Conclusions
EA-HA can increase osteogenesis in bone defects by increasing the number of osteoblasts and the expression of OPG and OCN.
Methods
Thirty Wistar rats were assessed with bone defects created in the left femur. The defects were filled with EA-HA and then sutured. Control groups were filled with polyethylene glycol (PEG) or HA. Each group was sacrificed either 7 or 14 days after treatment.
Objective
Ellagic acid (EA), a phenolic antioxidant, has benefits in bone health and wound healing. The combination of EA and hydroxyapatite (HA) (EA-HA) is expected to increase osteogenesis. The aim of this study was to analyze osteogenesis after application of EA-HA according to the number of osteoblasts and osteoclasts in the bone and the expression of the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and osteocalcin (OCN) protein. Materials and
Results
The defects filled with EA-HA exhibited the highest number of osteoblasts and the greatest expression of OPG and OCN at both day 7 and day 14 (p = 0.000). Conversely, treatment with EA-HA resulted in lower numbers of osteoclasts and reduced RANKL staining at both time points (p = 0.000). Conclusions: EA-HA can increase osteogenesis in bone defects by increasing the number of osteoblasts and the expression of OPG and OCN.