Boron and fish oil have different beneficial effects on strength and trabecular microarchitecture of bone

Macrophage membrane-camouflaged biomimetic nanoparticles for rheumatoid arthritis treatment via modulating macrophage polarization

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a debilitating autoimmune disease characterized by chronic joint inflammation and cartilage damage. Current therapeutic strategies often result in side effects, necessitating the development of targeted and safer treatment options. This study introduces a novel nanotherapeutic system, 2-APB@DGP-MM, which utilizes macrophage membrane (MM)-encapsulated nanoparticles (NPs) for the targeted delivery of 2-Aminoethyl diphenylborinate (2-APB) to inflamed joints more effectively. The NPs are designed with a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-cleavable peptide, allowing for MMP-responsive drug release within RA microenvironment. Comprehensive in vitro and in vivo assays confirmed the successful synthesis and loading of 2-APB into the DSPE-GPLGVRGC-PEG (DGP) NPs, as well as their ability to repolarize macrophages from a pro-inflammatory M1 to an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. The NPs demonstrated high biocompatibility, low cytotoxicity, and enhanced cellular uptake. In a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model, intra-articular injection of 2-APB@DGP-MM significantly reduced synovial inflammation and cartilage destruction. Histological analysis corroborated these findings, demonstrating marked improvements in joint structure and delayed disease progression. Above all, the 2-APB@DGP-MM nanotherapeutic system offers a promising and safe approach for RA treatment by modulating macrophage polarization and delivering effective agents to inflamed joints.

Low-Mineral Water Diminishes the Bone Benefits of Boron

This study looked at how desalinated seawater, which has low minerals and high boron, could affect bone health. Prior research suggests that low mineral water may harm bone health and boron could be beneficial, but the overall impact on bone health is still unclear. Eighty-nine-week-old male Balb/C mice were allocated into eight groups and administered either tap water or purified water with varying boron concentrations (0, 5, 40, and 200 mg/L). They were kept in an environment mimicking tropical conditions (35-40 °C, 70-80% humidity) and underwent daily treadmill exercise for 13 weeks. At the 14th week, serum, femora, and lumbar vertebrae were collected for mineral metabolism, bone biomarker, microstructure, and biomechanics evaluation. Boron exposure improved bone formation, microstructure, and biomechanics initially but the benefits weakened with higher levels of exposure (p < 0.05). Co-exposure to purified water elevated serum boron but weakened the promotion of boron on bone minerals and the bone benefits of boron compared to tap water (p < 0.05). Thus, when studying the health effects of boron in desalinated seawater, it is crucial to look at various health effects beyond bone health. Furthermore, it is important to consider the mineral composition of drinking water when using boron for bone health benefits.

A pilot study investigating the influence of dietary boron levels on osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of dietary boron on osteoporosis in postmenopausal Jordanian women. Sixty-six women diagnosed with osteoporosis were recruited and data on personal information, dietary habits, medical history, and lifestyle were collected. Bone mineral density, serum calcium, and serum vitamin D measurements were obtained from patient records. This study showed a strong correlation between boron intake and bone mineral density in these women with osteoporosis and a negative correlation between boron intake and serum calcium (p < .05). However, no significant correlation was found between boron intake and various parameters such as serum vitamin D, dietary habits, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), age of menopause, cases of hysterectomy or oophorectomy, location of fractures, education level, social status, smoking, and physical activity (p > .05). A significant link was found between boron intake and bone mineral density highlighting the importance of nutritional and lifestyle factors affecting bone health. Further research on the specific impact of boron is warranted to better inform dietary interventions for osteoporosis prevention and management.

Sodium Pentaborate Prevents Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatorenal Injury by Suppressing Oxidative Stress, Lipid Peroxidation, Apoptosis, and Inflammatory Cytokines in Rats

Acetaminophen (N-acetyl-p-aminophenol, APAP, or paracetamol) is one of the drugs that may be damaging to the kidneys and liver when used in excess. In this context, it is vital to treat these side effects on the liver and kidneys with various antioxidants. Diseases have been treated using herbal and mineral remedies since ancient times. The mineral boron, found in rocks and water, is a crucial ingredient with multiple positive biological effects. The primary objective of this research is to determine whether or not boron has a protective effect against the toxicity generated by APAP in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were pretreated orally with boron-source sodium pentaborate (B50 and B100 mg/kg) for 6 days by gastric gavage in order to counteract the toxicity caused by a single dose of APAP (1g/kg). APAP increased lipid peroxidation as well as serum BUN, creatinine concentrations, and serum activities of AST, ALP, and ALT by consuming GSH in liver and kidney tissues. In addition, the activity of antioxidative enzymes, including SOD, CAT, and GPx, was diminished. Inflammatory indicators such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-33 were elevated in conjunction with APAP toxicity. In kidney and liver tissues, APAP dramatically increased the activity of caspase-3 and triggered apoptosis. Sodium pentaborate therapy on a short-term basis reduced biochemical levels despite these effects of APAP. This study showed that boron protects rats from the harmful effects of APAP by acting as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic agent.

The Localized Ionic Microenvironment in Bone Modelling/Remodelling: A Potential Guide for the Design of Biomaterials for Bone Tissue Engineering

Bone is capable of adjusting size, shape, and quality to maintain its strength, toughness, and stiffness and to meet different needs of the body through continuous remodeling. The balance of bone homeostasis is orchestrated by interactions among different types of cells (mainly osteoblasts and osteoclasts), extracellular matrix, the surrounding biological milieus, and waste products from cell metabolisms. Inorganic ions liberated into the localized microenvironment during bone matrix degradation not only form apatite crystals as components or enter blood circulation to meet other bodily needs but also alter cellular activities as molecular modulators. The osteoinductive potential of inorganic motifs of bone has been gradually understood since the last century. Still, few have considered the naturally generated ionic microenvironment's biological roles in bone remodeling. It is believed that a better understanding of the naturally balanced ionic microenvironment during bone remodeling can facilitate future biomaterial design for bone tissue engineering in terms of the modulatory roles of the ionic environment in the regenerative process.

