The role of polyphenols on bone metabolism in osteoporosis

Polyphenols and Functionalized Hydrogels for Osteoporotic Bone Regeneration

Osteoporosis induces severe oxidative stress and disrupts bone metabolism, complicating the treatment of bone defects. Current therapies often have side effects and require lengthy bone regeneration periods. Hydrogels, known for their flexible mechanical properties and degradability, are promising carriers for drugs and bioactive factors in bone tissue engineering. However, they lack the ability to regulate the local pathological environment of osteoporosis and expedite bone repair. Polyphenols, with antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and bone metabolism-regulating properties, have emerged as a solution. Combining hydrogels and polyphenols, polyphenol-based hydrogels can regulate local bone metabolism and oxidative stress while providing mechanical support and tissue adhesion, promoting osteoporotic bone regeneration. This review first provides a brief overview of the types of polyphenols and the mechanisms of polyphenols in facilitating adhesion, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and bone metabolism modulation in modulating the pathological environment of osteoporosis. Next, this review examines recent advances in hydrogels for the treatment of osteoporotic bone defects, including their use in angiogenesis, oxidative stress modulation, drug delivery, and stem cell therapy. Finally, it highlights the latest research on polyphenol hydrogels in osteoporotic bone defect regeneration. Overall, this review aims to facilitate the clinical application of polyphenol hydrogels for the treatment of osteoporotic bone defects.

Flavonoids modulate regenerative-related cellular events in LPS-challenged dental pulp cells

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of quercetin (QU), hesperetin (HT), and taxifolin (TX) on human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) chronically exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

METHODS

First, the cytotoxicity (alamarBlue) and bioactivity (biomineralization, Alizarin Red) of QU, HT, and TX concentrations were evaluated on healthy hDPCs. Then, the effects of non-cytotoxic and bioactive concentrations were investigated on hDPCs after previous stimulation with E. coli LPS (10 µg/mL) for 7 days. Cell culture media with and without LPS were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Cell viability (alamarBlue), NF-κB activation (immunofluorescence), reactive oxygen species production (ROS, H2DCFDA probe), cell migration (Transwell), inflammation-related gene expression (RT-qPCR), and odontogenic differentiation (RT-qPCR and alizarin red) were evaluated (n = 8). Data were analyzed using confidence intervals and ANOVA (α = 5 %).

RESULTS

The concentrations of 20 µM QU, 20 µM HT, and 200 µM TX reduced cell viability by more than 30 %. The 5 µM QU, 10 µM HT, and 100 µM TX concentrations were cytocompatible and stimulated biomineralization by healthy hDPCs. These concentrations were tested under the LPS challenge, and cell viability and odontogenic differentiation were significantly increased, while ROS production and inflammatory response were significantly decreased. In addition, the flavonoids significantly stimulated cell migration, reduced NF-κB activation, and increased biomineralization by LPS-challenged hDPCs compared to cells exposed to LPS alone and without any other treatment.

CONCLUSION

Flavonoids can modulate the metabolism of hDPCs chronically exposed to LPS in vitro, stimulating cellular events compatible with stem cell-based regenerative processes.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Flavonoids may be explored as adjuvant therapeutic agents during pulp capping to counteract chronic inflammatory conditions and stimulate regeneration of the dentin-pulp complex in caries-affected teeth, thereby preserving tooth vitality.

Mechanisms and Intervention of Prebiotic Foods in Musculoskeletal Health

The review focuses primarily on collating and analyzing the mechanistic research data that discusses the function of prebiotics to halt the frailty of musculoskeletal system. Musculoskeletal diseases (MSDs) are frequently reported to co-occur within their own categories of conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis owing to their overlapping pathogenesis. Consequently, the same drugs are often used to manage the complications of most types. A few recent studies have addressed the therapeutic functions of gut microbes toward those commonly shared MSD pathway targets. Improving microbial diversity and enriching their population in the gut would promote the regeneration and recovery of the musculoskeletal system. Prebiotics are usually nondigestible substrates that are selectively used or digested by the gut microbes conferring health promotion. The microbial fermentation of prebiotics generates numerous host-beneficial therapeutic molecules. This study inspects the presumptive functions of plant-derived prebiotics for the growth and restoration of intestinal microbiota and the consequent improvement of skeletal health. The review also highlights the discrete functions of prebiotics against inflammation, autoimmunity, infection, physiologic overloading mechanism, and aging-associated loss of metabolism in MSD.

Assessing the stability of polyphenol content in red rooibos herbal tea using traditional methods and high-resolution mass spectrometry: Implications for studying dietary interventions in preclinical rodent studies

Preclinical rodent models are used to examine the relationship between tea consumption and bone health, where tea is available for rodents and typically replaced weekly. However, the extent to which the tea polyphenols change over time remains uncertain, despite its importance in preparing tea during preclinical rodent trials. Using an untargeted molecular approach, we applied a liquid chromatography quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOFMS) system to assess the molecular profile of red rooibos teas throughout a 6-day aging period. We found a significant, 3-fold decrease of polyphenols involved in bone metabolism, including m-coumaric acid, catechin derivatives and courmaroyl tartaric acid over 6 days, likely due to photochemical decomposition and autooxidation within tea extracts. Using a novel untargeted workflow for polyphenol characterization, our findings revealed the complexity of polyphenols in red rooibos teas that can inform the evidence-based decisions of how often to change teas during in vivo rodent trials.

Effects of cosmos caudatus (Kenikir) antioxidant properties on bone metabolism marker in rat

Cosmos caudatus leaves are one of around 7500 types of plants that are known to have herbal or medicinal plant properties in Indonesia. This research determines the effectiveness of Cosmos caudatus as an antioxidant agent against cells, biomolecules, and bone density. Forty-three male rat aged 3-4 months were divided into four groups.Group P0 was only given distilled water. Group P1 was given kenikir leaf extract at a dose of 0.91 mg/kg. Group P2 was given kenikir leaf extract at a dose of 1.82 mg/kg. And group P3 was given kenikir leaf extract at 3.64 mg/kg ad libitum once a day for 28 days. The highest average SOD level was in the 1.82 mg/bb P2 conversion dose group (1.09 ± 1.76). The lowest mean CTX level was in the P2 group (8.30 ± 1.10). There was a significant increase in mean trabecular bone in the P2 group (43.33 ± 5.32). The number of osteoblast cells increased significantly at P2 (103.94 (SD 38.14)). The number of osteoclasts decreased from the control group (P0) to 0.60 (SD 0.43) at P2. Indicate that the Cosmos caudatus extract may have advantages as an antioxidant support agent for bone metabolism.

