Anti-osteoporosis activity of Cibotium barometz extract on ovariectomy-induced bone loss in rats

The traditional utilization, biological activity and chemical composition of edible fern species

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ferns form an important part of the human diet. Young fern fiddleheads are mostly consumed as vegetables, while the rhizomes are often extracted for starch. These edible ferns are also often employed in traditional medicine, where all parts of the plant are used, mostly to prepare extracts. These extracts are applied either externally as lotions and baths or internally as potions, decoctions and teas. Ailments traditionally treated with ferns include coughs, colds, fevers, pain, burns and wounds, asthma, rheumatism, diarrhoea, or skin diseases (eczema, rashes, itching, leprosy).

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to compile the worldwide knowledge on the traditional medicinal uses of edible fern species correlating to reported biological activities and isolated bioactive compounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The articles and books published on edible fern species were searched through the online databases Web of Science, Pubmed and Google Scholar, with critical evaluation of the hits. The time period up to the end of 2022 was included.

RESULTS

First, the edible fern species were identified based on the literature data. A total of 90 fern species were identified that are eaten around the world and are also used in traditional medicine. Ailments treated are often associated with inflammation or bacterial infection. However, only the most common and well-known fern species, were investigated for their biological activity. The most studied species are Blechnum orientale L., Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm., Diplazium esculentum (Retz.) Sw., Marsilea minuta L., Osmunda japonica Thunb., Polypodium vulgare L., and Stenochlaena palustris (Burm.) Bedd. Most of the fern extracts have been studied for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. Not surprisingly, antioxidant capacity has been the most studied, with results reported for 28 edible fern species. Ferns have been found to be very rich sources of flavonoids, polyphenols, polyunsaturated fatty acids, carotenoids, terpenoids and steroids and most of these compounds are remarkable free radical scavengers responsible for the outstanding antioxidant capacity of fern extracts. As far as clinical trials are concerned, extracts from only three edible fern species have been evaluated.

CONCLUSIONS

The extracts of edible fern species exert antioxidant anti-inflammatory and related biological activities, which is consistent with their traditional medicinal use in the treatment of wounds, burns, colds, coughs, skin diseases and intestinal diseases. However, studies to prove pharmacological activities are scarce, and require chemical-biological standardization. Furthermore, correct botanical classification needs to be included in publications to simplify data acquisition. Finally, more in-depth phytochemical studies, allowing the linking of traditional use to pharmacological relevance are needed to be done in a standardized way.

The Role of Herbal Medicine in Modulating Bone Homeostasis

Osteoporosis and other bone diseases are a major public health concern worldwide. Current pharmaceutical treatments for bone disorders have limitations, driving interest in complementary herbal medicines that can help maintain bone health. This review summarizes the scientific evidence for medicinal herbs that modulate bone cell activity and improve bone mass, quality and strength. Herbs with osteogenic, anti-osteoporotic, and anti-osteoclastic effects are discussed, including compounds and mechanisms of action. Additionally, this review examines the challenges and future directions for translational research on herbal medicines for osteoporosis and bone health. While preliminary research indicates beneficial bone bioactivities for various herbs, rigorous clinical trials are still needed to verify therapeutic efficacy and safety. Further studies should also elucidate synergistic combinations, bioavailability of active phytochemicals, and precision approaches to match optimal herbs with specific etiologies of bone disease. Advancing evidence- based herbal medicines may provide novel alternatives for promoting bone homeostasis and treating skeletal disorders.

Phylogenomic analysis, cryptic species discovery, and DNA barcoding of the genus Cibotium in China based on plastome data

Germplasm resources are the source of herbal medicine production. The cultivation of superior germplasm resources helps to resolve the conflict between long-term population persistence and growing market demand by consistently producing materials with high quality. The fern species Cibotium barometz is the original plant of cibotii rhizoma ("Gouji"), a traditional Chinese medicine used in the therapy of pain, weakness, and numbness in the lower extremities. Long-history medicinal use has caused serious wild population decline in China. Without sufficient understanding of the species and lineage diversity of Cibotium, it is difficult to propose a targeted conservation scheme at present, let alone select high-quality germplasm resources. In order to fill such a knowledge gap, this study sampled C. barometz and relative species throughout their distribution in China, performed genome skimming to obtain plastome data, and conducted phylogenomic analyses. We constructed a well-supported plastome phylogeny of Chinese Cibotium, which showed that three species with significant genetic differences are distributed in China, namely C. barometz, C. cumingii, and C. sino-burmaense sp. nov., a cryptic species endemic to NW Yunnan and adjacent regions of NE Myanmar. Moreover, our results revealed two differentiated lineages of C. barometz distributed on the east and west sides of a classic phylogeographic boundary that was probably shaped by monsoons and landforms. We also evaluated the resolution of nine traditional barcode loci and designed five new DNA barcodes based on the plastome sequence that can distinguish all these species and lineages of Chinese Cibotium accurately. These novel findings on a genetic basis will guide conservation planners and medicinal plant breeders to build systematic conservation plans and exploit the germplasm resources of Cibotium in China.

Understanding the mechanistic potential of plant based phytochemicals in management of postmenopausal osteoporosis

Postmenopausal osteoporosis, an epidemic disorder is defined as a loss in bone mineral density and a greater possibility of fractures in older women. It is a multifactorial disease under the control of various genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Insufficiency of estrogen hormone, leads to postmenopausal osteoporosis. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), despite being the most effective treatment, it is associated with the risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disorders. This review seeks to compile the most recent information on medicinal plants and natural compounds used to treat and prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis. Furthermore, the origin, chemical constituents and the molecular mechanisms responsible for this therapeutic and preventive effect are also discussed. Literature research was conducted using PubMed, Science direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Different plant extracts and pure compounds exerts their antiosteoporotic activity by inhibition of RANKL and upregulation of OPG. RANKL signaling regulates osteoclast formation, characterized by increased bone turnover and osteoprotegrin is a decoy receptor for RANKL thereby preventing bone loss from excessive resorption. In addition, this review also includes the chemical structure of bioactive compounds acting on NFκB, TNF α, RUNX2. In conclusion, we propose that postmenopausal osteoporosis could be prevented or treated with herbal products.

Identification and Characterization of Peptides from Bovine Collagen Hydrolysates that Promote Myogenic Cell Proliferation

In this study, bovine collagen hydrolysate was purified via a series of chromatograms, and the peptides with the highest activity for promoting myoblast proliferation were identified by LC-MS-MS. It was demonstrated that the peptide GDAGPPGPAGPAGPPGPIG (hydroxylation) could promote C2C12 proliferation (+18.5% ± 0.04, P < 0.05). The certain peptide was capable of regulating the myogenic cell cycle and inhibiting myogenic cell apoptosis. By combining molecular docking, quantitative real-time PCR, and metabonomics, we suggested that the peptide GDAGPPGPAGPAGPPGPIG (hydroxylation) might bind to FGFR1 and affect the expression of genes downstream of FGFR1 and influence protein synthesis to promote myoblast proliferation. The above results showed that the peptides isolated in this study have the potential to alleviate sarcopenia in the elderly.

UPLC/Q-TOF-MS-based Metabolomics Study of the Antiosteoporosis Effects of Vaccarin in Ovariectomized Mice

Osteoporosis is a systemic and metabolic bone disease that usually occurs in postmenopausal women, which mainly manifests as bone loss and increased bone fragility that both facilitate fracture. However, few drugs for osteoporosis have shown good efficacy and limited side effects. Vaccarin has demonstrated its antiosteoporosis effects by inhibiting the formation and osteolytic activities of osteoclasts in our previous investigation. In this study, multivariate statistical analysis and ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography and quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry were used to analyze the serum metabolites of ovariectomized mice treated with or without vaccarin. As a result, 9 serum metabolites were identified as biomarkers. The metabolic levels of 3 crucial biomarkers, namely, lysophosphatidylcholine [22 : 6, (4Z, 7Z, 10Z, 13Z, 16Z, 19Z)], 1-linoleoylglycerophosphocholine and 1-palmitoyl-Sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, that were correlated with glycerophospholipid metabolism increased and then decreased significantly after vaccarin treatment. Molecular docking analysis and osteoclasts differentiation experiment further revealed that vaccarin may bind with phospholipase A2 and downregulated its activity to reduce the osteoclastogenesis. Therefore, the occurrence of osteoporosis is closely related with glycerophospholipid metabolism disorders, and vaccarin exerts antiosteoporosis effects by reducing the levels of glycerophospholipid metabolites.