Nail Mineral Composition Changes Do Not Reflect Bone Mineral Changes Caused by Boron Supplementation

Nails have been found to be a non-invasive and readily available tissue whose mineral content can change because of a change in dietary mineral intake. Thus, this study was undertaken to determine whether boron (B) supplementation would change the concentrations of some mineral elements in nails and whether these changes correlated with changes induced in bone. Female New Zealand White rabbits (aged 8 months, 2-2.5 kg weight) were fed a grain-based, high-energy diet containing 3.88 mg B/kg. The rabbits were divided into four treatment groups: controls receiving no supplemental B (N: 7; C) and three groups supplemented with 30 mg B/L in drinking water as borax decahydrate (Na₂B₄O₇∙10H₂O, N: 10; BD), borax anhydrous (Na₂B₄O₇, N: 7; Bah), and boric acid (H₃BO₃, N: 7; BA). Boron, calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sodium (Na), sulfur (S), and zinc (Zn) concentrations in nails were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. Parametric and non-parametric multiple group comparisons and post hoc tests were performed and whether a correlation between nail and tibia and femur mineral elements concentrations were determined. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Boron was not detectable in control nails but was found in the nails of the three B supplemented groups. Boron supplementation markedly increased the Ca concentration in nails with the effect greatest in the BA and BD groups. The P and Mg concentrations also were increased by B supplementation with the effect most marked in the BA group. In contrast, B supplementation decreased the Na concentration with the effect most noticeable in the BD and Bah groups. The Zn concentration in nails was not affected by BA and BD supplementation but was decreased by Bah supplementation. Boron supplementation did not significantly affect the concentrations of Cu, Fe, Mo, K, and S in nails. No meaningful significant correlations were found between nail mineral elements and tibia and femur mineral elements found previously. Nails can be an indicator of the response to boron supplementation but are not useful to indicate changes in mineral elements in bone in response to B supplementation.

Bone fragility during the COVID-19 pandemic: the role of macro- and micronutrients

Bone fragility is the susceptibility to fracture due to poor bone strength. This condition is usually associated with aging, comorbidities, disability, poor quality of life, and increased mortality. International guidelines for the management of patients with bone fragility include a nutritional approach, mainly aiming at optimal protein, calcium, and vitamin D intakes. Several biomechanical features of the skeleton, such as bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular and cortical microarchitecture, seem to be positively influenced by micro- and macronutrient intake. Patients with major fragility fractures are usually poor consumers of dairy products, fruit, and vegetables as well as of nutrients modulating gut microbiota. The COVID-19 pandemic has further aggravated the health status of patients with skeletal fragility, also in terms of unhealthy dietary patterns that might adversely affect bone health. In this narrative review, we discuss the role of macro- and micronutrients in patients with bone fragility during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Zebrafish as a Model to Unveil the Pro-Osteogenic Effects of Boron-Vitamin D3 Synergism

The micronutrient boron (B) plays a key role during the ossification process as suggested by various in vitro and in vivo studies. To deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanism involved in the osteogenicity of B and its possible interaction with vitamin D3 (VD), wild-type AB zebrafish (Danio rerio) were used for morphometric analysis and transcriptomic analysis in addition to taking advantage of the availability of specific zebrafish osteoblast reporter lines. First, osteoactive concentrations of B, VD, and their combinations were established by morphometric analysis of the opercular bone in alizarin red-stained zebrafish larvae exposed to two selected concentrations of B (10 and 100 ng/ml), one concentration of VD (10 pg/ml), and their respective combinations. Bone formation, as measured by opercular bone growth, was significantly increased in the two combination treatments than VD alone. Subsequently, a transcriptomic approach was adopted to unveil the molecular key regulators involved in the synergy. Clustering of differentially expressed genes revealed enrichment toward bone and skeletal functions in the groups co-treated with B and VD. Downstream analysis confirmed mitogen-activated protein kinase as the most regulated pathway by the synergy groups in addition to transforming growth factor-β signaling, focal adhesion, and calcium signaling. The best-performing synergistic treatment, B at 10 ng/ml and VD at 10 pg/ml, was applied to two zebrafish transgenic lines, Tg(sp7:mCherry) and Tg(bglap:EGFP), at multiple time points to further explore the results of the transcriptomic analysis. The synergistic treatment with B and VD induced enrichment of intermediate (sp7+) osteoblast at 6 and 9 days post fertilization (dpf) and of mature (bglap +) osteoblasts at 15 dpf. The results obtained validate the role of B in VD-dependent control over bone mineralization and can help to widen the spectrum of therapeutic approaches to alleviate pathological conditions caused by VD deficiency by using low concentrations of B as a nutritional additive.

Borate and boric acid supplementation of drinking water alters teeth and bone mineral density and composition differently in rabbits fed a high protein and energy diet

The reported beneficial effects of boron on mineralized tissues in animals and humans vary. Thus, a study was performed to assess whether the variability was the result of different forms of boron supplementation, method of supplementation, and increased adiposity of the rabbit experimental model. Thirty-one female New Zealand White rabbits, (aged 8 months, 2-2.5 kg weight) were fed a grain-based high energy diet containing 11.76 MJ/kg (2850 kcal/kg) and 3.88 mg boron/kg. The rabbits were randomly divided into four treatment groups: Control group was not supplemented with boron (n:7; C), and three groups supplemented with 30 mg boron/L in drinking water in the forms of borax decahydrate (Na2O4B7 10H2O, n:10; BD), borax anhydrous (Na2O4B7, n:7; Bah) or boric acid (H2BO3, n:7; BA). Cone beam micro computed tomographic (micro-CT), histological and elemental analysis was used to evaluate the bones/teeth. Results of the experiments demonstrated that boron supplementation had beneficial effects on mineralized tissue but varied with the type of treatment. Mineral density of the femur was increased by the Bah and BA treatments (p < 0.001), but only BA increased mineral density in the tibia (p = 0.015). In incisor teeth, mineral density of dentin was increased by all boron treatments (p < 0.001), and mineral density of enamel was increased by the BD and Bah treatments. Mineral analysis found that all boron treatments increased the boron concentration in tibia and femur. In the tibia, both the BD and Bah treatments decreased the iron concentration, and the BD treatment decreased the magnesium concentration. Sodium and zinc concentrations in the tibia were decreased by the Bah and BA treatments. The boron treatments did not significantly affect the calcium, copper, molybdenum, potassium phosphorus, and sulfur concentrations. The findings show that boron supplementation can have beneficial effects on mineralized tissues in an animal model with increased adiposity, which is a model of increased inflammatory stress. However, this effect varies with the form of boron supplemented, the method of supplementation, and the mineralized tissue examined.

Local Delivery of Therapeutic Boron for Bone Healing Enhancement

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate if local delivery of boron can accelerate bone healing and examine if the bioactive salt impacts the osteogenic response of bone-derived osteoclasts and osteoblasts by the regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.