Positive relation between dietary inflammatory index and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

Background: Previous studies have shown that some dietary components may be implicated in the aetiology of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Objective: We examined the relationship between Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII®) and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Study design: Eight hundred and fifty postmenopausal women aged 50-65 years were randomly selected from 87 health care centers. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using the anterior-posterior lumbar spine (L1-L4) and proximal femur neck through Hologic QDR 4500W (S/N 50266) dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry device. After checking inclusion and exclusion criteria and diagnosis of osteoporosis, 124 women with normal bone mineral density (normal-BMD) and 108 women with osteoporosis were selected. Demographic, anthropometric, physical activity, midwifery, and dietary intake questionnaires were completed. DII was calculated based on a valid and reliable 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire using 37 (out of 45) food parameters. A Logistic regression model adjusted for confounders was applied to estimate osteoporosis's odds ratio (OR) based on modeling DII as a continuous and dichotomous variable. Results: In this study, DII scores ranged from -3.71 (the most anti-inflammatory score) to +4.16 (the most pro-inflammatory score). The median DII value among the osteoporosis group was 0.97, among the normal group it was -0.31, indicating a more pro-inflammatory diet for osteoporosis. There were positive associations between osteoporosis and DII based on both continuous (Adjusted OR=3.467, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.280-5.272, P-value<0.001) and dichotomous (Adjusted OR: DII ≤-0.31 / >-0.31=0.248, 95% CI: 0.110-0.561, P-value=0.001) measures in modeling adjusted for age, BMI, post-menopausal years, parity, education, total energy intake, and physical activity. Conclusions: These data suggest a pro-inflammatory diet, as indicated by increasing the DII score, may be a risk factor for osteoporosis in postmenopausal Iranian women.

Study on the relationship between tea polyphenols alleviating osteoporosis and the changes of microorganism-metabolite-intestinal barrier

Tea polyphenols are known to alleviate osteoporosis; however, the role of intestinal flora in this process has not been studied. This research employed 16s rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabonomics to investigate the potential link between osteoporosis mitigation and changes in intestinal flora. MicroCT and tissue staining results demonstrated that tea polyphenols improved bone microstructure, modulated bone metabolism, and significantly alleviated osteoporosis. The administration of tea polyphenols led to alterations in the intestinal flora's composition, marked by increased abundance of Firmicutes and Lactobacillus and decreased prevalence of Bacteroidetes and Bacteroides. Concurrently, the levels of serum metabolites such as Spermidine and 5,6-Dihydrouracil, associated with intestinal microorganisms, underwent significant changes. These variations in intestinal flora and metabolites are closely linked to bone metabolism. Furthermore, tea polyphenols partially repaired intestinal barrier damage, potentially due to shifts in intestinal flora and their metabolites. Overall, our findings suggest that tea polyphenol intervention modifies the intestinal flora and serum metabolites in osteoporotic mice, which could contribute to the repair of intestinal barrier damage and thereby mitigate osteoporosis. This discovery aids in elucidating the mechanism behind tea polyphenols' osteoporosis-relieving effects.

The entrancing role of dietary polyphenols against the most frequent aging-associated diseases

Aging, a fundamental physiological process influenced by innumerable biological and genetic pathways, is an important driving factor for several aging-associated disorders like diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. In the modern era, the several mechanisms associated with aging have been deeply studied. Treatment and therapeutics for age-related diseases have also made considerable advances; however, for the effective and long-lasting treatment, nutritional therapy particularly including dietary polyphenols from the natural origin are endorsed. These dietary polyphenols (e.g., apigenin, baicalin, curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, kaempferol, quercetin, resveratrol, and theaflavin), and many other phytochemicals target certain molecular, genetic mechanisms. The most common pathways of age-associated diseases are mitogen-activated protein kinase, reactive oxygen species production, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells signaling pathways, metal chelation, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and inflammation. Polyphenols slow down the course of aging and help in combatting age-linked disorders. This exemplified in the form of clinical trials on specific dietary polyphenols in various aging-associated diseases. With this context in mind, this review reveals the new insights to slow down the aging process, and consequently reduce some classic diseases associated with age such as aforementioned, and targeting age-associated diseases by the activities of dietary polyphenols of natural origin.

Boosting plant food polyphenol concentration by saline eustress as supplement strategies for the prevention of metabolic syndrome: an example of randomized interventional trial in the adult population

Introduction

Phenolic compounds in lettuce can increase by the application of positive stress (eustress) such as moderate saline stress. Phenolic compounds possess antioxidant capacity that is a key factor in the detoxification of excess reactive oxygen species. A double-blinded randomized interventional and placebo- controlled study design was carried out to compare the effect of daily dietary eustress lettuce ingestion in hepatic, lipid, bone, glucose, and iron metabolism.

Methods

Forty-two healthy volunteers, 19 female and 23 male participants, were divided into two groups. Participants were randomized into a polyphenol-enriched treatment (PET) arm or control arm. Each arm consumed 100 g/day of control or eustress (polyphenols enriched treatment = PET) lettuce for 12 days. Primary study outcomes were serological analysis for assessing hepatic, lipid, bone, iron, and glucose markers at baseline and after 12 days. Secondary outcomes assessed body composition.

Results

Salinity stress reduced plant yield but increased caffeic acid (+467%), chlorogenic acid (+320%), quercetin (+538%), and rutin (+1,095%) concentrations. The intake of PET lettuce reduced PTH, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol, alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) enzyme levels and increased vitamin D and phosphate levels, while iron and glucose metabolism were unaffected.

Discussion

Supplementation with eustress lettuce by increasing polyphenols concentration ameliorates hepatic, lipid, and bone homeostasis. Body composition was not affected.

Clinical trial registration

https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06002672, identifier: NCT06002672.

A review on therapeutic mechanism of medicinal plants against osteoporosis: effects of phytoconstituents

Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disorder that over time results in bone loss and raises the risk of fracture. The condition is frequently silent and only becomes apparent when fractures develop. Osteoporosis is treated with pharmacotherapy as well as non-pharmacological therapies such as mineral supplements, lifestyle changes, and exercise routines. Herbal medicine is frequently used in clinical procedures because of its low risk of adverse effects and cost-effective therapeutic results. In the current review, we have used a thorough strategy to identify some known medicinal plants with anti-osteoporosis capabilities, their origin, active ingredients, and pharmacological information. Furthermore, several signaling pathways, such as the apoptotic pathway, transcription factors, the Wnt/-catenin signaling pathway, and others, are regulated by bioactive components and help to improve bone homeostasis. This review will provide a better understanding of the anti-osteoporotic effects of bioactive components and the concomitant modulations of signaling pathways.

The synergistic effects of polyphenols and intestinal microbiota on osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common metabolic disease in middle-aged and elderly people. It is characterized by a reduction in bone mass, compromised bone microstructure, heightened bone fragility, and an increased susceptibility to fractures. The dynamic imbalance between osteoblast and osteoclast populations is a decisive factor in the occurrence of osteoporosis. With the increase in the elderly population in society, the incidence of osteoporosis, disability, and mortality have gradually increased. Polyphenols are a fascinating class of compounds that are found in both food and medicine and exhibit a variety of biological activities with significant health benefits. As a component of food, polyphenols not only provide color, flavor, and aroma but also act as potent antioxidants, protecting our cells from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic disease. Moreover, these natural compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in immune response regulation and potentially alleviate symptoms of diverse ailments. The gut microbiota can degrade polyphenols into more absorbable metabolites, thereby increasing their bioavailability. Polyphenols can also shape the gut microbiota and increase its abundance. Therefore, studying the synergistic effect between gut microbiota and polyphenols may help in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. By delving into how gut microbiota can enhance the bioavailability of polyphenols and how polyphenols can shape the gut microbiota and increase its abundance, this review offers valuable information and references for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis.

