Effect of nigella sativa on bone mass density (BMD) in albino rats

Abstract

Abstract
Background: Osteoporosis may be diagnosed in postmenopausal women and in men aged 50 years and older if the measurement of bone mineral density in the lumbar spine, total hip or femoral neck is at least 2.5 standard deviations below that of a young control (T score –2.5 or less). Based on current guidelines, a diagnosis of osteoporosis relies on a history of fragility fracture or the result of bone mineral density (BMD) evaluation. Nigella sativa seeds (NS) has been used traditionally for various illnesses. The most abundant and active component of NS is thymoquinone (TQ). However paucity of data is available in this regard especially in animal model mimicking postmenopausal osteoporosis. Materials & Methods: A total 42 female rats were selected and divided in to seven groups of six in each. Pregnant rats excluded, only non-pregnant rats were used (confirmed by the Veterinary Surgeon attached to the Department). Firstly, the rats were immobilized using ether anaesthesia at a minimal dose following which, a freshly prepared suspension of thiopentone sodium i.v. was given through the dorsal tail vein cannulation at a dose of 10mg/kg. The left hind legs of all the rats were immobilized using plaster casts so as to promote the process of osteoporosis. Results: It is evident from measurement of dry bone weight that there is significant bone loss in the ovariectomised rats in comparison to sham rats. Treatment with Nigella sativa extract significantly improved the bone weight, though there is no dose related improvement. There is a significant change in raloxifene treated as well as in combination treated groups in comparison to all the doses of test drug showing the better effectiveness of raloxifene. Conclusion: The histopathological studies as well as radiographic finding of bone showing high osteoblastic activity and minimum osteoclastic activity indicating bone formation, also supports its anti-osteoporotic activity. Based upon the results of the present study in animal model, it is quite justified that this indigenous drug may be tried as an adjunct therapy in the treatment as well as prevention of osteoporosis.

Keywords: Osteoporosis, Nigella sativa (NS), raloxifene, albino rats, bone mineral density (BMD), anti-osteoporotic activity, histopathology, radiological changes