METHODS

Bilateral femoral cortical defects were created in 32 skeletally mature C57 mice. On the experimental side, boric acid (8 mg/kg concentration) was injected locally, whereas on the control side, saline was used. Mice were euthanized at 7, 14, and 28 days. MicroCT was used to quantify bone regeneration at the defect. Histological staining for alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase was used to quantify osteoblast and osteoclast activity, respectively. Immunohistochemical antibodies, β-catenin, and CD34 were used to quantify active β-catenin levels and angiogenesis, respectively.

RESULTS

The boron group exhibited higher bone volume and trabecular thickness at 28 days on microCT. Both alkaline phosphatase activity and β-catenin activity was significantly higher in the boron group at 7 days. In addition, CD34 staining revealed increased angiogenesis at 14 days in boron-treated groups. We found boron to have no association with osteoclast activity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that local delivery of boron is associated with an increase in osteoblast activity at early phases of healing. The corresponding increase in β-catenin likely supports that boron increases osteoblast activity by the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Increased angiogenesis at 14 days could be a separate mechanism of increasing bone formation that is independent of Wnt/β-catenin activation.

Pivotal role of boron supplementation on bone health: A narrative review

BACKGROUND

Boron is a trace element that plays an important role in numerous biological functions, including calcium metabolism, growth and maintenance of bone tissue. However, there are still no precise indications regarding a possible role of boron supplementation, and its amount of supplementation, to maintain bone health. So the aim of this narrative review was to consider the state of the art on the effectiveness of boron supplementation (alone or with other micronutrients) on growth and maintenance of bone in humans through control of calcium, vitamin D and sex steroid hormone metabolism in order to suggest a daily dosage of boron supplementation.

MAIN FINDINGS

This review included 11 eligible studies: 7 regarding the supplementation with boron alone and 4 regarding supplementation with boron and other nutrients. Despite the number of studies considered being low, the number of subjects studied is high (594) and the results are interesting.

CONCLUSIONS

The studies considered in this narrative review have evaluated the positive effectiveness on bone, in humans, through control of calcium, vitamin D and sex steroid hormone metabolism, considering a dietary supplementation of 3 mg/day of boron (alone or with other nutrients); this supplementation is demonstrably useful to support bone health (in order to prevent and maintain adequate bone mineral density), also considering the daily dose of 3 mg is much lower than the Upper Level indicated by EFSA in the daily dose of 10 mg.

Intramedullary implants coated with cubic boron nitride enhance bone fracture healing in a rat model

BACKGROUND

Boron nitride is a biocompatible and an osteo-inductive material for orthopedic applications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two different allotrope boron nitride coated implants, cubic boron nitride and hexagonal boron nitride, on fracture healing.

METHODS

In this experimental study, a total of 24 rats were divided into three groups. Group A was the control group with Kirschner wire without coating, while the wires were coated dominantly by cubic boron nitride in Group B and hexagonal boron nitride in Group C. Then a mid-third femoral fracture was created. The fracture healing was examined in terms of new bone formation with micro-CT analysis and histopathological examination, quantitative measurement of bone turnover metabolites and scintigraphic examination of osteoblastic activity on 28th day post fracture.

RESULTS

Micro-CT measurement results revealed a statistically significant increase in bone volume/tissue volume ratio and bone surface values in group B compared to group A. Cortex diameter and osteoblast counts were statistically higher in group B compared to group A. Inflammatory response was increased in group C compared to groups A and B. Biochemical test results showed significantly increased alkaline phosphatase levels and decreased osteocalcin levels in group B compared to group A. The increase in serum phosphorus and decrease in serum calcium levels was statistically significant in group C compared to Group A.

CONCLUSION

Both types of boron nitride coating had superior fracture healing features compared to control group. Therefore, c-BN coating can accelerate the fracture healing and could lead to shorten of union time.

2-Aminoethyldiphenyl Borinate: A Multitarget Compound with Potential as a Drug Precursor

BACKGROUND

Boron is considered a trace element that induces various effects in systems of the human body. However, each boron-containing compound exerts different effects.

OBJECTIVE

To review the effects of 2-Aminoethyldiphenyl borinate (2-APB), an organoboron compound, on the human body, but also, its effects in animal models of human disease.

METHODS

In this review, the information to showcase the expansion of these reported effects through interactions with several ion channels and other receptors has been reported. These effects are relevant in the biomedical and chemical fields due to the application of the reported data in developing therapeutic tools to modulate the functions of the immune, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and nervous systems.

RESULTS

Accordingly, 2-APB acts as a modulator of adaptive and innate immunity, including the production of cytokines and the migration of leukocytes. Additionally, reports show that 2-APB exerts effects on neurons, smooth muscle cells and cardiomyocytes, and it provides a cytoprotective effect by the modulation and attenuation of reactive oxygen species.

CONCLUSION

The molecular pharmacology of 2-APB supports both its potential to act as a drug and the desirable inclusion of its moieties in new drug development. Research evaluating its efficacy in treating pain and specific maladies, such as immune, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and neurodegenerative disorders, is scarce but interesting.

The propolis and boric acid can be highly suitable, alone/or as a combinatory approach on ovary ischemia-reperfusion injury

PURPOSE

Ovarian ischemia-reperfusion (IR) damage continues to be a serious infertility problem. The oxidative stress plays central role in the development of IR injuries. Activation of antioxidants decreases IR injuries; however, the efficacy of antioxidant agents remains controversial. Unfortunately, there has been no evidence for medicinal use of boric acid (BA) and propolis (Prop) on ovarian IR injury on rats so far. This study will provide to reveal the potential applications of the Prop and BA in ovarian IR therapy.

METHODS

The Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into five groups: I-control, II-IR, 3 h of ischemia and 3 h of reperfusion, III and IV-a signal dose of oral BA (7 mg/kg) and Prop (100 mg/kg) alone 1 h before induction of IR, V-Prop and BA together 1 h before induction of IR. SOD (superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase), GSH (glutathione), MPO (myeloperoxidase), MDA (malondialdehyde), and IL-6 (interleukin-6) levels were quantified by ELISA and the TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α), 8-OHdG (8-hydroxylo-2'-deoxyguanosin) and Caspase-3 expressions were performed by immunohistochemical analyses.

RESULTS

BA and Prop pretreatment significantly reduced MPO, MDA, and IL-6 levels and pathologic score in IR rats, with no effects in control group. These agents used in therapy also decreased TNF-α, 8-OHdG and Caspase-3 protein expressions increased by IR. Furthermore, BA and Prop combination showed significant ameliorative effects on ovary injury caused by IR through acting as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic agent.

CONCLUSION

BA and Prop alone and especially in combination could be developed as therapeutic agents against ovary IR injury.

