Abstract:

To consider the potential of Momordica charantia L. saponins in preventing osteoporosis, female SD ovariectomized rats with osteoporosis were used as experimental animals. The rats were divided into 4 groups designated as one model and 3 experimental groups administered Momordica charantia L. saponins at the doses of 65, 130 mg/(kg bw·d) and 260 mg/(kg bw·d) for 12 consecutive weeks. After the administration, blood parameters and bone mineral density (BMD) of rats were measured and pathomorphism of femur and uterus were observed as well. Compared with the osteoporosis model group, serum E2 and Ca2+ levels and bone mineral density (BMD) of the experimental groups exhibited an obvious increase. Wider trabecular bone and smaller medullary cavity were also observed in the experimental groups. However, no difference in body weight, uterus weight and uterus pathomorphism was observed between rats with and without Momordica charantia L. saponins treatments. The above findings demonstrate a preventive effect of Momordica charantia L. saponins on osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats.

Key words: Momordica charantia L. saponins, osteoporosis, rats