FAEE exerts a protective effect against osteoporosis by regulating the MAPK signalling pathway

CONTEXT

Ferulic acid ethyl ester (FAEE) is abundant in Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (Apiaceae) and grains, and possesses diverse biological activities; but the effects of FAEE on osteoporosis has not been reported.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated whether FAEE can attenuate osteoclastogenesis and relieve ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis via attenuating mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We stimulated RAW 264.7 cells with receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) followed by FAEE. The roles of FAEE in osteoclast production and osteogenic resorption of mature osteoclasts were evaluated by tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining, expression of osteoclast-specific genes, proteins and MAPK. Ovariectomized (OVX) female Sprague-Dawley rats were administered FAEE (20 mg/kg/day) for 12 weeks to explore its potential in vivo, and then histology was undertaken in combination with cytokines analyses.

RESULTS

FAEE suppressed RANKL-induced osteoclast formation (96 ± 0.88 vs. 15 ± 1.68) by suppressing the expression of osteoclast-specific genes, proteins and MAPK signalling pathway related proteins (p-ERK/ERK, p-JNK/JNK and p-P38/P38) in vitro. In addition, OVX rats exposed to FAEE maintained their normal calcium (Ca) (2.72 ± 0.02 vs. 2.63 ± 0.03, p < 0.05) balance, increased oestradiol levels (498.3 ± 9.43 vs. 398.7 ± 22.06, p < 0.05), simultaneously reduced levels of bone mineral density (BMD) (0.159 ± 0.0016 vs. 0.153 ± 0.0025, p < 0.05) and bone mineral content (BMC) (0.8 ± 0.0158 vs. 0.68 ± 0.0291, p < 0.01).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggested that FAEE could be used to ameliorate osteoporosis by the MAPK signalling pathway, suggesting that FAEE could be a potential therapeutic candidate for osteoporosis.

Network Pharmacology-Based Strategy to Investigate the Mechanisms of Cibotium barometz in Treating Osteoarthritis

Cibotium barometz is a representative tonifying kidney drug and is widely used for osteoarthritis (OA) in traditional Chinese medicine. However, its regulatory mechanisms in treating OA remain to be sufficiently investigated. The main chemical components of Cibotium barometz were screened through the TCMID database and the corresponding targets were acquired through SwissTargetPrediction. The OA-related targets were obtained from the OMIM, Genecards, Genebank, TTD, and DisGeNET databases. The prediction of key targets and pathways of Cibotium barometz in the treatment of OA was achieved by constructing a compounds-targets network and performing KEGG enrichment analysis. The OA model rats were established by the Hulth method and used to explore the protective effect of Cibotium barometz via cartilage pathological assessment. In vitro models of OA were built by the proinflammatory factor interleukin-1β (IL-1β) induced SW1353 cells and used to validate the mechanisms predicted by network pharmacology. Network pharmacology results suggested that the therapeutic effects of Cibotium barometz were closely related to matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, 3, 13 and inflammation-related gene COX2, which are regulated by the NFκB pathway. In vivo experiments revealed that Cibotium barometz could effectively restrain cartilage from degeneration and inhibit the mRNA expression of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, and COX2 in cartilage. In vitro experiments indicated that Cibotium barometz water extract (CBWE) could significantly inhibit the expression of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, and PGE₂ in IL-1β-induced SW1353 cells and markedly prevent the translocation of NFκB p65 from the cytoplasm to the nuclei and decrease its phosphorylation level. After small-interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to suppress the synthesis of NFκB p65 to block NFκB signaling pathway, the ability of CBWE to inhibit MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, and PGE₂ was greatly reduced. Cibotium barometz has a chondroprotective effect on OA by inhibiting the response to inflammation and substrate degradation, and the related mechanism is associated with the inhibition of the NFκB pathway.

Simultaneous Separation and Analysis of Five Compounds in Cibotium barometz by Micellar Electrokinetic Chromatography with Large-Volume Sample Stacking

A large volume sample stacking (LVSS) method in micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) with diode array detector was developed for the simultaneous separation and analysis of five compounds: protocatechuic acid, protocatechuic aldehyde, caffeic acid, syringetin and vanillin in Cibotium barometz. The electrophoretic separation was performed in a 10 mM sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and 50 mM sodium borax-sodium dihydrogen phosphate system (pH = 8.5) with 10% methanol at a separation voltage of 30 kV after optimizing the typical parameters. The detection limits were from 32 pg to 65 pg, which were around 12–27 times lower than MEKC, and 500 times less than reported methods. Finally, the established method was validated to be applicable for the determination of protocatechuic acid and caffeic acid in Cibotium barometz. This proposed method is expected to facilitate the quality control of Cibotium barometz.

Protective effect of rhaponticin on ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats

Rhaponticin is a constituent isolated from numerous medicinal herbs. It has been reported earlier that rhaponticin possesses numerous biological effects like antiallergic, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and antithrombosis. The goal of this exploration was to scrutinize the therapeutic potential of rhaponticin on ovariectomy (OVX)-triggered osteoporosis in rats. Female Sprague Dawley rats were arbitrarily allocated to a sham-operated control group I, group II, which underwent OVX, and groups III and IV that underwent OVX were administered with rhaponticin (10 and 20 mg/kg). Rhaponticin was supplemented orally after 4 weeks of OVX and continued for about 16 weeks. Our findings exhibit that rhaponticin prevented the BMD diminution of femurs, induced by OVX, and protected the worsening of trabecular microarchitecture that are assisted through a noteworthy decline in skeletal remodeling as noticed through the diminished status of bone markers in a dose-dependent manner (10 and 20 mg/kg). OVX rats treated with rhaponticin efficiently enhanced body weight, lipid profiles, uterine index, bone turnover markers, inflammatory markers, and augmented the incidence of calcium in the OVX rats. Rhaponticin was established to restrain the functions of acid phosphatase, estradiol, and bone gla protein in OVX rats. Also, rhaponticin displayed some beneficial effects on histomorphometric and histopathological examination. It was observed that tabular area and thickness were reinstated in sham control and rhaponticin-treated OVX rats. We recognized that rhaponticin did not induce a damaging outcome on the skeletal organization of OVX rats. Moreover, we denote that rhaponticin can be an exceptional agent for the treatment and deal with associated bone diseases.

Effect of resveratrol and mesenchymal stem cell monotherapy and combined treatment in management of osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats: Role of SIRT1/FOXO3a and Wnt/β-catenin pathways

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder that is common in postmenopausal women. It is characterized by deteriorated bone mass and microarchitecture. In this study, we aimed to explore the effects and molecular mechanisms of resveratrol and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) individual and combined treatment in management of osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. Our results demonstrated that treatment of ovariectomized rats with resveratrol or MSCs improved bone mass and microstructure as indicated by increased bone mineral content and density. Moreover, resveratrol and MSCs stimulated osteogenesis as shown by increased levels of osteogenic markers such as runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). In addition, resveratrol and MSCs inhibited adipogenesis and osteoclastogenesis as indicated by the suppression of the adipogenic marker, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and the osteoclastogenesis marker, receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). Mechanistically, our results showed that management of osteoporosis in resveratrol or MSC treated rats was achieved by activating two signaling pathways, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and wingless-related MMTV integration site (Wnt). Finally, the combination of resveratrol and MSCs was more effective in increasing bone mass and improving osteoporosis than individual treatments.

