Inhibitory effect of Herba Epimedii extract on bone turn-over of ovariectomized rats

Abstract

Objective To investigate the effect of Herba Epimedii extract on bone turn-over in ovariectomized rats. Methods Three-month old female SD rats were ovariectomized and Sham-operated respectively. One month after ovariectomy (OVX), the rats were given Herba Epimedii extract (110 mg/ kg) and 17β-estrogen (2 mg/kg) by ig for three months continuously. Serum contents of Ca (s-Ca), P (s-P), and ALP as well as urine contents of Ca (u-Ca), P (u-P), and creatinine (Cr) were detected. Urine DPD/Cr was analyzed by ELISA kit. The proximal tibia was processed undecalcified sections of 5 μm for histomorphometric analysis. Results There was no change among all groups in the levels of s-Ca s-P, and u-P. Serum ALP activity significantly increased in OVX rats with metratrophia compared with Sham group, as well as u-Ca and DPD/Cr. OVX group had lower trabecular bone mass with decreased area percentage of trabecular bone mass and increased suturae of trabecular bone mass. Both Herba Epimedii extract and 17β-estrogen treatment could make serum ALP activity inhibit, u-Ca and DPD/Cr reduce, trabecular bone mass increase, and suturae of trabecular bone mass constrict in tibia widen. Hysterauxesis was found in 17β-estrogen group, while no change was observed in Herba Epimedii extract group compared with model group. Conclusion Herba Epimedii extract could inhibit the high rate of bone turn-over induced by OVX in rats, without substantial effects on the uterus.