoclasts. Analysis of the signaling pathway for KP-A021 indicated that this triazole compound inhibited the RANKL-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and its upstream signaling molecule, mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase1/2 (MEK1/2). Taken together, these results demonstrate that KP-A021 has an inhibitory effect on the differentiation and function of osteoclasts via modulation of the RANKL-induced activation of the MEK-ERK pathway.

PPAR agonists stimulate adipogenesis at the expense of osteoblast differentiation while inhibiting osteoclast formation and activity

Drugs used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, specifically peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists, have been reported to affect bone cell function and fracture risk. In this study, we assessed the direct effects of PPAR-γ agonists (rosiglitazone and troglitazone), used in the treatment of diabetes, and a PPAR-α agonist (fenofibrate), used to treat hyperlipidaemia, on the function of primary osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Formation of 'trabecular' bone structures by rat calvarial osteoblasts was reduced by up to 85% in cultures treated with rosiglitazone and by 45% in troglitazone-treated or fenofibrate-treated cultures; at the same time, lipid droplet formation was increased by 40-70%. The expression of key osteogenic markers was similarly downregulated in cultures treated with PPAR agonists, whereas adipogenesis markers were upregulated. Formation of osteoclasts in cultures derived from mouse marrow diminished with fenofibrate treatment, whereas both glitazones reduced resorptive activity without affecting osteoclast number. Metformin, although not a PPAR agonist, is also commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Here, metformin was found to have no effect on bone cell function. Taken together, these data suggest that PPAR-γ agonists may enhance bone loss via increased adipogenesis at the expense of osteoblast formation. In contrast, PPAR-α agonists may prevent bone loss. Given that the prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease is expected to rise significantly, greater attention may need to be paid to the effects of PPAR agonists on bone homeostasis.

DICAM inhibits osteoclast differentiation through attenuation of the integrin αVβ3 pathway

Dual immunoglobulin (Ig) domain-containing adhesion molecule (DICAM) is involved in cell-cell adhesion through a heterophilic interaction with αVβ3 integrin, which suggests that DICAM may participate in osteoclast differentiation. DICAM was localized in the plasma membrane of RAW264.7 and THP-1 cells, and its expression gradually increased during osteoclastogenesis in mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) treated with receptor activator of nuclear factor κ-B ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). Forced expression of DICAM in BMMs and RAW264.7 cells blocked the generation of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive osteoclasts. Conversely, knockdown of DICAM by small hairpin RNA (shRNA) increased osteoclast formation in RAW264.7 cells. DICAM-mediated suppression of osteoclast differentiation was in part due to the inhibition of the p38 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway, which was corroborated by a decrease in the expression of c-Fos and nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT)c1. Mechanistically, DICAM directly interacted with integrin β3, which inhibited heterodimerization between integrin αV and β3. Exogenous expression of integrin β3 or high-dose M-CSF rescued DICAM-mediated inhibition of osteoclastogenesis, suggesting crosstalk between the integrin β3 and c-Fms pathways. Finally, recombinant DICAM ectodomain suppressed the RANKL- and M-CSF-induced osteoclastogenesis of BMMs. Collectively, these results indicate that DICAM acts as a negative regulator of osteoclast differentiation by suppressing the integrin αVβ3 pathway.

Targeting polymer therapeutics to bone

An aging population in the developing world has led to an increase in musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoporosis and bone metastases. Left untreated many bone diseases cause debilitating pain and in the case of cancer, death. Many potential drugs are effective in treating diseases but result in side effects preventing their efficacy in the clinic. Bone, however, provides a unique environment of inorganic solids, which can be exploited in order to effectively target drugs to diseased tissue. By integration of bone targeting moieties to drug-carrying water-soluble polymers, the payload to diseased area can be increased while side effects decreased. The realization of clinically relevant bone targeted polymer therapeutics depends on (1) understanding bone targeting moiety interactions, (2) development of controlled drug delivery systems, as well as (3) understanding drug interactions. The latter makes it possible to develop bone targeted synergistic drug delivery systems.

Inhibitory effects of luteolin on titanium particle-induced osteolysis in a mouse model

Wear particles liberated from the surfaces of an implanted prosthesis are associated with peri-implant osteolysis and subsequent aseptic loosening. In the latter wear particle-induced inflammation and osteoclastogenesis have been identified as critical factors, and their inhibition as important steps in the treatment of affected patients, such as those undergoing total hip replacement. In this study the ability of luteolin to inhibit both titanium (Ti) particle-induced osteoclastogenesis in vitro and osteolysis in a murine calvaria Ti particle-induced model of osteolysis was examined. The results showed that luteolin, a highly potent and efficient inhibitor of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 expression, inhibited Ti particle-induced inflammatory cytokine release, osteoclastogenesis, and bone resorption in bone marrow macrophages. Microcomputed tomography and histological analyses showed that the Ti particles caused significant bone resorption and increased TRAP(+) multinuclear osteoclasts in the murine calvarial model of osteolysis, whereas this was not the case in the luteolin treatment group, in which osteolytic suppression was accompanied by a decrease in both TNF-α production and serum levels of the osteoclast marker the C-terminal telopeptide fragment of type I collagen. These results support the use of luteolin as a natural compound in the prevention and treatment of aseptic loosening after total replacement arthroplasty.