Metabolomics strategy reveals the osteogenic mechanism of yak (Bos grunniens) bone collagen peptides on ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats

Our previous work demonstrated that yak bone collagen peptides (YBP) possessed excellent osteogenic activity in vitro. However, associations between YBP and osteoporosis were less established, and the positive effect and underlying mechanism of YBP in the treatment of osteoporotic rats in vivo remained unclear. Herein, ovariectomized rats were intragastrically administered with YBP or 17β-estradiol for 12 weeks. Bone turnover markers, bone biomechanical parameters and bone microarchitecture were investigated to identify the specific changes of potential antagonistic effects of YBP on ovariectomized rats. Then, serum samples were analyzed by UPLC/Q-TOF-MS to identify metabolites. The results showed that YBP treatment remarkably altered the content of serum bone turnover markers and prevented the ovariectomy-induced deterioration of bone mechanical and microarchitecture characteristics. A total of forty-one biomarkers for which levels changed markedly upon treatment have been identified based on non-targeted metabolomics. Among them, twenty-one metabolites displayed a downward expression level, while twenty metabolites showed an upward expression level in the YBP group and finally were selected as potential biomarkers. The levels of these biomarkers displayed significant alterations and a tendency to be restored to normal values in YBP treated osteoporotic rats. A systematic network analysis of their corresponding pathways delineated that the protective or recovery effect of YBP on osteoporosis occurred primarily by regulating the amino acid metabolism and lipid metabolism (especially unsaturated fatty acid). Collectively, these findings highlight that such peptides hold promise in further advancement as a natural alternative for functional and health-promoting foods, which could be potentially used in mediated treatment of osteoporosis.

Beneficial effect of 2'-acetylacteoside on ovariectomized mice via modulating the function of bone resorption

2'-Acetylacteoside-(2'-AA), a bioactive constituent isolated from Cistanche deserticola, has been proven to possess a variety of important pharmacological effects, thus brought an increased amount of scientists' attention. As the extract of C. deserticola exhibited significant anti-osteoporotic bioactivity in our previous study, we proposed that 2'-AA maybe one of the responsibilities. As a result, 2'-AA (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg body weight/day) exhibited significant anti-osteoporotic effects on ovariectomized (OVX) mice after 12 weeks of oral administration, confirmed by the increased bone mineral density, enhanced bone strength and improved trabecular bone micro-architecture including bone mineral content, tissue mineral content, trabecular number, and trabecular separation of OVX mice. Moreover, the properties of bone resorption markers including cathepsin K, TRAP and deoxypyridinoline were significantly suppressed, whereas the activities of bone formation index like ALP and BGP as well as the weights of the body, uterus, and vagina were seemingly not influenced by 2'-AA intervention. Mechanistically, the above therapeutic effect of 2'-AA on bone resorption of OVX mice operated maybe mainly through RANKL/RANK/TRAF6-mediated NF-κB/NFATc1 pathway, which was confirmed by the down-regulated expressions of RANK, TRAF6, IκB kinase β, NF-κB and NFATc1. Summarily, 2'-AA exhibited significant anti-osteoporotic activity and may be regarded as a promising anti-osteoporotic candidate for future clinical trial.

Establishment of the concurrent experimental model of osteoporosis combined with Alzheimer's disease in rat and the dual-effects of echinacoside and acteoside from Cistanche tubulosa

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cistanche tubulosa is a precious traditional Chinese medicine that has been widely used in the treatment of osteoporosis and Alzheimer's disease. Echinacoside and acteoside are the main active constituents in Cistanche tubulosa that have the pharmacological activities with research value. It has been reported that echinacoside and acteoside could improve the learning and memory ability, promote the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblast.

AIM OF STUDY

Echinacoside and acteoside from Cistanche tubulosa have shown significant activities of anti-osteoporosis and anti-Alzheimer's disease, while these effects have not been studied concurrently in a rat model. The aim of this study was to establish and verify the model of osteoporosis combined with Alzheimer's disease in rat, and to investigate the double effects of echinacoside and acteoside on this concurrent model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three model groups of ovariectomy (OVX), sham surgery with D-galactose and AlCl₃ (D), ovariectomy with D-galactose and AlCl₃ (OVX + D) were set at the same time. The rats in drug treatment groups were ovariectomized. While conducting the intraperitoneal injection of D-galactose and intragastric administration of AlCl₃ in the rats of drug treatment groups, the rats were orally administered echinacoside (90 mg/kg/d), acteoside (90 mg/kg/d) and the positive control drugs of estradiol valerate (0.6 mg/kg/d), donepezil HCl (0.8 mg/kg/d), respectively. After the drug treatment of 8 weeks, Morris Water Maze (MWM) test for 6 days was firstly performed. The rats were then sacrificed to harvest the blood, uteri, femora, tibiae and brain tissues. The serum was used for biochemical tests. The uteri were used for histomorphometry. The right femora were used for Micro-CT and histomorphometry, respectively. The right tibiae were used for biomechanical test. The hippocampus collected on ice box was used for biochemical tests. The brain collected by perfusion was used for histomorphometry.

RESULTS

Compared with Sham group, OVX + D group could significantly reduce the learning and memory ability by causing oxidative damage, impairing neurons in hippocampus and affecting the hydrolysis and synthesis of acetylcholine. Meanwhile, the activities of BALP and TRAP in OVX + D group increased significantly (P < 0.001) as compared to Sham group. In addition, compared with Sham group, the mean bone mineral density obviously decreased (P < 0.05), the trabecular bone mass and microarchitecture were also destroyed significantly in OVX + D group. Furthermore, the maximum load and maximum stress significantly reduced (P < 0.01) and the energy absorption also decreased greatly as compared to Sham group. After administrated with echinacoside and acteoside, the typical pathological features of osteoporosis and Alzheimer's disease were ameliorated.

CONCLUSIONS

The model of osteoporosis combined with Alzheimer's disease in rat was feasible and successfully established. Echinacoside and acteoside also showed some significant effects on this concurrent model, and they could be potential candidates from Cistanche tubulosa with double effects for further study.

Osteoprotective Activity and Metabolite Fingerprint via UPLC/MS and GC/MS of Lepidium sativum in Ovariectomized Rats

Lepidium sativum seeds are used traditionally to accelerate healing of bone fracture in addition to its culinary uses. This study aimed to characterize the osteoprotective effect of L. sativum in an ovariectomized rat model at two dose levels (50 and 100 mg/kg) using 17β-estradiol as a positive reference standard. Moreover, a complete metabolite profile of L. sativum via UHPLC/PDA/ESI-MS, as well as headspace solid-phase microextraction (SPME)-GC/MS is presented. Results revealed that L. sativum extract exhibited significant anti-osteoporotic actions as evidenced by mitigating the decrease in relative bone weight concurrent with improved longitudinal and perpendicular femur compression strength. Further, the extract enhanced the serum bone formation biomarkers lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and osteocalcin levels. The extract also inhibited exhaustion of superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities and accumulation of lipid peroxides in bone tissues. This is in addition to ameliorating the rise in the markers of bone resorption carboxyterminal telopeptide, type I (CTXI) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and modulating receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL)/ osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression. Metabolite characterization suggests that glucosinolates, lignans, coumarins, phenolic acids, and alkaloids mediate these anti-osteoporotic effects in a synergistic manner.

Heat shock protein 90 alpha and 14-3-3η in postmenopausal osteoporotic rats with varying levels of serum FSH

PURPOSE

This study compared the severity of osteoporosis and screened differentially expressed proteins in postmenopausal osteoporotic rats with varying levels of serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).

METHODS

Thirty-six Sprague Dawley female rats were divided into four groups: sham operation (sham) group, ovariectomy (OVX) group, FSH and ovariectomy (OVX + FSH) group, and Leuprorelin (LE) and ovariectomy group (OVX + LE). Body weight, serum estradiol, FSH, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and bone mineral density were measured. We randomly selected six rats each from the OVX and OVX + FSH groups to detect differentially expressed proteins by data-independent acquisition, and we verified the results in the remaining six rats by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Nineteen proteins were upregulated and 36 proteins were downregulated in the OVX + FSH group. The expression of heat shock protein 90 alpha (Hsp90α) and 14-3-3η protein was significantly different between the OVX and OVX + FSH groups, and both were linearly correlated with bone trabecular area. Results were verified by ELISA and were found to be consistent with the results of data-independent acquisition.