The Impact of Trace Minerals on Bone Metabolism

Bone is a metabolically active tissue that responds to alterations in dietary intake and nutritional status. It is ~ 35% protein, mostly collagen which provides an organic scaffolding for bone mineral. The mineral is the remaining ~ 65% of bone tissue and composed mostly of calcium and phosphate in a form that is structurally similar to mineral within the apatite group. The skeletal tissue is constantly undergoing turnover through resorption by osteoclasts coupled with formation by osteoblasts. In this regard, the overall bone balance is determined by the relative contribution of each of these processes. In addition to macro minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium which have well-known roles in bone health, trace elements such as boron, iron, zinc, copper, and selenium also impact bone metabolism. Effects of trace elements on skeletal metabolism and tissue properties may be indirect through regulation of macro mineral metabolism, or direct by affecting osteoblast or osteoclast proliferation or activity, or finally through incorporation into the bone mineral matrix. This review focuses on the skeletal impact of the following trace elements: boron, iron, zinc, copper, and selenium, and overviews the state of the evidence for each of these minerals.

Effects of Nutritional Deficiency of Boron on the Bones of the Appendicular Skeleton of Mice

Scientific evidence has shown the nutritional importance of boron (B) in the remodeling and repair of cancellous bone tissue. However, the effects of the nutritional deficiency of B on the cortical bone tissue of the appendicular skeleton have not yet been described. Thus, a study was performed to histomorphometrically evaluate the density of osteocyte lacunae of cortical bone of mouse femora under conditions of nutritional deficiency of B and to analyze the effects of the deficiency on the biomechanical properties of mouse tibiae. Weaning, 21-day-old male Swiss mice were assigned to the following two groups: controls (B+; n = 10) and experimental (B-; n = 10). Control mice were fed a basal diet containing 3 mg B/kg, whereas experimental mice were fed a B-deficient diet containing 0.07 mg B/kg for 9 weeks. The histological and histomorphometric evaluations of the mice fed a B-deficient diet showed a decrease in the density of osteocyte lacunae in the femoral cortical bone tissue and the evaluation of biomechanical properties showed lower bone rigidity in the tibia.

Biomonitoring of metals and trace elements in urine of central Ethiopian populations

Biomonitoring of chemical concentrations in humans is important for detecting, monitoring, and addressing a wide range of health threats. However, it is virtually absent across many African nations, including Ethiopia. This study aims to determine urinary concentrations for metals and trace elements in populations living in the central Ethiopian Rift Valley. The region is unindustralized, rural, and characterized by unique geologic rifting and volcanic activities that have produced vast pyroclastic materials, forming its aquifer and fertile agricultural soils. Millions of people in the region rely on wells for drinking water and are engaged in cereal-based subsistence agriculture. We enrolled a total of 386 residents aged 10-50 years old (201 females and 185 males). The levels of 23 elements except F^─ were quantified in water and urine samples by ICP-MS. Mean concentrations of B, F^─, Ca, and Mg were measured in mg/L levels, while concentrations of Mo, Zn, Sr, Rb, and Li ranged between 100 and 700 μg/L. Mean concentrations between 5 and 15 μg/L were found for Ni, Cu, and Mn, while Ag, Be, Cd, Co, Pb, Sb, Th, TI, and U were all below 5 μg/L. Arsenic and Al had mean concentrations between 30 and 50 μg/L. Mean urinary concentrations of Ca, Cu, Mg, Pb, Sr, and Zn were significantly higher in males than females, whereas Co and Mn were higher in females. Finally, younger individuals (10-30 years) had significantly higher mean concentrations of B, Cd, Co, Mg, Mo, and Pb than those between 31 and 50 years, whereas only Ca was higher in the older age group. The concentration ranges of B, Mo, Mn, TI, Li, Zn, and in particular F^─ (0.44-44.6 mg/L) and As (2.2-164 μg/L) in urine were higher than the reference ranges reported in healthy unexposed North American and European populations, while those for the remaining 16 elements were comparable to published reference ranges from such settings. The established concentration ranges are important to monitor future changes in exposure, and risk factors for disease, that might stem from the economic growth and industrialization that is currently underway in the region.

Effects of boron-containing compounds on cardiovascular disease risk factors - A review

Boron is considered to be a biological trace element but there is substantial and growing support for it to be classified as an essential nutrient for animals and humans, depending on its speciation. Boron-containing compounds have been reported to play an important role in biological systems. Although the exact biochemical functions of boron-containing compounds have not yet been fully elucidated, previous studies suggest an active involvement of these molecules in the mediation of inflammation and oxidative stress. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are known to amplify the effects of the main cardiovascular risk factors: smoking, diet, obesity, arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes (as modifiable risk factors), and hyperhomocysteinemia and age (as independent risk factors). However, the role of boron-containing compounds in cardiovascular systems and disease prevention has yet to be established. This paper is a review of boron-containing compounds' existence in nature and their possible functions in living organisms, with a special focus on certain cardiovascular risk factors that may be diminished by intake of these compounds, leading to a reduction of cardiovascular morbidity and/or mortality.

The Physiological Role of Boron on Health

Boron is an essential mineral that plays an important role in several biological processes. Boron is required for growth of plants, animals, and humans. There are increasing evidences of this nutrient showing a variety of pleiotropic effects, ranging from anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects to the modulation of different body systems. In the past few years, the trials showed disease-related polymorphisms of boron in different species, which has drawn attention of scientists to the significance of boron to health. Low boron profile has been related with poor immune function, increased risk of mortality, osteoporosis, and cognitive deterioration. High boron status revealed injury to cell and toxicity in different animals and humans. Some studies have shown some benefits of higher boron status, but findings have been generally mixed, which perhaps accentuates the fact that dietary intake will benefit only if supplemental amount is appropriate. The health benefits of boron are numerous in animals and humans; for instance, it affects the growth at safe intake. Central nervous system shows improvement and immune organs exhibit enhanced immunity with boron supplementation. Hepatic metabolism also shows positive changes in response to dietary boron intake. Furthermore, animals and human fed diets supplemented with boron reveal improved bone density and other benefits including embryonic development, wound healing, and cancer therapy. It has also been reported that boron affects the metabolism of several enzymes and minerals. In the background of these health benefits, low or high boron status is giving cause for concern. Additionally, researches are needed to further elucidate the mechanisms of boron effects, and determine the requirements in different species.

