Abstract
Background: There is interest in substances of plant origin that may have health-promoting effects regarding diabetes and its complications, including increased risk of fractures. Diosmin, which exerts, among others, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and some antidiabetic effects, is widely used in the treatment of chronic venous disease. Since diabetic microvascular complications can contribute to bone damage, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of diosmin on the skeletal system of rats with experimental streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes. Methods: The study was conducted on mature male Wistar rats. Diosmin administration (50 and 100 mg/kg/day p.o.) started two weeks after the streptozotocin injection and lasted for four weeks. Serum bone turnover markers, bone mass and mineralization, mechanical properties and histomorphometric parameters were evaluated. Results: Diabetes induced strong disorders of bone metabolism and decreases in cancellous and compact bone strength. The administration of diosmin had no beneficial effect on serum bone turnover markers and bone mass and mineralization in diabetic rats. However, at a lower dose, it improved some bone mechanical properties; no effect of diosmin at a higher dose on bone mechanical parameters was demonstrated. Conclusions: The results of the present study do not support the use of diosmin in order to counteract the skeletal complications of diabetes.