DISCUSSION

In rats with high serum FSH, expression of Hsp90α protein was increased and expression of 14-3-3η protein was decreased. Both changes in protein expression were strongly correlated with bone trabecular area.

The effect of polysaccharides from Cibotium barometz on enhancing temozolomide-induced glutathione exhausted in human glioblastoma U87 cells, as revealed by 1H NMR metabolomics analysis

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant central nervous system tumor, with poor prognosis. Temozolomide (TMZ) has been used as a first-line drug for the treatment of GBM for over a decade, but its treatment benefits are limited by acquired resistance. Polysaccharides from Cibotium barometz (CBPs) are polysaccharides purified from the root of Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm., possessing sensitizing activity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-cancer effect of CBP from different processing methods on U87 cells using a ¹H NMR-based metabolic approach, complemented with qRT-PCR and flow cytometry, to identify potential markers and discover the targets to explore the underlying mechanism. Cibotium barometz is usually processed under sand heating in clinical applications. Polysaccharides from both the processed (PCBP) and raw (RCBP) C. barometz were prepared, and the effect on enhancing the sensitivity to TMZ was investigated in vitro. CBP can significantly increase the toxicity of TMZ to the U87 cell line, promote apoptosis, enhance cell cycle changes, and arrest cells in S phase, and RCBP demonstrated better activity. Multivariate statistical analyses, such as principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal projection to latent structure with discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), were used to identify metabolic biomarkers, and 12 metabolites in the cell extract samples were clearly identified as altered after RCBP exposure. NMR-based cell metabolomics provided a holistic method for the identification of CBP's apoptosis-enhancing mechanisms and the exploration of its potential applications in preclinical and clinical studies.

Two novel polysaccharides from rhizomes of Cibotium barometz promote bone formation via activating the BMP2/SMAD1 signaling pathway in MC3T3-E1 cells

Cibotium barometz, an important traditional Chinese medicine, is used in strengthening bones and tendons. We found that C. barometz crude polysaccharides (CB70) could alleviate bone loss and markedly improve the biomechanical properties of OVX rats. Thus, to clarify biological active ingredient(s) of CB70, two homogeneous polysaccharides (CBP70-1-1 and CBP70-1-2) were purified from CB70. A combination of monosaccharide composition, FT-IR, GC-MS and NMR analysis indicated that CBP70-1-1 was composed of →6)-D-Galp-(1→, D-Glcp-(1→, →3,6)-D-Manp-(1→, →4)-D-Glcp-(1→ and →6)-D-Glcp-(1→ with relative molecular weights of 12,724 Da, and CBP70-1-2 was composed of →4)-D-Glcp-(1→, D-Glcp-(1→, →3,6)-D-Manp-(1→, →6)-D-Galp-(1→, →4,6)-D-Glcp-(1→ and →3)-L-Araf-(1→ with relative molecular weights of 3611 Da. Morphological analyses revealed that CBP70-1-1 and CBP70-1-2 appeared as a sheet that were irregular in size and shape, while the surface of CBP70-1-1 was full of sharp protuberances and CBP70-1-2 was smooth. Furthermore, the effects of CBP70-1-1 and CBP70-1-2 on the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of mouse pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells were assessed via CCK-8 assay, alkaline phosphatase activity assay, and alizarin red-based assay, respectively. These results revealed that CBP70-1-1 and CBP70-1-2 significantly promoted the proliferation, differentiation and mineralization of MC3T3-E1 cells, even better than E2. More importantly, quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analysis indicated that CBP70-1-2 pronouncedly promoted the expression of osteogenic-related marker genes (Runx2, Osx, Ocn and Opn) and proteins (BMP2, RUNX2, OSX and p-SMAD1), which implies that the osteogenic activity of CBP70-1-2 is accomplished mainly by activating the BMP2/SMAD1 signaling pathway. These findings suggest CBP70-1-2 as a potential natural anti-osteoporotic agent for pharmacotherapy.

A polysaccharide from the dried rhizome of Drynaria fortunei (Kunze) J. Sm. prevents ovariectomized (OVX)-induced osteoporosis in rats

In the present study, a homogenous polysaccharide (DFPW) was isolated and purified from the dried rhizome of Drynaria fortunei, and its protective effect against osteoporosis was investigated in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Histological analysis indicated that oral administration of DFPW (100 and 400 mg/kg) for 12 weeks significantly improved trabecular bone mass, as demonstrated by the increase in trabecular area, trabecular thickness and its number in OVX rats. Furthermore, the decline of bone mineral density and bone mineral content including Ca, P and Mg induced by OVX was reversed by the DFPW administration. This function was achieved by the decreased levels of the bone turnover markers, such as serum ALP, urinary deoxypyridinoline (DPD), Ca and P excretions. Besides, DFPW improved biomechanical parameters (maximum load, energy, Young's, modulus and maximum stress) to strengthen the hardness and strength femoral diaphysis in OVX rats. These results strongly suggested that DFPW might be a hopeful alternative therapeutics to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Therapeutic Anabolic and Anticatabolic Benefits of Natural Chinese Medicines for the Treatment of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by increasing osseous fragility and fracture due to the reduced bone mass and microstructural degradation. Primary pharmacological strategies for the treatment of osteoporosis, hormone replacement treatment (HRT), and alendronate therapies may produce adverse side-effects and may not be recommended for long-term usage. Some classic and bone-specific natural Chinese medicine are very popularly used to treat osteoporosis and bone fracture effectively in clinical with their potential value in bone growth and development, but with few adverse side-effects. Current evidence suggests that the treatments appear to improve bone metabolism and attenuate the osteoporotic imbalance between bone formation and bone resorption at a cellular level by promoting osteoblast activity and inhibiting the effects of osteoclasts. The valuable therapies might, therefore, provide an effective and safer alternative to primary pharmacological strategies. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to comprehensively review these classic and bone-specific drugs in natural Chinese medicines for the treatment of osteoporosis that had been deeply and definitely studied and reported with both bone formation and antiresorption effects, including Gynochthodes officinalis (F.C.How) Razafim. & B.Bremer (syn. Morinda officinalis F.C.How), Curculigo orchioides Gaertn., Psoralea corylifolia (L.) Medik Eucommia ulmoides Oliv., Dipsacus inermis Wall. (syn. Dipsacus asperoides C.Y.Cheng & T.M.Ai), Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm., Velvet Antler, Cistanche deserticola Ma, Cuscuta chinensis Lam., Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson, Epimedium brevicornum Maxim, Pueraria montana (Lour.) Merr. and Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge., thus providing evidence for the potential use of alternative Chinese medicine therapies to effectively treat osteoporosis.

Antiosteoporotic activities of isoquercitrin in ovariectomized rats: Role of inhibiting hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a common and disabling disorder that increases the risk of bone fractures due to estrogen deprivation; this can be simulated in rats by ovariectomy. Hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) expression in osteoclasts predominantly leads to its activation increasing bone resorption. Premenopausal, estrogen prevents HIF-1α expression maintaining bone density. Unfortunately postmenopausal estrogen replacement therapy is not recommended due to its potential tumor development risk. Isoquercitrin, a common edible plants phytoestrogen, is known to inhibit HIF-1α. This study was conducted to investigate the potential antiosteoporotic activity of isoquercitrin (15, 30 and 60 mg/kg/day) in ovariectomized rats with reference to 17β-estradiol (25 mcg/kg/day). Animals were bilaterally ovariectomized to induce osteoporosis and one month later they were assigned into groups and administered isoquercitrin and 17β-estradiol for 8 weeks. Ovariectomy reduced lumbar compression strength, distorted bone microscopic architecture, inducing cartilage and trabecular dystrophy, and increased the markers of bone turnover (serum alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin and urinary calcium, phosphorus and creatinine). It also increased the gene expression of HIF-1α and the levels of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and decreased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and β-catenin in the femurs. Isoquercitrin was found to improve bone histological features, increase lumbar strength and improve most of the biochemical markers of bone turnover in a manner comparable to 17β-estradiol. Isoquercitrin also attenuated the increased HIF-1α expression while increased that of the VEGF and β-catenin. It also decreased the levels of NF-κB. Therefore isoquercitrin may be considered a safer alternative for managing osteoporosis.