PPARγ inhibits inflammation and RANKL expression in epoxy resin-based sealer-induced osteoblast precursor cells E1 cells

OBJECTIVES

The AH26 of epoxy resin-based sealer is used widely owing to its excellent physical characteristics but it induces oxidative stress and cytotoxicity at the periapical tissues. AH26 exhibited cytotoxicity towards MC-3T3-E1 cells, which resulted in mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARγ) has an anti-inflammatory effect in several tissue and cells, but its action of AH26-related inflammation is not completely understood. The aim of this study is to investigate the anti-inflammatory and anti-osteoclastic mechanisms of PPARγ in AH26-induced MC-3T3 E1 cells.

METHODS

AH26 was prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions. The 1-day extraction sample, which was diluted by 30%, was tested in this experiment. Recombinant deficiency adenoviral PPARγ (Ad/PPARγ) was used to examine PPARγ over-expression in MC-3T3 E1 cells. AH26-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation was analysed using 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) with fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), and the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and inflammatory molecules was determined by immunoblotting. The anti-inflammatory and anti-osteoclastic mechanisms of the PPARγ-involved signal pathway was examined by immunoblotting.

RESULTS

The AH26 elutes induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), RANKL expression and ROS formation. In addition, the AH26 elutes suppressed the expression of PPARγ. However, the recovery of PPARγ expression with Ad/PPARγ resulted in the inhibition of iNOS, COX-2, RANKL and ROS formation despite the AH26 treatment in MC-3T3 E1 cells. The mechanism of PPARγ was confirmed by the blocking of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) translocation to the nucleus after the suppression of ERK1/2, SAPK/JNK and AP-1 in AH26-induced MC-3T3 E1 cells.

CONCLUSION

From this result, PPARγ acts to inhibit bone destruction in AH26-induced bone cells. Therefore, the anti-inflammatory and anti-osteoclastic character of PPARγ might be applicable for healing periapical lesions more rapidly or reducing the induction of cellular inflammation caused by some endodontic sealers.

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ cross-regulation of signaling events implicated in liver fibrogenesis

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) is a nuclear receptor with transcriptional activity controlling multiple physical and pathological processes. Recently, PPARγ has been implicated in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. Its depleted expression has strong associations with the activation and transdifferentiation of hepatic stellate cells, the central event in liver fibrogenesis. Studies over the past decade demonstrate that PPARγ cross-regulates a number of signaling pathways mediated by growth factors and adipokines, and cellular events including apoptosis and senescence. These signaling and cellular events and their molecular interactions with PPARγ system are profoundly involved in liver fibrogenesis. We critically summarize these mechanistic insights into the PPARγ regulation in liver fibrogenesis based on the updated findings in this area. We conclude with a discussion of the impacts of these discoveries on the interpretation of liver fibrogenesis and their potential therapeutic implications. PPARγ activation could be a promising strategy for antifibrotic therapy.

Osteoblast-targeted overexpression of PPARγ inhibited bone mass gain in male mice and accelerated ovariectomy-induced bone loss in female mice

PPARγ has critical role in the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into adipocytes while suppressing osteoblastic differentiation. We generated transgenic mice that overexpress PPARγ specifically in osteoblasts under the control of a 2.3-kb procollagen type 1 promoter (Col.1-PPARγ). Bone mineral density (BMD) of 6- to 14-week-old Col.1 - PPARγ male mice was 8% to 10% lower than that of their wild-type littermates, whereas no difference was noticed in Col.1-PPARγ female mice. Col.1-PPARγ male mice exhibited decreased bone volume (45%), trabecular thickness (23%), and trabecular number (27%), with a reciprocal increase in trabecular spacing (51%). Dynamic histomorphometric analysis also revealed that bone-formation rate (42%) and mineral apposition rate (32%) were suppressed significantly in Col.1-PPARγ male mice compared with their wild-type littermates. Interestingly, osteoclast number and surface also were decreased by 40% and 58%, respectively, in Col.1-PPARγ male mice. In vitro whole-marrow culture for osteoclastogenesis also showed a significant decrease in osteoclast formation (approximately 35%) with the cells from Col.1-PPARγ male mice, and OPG/RANKL ratio was reduced in stromal cells from Col.1-PPARγ male mice. Although there was no significant difference in BMD in Col.1-PPARγ female mice up to 30 weeks, bone loss was accelerated after ovariectomy compared with wild-type female mice (-3.9% versus -6.8% at 12 weeks after ovariectomy, p < .01), indicating that the effects of PPARγ overexpression becomes more evident in an estrogen-deprived state in female mice. In conclusion, in vivo osteoblast-specific overexpression of PPARγ negatively regulates bone mass in male mice and accelerates estrogen-deficiency-related bone loss in female mice.