The Impact of Tannic Acid Consumption on Bone Mineralization

Tannic acid (TA) is an organic compound belonging to the tannin group. Like other tannins, it has an affinity for endogenous proteins, including digestive enzymes, which can result in the reduced digestibility and absorption of nutrients. It can also form complexes with mineral components, reducing their absorption. In some cases, this can be beneficial, such as in the case of toxic metals, but sometimes it may have a detrimental effect on the body when it involves essential mineral components like Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, or Fe. Therefore, the impact of TA on bone health should be considered from both perspectives. This relatively short review summarizes the available information and research findings on TA, with a particular focus on its potential impact on bone health. It is worth noting that future research and clinical studies may provide more detailed and precise information on this topic, allowing for a better understanding of the role of TA in maintaining the integrity of the musculoskeletal system. Despite its brevity, this paper represents a valuable contribution to the analysis of the potential benefits and challenges associated with TA in the context of bone health. We anticipate that future research will continue along this important research line, expanding our knowledge of the influence of this compound on the skeletal system and its potential therapeutic applications.

The Impact of Plasma Membrane Ion Channels on Bone Remodeling in Response to Mechanical Stress, Oxidative Imbalance, and Acidosis

The extracellular milieu is a rich source of different stimuli and stressors. Some of them depend on the chemical–physical features of the matrix, while others may come from the ‘outer’ environment, as in the case of mechanical loading applied on the bones. In addition to these forces, a plethora of chemical signals drives cell physiology and fate, possibly leading to dysfunctions when the homeostasis is disrupted. This variety of stimuli triggers different responses among the tissues: bones represent a particular milieu in which a fragile balance between mechanical and metabolic demands should be tuned and maintained by the concerted activity of cell biomolecules located at the interface between external and internal environments. Plasma membrane ion channels can be viewed as multifunctional protein machines that act as rapid and selective dual-nature hubs, sensors, and transducers. Here we focus on some multisensory ion channels (belonging to Piezo, TRP, ASIC/EnaC, P2XR, Connexin, and Pannexin families) actually or potentially playing a significant role in bone adaptation to three main stressors, mechanical forces, oxidative stress, and acidosis, through their effects on bone cells including mesenchymal stem cells, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes. Ion channel-mediated bone remodeling occurs in physiological processes, aging, and human diseases such as osteoporosis, cancer, and traumatic events.

Polyphenols: Bioavailability, Microbiome Interactions and Cellular Effects on Health in Humans and Animals

Polyphenolic compounds have a variety of functions in plants including protecting them from a range of abiotic and biotic stresses such as pathogenic infections, ionising radiation and as signalling molecules. They are common constituents of human and animal diets, undergoing extensive metabolism by gut microbiota in many cases prior to entering circulation. They are linked to a range of positive health effects, including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and disease-specific activities but the relationships between polyphenol bio-transformation products and their interactions in vivo are less well understood. Here we review the state of knowledge in this area, specifically what happens to dietary polyphenols after ingestion and how this is linked to health effects in humans and animals; paying particular attention to farm animals and pigs. We focus on the chemical transformation of polyphenols after ingestion, through microbial transformation, conjugation, absorption, entry into circulation and uptake by cells and tissues, focusing on recent findings in relation to bone. We review what is known about how these processes affect polyphenol bioactivity, highlighting gaps in knowledge. The implications of extending the use of polyphenols to treat specific pathogenic infections and other illnesses is explored.

Effects and Mechanisms of Rhus chinensis Mill. Fruits on Suppressing RANKL-Induced Osteoclastogenesis by Network Pharmacology and Validation in RAW264.7 Cells

Rhus chinensis Mill. fruits are a kind of widely distributed edible seasoning, which have been documented to possess a variety of biological activities. However, its inhibitory effect on osteoclast formation has not been determined. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the fruits on osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells, induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and to illuminate the potential mechanisms using network pharmacology and western blots. Results showed that the extract containing two organic acids and twelve phenolic substances could effectively inhibit osteoclast differentiation in RANKL-induced RAW264.7 cells. Network pharmacology examination and western blot investigation showed that the concentrate essentially decreased the expression levels of osteoclast-specific proteins, chiefly through nuclear factor kappa-B, protein kinase B, and mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, particularly protein kinase B α and mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 targets. Moreover, the extract likewise directly down regulated the expression of cellular oncogene Fos and nuclear factor of activated T-cells cytoplasmic 1 proteins. Citric acid, quercetin, myricetin-3-O-galactoside, and quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside were considered as the predominant bioactive ingredients. Results of this work may provide a scientific basis for the development and utilization of R. chinensis fruits as a natural edible material to prevent and/or alleviate osteoporosis-related diseases.

Blueberry Polyphenols do not Improve Bone Mineral Density or Mechanical Properties in Ovariectomized Rats

Osteoporosis-related bone fragility fractures are a major public health concern. Given the potential for adverse side effects of pharmacological treatment, many have sought alternative treatments, including dietary changes. Based on recent evidence that polyphenol-rich foods, like blueberries, increase calcium absorption and bone mineral density (BMD), we hypothesized that blueberry polyphenols would improve bone biomechanical properties. To test this, 5-month-old ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 10/gp) were orally gavaged for 90 days with either a purified extract of blueberry polyphenols (0-1000 mg total polyphenols/kg bw/day) or lyophilized blueberries (50 mg total polyphenols/kg bw/day). Upon completion of the dosing regimen, right femur, right tibia, and L1-L4 vertebrae were harvested and assessed for bone mineral density (BMD), with femurs being further analyzed for biomechanical properties via three-point bending. There were no differences in BMD at any of the sites analyzed. For bone mechanical properties, the only statistically significant difference was the high dose group having greater ultimate stress than the medium dose, although in the absence of differences in other measures of bone mechanical properties, we concluded that this result, while statistically significant, had little biological significance. Our results indicate that blueberry polyphenols had little impact on BMD or bone mechanical properties in an animal model of estrogen deficiency-induced bone loss.

Oleacein Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammation in THP-1-Derived Macrophages by the Inhibition of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB Pathway

It is known that plant phenolic compounds exert anti-inflammatory activity through both anti-oxidant effects and modulation of pivotal pro-inflammatory factors. Recently, Olea europaea has been studied as a natural source of bioactive molecules; however, few studies have focused on the biological effect of oleacein (OLC), the most abundant secoiridoid. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential anti-oxidant activity of OLC, as well as to study its anti-inflammatory effect in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated THP-1-derived macrophages. LPS brought a dramatic increase of both release and gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α), as well as a decrease of anti-inflammatory ones (IL-10), the effects of which are reverted by OLC. Moreover, it reduced the levels of COX-2, NO and PGE2 elicited by LPS exposure in THP-1 macrophages. Interestingly, OLC modulated inflammatory signaling pathways through the inhibition of CD14/TLR4/CD14/MyD88 axis and the activation of NF-κB. Finally, OLC showed relevant anti-oxidant capability, assessed by abiotic assays, and reduced the intracellular amount of ROS generated by LPS exposure in THP-1 macrophages. Overall, these results suggest that the anti-oxidant activity and anti-inflammatory effect of OLC may cooperate in its protective effect against inflammatory stressors, thus being a possible alternative pharmacological strategy aimed at reducing the inflammatory process.

Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant and Bone Anabolic Effects of Blainvillea acmella (L.) Philipson

Blainvillea acmella (L.) Philipson [Asteraceae] (B. acmella) is an important medicinal plant native to Brazil, and it is widely known as a toothache plant. A plethora of studies have demonstrated the antioxidant activities of B. acmella and few studies on the stimulatory effects on alkaline phosphatase (ALP) secretion from bone cells; however, there is no study on its antioxidant and anabolic activity on bone cells. The study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical contents of aqueous and ethanol extracts of B. acmella using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) and liquid chromatography time of flight mass spectrometry (LCTOFMS) along with the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) contents using Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum colorimetric methods. The extracts of B. acmella leaves were used to scavenge synthetic-free radicals such as 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The bone anabolic effects of B. acmella extracts on MC3T3-E1 cells were measured with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazoium bromide (MTT) at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days, Sirius-red and ALP at 7 and 14 days, and Alizarin Red S at 14 and 21 days. Comparatively, ethanol extract of B. acmella (BaE) contributed higher antioxidant activities (IC50 of 476.71 µg/ml and 56.01 ± 6.46 mg L-ascorbic acid/g against DPPH and FRAP, respectively). Anabolic activities in bone proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization were also higher in B. acmella of ethanol (BaE) than aqueous (BaA) extracts. Positive correlations were observed between phenolic content (TPC and TFC) to antioxidant (ABTS and FRAP) and anabolic activities. Conversely, negative correlations were present between phenolic content to antioxidant (DPPH) activity. These potential antioxidant and bone anabolic activities in BaE might be due to the phytochemicals confirmed through GCMS and LCTOFMS, revealed that terpenoids of α-cubebene, cryophyllene, cryophyllene oxide, phytol and flavonoids of pinostrobin and apigenin were the compounds contributing to both antioxidant and anabolic effects in BaE. Thus, B. acmella may be a valuable antioxidant and anti-osteoporosis agent. Further study is needed to isolate, characterize and elucidate the underlying mechanisms responsible for the antioxidant and bone anabolic effects.

The Use of Mushrooms and Spirulina Algae as Supplements to Prevent Growth Inhibition in a Pre-Clinical Model for an Unbalanced Diet

Today’s eating patterns are characterized by the consumption of unbalanced diets (UBDs) resulting in a variety of health consequences on the one hand, and the consumption of dietary supplements in order to achieve overall health and wellness on the other. Balanced nutrition is especially crucial during childhood and adolescence as these time periods are characterized by rapid growth and development of the skeleton. We show the harmful effect of UBD on longitudinal bone growth, trabecular and cortical bone micro-architecture and bone mineral density; which were analyzed by micro-CT scanning. Three point bending tests demonstrate the negative effect of the diet on the mechanical properties of the bone material as well. Addition of Spirulina algae or Pleurotus eryngii or Agaricus bisporus mushrooms, to the UBD, was able to improve growth and impaired properties of the bone. 16SrRNA Sequencing identified dysbiosis in the UBD rats’ microbiota, with high levels of pro-inflammatory associated bacteria and low levels of bacteria associated with fermentation processes and bone related mechanisms. These results provide insight into the connection between diet, the skeletal system and the gut microbiota, and reveal the positive impact of three chosen dietary supplements on bone development and quality presumably through the microbiome composition.

The bone strengthening effects of propolis in ovariectomized female white rats as models for postmenopause

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by decreased quality and strength of bones so that it becomes porous and fracture. Propolis is known to have many pharmacological activity, including an anti-osteoporosis effect. This study aims to determine the effect of propolis administration and the effects of propolis dosage variation in preventing osteoporosis based on the strength value of femur bone impact in female white rats in the form of an ovariectomy postmenopausal model. The rats were divided into 5 groups: positive control group (subjected to ovariectomy), negative control group (not subjected to ovariectomy, and treatment groups that were subjected to ovariectomy and given propolis at a dose of 180 mg/kg BW, dose 360 mg/kg BW and dose 720 mg/kg BW. Propolis was administered orally for 30 days. Bone impact strength testing was undertaken after 30 days using an impact testing machine. Research data were analyzed via one-way ANOVA and continued with the Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. From the test results, we noted that propolis administration had an effect on the value of bone strength, with the dose of 720 mg/kg BW and 360 mg/kg BW having a significant effect, compared with others. With an increase in dose, propolis can provide an increase in the value of bone strength in rat bones.

Polyphenols-loaded electrospun nanofibers in bone tissue engineering and regeneration

Bone is a complex structure with unique cellular and molecular process in its formation. Bone tissue regeneration is a well-organized and routine process at the cellular and molecular level in humans through the activation of biochemical pathways and protein expression. Though many forms of biomaterials have been applied for bone tissue regeneration, electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds have attracted more attention among researchers with their physicochemical properties such as tensile strength, porosity, and biocompatibility. When drugs, antibiotics, or functional nanoparticles are taken as additives to the nanofiber, its efficacy towards the application gets increased. Polyphenol is a versatile green/phytochemical small molecule playing a vital role in several biomedical applications, including bone tissue regeneration. When polyphenols are incorporated as additives to the nanofibrous scaffold, their combined properties enhance cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation in bone tissue defect. The present review describes bone biology encompassing the composition and function of bone tissue cells and exemplifies the series of biological processes associated with bone tissue regeneration. We have highlighted the molecular mechanism of bioactive polyphenols involved in bone tissue regeneration and specified the advantage of electrospun nanofiber as a wound healing scaffold. As the polyphenols contribute to wound healing with their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, we have compiled a list of polyphenols studied, thus far, for bone tissue regeneration along with their in vitro and in vivo experimental biological results and salient observations. Finally, we have elaborated on the importance of polyphenol-loaded electrospun nanofiber in bone tissue regeneration and discussed the possible challenges and future directions in this field.

Antioxidant, Mineralogenic and Osteogenic Activities of Spartina alterniflora and Salicornia fragilis Extracts Rich in Polyphenols

Osteoporosis is an aging-related disease and a worldwide health issue. Current therapeutics have failed to reduce the prevalence of osteoporosis in the human population, thus the discovery of compounds with bone anabolic properties that could be the basis of next generation drugs is a priority. Marine plants contain a wide range of bioactive compounds and the presence of osteoactive phytochemicals was investigated in two halophytes collected in Brittany (France): the invasive Spartina alterniflora and the native Salicornia fragilis. Two semi-purified fractions, prepared through liquid-liquid extraction, were assessed for phenolic and flavonoid contents, and for the presence of antioxidant, mineralogenic and osteogenic bioactivities. Ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) was rich in phenolic compounds and exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. While S. fragilis EAF only triggered a weak proliferative effect in vitro, S. alterniflora EAF potently induced extracellular matrix mineralization (7-fold at 250 μg/mL). A strong osteogenic effect was also observed in vivo using zebrafish operculum assay (2.5-fold at 10 μg/mL in 9-dpf larvae). Results indicate that polyphenol rich EAF of S. alterniflora has both antioxidant and bone anabolic activities. As an invasive species, this marine plant may represent a sustainable source of molecules for therapeutic applications in bone disorders.

Antioxidant Supplementation Does Not Affect Bone Turnover Markers During 60 Days of 6° Head-Down Tilt Bed Rest: Results from an Exploratory Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Immobilization and related oxidative stress are associated with bone loss. Antioxidants like polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and micronutrients may mitigate these negative effects on bone metabolism through scavenging of free radicals.

OBJECTIVES

We hypothesized that antioxidant supplementation during 60 days of 6° head-down tilt bed rest (HDBR) would reduce bone resorption and increase bone formation compared to nonsupplemented controls.