Bioactive phenolic acid-substituted glycoses and glycosides from rhizomes of Cibotium barometz

Two rarely phenolic acid-substituted alloses (1, 2) and one new glucoside (3), as well as nine known compounds (4-12) were isolated from rhizomes of Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm. Structures of 1-3 were established by extensively spectroscopic analyses (NMR, MS, etc.) and acid hydrolysis. All compounds were evaluated for the hepatoprotective activities against APAP-induced HepG2 cell damage. Compounds 1, 4-7, 10 exhibited significant hepatoprotective activities, even more strongly than positive control, bicycol. In addition, compounds 1 and 9 could reduce PC12 cell death induced by serum deprivation.

Effects of SHINBARO2 on Rat Models of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) is a major cause of chronic low back pain; however, only a few therapies which have been used in clinics still have limited effects on functional recovery. SHINBARO2 is a refined traditional formulation for inflamed lesions and relieve pain of muscular skeletal disease. This study aimed at investigating the effects of SHINBARO2 on LSS and at determining its underlying molecular mechanism in rat models. The LSS rat models were set up by surgical operations in 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats. SHINBARO2 was orally or intraperitoneally administered for 14 days. The motor and sensory ability of rats were evaluated using the activity cage and hot plate method. On the termination day, total vertebrae including the disc and spinal cord were excised for ex vivo study. SHINBARO2 improved locomotor functions and pain sensitivity in LSS rat models. Mechanism study suggested that SHINBARO2 inhibited the production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E₂ in tissues from LSS-induced rats. SHINBARO2 also suppressed the expression of proinflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β. The activation of NF-κB by LSS surgery was effectively reduced by SHINBARO2, which coincided with the inhibition of IκB degradation. In addition, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a potent promoter of neurite growth, and its downstream ERK signaling were also regulated by SHINBARO2. These findings suggest that the effect of SHINBARO2 might be associated in part with the anti-inflammation and pain control in LSS rat models.

Identification and characterization of a polysaccharide from the roots of Morinda officinalis, as an inducer of bone formation by up-regulation of target gene expression

Morinda officinalis is an important traditional tonic herbal medicine. In the present study, we found that crude polysaccharides extracted from M. officinalis, named MO90, could significantly increase the bone mineral density (BMD) of the whole femur, distal femur, and proximal femur in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. In addition, MO90 decreased the level of bone turnover markers and prevented the deterioration of trabecular microarchitecture. To investigate the fractions responsible for anti-osteoporosis activity, one novel inulin-type fructan, MOW90-1, was isolated from MOP90. Structural analysis indicated that MOW90-1 consists of a backbone of (2→1)-linked-β-D-Fruf, and is terminated with (1→)-linked-α-D-Glcp and (2→)-linked-β-D-Fruf. Furthermore, an in vitro anti-osteoporosis assay indicated that MOW90-1 promoted proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization of MC3T3-E1 cells by up-regulating the expression of runt-related transcription factor 2, osterix, osteopontin, and osteocalcin. In conclusion, our studies provide supporting evidence for future use of this novel M. officinalis fructan as a key nutrient of health products.

Effects of vitamin D2-fortified shiitake mushroom on bioavailability and bone structure

Bioavailability and bone loss inhibitory effects of vitamin D₂ derived from UV-irradiated shiitake mushroom were determined in vivo. The effect of the absence of ovaries on the bioavailability of vitamin D₂ and bone structure was also investigated. Sham operated (sham) and ovariectomized (OVX) rats were divided in 3 groups according to their diets, i.e. control: only vitamin D-deficient diets; UV(X): vitamin D-deficient diets with non-irradiated mushroom powder; UV(O): vitamin D-deficient diets with irradiated mushroom powder. The obtained results showed that vitamin D₂ from shiitake mushroom was able to increase bone mineral density and trabecular bone structure of femur bone as well as its bioavailability. The absence of estrogen induced adverse effects not only on bioavailability of vitamin D₂ but also on trabecular bone. In conclusion, vitamin D₂-fortified shiitake mushroom might help postmenopausal women increase vitamin D₂ bioavailability and retard trabecular bone loss. Abbreviations: OVX: ovariectomized; 25(OH)D: 25-hydroxyvitamin D; 1,25(OH)2D: 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D; BMD: bone mineral density; micro-CT: micro computed tomography; RSM: response surface methodology; RP-HPLC: Reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography; MS/MS: tandem mass spectrometry; E2: estradiol; NTx: N-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen; BV/TV: bone volume/total volume; BS/BV: bone surface/bone volume; Tb.Th: trabecular thickness; Tb.Sp: trabecular separation.

Untargeted Metabolomics Reveals the Protective Effect of Fufang Zhenshu Tiaozhi (FTZ) on Aging-Induced Osteoporosis in Mice

Fufang Zhenzhu Tiaozhi (FTZ), as an effective traditional Chinese medicine, has been prescribed for more than 20 years. It has proven clinical efficacy as a prescription for patients with dyslipidemia, glucocorticoid- and high-fat-induced osteoporosis, but its effect on osteoporosis induced by aging is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-osteoporosis effect of FTZ in aging mice and revealed its biochemical action mechanism using metabolomics. Model of primary osteoporosis induced by aging was established. The mice in treatment group received a therapeutic dose of oral FTZ extract once daily during the experiment. The model and control groups received the corresponding volume of oral normal saline solution. Plasma samples of all three groups were collected after 12 weeks. Clinical biochemical parameters and biomechanics were determined in the osteoporosis model induced by normal aging to evaluate anti-osteoporosis effect of FTZ. Ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/MS) was used to analyze metabolic changes. The changes of histomorphometric and biomechanic parameters of femurs, as well as osteoblast and osteoclast activity indicated that FTZ administration reduced the risk of osteoporosis. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) score plot revealed a clear separation trend between model and controls. Moreover, PLS-DA score plot indicated the anti-osteoporosis effect of FTZ with sphingosine 1-phosphate, LPA (16:0) and arachidonic acid (AA) among key biomarkers. The pivotal pathways revealed by pathway analysis including sphingolipid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and AA metabolism. The mechanism by which FTZ reduces the risk of primary age-related osteoporosis in mice might be related to disorders of the above-mentioned pathways. FTZ has a protective effect against osteoporosis induced by aging, which may be mediated via interference with sphingolipid, glycerophospholipid, and AA metabolisms in mice.

The complete chloroplast genome of Cibotium barometz (Cibotiaceae), an endangered CITES medicinal fern

The complete chloroplast (cp) genome sequence of Cibotium barometz, an endangered CITES medicinal fern, was determined by Illumina sequencing. Its genome is a circular molecule of 166,027 bp in length, including a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 29,158 bp, a large single-copy (LSC) region of 85,665 bp, and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 22,046 bp. The genome encodes 118 unique genes, involving 84 protein-coding genes, 28 tRNA genes, four rRNA genes, and two pseudogenes. Maximum likelihood tree showed that C. barometz was closely related to Alsophila spinulosa. This investigation lays solid foundations for endangered medicinal resource conservation and fern phylogenetic studies.