The effects of various levels of boron supplementation on live weight, plasma lipid peroxidation, several biochemical and tissue antioxidant parameters of male mice**: Effects of boron on performance, antioxidant and some metabolits of mice

In this study, live weight, live weight gain, plasma GPx, GR, LDH, ALT activities, triglyceride, total protein, albumin and LPO levels, also liver and brain SOD and GPx activities were investigated after administration of boron (0.10, 0.20 and 0.30 mg/day) into male mice with drinking water for 60 days. Blood albumin and triglyceride levels were not affected with boron (p > 0.05) where triglyceride levels, with increasing amounts of boron, displayed a slight decrease within the normal ranges. From the antioxidant-oxidant balance parameters, LPO and GR levels were not affected from boron, where GPx activity was increased significantly (p < 0.001) comparing the groups of boron and control. LDH and ALT activities were affected significantly (p < 0.001) with decreased ALT and increased LDH levels with increasing amounts of boron. In regards of liver and brain GPx and SOD activities, significant increases were determined. Liver GPx and SOD activities were increased within the groups with the increasing amount of boron, where in brain, SOD (p < 0.05) was affected significantly but GPx (p > 0.05) displayed a gradual insignificant increase. As regards live weight gain, a gradual increase was determined during experimental period, but only the 45th day, the increase was statistically significant (p < 0.05). It is suggested that, new studies on the effects of different doses and compounds of boron in laboratory animals in regards of antioxidant and metabolic effects may be helpful for the understanding of the subject.

Proceedings of the 2017 Santa Fe Bone Symposium: Insights and Emerging Concepts in the Management of Osteoporosis

The 18th Annual Santa Fe Bone Symposium was held on August 4-5, 2017, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA. The symposium convenes health-care providers and clinical researchers to present and discuss clinical applications of recent advances in research of skeletal diseases. The program includes lectures, oral presentations by endocrinology fellows, case-based panel discussions, and breakout sessions on topics of interest, with emphasis on participation and interaction of all participants. Topics included the evaluation and treatment of adult survivors with pediatric bone diseases, risk assessment and management of atypical femur fractures, nonpharmacologic strategies in the care of osteoporosis, and skeletal effects of parathyroid hormone with opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Management of skeletal complications of rheumatic diseases was discussed. Insights into sequential and combined use of antiresorptive agents were presented. Individualization of patient treatment decisions when clinical practice guidelines may not be applicable was covered. Challenges and opportunities with osteoporosis drug development were discussed. There was an update on progress of Bone Health TeleECHO (Bone Health Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes), a teleconferencing strategy for sharing knowledge and expanding capacity to deliver best-practice skeletal health care.

Activation of the EIF2α/ATF4 and ATF6 Pathways in DU-145 Cells by Boric Acid at the Concentration Reported in Men at the US Mean Boron Intake

Fruits, nuts, legumes, and vegetables are rich sources of boron (B), an essential plant nutrient with chemopreventive properties. Blood boric acid (BA) levels reflect recent B intake, and men at the US mean intake have a reported non-fasting level of 10 μM. Treatment of DU-145 prostate cancer cells with physiological concentrations of BA inhibits cell proliferation without causing apoptosis and activates eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2α). EIF2α induces cell differentiation and protects cells by redirecting gene expression to manage endoplasmic reticulum stress. Our objective was to determine the temporal expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-activated genes in DU-145 prostate cells treated with 10 μM BA. Immunoblots showed post-treatment increases in eIF2α protein at 30 min and ATF4 and ATF6 proteins at 1 h and 30 min, respectively. The increase in ATF4 was accompanied by an increase in the expression of its downstream genes growth arrest and DNA damage-induced protein 34 (GADD34) and homocysteine-induced ER protein (Herp), but a decrease in GADD153/CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), a pro-apoptotic gene. The increase in ATF6 was accompanied by an increase in expression of its downstream genes GRP78/BiP, calreticulin, Grp94, and EDEM. BA did not activate IRE1 or induce cleavage of XBP1 mRNA, a target of IRE1. Low boron status has been associated with increased cancer risk, low bone mineralization, and retinal degeneration. ATF4 and BiP/GRP78 function in osteogenesis and bone remodeling, calreticulin is required for tumor suppressor p53 function and mineralization of teeth, and BiP/GRP78 and EDEM prevent the aggregation of misfolded opsins which leads to retinal degeneration. The identification of BA-activated genes that regulate its phenotypic effects provides a molecular underpinning for boron nutrition and biology.

Trace elements have beneficial, as well as detrimental effects on bone homeostasis

The protective role of nutrition factors such as calcium, vitamin D and vitamin K for the integrity of the skeleton is well understood. In addition, integrity of the skeleton is positively influenced by certain trace elements (e.g. zinc, copper, manganese, magnesium, iron, selenium, boron and fluoride) and negatively by others (lead, cadmium, cobalt). Deficiency or excess of these elements influence bone mass and bone quality in adulthood as well as in childhood and adolescence. However, some protective elements may become toxic under certain conditions, depending on dosage (serum concentration), duration of treatment and interactions among individual elements. We review the beneficial and toxic effects of key elements on bone homeostasis.

Microelements for bone boost: the last but not the least

Osteoporosis is a major public health problem affects many millions of people around the world. It is a metabolic bone disease characterized by loss of bone mass and strength, resulting in increased risk of fractures. Several lifestyle factors are considered to be important determinants of it and nutrition can potentially have a positive impact on bone health, in the development and maintenance of bone mass and in the prevention of osteoporosis. There are potentially numerous nutrients and dietary components that can influence bone health, and these range from the macronutrients to micronutrients. In the last decade, epidemiological studies and clinical trials showed micronutrients can potentially have a positive impact on bone health, preventing bone loss and fractures, decreasing bone resorption and increasing bone formation. Consequently, optimizing micronutrients intake might represent an effective and low-cost preventive measure against osteoporosis.

Boron supplementation improves bone health of non-obese diabetic mice

Diabetes Mellitus is a condition that predisposes a higher risk for the development of osteoporosis. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of boron supplementation on bone microstructure and strength in control and non-obese diabetic mice for 30days. The animals were supplemented with 40μg/0,5ml of boron solution and controls received 0,5ml of distilled water daily. We evaluated the biochemical parameters: total calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and boron; bone analysis: bone computed microtomography, and biomechanical assay with a three point test on the femur. This study consisted of 28 animals divided into four groups: Group water control - Ctrl (n=10), Group boron control - Ctrl±B (n=8), Group diabetic water - Diab (n=5) and Group diabetic boron - Diab±B (n=5). The results showed that cortical bone volume and the trabecular bone volume fraction were higher for Diab±B and Ctrl±B compared to the Diab and Ctrl groups (p≤0,05). The trabecular specific bone surface was greater for the Diab±B group, and the trabecular thickness and structure model index had the worst values for the Diab group. The boron serum concentrations were higher for the Diab±B group compared to non-supplemented groups. The magnesium concentration was lower for Diab and Diab±B compared with controls. The biomechanical test on the femur revealed maintenance of parameters of the bone strength in animals Diab±B compared to the Diab group and controls. The results suggest that boron supplementation improves parameters related to bone strength and microstructure of cortical and trabecular bone in diabetic animals and the controls that were supplemented.

