Lycopene effects on serum mineral elements and bone strength in rats

Molecules. 2012 Jun 11;17(6):7093-102. doi: 10.3390/molecules17067093.

Abstract

This study investigated the beneficial effect of lycopene on bone biomarkers in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Female Wistar rats were either sham operated or surgically ovariectomized and then fed with lycopene for 8 weeks. Serum Ca, P, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and bone gla protein (BGP) concentration was significantly higher in the untreated OVX group compared with that of the sham group, whereas serum estrogen levels were lower. Bone mineral density (BMD), BMD/wt, bone mineral content (BMC), BMC/wt values, maximum load, stiffness, energy and maximum stress were significantly lower in the untreated OVX group compared with that of the sham group. Administration of lycopene (20, 30 and 40 mg/kg b.w.) for 8 weeks significantly decreased serum Ca, P, ALP, and IL-6 concentration, and enhanced serum estrogen level, BMD, BMD/wt, BMC, BMC/wt values, maximum load, stiffness, energy and maximum stress in lycopene-treated OVX groups. In conclusion, the consumption of lycopene may have the most protective effect on bone in OVX rats.

MeSH terms

  • Alkaline Phosphatase / blood
  • Animals
  • Antioxidants / administration & dosage
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology*
  • Body Weight / drug effects
  • Bone Density / drug effects
  • Bone and Bones / drug effects*
  • Carotenoids / administration & dosage
  • Carotenoids / pharmacology*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Female
  • Interleukin-6 / blood
  • Lycopene
  • Minerals / blood*
  • Osteocalcin / blood
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Interleukin-6
  • Minerals
  • Osteocalcin
  • Carotenoids
  • Alkaline Phosphatase
  • Lycopene