17β-estradiol attenuates ovariectomy‑induced bone deterioration through the suppression of the ephA2/ephrinA2 signaling pathway

The present study aimed to investigate whether 17β-estradiol (E2) exerts protective effects on bone deterioration induced by ovariectomy (OVX) through the ephA2/ephrinA2 signaling pathway in rats. Female rats were subjected to OVX, sham surgeryor OVX+E2 treatment. Levels of biomarkers were measured in serum and urine. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed on paraffin-embedded bone sections. Expression of genes and proteins was analyzed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. Bone mineral density (BMD) was analyzed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Trabecular bone microarchitecture was also evaluated. Osteoclastogenesis was induced by in vitro culturing with mouse receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1. small interfering RNA was designed to knockdown ehpA2 receptor and its ligand ephrinA2. Results of the present study demonstrated that E2 had suppressive effects on OVX-induced body weight gain and bone turnover factors in serum and urine. E2 inhibited the bone resorption function of osteoclasts by inhibiting the production of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-5b and RANKL, and induced bone formation function of osteoblasts by prompting runt-related transcription factor 2, Sp7 transcription factor and collagen alpha-1(I) chain expression in bone marrow cells. E2 treatment significantly increased the tibia BMD and prevented the deterioration of trabecular microarchitecture compared with the OVX group. Moreover, E2 significantly decreased the OVX-stimulated expression of ephA2 and ephrinA2. EphA2 or ephrin A2 knockdown significantly suppressed osteoclastogenesis in vitro. In conclusion, E2 can attenuate OVX-induced bone deterioration partially through the suppression of the ephA2/ephrinA2 signaling pathway. Therefore EphA2/ephrinA2 signaling pathway may be a potential target for osteoporosis treatment.

Antiosteoporotic activity of Salvadora persica sticks extract in an estrogen deficient model of osteoporosis

Objectives

The effect of Salvadora persica sticks on prevention of tooth decay is well established, but the effect of S. persica stick extract (SPE) on the prevention/treatment of osteoporosis has not been studied. The purpose of this study is to provide baseline information of the effectiveness of SPE on ovariectomized (OVX) rat model of osteoporosis.

Methods

SPE was administered at 50, 150, and 300 mg/d orally to OVX rats for 16 weeks. Serum osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase, calcium, and phosphorus, and urinary deoxypyridinoline, calcium, and phosphorus were measured. Bone mineral density (BMD), 3-point bending test, and histomorphometric characteristics of the femoral bone were also examined.

Results

SPE at doses of 150 and 300 mg/d, but not 50 mg/d, significantly prevented bone loss in OVX rats as proved by decreased biochemical markers of bone resorption and increased BMD and biomechanical indices of the femoral bone.

Conclusions

This study confirms a dose-dependent protective action of SPE on rat OVX model of osteoporosis. This effect needs further investigation at the molecular and clinical levels to provide a natural and cost-effective alternative for the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Effects of tanshinol on markers of bone turnover in ovariectomized rats and osteoblast cultures

This study was aimed to explore the role of tanshinol in osteoblastic cells, and the role in vivo using an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model of osteoporosis. MC3T3-E1 cells were pretreated with 0–400 μg/mL tanshinol, and then cell viability, apoptosis, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and the expressions of Collagen Type I Alpha 1 (Col1A1), Runt Related Transcription Factor 2 (Runx2) and osteocalcin (OCN) were respectively detected. Rats underwent OVX surgery was intervened with 5 mg/kg tanshinol or 25 μg/kg β-estradiol (E2) for 12 weeks. The triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C and LDL-C), ALP, OCN and Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-5b (TRACP-5b) contents were measured. Besides, the expressions of main factors in nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway were detected. The results showed that tanshinol significantly promoted MC3T3-E1 cells viability and ALP activity, while inhibited apoptosis (P < 0.05); Col1A1, Runx2 and OCN were all up-regulated by tanshinol (P < 0.05). In OVX rats, the contents of TG, TC, LDL-C, ALP, OCN and TRACP-5b were all increased (P < 0.05), while HDL-C was decreased (P < 0.05). Tanshinol significantly alleviated these aberrant regulations (P < 0.05). Inhibitory subunit of NF-κB (IκBα) and p65 were both remarkably phosphorylated by OVX, while this phosphorylation was partially neutralized by tanshinol (P < 0.05). In conclusion, we demonstrated that tanshinol exerted a bone-protective function by modulating the markers of bone turnover possibly via blocking NF-κB pathway. This study will provide new evidence that tanshinol is a potential therapeutic option for the relief of estrogen deficiency-induced osteoporosis.

PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF VANILLIC ACID ON OVARIECTOMY-INDUCED OSTEOPOROSIS IN RATS

Background:

The need for an anti-osteoporotic agent is in high demand since osteoporosis contributes to high rates of disability or impairment (high osteoporotic fracture), morbidity and mortality. Hence, the present study is designed to evaluate the protective effects of vanillic acid (VA) against bilateral ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats.

Materials and Methods:

Forty healthy female adult SD rats were separated in to four groups with sham-operated control with bilateral laprotomy (Sham; n = 10), bilateral overiectomy (OVX; n = 10) group, OVX rats were orallay administrated with 50 mg/kg b.wt of VA (OVX + 50 VA; n = 10) or 100 mg/kg b.wt of VA (OVX + 100 VA; n = 10) for 12 weeks (post-treatment) after 4 weeks of OVX.

Results:

A significant change in the body weight gain was noted in OVX group, while treatment with VA substantially reverted to normalcy. Meanwhile, the bone mineral density and content (BMD and BMC) were substantially improved on supplementation with VA. Also, the bone turnover markers like calcium (Ca), phosphorous (P), osteocalcin (OC), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and deoxypyridinoline (DPD) and inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) levels were markedly attenuated in VA-treated rats. Moreover, the biomechanical stability was greatly ameliorated with VA administration. Both the dose of VA showed potent anti-osteoporotic activity, but VA 100 mg showed highest protective effects as compared with 50 mg of VA.

Conclusion:

Based on the outcome, we concluded that VA 100 showed better anti-osteoporotic activity by improving BMD and BMC as well as biomechanical stability and therefore used as an alternative therapy for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Hepatoprotective hemiterpene glycosides from the rhizome of Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm

Five previously undescribed hemiterpene glycosides, cibotiumbarosides E-I, and two known hemiterpene glucosides, were isolated from the rhizome of Cibotium barometz (L.) J. Sm. The structures of cibotiumbarosides E-I were established by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analyses and HRMS. The absolute configuration of the aglycone of cibotiumbaroside E was assigned by calculated ECD with the TDDFT method. Cibotiumbarosides F and I both exhibited remarkable hepatoprotective activity against APAP-induced acute liver damage in vitro, which were more effective than the positive control, bicyclol. On the other hand, seven hemiterpene glycosides were all inactive in assays of cytotoxicity, neuroprotection, antidiabetes and anti-inflammation.

The antiulcer effect of Cibotium barometz leaves in rats with experimentally induced acute gastric ulcer

Cibotium barometz is a pharmaceutical plant customarily used in traditional medicine in Malaysia for the treatment of different diseases, such as gastric ulcer. The gastroprotective effect of C. barometz leaves against ethanol-induced gastric hemorrhagic abrasions in Sprague Dawley rats has been evaluated in terms of medicinal properties. Seven groups of rats (normal control and ulcerated control groups, omeprazole 20 mg/kg, 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of C. barometz correspondingly) were used in antiulcer experiment and pretreated with 10% Tween 20. After 1 hour, the normal group was orally administered 10% Tween 20, whereas absolute alcohol was fed orally to ulcerated control, omeprazole, and experimental groups. Gastric's homogenate were assessed for endogenous enzymes activities. Stomachs were examined macroscopically and histologically. Grossly, the data demonstrated a significant decrease in the ulcer area of rats pretreated with plant extract in a dose-dependent manner with respect to the ulcerated group. Homogenates of the gastric tissue exhibited significantly increased endogenous enzymes activities in rats pretreated with C. barometz extract associated with the ulcerated control group. Histology of rats pretreated with C. barometz extract group using hematoxylin and eosin staining exhibited a moderate-to-mild disruption of the surface epithelium with reduction in submucosal edema and leucocyte infiltration in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, it showed heat shock protein70 protein up-expression and BCL2-associated X protein downexpression. These outcomes might be attributed to the gastroprotective and antioxidative effects of the plant.