METHODS

This exploratory randomized, controlled, single-blind intervention study conducted in a parallel design included 20 healthy male volunteers (age, 34 ± 8 years; weight, 74 ± 6 kg). The study consisted of a 14-day adaptation phase [baseline data collection (BDC)], followed by 60 days of HDBR and a 14-day recovery period (R). In the antioxidant group, volunteers received an antioxidant cocktail (741 mg/d polyphenols, 2.1 g/d omega-3 fatty acids, 168 mg/d vitamin E, and 80 μg/d selenium) with their daily meals. In the control group, volunteers received no supplement. Based on their body weight, all volunteers received an individually tailored and strictly controlled diet, consistent with DRIs. We analyzed biomarkers of calcium homeostasis, bone formation, and bone resorption during BDC, HDBR, and R, as well as for 30 days after the end of HDBR. Data were analyzed by linear mixed models.

RESULTS

The antioxidant supplement did not affect serum calcium, parathyroid hormone, urinary C-telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX), urinary N-telopeptide of type I collagen, serum β-C-telopeptide of type I collagen (β-CTX), bone alkaline phosphatase, aminoterminal propeptide of type I collagen, osteocalcin, or urinary calcium excretion. In both groups, typical bed rest-related changes were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Supplementation of an antioxidant cocktail to a diet matching the DRIs did not affect bone resorption or formation during 60 days of HDBR in healthy young men. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT03594799.

Cyanidin-3-glucoside Regulates Osteoblast Differentiation via the ERK1/2 Signaling Pathway

Osteoporosis, characterized by a gradual decrease in the number of osteoblasts and a gradual increase in bone resorption of osteoclasts in bone tissue, is a global chronic disease, which severely impairs the quality of life of the elderly. Therefore, it is extremely urgent to study the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. It has been reported that anthocyanins can regulate bone metabolism and prevent osteoporosis. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), the most common type of anthocyanin in nature, widely exists in a variety of vegetables and fruits. Although it has been shown that C3G has multiple effects on osteoclasts, its impact(s) and underlying mechanism(s) on osteoblasts are still not clear. Here, we evaluated the effect of C3G on cell proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts (extracted from the hip joint of patients with osteoporosis) and MC3T3-E1 (a kind of osteoblast cell line from mice). We also test the ability of osteoblasts to mineralize after C3G treatment. To find the underlying mechanism of the above effects, we further evaluated the role of the ERK signaling pathway in C3G regulation of osteoblasts. The results showed that C3G treatment enhanced osteoblast proliferation rate, osteoblast mineralization points, the mRNA levels and protein expression levels of OC (osteocalcin), and the level of ERK phosphorylation, which could be blocked by pretreatment with ERK signaling pathway inhibitor. The above results not only indicate that the ERK pathway was involved in C3G regulation of osteoblast differentiation but also provide strong suggestive evidence that osteoblasts may be promising targets in preventive and therapeutic strategies for osteoporosis.

Cornelian Cherry Pulp Has Beneficial Impact on Dyslipidemia and Reduced Bone Quality in Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats

Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) is a medicinal plant with a range of biological features. It is often used as a nutritional supplement in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Our study was aimed to first investigate the effects of Cornelian cherry pulp on bone quality parameters in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. Moreover, lipid-lowering properties of this fruit were also evaluated. Adult rats (n = 28) were assigned into four groups of seven individuals each: L group (non-diabetic lean rats), C group (diabetic obese rats), and E1 and E2 groups (diabetic obese rats receiving 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight of Cornelian cherry pulp, respectively, for 10 weeks). Significantly lower levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol and alkaline phosphatase activity were determined in the E2 group versus the C group. A higher dose of Cornus mas also had a beneficial impact on femoral weight, cortical bone thickness, relative volume of trabecular bone and trabecular thickness. We observed elevated density of Haversian systems and accelerated periosteal bone apposition in both treated groups (E1 and E2). Our results clearly demonstrate that Cornelian cherry pulp has a favorable effect on lipid disorder and impaired bone quality consistent with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a suitable animal model.

Linarin and its aglycone acacetin abrogate actin ring formation and focal contact to bone matrix of bone-resorbing osteoclasts through inhibition of αvβ3 integrin and core-linked CD44

BACKGROUND

Since enhanced bone resorption due to osteoclast differentiation and activation cause skeletal diseases, there is a growing need in therapeutics for combating bone-resorbing osteoclasts. Botanical antioxidants are being increasingly investigated for their health-promoting effects on bone. Edible Cirsium setidens contains various polyphenols of linarin, pectolinarin, and apigenin with antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine whether linarin present in Cirsium setidens water extracts (CSE) and its aglycone acacetin inhibited osteoclastogenesis of RANKL-exposed RAW 264.7 murine macrophages for 5 days.

METHODS

This study assessed the osteoprotective effects of CSE, linarin and acacetin on RANKL-induced differentiation and activation of osteoclasts by using MTT assay, TRAP staining, Western blot analysis, bone resorption assay actin ring staining, adhesion assay and immunocytochemical assay. This study explored the underlying mechanisms of their osteoprotection, and identified major components present in CSE by HPLC analysis.

RESULTS

Linarin and pectolinarin were identified as major components of CSE. Nontoxic linarin and acacetin as well as CSE, but not pectolinarin attenuated the RANKL-induced macrophage differentiation into multinucleated osteoclasts, and curtailed osteoclastic bone resorption through reducing lacunar acidification and bone matrix degradation in the osteoclast-bone interface. Linarin and acacetin in CSE reduced the transmigration and focal contact of osteoclasts to bone matrix-mimicking RGD peptide. Such reduction was accomplished by inhibiting the induction of integrins, integrin-associated proteins of paxillin and gelsolin, cdc42 and CD44 involved in the formation of actin rings. The inhibition of integrin-mediated actin ring formation by linarin and acacetin entailed the disruption of TRAF6-c-Src-PI3K signaling of bone-resorbing osteoclasts. The functional inhibition of c-Src was involved in the loss of F-actin-enriched podosome core protein cortactin-mediated actin assembly due to linarin and acacetin.

CONCLUSION

These observations demonstrate that CSE, linarin and acacetin were effective in retarding osteoclast function of focal adhesion to bone matrix and active bone resorption via inhibition of diffuse cloud-associated αvβ3 integrin and core-linked CD44.

Aesculetin Inhibits Osteoclastic Bone Resorption through Blocking Ruffled Border Formation and Lysosomal Trafficking

For the optimal resorption of mineralized bone matrix, osteoclasts require the generation of the ruffled border and acidic resorption lacuna through lysosomal trafficking and exocytosis. Coumarin-type aesculetin is a naturally occurring compound with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. However, the direct effects of aesculetin on osteoclastogenesis remain to be elucidated. This study found that aesculetin inhibited osteoclast activation and bone resorption through blocking formation and exocytosis of lysosomes. Raw 264.7 cells were differentiated in the presence of 50 ng/mL receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and treated with 1–10 μM aesculetin. Differentiation, bone resorption, and lysosome biogenesis of osteoclasts were determined by tartrate-resistance acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, bone resorption assay, Western blotting, immunocytochemical analysis, and LysoTracker staining. Aesculetin inhibited RANKL-induced formation of multinucleated osteoclasts with a reduction of TRAP activity. Micromolar aesculetin deterred the actin ring formation through inhibition of induction of αvβ3 integrin and Cdc42 but not cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44) in RANKL-exposed osteoclasts. Administering aesculetin to RANKL-exposed osteoclasts attenuated the induction of autophagy-related proteins, microtubule-associated protein light chain 3, and small GTPase Rab7, hampering the lysosomal trafficking onto ruffled border crucial for bone resorption. In addition, aesculetin curtailed cellular induction of Pleckstrin homology domain-containing protein family member 1 and lissencephaly-1 involved in lysosome positioning to microtubules involved in the lysosomal transport within mature osteoclasts. These results demonstrate that aesculetin retarded osteoclast differentiation and impaired lysosomal trafficking and exocytosis for the formation of the putative ruffled border. Therefore, aesculetin may be a potential osteoprotective agent targeting RANKL-induced osteoclastic born resorption for medicinal use.

