Abstract AIM: To observe the effects of Herba Epimedium (HE) extract on bone mineral density (BMD) and microstructure in ovariectomised (OVX) rat. METHODS: A total of 84 female Sprague–Dawley rats of 3-month-old were randomly divided into OVX group (n = 70) and sham group (n = 14). The osteoporotic model was established by ovariectomy. Twelve weeks after ovariectomy, when the osteoporosis (OP) was successfully affirmed by the BMD, the rats in OVX group was randomly divided into OVX group (n = 14), low-dose HE group (n = 14), middle-dose HE group (n = 14), high-dose HE group (n = 14) and positive group (n = 14). The BMD was measured by dual-energy X-ray. The microstructure of the bone was observed by micro computed tomography. RESULTS: Twelve …show more content…
OP has become a major health problem, which is expected to worsen with aging populations worldwide1. During the past three decades, a range of medications has been used for the prevention and treatment of OP, but some of them are entirely satisfactory. For example, bisphosphonates can lead to atypical femoral fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw with long-term use, although it can effectively reduce the loss of bone mass; hormone replacement therapy is recommended only in women who also have menopausal symptoms, and some drugs like Raloxifene can increase the risk of blood clots and strokes. Denosumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody, acts as a new drug for the treatment of OP, has also many side effects include low calcium blood levels, infections, skin and jawbone problems, and pain in the muscles, back, arms and legs2. Therefore, it is always necessary to look for some novel therapies of treatment. Many herbs have been used in the treatment of OP and other bone diseases in China and other East Asian countries for many hundred years. Of all the natural alternatives currently undergoing investigation, Chinese medicines have received the most attention. Herba Epimedii (HE) is an important medicinal plant; it has been applied in various traditional Chinese formulations for thousands of years3. HE has been often …show more content…
Estrogen deficiency can lead to a decline in BMD in both OVX rats and postmenopausal women6–7. The research shows that the treatment with HE effectively prevents the loss of bone mass caused by lack of estrogen8. Our study shows that the bone changes in OVX rats, especially decline in BMD, are similar to those in POP women. HE can significantly improve BMD in OVX rats. Bone microstructure is one of the important factors affecting the quality of bone, which along with bone mass represent bone strength9. In OVX rats, the trabecular bone was obviously thinner and shorter. The parts of the trabecular bone were destroyed or even disappeared. The number of trabecular decreased noticeably and there was a visible osteoclast (OC) reaction. While, treated with HE reduced trabecular bone lesions, especially in the secondary spongy areas and reduced the number of bone resorption pouches and OC. H-HE can also recover the Tb.N, Tb.Th and Tb.Sp just as positive group. CONCLUSION This study has demonstrated that H-HE can effectively increase BMD of the femurs, increased Tb.N and Tb.Th, but reduced Tb.Sp, all of which contribute to the treatment of