The gastro protective effects of Cibotium barometz hair on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in Sprague-Dawley rats

BACKGROUND

Cibotium barometz is a medical herb used traditionally in the Malaysian peninsula for several ailments, including gastric ulcer. The aim of this study was assessment the anti-ulcer effects of C. barometz hair on ethanol-induced stomach hemorrhagic abrasions in animals. Seven groups of Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were administered 10% Tween 20 in the normal control and ulcer control groups, and omeprazole 20 mg/kg and 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of C. barometz hair extract in the experimental groups. After 60 min, the normal control group of rats was orally administered 10% Tween 20, while absolute ethanol was orally administered to the groups of ulcer control, omeprazole and experimental groups. Stomachs of the rats were examined macroscopically and histologically. Homogenates of stomachs were used to evaluate endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities.

RESULTS

Rats pre-fed with plant extract presented a significant decrease in the sore area, increased pH of gastric contents and preserved stomach wall mucus compared to the ulcer group. Histologically, rats pre-fed with C. barometz hair extract showed mild to moderate disruptions of the surface epithelium while animals pre-fed with absolute ethanol showed severe disruptions of the stomach epithelium with edema and leucocyte penetration of the submucosal layer. A Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) staining revealed that each rat pre-treated with the plant extract displayed an intense uptake of stomach epithelial glycoprotein magenta color compared to the ulcer control group. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that rats pre-fed with the plant extract showed an up-regulation of the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and down-regulation of Bax proteins compared to ulcer control rats. Homogenates of the stomach tissue demonstrated significant increases in the endogenous antioxidant enzymatic activity and decreased lipid peroxidation (MDA) in rats pre-treated with C. barometz hair extract compared with the ulcer control rats. In acute toxicity, the liver and kidney revealed no hepatotoxic or nephrotoxic effects histologically.

CONCLUSIONS

The gastric cytoprotective action of C. barometz hair extract might be attributed to antioxidants, an increase in gastric pH, stomach mucus preservation, increased endogenous antioxidant enzymes, decreased lipid peroxidation, up-regulation of HSP70 and down-regulation of Bax proteins.

Effects of Hot Water Extracts from Polygonum multiflorum on Ovariectomy Induced Osteopenia in Mice

Polygonum multiflorum (PM), a traditional Chinese medicine, is used to treat various diseases including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and hyperlipidemia. However, the influence of PM on osteoporosis in animals is unclear. The present study investigated the antiosteoporotic effect of PM on bone mass in ovariectomized (OVX) mice and its possible mechanism of action. Twenty-five female C3H/HeN mice were divided into five groups of five mice as follows. Sham-operated control mice received daily oral gavage of an equal volume of water, and OVX mice received daily oral gavage of water or an injection of β-estradiol or PM for 6 weeks. Administration of PM significantly suppressed body weight and organs weight and increased weight and length of bone compared with the OVX group. Treatment with PM reversed osteopenia in OVX mice, thereby improving the bone morphometric parameters. Moreover, histological analysis using hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that PM inhibited OVX-induced bone loss. Serum estradiol and bone alkaline phosphatase levels were significantly decreased in the OVX group, with the levels increasing with PM treatment. In addition, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase activity was inhibited by PM in OVX mice. These results suggest that PM is effective in preventing bone loss in OVX mice.

Metabolite Profiling Reveals the Effect of Dietary Rubus coreanus Vinegar on Ovariectomy-Induced Osteoporosis in a Rat Model

The study was aimed at exploring the curative effects of Rubus coreanus (RC) vinegar against postmenopausal osteoporosis by using ovariectomized rats as a model. The investigations were performed in five groups: sham, ovariectomized (OVX) rats without treatment, low-dose RC vinegar (LRV)-treated OVX rats, high-dose RC vinegar (HRV)-treated OVX rats and alendronate (ALEN)-treated OVX rats. The efficacy of RC vinegar was evaluated using physical, biochemical, histological and metabolomic parameters. Compared to the OVX rats, the LRV and HRV groups showed positive effects on the aforementioned parameters, indicating estrogen regulation. Plasma metabolome analysis of the groups using gas chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOF-MS) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole-TOF-MS (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) with multivariate analysis revealed 19 and 16 metabolites, respectively. Notably, the levels of butyric acid, phenylalanine, glucose, tryptophan and some lysophosphatidylcholines were marginally increased in RC vinegar-treated groups compared to OVX. However, the pattern of metabolite levels in RC vinegar-treated groups was found similar to ALEN, but differed significantly from that in sham group. The results highlight the prophylactic and curative potential of dietary vinegar against postmenopausal osteoporosis. RC vinegar could be an effective natural alternative for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Cibotium barometz

Cibotium barometz plant habit

Icariin prevents ovariectomy-induced bone loss and lowers marrow adipogenesis

OBJECTIVE

Icariin prevents bone loss by stimulating new bone formation and by inhibiting bone resorption. However, less is known about how icariin affects marrow adiposity. This lack of information is a vital problem, as the degree of marrow adipogenesis may be an alternative indicator of the severity of osteoporosis in relation to the degree of osteogenesis and osteoblastogenesis. To explore this question, we tested the effects of icariin on bone mineral density (BMD) and marrow fat content in a rat model of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

METHODS

Thirty-six 3-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to one of the following treatment groups: sham operation, ovariectomized controls, and ovariectomized rats treated orally with either 17β-estradiol or icariin for 12 weeks. BMD and marrow fat fraction were dynamically measured on weeks 0, 6, and 12. After 12 weeks of treatment, serum 17β-estradiol and bone biomarker levels were measured, and marrow adipocytes were quantitatively evaluated by histopathology.

RESULTS

Ovariectomized controls experienced a marked increase in fat fraction over time, with increases of 40% between weeks 0 and 6 and 69.4% between weeks 6 and 12 (P < 0.001). Marrow adiposity in ovariectomized controls was dramatically higher than that in sham rats on week 6; however, a reduction in BMD was detected in ovariectomized rats on week 12 (P < 0.001). Ovariectomized rats had levels of serum alkaline phosphatase and serum C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen that were 49.4% and 67.2% higher, respectively, than those of sham rats (P < 0.001). The density, size, and volume of marrow adipocytes in ovariectomized controls were 57.3%, 29.5%, and 163% higher, respectively, than those in sham rats. Early icariin treatment decreased bone biomarker levels, inhibited bone degeneration, and restored marrow fat infiltration and adipocyte parameters to the levels observed in sham rats. Overall, the osteoprotective effect of icariin was comparable with that of 17β-estradiol; however, icariin did not produce uterine estrogenicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Early icariin treatment restores marrow adiposity in the estrogen-deficient rat model.

Consumption of vitamin D2 enhanced mushrooms is associated with improved bone health

Mushrooms are the best nonanimal food source of vitamin D2. Pulsed irradiation can enhance vitamin D2 in mushrooms quickly. We investigated the effect of supplementing high vitamin D2Pleurotus ferulae mushrooms in a mouse model of osteoporosis. Thirty-two female C57BL/6JNarl mice were divided into four groups including sham, ovariectomized (OVX), OVX+nonpulsed mushroom (NPM) and OVX+pulsed mushroom (PM). After 23 weeks of treatment, serum samples were analyzed for osteoblast and osteoclast indicators, as well as metabolites using NMR spectroscopy. To examine bone density, femurs were analyzed using micro-computed tomography. The NPM and PM treatment mice showed increased bone density in comparison with OVX mice. In addition, the PM mice showed higher osteoblast and lower osteoclast indicators in comparison with OVX mice. Serum metabolomics analysis indicated several metabolites that were different in PM mice, some of which could be correlated with bone health. Taken together, these results suggest that pulsed irradiated mushrooms are able to increase bone density in osteoporotic mice possibly through enhanced bone metabolism. Further studies in humans are needed to show their efficacy in preventing osteoporosis.