The role of osteoclast-associated receptor in osteoimmunology

The term osteoimmunology is coined for molecular and cellular cross talk between the skeletal and immune system. Immunomodulatory signals have long been implicated as key regulators of bone metabolism. Recently, osteoclast-associated receptor (OSCAR), an IgG-like receptor, has been identified as an important osteoimmunological mediator. OSCAR expression in bone is highly conserved across different species, and the molecule is an important costimulatory receptor for osteoclast differentiation through activation of NFATc1. In humans, OSCAR is expressed by macrophages, monocytes, and monocyte-derived dendritic cells and modulates the response of the innate and adaptive immune systems by promoting cell activation and maturation, Ag presentation, and proinflammatory circuits. Human studies indicate that OSCAR may contribute to the pathogenesis and severity of osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis. In this paper, we review the structure-function relationship, expression pattern, and physiological role of OSCAR in osteoimmunology and summarize its potential implications for human diseases.

The inhibitory effect of dexamethasone on platelet-derived growth factor-induced vascular smooth muscle cell migration through up-regulating PGC-1α expression

Dexamethasone has been shown to inhibit vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration, which is required for preventing restenosis. However, the mechanism underlying effect of dexamethasone remains unknown. We have previously demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) coactivator-1 alpha (PGC-1α) can inhibit VSMC migration and proliferation. Here, we investigated the role of PGC-1α in dexamethasone-reduced VSMC migration and explored the possible mechanism. We first examined PGC-1α expression in cultured rat aortic VSMCs. The results revealed that incubation of VSMCs with dexamethasone could significantly elevate PGC-1α mRNA expression. In contrast, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) decreased PGC-1α expression while stimulating VSMC migration. Mechanistic study showed that suppression of PGC-1α by small interfering RNA strongly abrogated the inhibitory effect of dexamethasone on VSMC migration, whereas overexpression of PGC-1α had the opposite effect. Furthermore, an analysis of MAPK signal pathways showed that dexamethasone inhibited ERK and p38 MAPK phosphorylation in VSMCs. Overexpression of PGC-1α decreased both basal and PDGF-induced p38 MAPK phosphorylation, but it had no effect on ERK phosphorylation. Finally, inhibition of PPARγ activation by a PPARγ antagonist GW9662 abolished the suppressive effects of PGC-1α on p38 MAPK phosphorylation and VSMC migration. These effects of PGC-1α were enhanced by a PPARγ agonist troglitazone. Collectively, our data indicated for the first time that one of the anti-migrated mechanisms of dexamethasone is due to the induction of PGC-1α expression. PGC-1α suppresses PDGF-induced VSMC migration through PPARγ coactivation and, consequently, p38 MAPK inhibition.

PPAR modulation of kinase-linked receptor signaling in physiology and disease

Kinase-linked receptors and nuclear receptors connect external cues to gene transcription. Among nuclear receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are of special interest in relation to widespread human diseases. Mapping out connections between PPARs and kinase-linked receptor signaling is central to better understand physiological and pathophysiological processes and to better define therapeutic strategies. This is the aim of the present review.

PPAR-gamma agonist rosiglitazone prevents inflammatory periodontal bone loss by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis

Rosiglitazone (RGZ), an oral anti-hyperglycemic agent used for non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, is a high-affinity synthetic agonist for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma). Both in vitro and in vivo experiments have also revealed that RGZ possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of RGZ in a rat model of periodontal disease induced by ligature placed around the mandible first molars of each animal. Male Wister rats were divided into four groups: 1) animals without ligature placement receiving administration of empty vehicle (control); 2) animals with ligature receiving administration of empty vehicle; 3) animals with ligature receiving administration with oral RGZ (10 mg/kg/day); and 4) animals with ligature receiving administration of subcutaneous RGZ (10 mg/kg/day). Thirty days after induction of periodontal disease, the animals were sacrificed, and mandibles and gingival tissues were removed for further analysis. An in vitro assay was also employed to test the inhibitory effects of RGZ on osteoclastogenesis. Histomorphological and immunohistochemical analyses of periodontal tissue demonstrated that RGZ-treated animals presented decreased bone resorption, along with reduced RANKL expression, compared to those animals with ligature, but treated with empty vehicle. Corresponding to such results obtained from in vivo experiments, RGZ also suppressed in vitro osteoclast differentiation in the presence of RANKL in MOCP-5 osteoclast precursor cells, along with the down-regulation of the expression of RANKL-induced TRAP mRNA. These data indicated that RGZ may suppress the bone resorption by inhibiting RANKL-mediated osteoclastogenesis elicited during the course of experimental periodontitis in rats.