Abstract
Aim Trigonelline is a potent phytochemical present in fenugreek,
which has strong anti-oxidant and phytoestrogenic activities. This study was
carried out to investigate this estrogenic activity as a possible mechanisms
involved in preventing the symptoms of osteoporosis in dexamethasone induced
osteoporosis in rats.
Materials and Methods Wistar rats were randomly divided into eight
groups, six animals in each group. Osteoporosis was induced using
dexamethasone 0.1mg/kg subcutaneously in rats for three times per
week for 8 consecutive weeks and treatment with drugs up to 12 weeks as per
the treatment schedule described. After 12 weeks, rats were sacrificed;
blood samples were collected from each rat and the clear, non hemolysed
supernatant sera was used for biochemical examinations. Femurs were used for
Bone Mineral Density (BMD), microcomputed tomography (Micro CT), histology
and biochemical examinations.
Results BMD, bone micro structure, serum calcium, phosphorus level
and serum estradiol levels were decreased while serum PTH levels, SAP and
acid phosphatase (ACP) were elevated in dexamethasone treated rats as
compared to control (p<0.01). Dexmethasone treated animals showed
loss of marrow at multifocal area, cartilage and trabeculae and thinning of
trabeculae (bone resorption), zone of cartilage was poorly seen and fat
cells in marrow. Trigonelline showed significant improvement and prevent the
progression of osteoporosis by enhancing the BMD, restoring bone
physiology.
Conclusion Our results confirm the estrogenic activity of
triogonelline, which is responsible for its effects; still, it needs further
evaluation in other animal models to provide a more conclusive view for its
therapeutic usefulness in osteoporosis.
Key words
trogonelline - osteoporosis - dexamethasone - bone mineral density - micro CT