Subchronic and genetic safety evaluation of a calcium fructoborate in rats

A branded calcium fructoborate product, a nature-identical calcium salt of bis (fructose) ester of boric acid found in plants and a natural source of boron in the human diet and sold under the trade name FruiteX-B(®) Brand Calcium Fructoborate ("FrxB"), was evaluated in a 90-day dietary toxicity study and two genotoxicity studies. In the 90-day study, four groups of 10 male and 10 female Crl:SD CD(®) IGS rats were fed diets with FrxB admixtures of 0.56, 1.12, and 1.68% dietary concentration, providing mean overall daily intakes of FrxB in male rats of 385.8, 774.9, and 1161.3 mg/kg bw/day, and 392.1, 784.4, and 1171.1 mg/kg bw/day in female rats. There were no mortalities, no clinical or ophthalmologic signs, body weight, body weight gain, food consumption, food efficiency, Functional Observational Battery (FOB), or Motor Activity (MA) findings associated with the administration of FrxB. There were no adverse changes in hematology, coagulation, clinical chemistry, or urinalysis parameters in male or female rats considered the result of test substance administration. At necropsy, there were no macroscopic, histopathological findings, or organ weight changes deemed related to administration of the test substance. Under the conditions of this study, based on the toxicological endpoints evaluated, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for FrxB in the diet was 1161.3 and 1171.1 mg/kg bw/day in male and female rats, respectively. Bacterial mutagenicity studies and a micronucleus test using Chinese hamster V79 cells demonstrated no mutagenic or genotoxic potential of the tested brand of calcium fructoborate.

Protective Effect of Boric Acid on Oxidative DNA Damage In Chinese Hamster Lung Fibroblast V79 Cell Lines

OBJECTIVE

Many studies have been published on the antioxidative effects of boric acid (BA) and sodium borates in in vitro studies. However, the boron (B) concentrations tested in these in vitro studies have not been selected by taking into account the realistic blood B concentrations in humans due to the lack of comprehensive epidemiological studies. The recently published epidemiological studies on B exposure conducted in China and Turkey provided blood B concentrations for both humans in daily life and workers under extreme exposure conditions in occupational setting. The results of these studies have made it possible to test antioxidative effects of BA in in vitro studies within the concentra- tion range relevant to humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective ef- fects of BA against oxidative DNA damage in V79 (Chinese hamster lung fibroblast) cells. The concentrations of BA tested for its protective effect was selected by taking the blood B concentrations into account reported in previously published epidemiological studies. Therefore, the concentrations of BA tested in this study represent the exposure levels for humans in both daily life and occupational settings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, comet assay and neutral red uptake (NRU) assay methods were used to determinacy to toxicity and genotoxicity of BA and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).

RESULTS

The results of the NRU assay showed that BA was not cytotoxic within the tested concentrations (3, 10, 30, 100 and 200 µM). These non-cytotoxic concentrations were used for comet assay. BA pre-treatment significantly reduced (P<0.05, one-way ANOVA) the DNA damaging capacity of H2O2 at each tested BA concentrations in V79 cells.

CONCLUSION

Consequently, pre-incubation of V79 cells with BA has significantly reduced the H2O2-induced oxidative DNA damage in V79 cells. The protective effect of BA against oxidative DNA damage in V79 cells at 5, 10, 50, 100 and 200 μM (54, 108, 540, 1080, and 2161 ng/ml B equivalents) concentrations was proved in this in vitro study.

Silicon and boron differ in their localization and loading in bone

Silicon and boron share many similarities, both chemically and biochemically, including having similar effects on bone, although their mechanisms of action are not known. Here we compared the loading of silicon and boron into bone, their localization and how they are influenced by age (growth & development), to obtain further clues as to the biological effects of these elements and, especially, to see if they behave the same or not. Bone samples were obtained from two different studies where female Sprague Dawley rats had been maintained on a normal maintenance diet for up to 43 weeks. Total bone elemental levels were determined by ICP-OES following microwave assisted acid digestion. Silicon and boron levels in the decalcified bones (i.e. the collagen fraction) were also investigated. Silicon and boron showed marked differences in loading and in their localization in bone. Highest silicon and lowest boron concentrations were found in the under-mineralized bone of younger rats and lowest silicon and highest boron concentrations were found in the fully mineralized bone of the adult rat. Overall, however total bone silicon content increased with age, as did boron content, the latter mirroring the increase in calcium (mineral) content of bone. However, whereas silicon showed equal distribution in the collagen and mineral fractions of bone, boron was exclusively localized in the mineral fraction. These findings confirm the reported association between silicon and collagen, especially at the early stages of bone mineralization, and show that boron is associated with the bone mineral but not connective tissues. These data suggest that silicon and boron have different biological roles and that one is unlikely, therefore, to substitute for the other, or at least boron would not substitute for Si in the connective tissues. Finally, we noted that silicon levels in the mineral fraction varied greatly between the two studies, suggesting that one or more nutritional factor(s) may influence the loading of Si into the mineral fraction of bone. This and the nature of the interaction between Si and collagen deserve further attention.

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Boron and silicon show marked differences in bone loading.

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Boron is exclusively found in the mineral fraction of bone.

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Silicon is distributed equally in the mineral and collagen fractions.

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Data suggest boron and silicon have different biological effects on bone.

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Silicon loading into bone mineral may be influenced by nutritional factors.

Boric acid induces cytoplasmic stress granule formation, eIF2α phosphorylation, and ATF4 in prostate DU-145 cells

Dietary boron intake is associated with reduced prostate and lung cancer risk and increased bone mass. Boron is absorbed and circulated as boric acid (BA) and at physiological concentrations is a reversible competitive inhibitor of cyclic ADP ribose, the endogenous agonist of the ryanodine receptor calcium (Ca⁺²) channel, and lowers endoplasmic reticulum (ER) [Ca²⁺]. Low ER [Ca²⁺] has been reported to induce ER stress and activate the eIF2α/ATF4 pathway. Here we report that treatment of DU-145 prostate cells with physiological levels of BA induces ER stress with the formation of stress granules and mild activation of eIF2α, GRP78/BiP, and ATF4. Mild activation of eIF2α and its downstream transcription factor, ATF4, enables cells to reconfigure gene expression to manage stress conditions and mild activation of ATF4 is also required for the differentiation of osteoblast cells. Our results using physiological levels of boric acid identify the eIF2α/ATF pathway as a plausible mode of action that underpins the reported health effects of dietary boron.