Effects of oleuropein on tumor cell growth and bone remodelling: Potential clinical implications for the prevention and treatment of malignant bone diseases

Oleuropein (Ole) is the main bioactive phenolic compound present in olive leaves, fruits and olive oil. This molecule has been shown to exert beneficial effects on several human pathological conditions. In particular, recent preclinical and observational studies have provided evidence that Ole exhibits chemo-preventive effects on different types of human tumors. Studies undertaken to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying these effects have shown that this molecule may thwart several key steps of malignant progression, including tumor cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis, by modulating the expression and activity of several growth factors, cytokines, adhesion molecules and enzymes involved in these processes. Interestingly, experimental observations have highlighted the fact that most of these signalling molecules also appear to be actively involved in the homing and growth of disseminating cancer cells in bones and, ultimately, in the development of metastatic bone diseases. These findings, and the experimental and clinical data reporting the preventive activity of Ole on various pathological conditions associated with a bone loss, are indicative of a potential therapeutic role of this molecule in the prevention and treatment of cancer-related bone diseases. This paper provides a current overview regarding the molecular mechanisms and the experimental findings underpinning a possible clinical role of Ole in the prevention and development of cancer-related bone diseases.

Anthocyanins and Human Health-A Focus on Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Disease

Consumption of anthocyanins (ACNs), due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects, has been proposed for the prevention and treatment of several different diseases and conditions. ACNs are recognized as one of the leading nutraceuticals for prolonging health benefits through the attenuation of oxidative stress, and inflammatory or age-related diseases. Increased consumption of ACNs has the potential to attenuate the damage ensuing from oxidative stress, inflammation, enhance cardiometabolic health, and delay symptoms in predisposed neuropathology. A myriad of evidence supports ACN consumption as complementary or standalone treatment strategies for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), neurodegenerative diseases, as well as, more recently, for the modulation of gut bacteria and bone metabolism. While these findings indicate the beneficial effects of ACN consumption, their food sources differ vastly in ACN composition and thus potentially in their physiological effects. Consumption of foods high in ACNs can be recommended for their potential beneficial health effects due to their relatively easy and accessible addition to the everyday diet.

Biovalorization of soybean residue (okara) via fermentation with Ganoderma lucidum and Lentinus edodes to attain products with high anti-osteoporotic effects

Okara, despite being a soybean processing by-product, still holds many nutrients. Thus, considerable attention has been recently paid to its reuse. In this study, solid-state fermentation was performed using Ganoderma lucidum and Lentinus edodes. Antioxidant activity and bioactive compound levels in G. lucidum-fermented okara (GLFO) and L. edodes-fermented okara (LEFO) were assayed. Antiosteoporosis bioactivity was evaluated using an animal model. The results demonstrated that solid-state fermentation significantly improved the antioxidant activity and bioactive compound levels. Furthermore, GLFO and LEFO increased trabecular bone volume, although only the GLFO-treated group exhibited significantly improved trabecular separation compared with the bilateral ovariectomy-treated control group. GLFO-related outcomes were superior to those of LEFO. The results demonstrate that okara products are effective for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis in humans.

Oolong tea drinking boosts calcaneus bone mineral density in postmenopausal women: a population-based study in southern China

INTRODUCTION

Observational studies have shown that tea consumption has a potentially beneficial effect on bone health. However, few studies have assessed the effects of types of tea consumed on bone health. We aimed to investigate whether drinking oolong tea is associated with increased calcaneus bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

From an epidemiological survey in Shantou, 476 postmenopausal women aged 40 to 88 years were enrolled in the study. All women were questioned about their demographic features, lifestyle, health status, types of tea consumed, habit of tea consumption, and habitual dietary intake by use of a structured questionnaire. Estimated areal BMD was measured by calcaneal quantitative ultrasound (QUS).

RESULTS

As compared with non-tea drinkers, oolong tea drinkers had higher calcaneus BMD (β 34.70 [95% CI 10.38, 59.03]). In addition, calcaneus BMD was significantly increased for those drinking 1-5 cups/day (β 27.43 [95% CI 3.70, 51.16]) but not > 5 cups/day. We observed no linear increase in calcaneus BMD with increasing years of tea consumption and local polynomial regression fitting showed a parabola-shaped association between years of tea consumption and calcaneus BMD. However, symptoms of osteoporosis did not differ by types of tea consumed.

CONCLUSION

Long-term moderate oolong tea consumption may have beneficial effects on bone health in postmenopausal women in Shantou of southern China.

Microencapsulation by spray-drying of polyphenols extracted from red chicory and red cabbage: Effects on stability and color properties

The research of antioxidants and natural pigments to replace synthetic molecules is increasingly considering wastes from plant food supply chains. Red chicory (RCH) and red cabbage (RCA) are rich sources of polyphenols (PP), especially anthocyanins, well know natural pigments possessing strong antioxidant capacity and beneficial health effects. The aim of this work was to compare different solvents for PP extraction and to evaluate the effect of spray-drying encapsulation using modified starch on PP, antioxidant capacity (AOC) and color properties. Methanol:water (70:30) showed the best extraction capacity, while ethanol:water (70:30) extracts displayed the highest thermal stability. Ethanol:water extracts were spray-dried with a yield of 95-99% for both crops, while the efficiency of PP encapsulation was 79% (RCA) and 88% (RCH). Encapsulation improved retention of PP and AOC upon thermal treatment (RCH: 20-30%, RCA: 44-55%) without altering color properties. This process can be employed for the development of functional foods and supplements.

Effect of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Traditional Brazilian Diet on the Bone Health Parameters of Severely Obese Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Dietary interventions can stabilize and/or reverse bone mass loss. However, there are no reports on its effects on bone mineral density (BMD) in severely obese people, despite the vulnerability of this group to bone loss. We examine the effect of extra virgin olive oil supplementation and the traditional Brazilian diet (DieTBra) on BMD and levels of calcium, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) in severely obese adults. A randomized controlled trial followed-up with severely obese adults (n = 111, with mean body mass index 43.6 kg/m2 ± 4.5 kg/m2) for 12 weeks. Study participants received either olive oil (52 mL/day), DieTBra, or olive oil + DieTBra (52 mL/day + DieTBra). BMD was assessed by total spine and hip dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. After interventions, BMD means for total spine (p = 0.016) and total hip (p = 0.029) were higher in the DieTBra group than in the olive oil + DieTBra group. Final mean calcium levels were higher in the olive oil group compared to the olive oil + DieTBra group (p = 0.026). Findings suggest that DieTBra and extra virgin olive oil have positive effects on bone health in severely obese adults. The major study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02463435).

