Mg/Sn/F-CaP Supplement Effect on Mineral-deficient Rat: Radiography, SEM, MicroCT Analyses

Osteoporosis is a debilitating disease characterized by low bone mass (bone loss) and structure deterioration leading to susceptibility to bone fracture. The main goal of this study is to develop calcium phosphate-based materials incorporating magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn) and fluoride (F) for osteoporosis therapy and fracture repair. These materials (Mg/Zn/F-CaP) are affordable and not expected to have side effects associated with current pharmaceutical interventions. Preliminary studies demonstrated increase in femur cortical bone of mineral deficient rats receiving Mg/Zn/F-CaP supplements [AADR 2006a]. Objective: The aim of this study ws to determine the effect of Mg/Zn/F-CaP supplements on the bones (femur, vertebra, alveolar) of rats on mineral deficient (MD)diets. Methods: Selected and characterized Mg/Zn/F-CaP preparations shown to exhibit favorable cell response in vitro [AADR 2006b]were added to MD diet given to Sprague Dawley rats (females, 160 g ave. weight, 6 rats/group)for 12 weeks. Supplement added was 0.6 wt% of total diet. After sacrifice, bones were collected, cleaned and characterized using Faxitron, SEM and MicroCT. Results: Cortical and trabecular bones of rats on MD diet were thinner compared to those of control (on normal diets). Bones from rats on MD + supplements (Mg-CaP, Zn-CaP, F-CaP, Mg/Zn/F-CaP) showed thicker cortical and trabecular bones with those on MD + Mg/Zn/F-CaP diets showing the most significant improvement. Conclusion: Mg/Zn/F-CaP preparations are promising supplements to mineral deficient diets and may be considered for osteoporosis therapy or management. [Supported by NIH/NIBIB research grant no. RO1 EB003070].