Update on human health effects of boron

In vitro, animal, and human experiments have shown that boron is a bioactive element in nutritional amounts that beneficially affects bone growth and central nervous system function, alleviates arthritic symptoms, facilitates hormone action and is associated with a reduced risk for some types of cancer. The diverse effects of boron suggest that it influences the formation and/or activity of substances that are involved in numerous biochemical processes. Several findings suggest that this influence is through the formation of boroesters in biomolecules containing cis-hydroxyl groups. These biomolecules include those that contain ribose (e.g., S-adenosylmethionine, diadenosine phosphates, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). In addition, boron may form boroester complexes with phosphoinositides, glycoproteins, and glycolipids that affect cell membrane integrity and function. Both animal and human data indicate that an intake of less than 1.0mg/day inhibits the health benefits of boron. Dietary surveys indicate such an intake is not rare. Thus, increasing boron intake by consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts and pulses should be recognized as a reasonable dietary recommendation to enhance health and well-being.

Dietary protein level and source differentially affect bone metabolism, strength, and intestinal calcium transporter expression during ad libitum and food-restricted conditions in male rats

High-protein (HP) diets may attenuate bone loss during energy restriction. The objective of the current study was to determine whether HP diets suppress bone turnover and improve bone quality in male rats during food restriction and whether dietary protein source affects this relation. Eighty 12-wk-old male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly assigned to consume 1 of 4 study diets under ad libitum (AL) control or restricted conditions [40% food restriction (FR)]: 1) 10% [normal-protein (NP)] milk protein; 2) 32% (HP) milk protein; 3) 10% (NP) soy protein; or 4) 32% (HP) soy protein. After 16 wk, markers of bone turnover, volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD), microarchitecture, strength, and expression of duodenal calcium channels were assessed. FR increased bone turnover and resulted in lower femoral trabecular bone volume (P < 0.05), higher cortical bone surface (P < 0.001), and reduced femur length (P < 0.01), bending moment (P < 0.05), and moment of inertia (P = 0.001) compared with AL. HP intake reduced bone turnover and tended to suppress parathyroid hormone (PTH) (P = 0.06) and increase trabecular vBMD (P < 0.05) compared with NP but did not affect bone strength. Compared with milk, soy suppressed PTH (P < 0.05) and increased cortical vBMD (P < 0.05) and calcium content of the femur (P < 0.01) but did not affect strength variables. During AL conditions, transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 6 was higher for soy than milk (P < 0.05) and HP compared with NP (P < 0.05). These data demonstrate that both HP and soy diets suppress PTH, and HP attenuates bone turnover and increases vBMD regardless of FR, although these differences do not affect bone strength. The effects of HP and soy may be due in part to enhanced intestinal calcium transporter expression.

Trace elements and bone health

The importance of nutrition factors such as calcium, vitamin D and vitamin K for the integrity of the skeleton is well known. Moreover, bone health is positively influenced by certain elements (e.g., zinc, copper, fluorine, manganese, magnesium, iron and boron). Deficiency of these elements slows down the increase of bone mass in childhood and/or in adolescence and accelerates bone loss after menopause or in old age. Deterioration of bone quality increases the risk of fractures. Monitoring of homeostasis of the trace elements together with the measurement of bone density and biochemical markers of bone metabolism should be used to identify and treat patients at risk of non-traumatic fractures. Factors determining the effectivity of supplementation include dose, duration of treatment, serum concentrations, as well as interactions among individual elements. Here, we review the effect of the most important trace elements on the skeleton and evaluate their clinical importance.

Effects of boric acid and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate on necrotizing enterocolitis

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to study the effects of boric acid (BA) and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) on oxidative stress and inflammation in an experimental necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) rat model.

METHODS

Experimental NEC was induced in 40 newborn Sprague-Dawley rats by asphyxia and hypothermia applied in 3 consecutive days. Rats were subdivided into 4 subgroups as NEC, NEC+BA, NEC+2-APB, and controls. BA and 2-APB were applied daily before the procedure. Serum total antioxidant status, superoxide dismutase (SOD), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and erythrocyte glutathione (GSH) levels were measured. Pathological changes for NEC in intestinal architecture were evaluated by a grading system.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with BA and 2-APB resulted in a decrease in NEC incidence. In all of the NEC groups, decreased serum levels of GSH and SOD were measured. Boron limited GSH consumption but had no effect on SOD levels. Total antioxidant status levels were not statistically different among groups. In our experimental NEC model, BA, but not 2-APB, prevented the increase of TNF-α. Pretreatment with BA and 2-APB downregulated the activity levels of IL-6 in NEC.

CONCLUSIONS

In the experimental NEC model, BA and 2-APB partly prevent NEC formation, modulate the oxidative stress parameters, bring a significant decrease in GSH consumption, and enhance the antioxidant defense mechanism, but have no effect on total antioxidant status. BA inhibits the hypoxia and hypothermia-induced increase in both IL-6 and TNF-a, but 2-APB only in IL-6. Boron may be beneficial in preventing NEC.

Investigating the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids in bone development using animal models

Incorporating n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the diet may promote the development of a healthy skeleton and thereby reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis in later life. Studies using developing animal models suggest lowering dietary n-6 PUFA and increasing n-3 PUFA intakes, especially long chain n-3 PUFA, may be beneficial for achieving higher bone mineral content, density and stronger bones. To date, the evidence regarding the effects of α-linolenic acid (ALA) remain equivocal, in contrast to evidence from the longer chain products, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This review reports the results of investigations into n-3 PUFA supplementation on bone fatty acid composition, strength and mineral content in developing animal models as well as the mechanistic relationships of PUFA and bone, and identifies critical areas for future research. Overall, this review supports a probable role for essential (ALA) and long chain (EPA and DHA) n-3 PUFA for bone health. Understanding the role of PUFA in optimizing bone health may lead to dietary strategies that promote bone development and maintenance of a healthy skeleton.