Surface engineering of titanium alloy using metal-polyphenol network coating with magnesium ions for improved osseointegration

Although titanium-based implants are widely used in orthopedic and dental clinics, improved osseointegration at the bone–implant interface is still required.

Effect of Tart Cherry Polyphenols on Osteoclast Differentiation and Activity

Bone is maintained by an intricate balance between bone formation and bone resorption. The presence of inflammation can contribute to an imbalance in bone homeostasis by enhancing differentiation and activity of osteoclasts, the cells that participate in the breakdown of bone. Polyphenols such as flavonoids found in plant-derived foods have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in various tissues. Tart cherries are a rich source of such polyphenolic compounds. Using mouse macrophage cells (RAW 264.7), we examined whether tart cherry polyphenols could dose dependently inhibit the proliferation and activity of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) differentiated osteoclasts under inflammatory conditions. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and staining of TRAP-positive multinucleated cells, used as indicators of osteoclast differentiation and activity, tended to decrease with tart cherry polyphenols treatment. Osteoprotegerin expression by osteoclasts was decreased in a similar manner. A significant increase in nitrite concentration was observed with the lower doses of tart cherry polyphenols of 50 and 100 μg/mL (P < .05). However, higher doses of tart cherry polyphenols (200 and 300 μg/mL) reduced nitrite concentrations below that of the control that received no tart cherry polyphenols treatment (P < .05). Western blot analyses showed that protein expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) followed a similar trend, although results were not statistically significant. On the other hand, tart cherry polyphenols treatments dose dependently increased inducible nitric oxide synthase protein expression, with statistical significance noted at doses of 200 and 300 μg/mL. Overall, our findings suggest that the polyphenols associated with tart cherries potentially inhibit osteoclast differentiation and activity, which may be beneficial to bone health.

Protective effects of honey by bees (Apis dorsata) on decreased cortical thickness and bone impact strength of ovariohysterectomized rats as models for menopause

AIM

This study aimed to determine the potential of honey as anti-osteoporosis by evaluating its effectiveness in increasing bone impact strength and cortical thickness, through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-five female rats at 3 months of age, weighing 150-200 g were used in the study. They were placed in individual cages and adapted to food and environment for 10 days. On the 11th day, after the animals were adapted for 10 days, the animals were randomly divided into five treatment groups (n=9): Sham operation group (SH); ovariohysterectomized (OVX) group with no treatment; OVX with treatment Apis dorsata 1 g/kg BW (AD-1); OVX with treatment A. dorsata 2 g/kg BW (AD-2); and OVX with treatment A. dorsata 4 g/kg BW (AD-3). Furthermore, those nine rats in each treatment group were divided into three groups. Three of them were observed at months 1st, 2nd, and 3rd so that in each observation taken three rats in each treatment group. At the end of the study, the rats were euthanized and necropsy for taking their second femoral bone, i.e. dexter region for examining their bone impact strength, while the sinister region was used for measure the cortical thickness of the femoral diaphysis and examining their bone microarchitecture using SEM analysis.

RESULTS

Based on results of the ANOVA test, the cortical thickness measurements of femoral diaphyseal can be seen that from month 1 to month 3 the lowest result was found in the group of rats that were OVX-I. Meanwhile, the highest result was found in the group of rats that were not OVX (SH-III). It was significantly different from the other treatment groups (p<0.05). The groups of rats were OVX with honey supplementation at doses of 2 g/kg BW had shown an increasing pattern in the cortical bone thickness from month 1 to month 3. Even on the observation of the 3rd month, the cortical bone thickness in the AD-2 (AD-2-III) group was not significantly different (p>0.05) from that in the group of rats was not OVX in month 1 (SH-I). The results of the bone impact strength measurement from month 1 to month 3 indicated that the groups of rats were OVX without the administration of honey supplements had the lowest value. The highest bone impact strength was found in the group of rats that was not OVX, but not significantly different (p>0.05) with the groups of rats that were OVX administered honey supplement with a dose of 2 g/kg BW (AD-2) and 4 g/kg BW (AD-3).

CONCLUSION

The supplement of honey A. dorsata at doses of 2 g/kg BW in the group of rats was that OVX can inhibit the decreasing of the cortical bone thickness and repair damage in microarchitecture to generate bone impact strength. As a result, bones are not easily broken.

Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274 with glycosidic activity enhances in vivo isoflavone bioavailability

Polyphenols are plant derived compounds that exert many beneficial health effects to the human host. However, associated health benefits of dietary polyphenol are highly dependent on their intestinal metabolism, bioavailability, and absorption. Bifidobacteria, which represent the key members of gut microbiota, have been suggested to promote gut microbial homeostasis and may be involved in the metabolism of polyphenols. In this study, the capabilities of thirteen Bifidobacterium strains in hydrolysing polyphenol glycosides were evaluated. Among the tested strains, Bifidobacterium breve MCC1274 was found to possess the highest β-glucosidase activity and strong capability to convert daidzin and trans-polydatin to their aglycones; while kinetic analysis revealed that B. breve MCC1274 hydrolysed more than 50% of daidzin and trans-polydatin at less than 3 h of incubation. Further investigation using rats with an antibiotics-disturbed microbiome revealed that following the ingestion of daidzin glycoside, oral administration of B. breve MCC1274 significantly enhanced the plasma concentration of daidzein in rats pre-treated with antibiotics as compared to antibiotics-pre-treated control and non-treated control groups. The relative abundance of Actinobacteria and the total numbers of B. breve were also significantly higher in antibiotics-pre-treated rats administered with B. breve MCC1274 than that of the control groups. These findings suggest that B. breve MCC1274 is effective in enhancing the bioavailability of daidzein in the gut under dysbiosis conditions and may potentially improve intestinal absorption of isoflavones and promote human health.

Grafting of Gallic Acid onto a Bioactive Ti6Al4V Alloy: A Physico-Chemical Characterization

Despite increasing interest in the use of natural biomolecules for different applications, few attempts of coupling them to inorganic biomaterials are reported in literature. Functionalization of metal implants with natural biomolecules could allow a local action, overcoming the issue of low bioavailability through systemic administration. In the present work, gallic acid was grafted to a pre-treated Ti6Al4V in order to improve its biological response in bone contact applications. The grafting procedure was optimized by choosing the concentration of gallic acid (1 mg/mL) and the solvent of the solution, which was used as a source for functionalization, in order to maximize the amount of the grafted molecule on the titanium substrate. The functionalized surfaces were characterized. The results showed that functionalization with Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) as solvent medium was the most effective in terms of the amount and activity of the grafted biomolecule. A key role of calcium ions in the grafting mechanism is suggested, involving the formation of coordination compounds formed by way of gallic acid carboxylate and Ti–O− as oxygenated donor groups. Bioactive behavior and surface charge of the pre-treated Ti6Al4V surface were conserved after functionalization. The functionalized surface exposed a greater amount of OH groups and showed higher wettability.