Antiosteoporosis Activity of New Oriental Medicine Preparation (Kyungokgo Mixed with Water Extract of Hovenia dulcis) on the Ovariectomized Mice

Protective effect of new oriental medicine (Kyungokgo mixed with water extract of Hovenia dulcis, KOGHD) was assessed on the bone loss induced mice by ovariectomy. In the in vivo experiments, antiosteoporosis effect of KOGHD was investigated using ovariectomized osteoporosis mice model. After 6 weeks of treatment, the mice were euthanized, and the effect of Kyungokgo (KOG) and KOGHD on body weight, spleen weigh, thymus weight, uterine weight, serum biochemical indicators, bone weight and length, immune cell population, bone morphometric parameters, and histological stains was observed. Our results showed that KOGHD prevented the deterioration of trabecular microarchitecture caused by ovariectomy, which were accompanied by the lower levels of bone turnover markers and immune cell population as evidenced by the inhibition of RANKL-mediated osteoclast differentiation without cytotoxic effect on bone marrow derived macrophages (BMMs). Therefore, these results suggest that the Hovenia dulcis (HD) supplementation in the KOG may also prevent and treat bone loss.

Kefir improves bone mass and microarchitecture in an ovariectomized rat model of postmenopausal osteoporosis

SUMMARY

Kefir treatment in ovariectomized (OVX) rats could significantly decrease the levels of bone turnover markers and prevent OVX-induced bone loss, deterioration of trabecular microarchitecture, and biomechanical dysfunction that may be due to increase intracellular calcium uptake through the TRPV6 calcium channel.

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to an increased fracture risk. The incidence of osteoporosis increases with age and occurs most frequently in postmenopausal women due to estrogen deficiency, as the balance between bone resorption and bone formation shifts towards increased levels of bone resorption. Among various methods of prevention and treatment for osteoporosis, an increase in calcium intake is the most commonly recommended preventive measure. Kefir is a fermented milk product made with kefir grains that degrade milk proteins into various peptides with health-promoting effects, including immunomodulating-, antithrombotic-, antimicrobial-, and calcium-absorption-enhancing bioactivities.

METHODS

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of kefir on osteoporosis prophylaxis in an ovariectomized rat model. A total of 56 16-week-old female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into 7 experimental groups: sham (normal), OVX/Mock, OVX/1X kefir (164 mg/kg BW/day), OVX/2X kefir (328 mg/kg BW/day), OVX/4X kefir (656 mg/kg BW/day), OVX/ALN (2.5 mg/kg BW/day), and OVX/REBONE (800 mg/kg BW/day). After 12-week treatment with kefir, the bone physiology in the OVX rat model was investigated. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to investigate the possible transport mechanism involved in calcium absorption using the Caco-2 human cell line.

RESULTS

A 12-week treatment with kefir on the OVX-induced osteoporosis model reduced the levels of C-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen (CTx), bone turnover markers, and trabecular separation (Tb. Sp.). Additionally, treatment with kefir increased trabecular bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume (BV/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb. Th), trabecular number (Tb. N), and the biomechanical properties (hardness and modulus) of the distal femur with a dose-dependent efficacy. In addition, in in vitro assay, we found that kefir increased intracellular calcium uptake in Caco-2 cell through TRPV6 calcium channels and not through L-type voltage-operated calcium channels.

CONCLUSION

The protective effect of kefir in the OVX rat model may occur through increasing intracellular calcium uptake through the TRPV6 calcium channel.

Influence of exercise on bone remodeling-related hormones and cytokines in ovariectomized rats: a model of postmenopausal osteoporosis

This study aims to explore the effects of exercise on postmenopausal osteoporosis and the mechanisms by which exercise affects bone remodeling. Sixty-three Wistar female rats were randomly divided into five groups: (1) control group, (2) sham-operated group, (3) OVX (Ovariectomy) group, (4) DES-OVX (Diethylstilbestrol-OVX) group, and (5) Ex-OVX (Exercise-OVX) group. The rat osteoporosis model was established through ovariectomy. The Ex-OVX rats were made to run 251.2 meters every day, 6 d/wk for 3 months in a running wheel. Trabecular bone volume (TBV%), total resorption surface (TRS%), trabecular formation surface (TFS%), mineralization rate (MAR), bone cortex mineralization rate (mAR), and osteoid seam width (OSW) were determined by bone histomorphometry. The mRNA and protein levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2) were determined by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Serum levels of estrogen estradiol (E2), calcitonin (CT), osteocalcin (BGP), and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were determined by ELISA assays. The investigation revealed that compared to the control and the sham-operated groups, the OVX group showed significantly lower levels of TBV%, E2, and CT, but much higher levels of TRS%, TFS%, MAR, OSW, BGP, and PTH. The Ex-OVX group showed increased TBV% and serum levels of E2 and CT compared to the OVX group. Ovariectomy also led to a significant increase in IL-1β mRNA and protein levels in the bone marrow and IL-6 and Cox-2 protein levels in tibias. In addition, the Ex-OVX group showed lower levels of IL-1 mRNA and protein, IL-6 mRNA, and Cox-2 mRNA and protein than those in the OVX group. The upshot of the study suggests that exercise can significantly increase bone mass in postmenopausal osteoporosis rat models by inhibiting bone resorption and increasing bone formation, especially in trabecular bones.

Medicinal herbs in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common disease with wide prevalence, especially in the elderly population. Osteoporosis induced fractures not only decrease the patient's life quality, but also cause heavy financial burden to the society. Although current medications for osteoporosis are effective, numerous adverse effects have been observed accompanying their clinical applications. Effective prevention and therapy strategies with high safety are critical, which benefit both individual patients and the whole society. Traditional Chinese medicines have been used for thousands of years to treat bone related diseases in China and a number of modern preparations have been developed that are currently commercially available. In addition, several medicinal herbs demonstrated therapeutic effects against osteoporosis in animal models. This paper reviewed the anti-osteoporotic effects of traditional Chinese formulas, medicinal herbs and bioactive constituents based on clinical trials and in vivo animal studies. Due to the lack of rigorous studies to compare the effectiveness with conventional interventions, traditional formulas are recommended as alternative medications or supplements to treat osteoporosis at the current stage. Although there are abundant natural resources with anti-osteoporotic effects, either in the form of medicinal herbs or bioactive components, much work need to be accomplished before they are developed into potential drugs.

An NMR metabolomic study on the effect of alendronate in ovariectomized mice

Alendronate sodium (Fosamax) is most widely used for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. It is a type of anti-resorptive agent that reduces the risk of fractures by changing bone turnover and bone mineral density. We investigated the effect of Fosamax on a mouse model of osteoporosis. Twenty-seven female C57BL/6JNarl mice were divided into three groups: sham, ovariectomized (OVX) and OVX + Fosamax (Fosamax). After 23 weeks, bone density of femurs was analyzed using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT), and serum was analyzed for osteoblast and osteoclast activity, as well as metabolites using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Fosamax increased bone mineral density and cortical bone thickness, and decreased osteoblast activity slightly. Fosamax did not significantly change osteoclast activity. Serum metabolomics revealed that Fosamax had profound effects on overall metabolism, as significantly higher concentrations of metabolites associated with energy metabolism (including TCA-cycle intermediates and glucose), 3-hydroxybutyrate, taurine, allantoin, acetate, and ethanol, as well as lower concentrations of aspartate were observed in the Fosamax-treated mice compared with the OVX mice. These results suggest that alendronate may work by increasing bone density through altered metabolic activity.

Preventive effect of crocin on osteoporosis in an ovariectomized rat model

The purpose of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of crocin on ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to a sham-operated group (sham) and five ovariectomy (OVX) subgroups, that is, OVX with vehicle (OVX), OVX with 17β-estradiol (E₂, 25 μg/kg/day), and OVX with graded crocin doses (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg/day). Daily oral administration of E₂ or crocin started 4 weeks after OVX and lasted for 16 weeks. Our results showed that crocin dose-dependently inhibited the BMD reduction of L4 vertebrae and femurs caused by OVX and prevented the deterioration of trabecular microarchitecture, which were accompanied by a significant decrease in skeletal remodeling as evidenced by the lower levels of bone turnover markers. Furthermore, crocin reversed the oxidative stress status in both serum and bone tissue. The present study indicates that the administration of crocin at higher doses over a 16-week period can prevent OVX-induced osteoporosis in rats without hyperplastic effects on the uterus, which may, at least partially, be attributed to crocin's antioxidative property. In brief, crocin is a natural alternative for postmenopausal osteoporosis treatment in elderly women.