Boron enhances strength and alters mineral composition of bone in rabbits fed a high energy diet

An experiment was performed to determine whether boron had a beneficial effect on bone strength and composition in rabbits with apparent adiposity induced by a high energy diet. Sixty female New Zealand rabbits, aged 8 months, were randomly divided into five groups with the following treatments for seven months: control 1, fed alfalfa hay only (5.91 MJ/kg); control 2, high energy diet (11.76 MJ and 3.88 mg boron/kg); B10, high energy diet+10 mg/kg body weight boron gavage/96 h; B30, high energy diet+30 mg/kg body weight boron gavage/96 h; B50, high energy diet+50mg/kg body weight boron gavage/96 h. Bone boron concentrations were lowest in rabbits fed the high energy diet without boron supplementation, which suggested an inferior boron status. Femur maximum breaking force was highest in the B50 rabbits. Tibia compression strength was highest in B30 and B50 rabbits. All boron treatments significantly increased calcium and magnesium concentrations, and the B30 and B50 treatments increased the phosphorus concentration in tibia of rabbits fed the high energy diet. The B30 treatment significantly increased calcium, phosphorus and magnesium concentrations in femur of rabbits fed the high energy diet. Principal component analysis of the tibia minerals showed that the three boron treatments formed a separate cluster from controls. Discriminant analysis suggested that the concentrations of the minerals in femur could predict boron treatment. The findings indicate boron has beneficial effects on bone strength and mineral composition in rabbits fed a high energy diet.

Dietary boron: progress in establishing essential roles in human physiology

This review summarizes the progress made in establishing essential roles for boron in human physiology and assesses that progress in view of criteria for essentiality of elements. The evidence to date suggests that humans and at least some higher animals may use boron to support normal biological functions. These include roles in calcium metabolism, bone growth and maintenance, insulin metabolism, and completion of the life cycle. The biochemical mechanisms responsible for these effects are poorly understood but the nature of boron biochemistry suggests further characterization of the cell signaling molecules capable of complexing with boron. Such characterization may provide insights into the biochemical function(s) of boron in humans.

Atomic mineral characteristics of Indonesian osteoporosis by high-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Clinical research indicates that negative calcium balance is associated with low bone mass, rapid bone loss, and high fracture rates. However, some studies revealed that not only calcium is involved in bone strengthening as risk factor of fracture osteoporosis. Thus, in this report, the difference of metallic and nonmetallic elements in osteoporosis and normal bones was studied by high-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS). The influence of these elements on bone metabolic processes is also discussed. Inclusion criteria of bone samples consist of postmenopausal woman, trabecular bone fracture, normal and osteoporosis BMD value, and no history of previous disease. The results showed that the concentration of B, Al, S, V, Co, Mo, Te, Ba, La, Ni, As, and Ca/P ratio is higher in osteoporosis than normal. These atomic minerals have negative role to imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation activity. Conversely, concentrations of Na, Mg, P, K, Ca, Cr, Pd, Ag, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Rb, Sr, Pb, and Se are lower in osteoporosis than in normal bones. Among these atoms, known to have important roles in bone structure, we found involvement of atomic mineral and calcium which are considerable to contribute to osteoporotic phenomena.

Effect of additional boron on tibias of African ostrich chicks

The aim of the present study was to find out the effects of boron on ostrich chicks fed with 0 mg/l, 100 mg/l, 200 mg/l, and 400 mg/l of additional boron in water. We measured bone mineral density (BMD), perimeter, length, weight, ash content of ostrich tibias, thickness of cortical bone, and diameter of the marrow cavity. We also analyzed the apoptosis status of paraffin sections using a TUNEL kit and examined serum levels of leptin and estradiol (E(2)). The results were dramatic. Compared with the control group, group C had a very high BMD. The serum levels of leptin in groups C and D were significantly higher than control values, and the levels of E(2) fluctuated. The perimeter, length, weight, and ash content of ostrich tibias all increased significantly with increasing dosage of boron. The cross-section analysis revealed that the bone marrow cavity shifted closer to one side in group D, which was observed on a macro-scale. This shift may be related to the toxicity of excessive boron, as indicated by the apoptosis status. According to the present data, additional boron was helpful for ostrich chick bone development, and 200 mg/l supplement boron in the drinking water appeared to be the most beneficial.

Growing Evidence for Human Health Benefits of Boron

Growing evidence from a variety of experimental models shows that boron is a bioactive and beneficial (perhaps essential) element for humans. Reported beneficial actions of boron include arthritis alleviation or risk reduction, bone growth and maintenance, central nervous system function, cancer risk reduction, hormone facilitation, and immune response, inflammation, and oxidative stress modulation. The diverse effects of boron indicate that it influences the formation and/or activity of an entity that is involved in many biochemical processes. Formation of boroesters with the ribose moiety of compounds involved in numerous reactions, such as S-adenosylmethionine and oxidized nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) might be the reason for boron bioactivity. Both animal and human data suggest that boron intakes should be >1.0 mg/d. Many people consume less than this amount. Thus, a low boron intake should be considered a health concern, which can be prevented by diets rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and pulses.

Boron regulates mineralized tissue-associated proteins in osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1)

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of boron (B) on the cell-survival, proliferation, mineralization and mRNA expression of mineralized tissue-associated proteins. Additionally, determination of the effects of B on the BMP-4, -6 and -7 protein levels of pre-osteoblastic cells (MC3T3-E1) was also intended. The effects of B (pH 7.0) concentrations (0, 0.1, 1, 10, 100, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 and 10,000 ng/ml) on the survival of the cells were evaluated at 24 and 96 hrs with MTT assay. To evaluate the proliferation in long term, MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with different concentrations of B (0, 0.1, 1, 10, 100 and 1000 ng/ml) and were counted on days 2, 5, and 14. While in short term, decreased cell survival rate was observed at 1000 ng/ml and above, at long term no statistically significant difference was detected in different B concentrations applied. Slight decreases at the proliferation of the B-treated groups were determined on days 5 and 14 but one-way analysis of variance revealed that the difference was statistically insignificant. In mineralization assay, increased mineralized nodules were apparently observed in B treatment (1 and 10 ng/ml concentrations) groups. Based on quantitative RT-PCR results, remarkable regulation in favor of osteoblastic function for Collagen type I (COL I), Osteopontin (OPN), Bone Sialoprotein (BSP), Osteocalcin (OCN) and RunX2 mRNA expressions were observed in B treatment groups in comparison with untreated control groups. Increased BMP-4, -6 and -7 protein levels were detected at 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 ng/ml B concentrations. Results of the study suggest that at the molecular level B displays important roles on bone metabolism and may find novel usages at the regenerative medicine.