A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Randomized Trial Evaluating the Effect of Polyphenol-Rich Herbal Congee on Bone Turnover Markers of the Perimenopausal and Menopausal Women

Based on the benefit of polyphenolic compounds on osteoporosis, we hypothesized that the polyphenol-rich herbal congee containing the combined extract of Morus alba and Polygonum odoratum leaves should improve bone turnover markers in menopausal women. To test this hypothesis, a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study was performed. A total of 45 menopausal participants were recruited in this study. They were randomly divided into placebo, D1, and D2 groups, respectively. The subjects in D1 and D2 groups must consume the congee containing the combined extract of M. alba and P. odoratum leaves at doses of 50 and 1500 mg/day, respectively. At the end of an 8-week consumption period, all subjects were determined serum bone markers including calcium, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and beta CTX. In addition, the hematological and blood clinical chemistry changes, and total phenolic content in the serum were also determined. The results showed that the menopausal women in D2 group increased serum alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and total phenolic compounds content but decreased CTX level. Clinical safety assessment failed to show toxicity and adverse effects. Therefore, herbal congee containing the combined extract of M. alba and P. odoratum leaves is the potential functional food that can decrease the risk of osteoporosis.

Ficus deltoidea Prevented Bone Loss in Preclinical Osteoporosis/Osteoarthritis Model by Suppressing Inflammation

Osteoporosis (OP) and osteoarthritis (OA) are debilitating musculoskeletal diseases of the elderly. Ficus deltoidea (FD) or mistletoe fig, a medicinal plant, was pre-clinically evaluated against OP- and OA-related bone alterations, in postmenopausal OA rat model. Thirty twelfth-week-old female rats were divided into groups (n = 6). Four groups were bilateral ovariectomized (OVX) and OA-induced by intra-articular monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) injection into the right knee joints. The Sham control and OVX-OA non-treated groups were given deionized water. The three other OVX-OA groups were orally administered daily with FD extract (200, 400 mg/kg) or diclofenac (5 mg/kg) for 4 weeks. The rats' bones and blood were evaluated for protein and mRNA expressions of osteoporosis and inflammatory indicators, and micro-CT computed tomography for bone microstructure. The non-treated OVX-OA rats developed severe OP bone loss and bone microstructural damage in the subchondral and metaphyseal regions, supported by reduced serum bone formation markers (osteocalcin, osteoprotegerin) and increased bone resorption markers (RANKL and CTX-I). The FD extract significantly (p < 0.05) mitigated these bone microstructural and biomarker changes by dose-dependently down-regulating pro-inflammatory NF-κβ, TNF-α, and IL-6 mRNA expressions. The FD extract demonstrated good anti-osteoporotic properties in this OP/OA preclinical model by stimulating bone formation and suppressing bone resorption via anti-inflammatory pathways. This is among the few reports relating the subchondral bone plate and trabecular thickening with the metaphyseal trabecular osteopenic bone loss under osteoporotic-osteoarthritis conditions, providing some insights on the debated inverse relationship between osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.

Syringic acid, a phenolic acid, promotes osteoblast differentiation by stimulation of Runx2 expression and targeting of Smad7 by miR-21 in mouse mesenchymal stem cells

Syringic acid (SA), a phenolic acid, has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine for treating diabetes but its role in osteogenesis has not yet been investigated. In the present study, at the molecular and cellular levels, we evaluated the effects of SA on osteoblast differentiation. At the cellular level, there was increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium deposition by SA treatment in mouse mesenchymal stem cells (mMSCs). At the molecular level, SA treatment of these cells stimulated expression of Runx2, a bone transcription factor, and of osteoblast differentiation marker genes such as ALP, type I collagen, and osteocalcin. It is known that Smad7 is an antagonist of TGF-β/Smad signaling and is a negative regulator of Runx2. microRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in the regulation of osteogenesis genes at the post-transcriptional level and studies have reported that Smad7 is one of the target genes of miR-21. We found that there was down regulation of Smad7 and up regulation of miR-21 in SA-treated mMSCs. We further identified that the 3'-untranslated region (UTR) of Smad7 was directly targeted by miR-21 in these cells. Thus, our results suggested that SA promotes osteoblast differentiation via increased expression of Runx2 by miR-21-mediated down regulation of Smad7. Hence, SA may have potential in orthopedic applications.

Fructan-Enriched Diet Increases Bone Quality in Female Growing Rats at Calcium Deficiency

This study was designed to determine the effect of feeding female rats with low-calcium diet containing one of three fructan sources (Jerusalem artichoke, yacon, Beneo Orafti Synergy1), on selected bone parameters. Growing Wistar rats were fed modified AIN-93 G diet enriched in fructan sources (8%), added alone or as a strawberry sorbet ingredient. Two of eight groups were a validation model, where the positive control group was fed with recommended calcium dose in the diet (RCD), and negative one - with low calcium diet (LCD). After 12 weeks, femoral Ca content, bone densitometry, architecture and hardness were examined. The positive effects on femoral Ca content and cortical thickness, area and content in distal part of bone was observed after feeding animals diet enriched in Jerusalem artichoke sorbet. Beneficial action on other bone tomographic parameters (particularly trabecular volumetric bone mineral density) in this part of femur were associated mainly with the consumption of the diet with sorbet containing yacon. Our results showed an important role of diet containing frozen strawberry desserts enriched in fructan sources in the maintenance of healthy bones of growing organism. It may suggest possible synergisms between fructans and bioactive substances of strawberry.

Effect of olive oil phenolic compounds on osteoblast differentiation

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by compromised bone strength that predisposes individuals to an increased risk of fracture. Previous in vivo and in vitro studies have reported that phenolic compounds present in extra virgin olive oil have a beneficial effect on osteoblasts in terms of increase cell proliferation. The aim of this study was to determine whether phenolic compounds present in olive oil could modify the expression of cell differentiation markers on osteoblasts.

STUDY DESIGN

An in vitro experimental design was performed using MG-63 osteoblasts cell line.

METHODS

MG63 cells were exposed to different doses of luteolin, apigenin, or p-coumaric, caffeic or ferulic acid. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was evaluated by spectrophotometry and antigen expression (cluster of differentiation [CD] 54, CD80, CD86 and HLA-DR) by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

At 24 hour, treated groups showed an increased ALP and modulated antigen profile, with respect to the nontreated group.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that the phenolic compounds studied induce cell maturation in vitro, increasing ALP synthesis and reducing the expression of antigens involved in immune functions of the osteoblast which would improve bone density.

Effect of anthocyanin-rich bilberry extract on bone metabolism in ovariectomized rats

Menopause is associated with increased oxidative stress, which serves a role, in part, in the pathogenesis of postmenopausal bone loss. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidative nutrients and phytochemicals. Berries are a natural source of anthocyanins, and their intake may improve bone health. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of an anthocyanin-rich bilberry extract (VME) on bone metabolism in an ovariectomized (Ovx) rat. Female Sprague-Dawley rats (12 weeks old) were randomly divided into the following four groups: Baseline, Sham, Ovx and Ovx+VME (n=8-12 rats per group). Rats in the Baseline group were sacrificed immediately, while those in the other groups were subjected to either sham operation (Sham) or bilateral Ovx (Ovx and Ovx+VME). Rats in the Ovx+VME group were administered VME daily at a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight. At 8 weeks after surgery, bone mass and bone histomorphometry were evaluated. The femur bone mineral density (BMD) in the Ovx group was significantly lower than that in the Sham group (P<0.01). Supplementation of VME in the Ovx rats did not result in an increase in BMD. Histomorphometric analyses revealed that Ovx resulted in decreased measures of bone volume and trabecular number and increased measures of osteoid volume, mineralizing surface and bone formation rates (all P<0.01), whereas VME had no significant effects on these parameters. The present findings indicate that VME did not alter bone metabolism in Ovx rats, suggesting that consumption of VME may not be helpful in preventing postmenopausal bone loss.