Release date: 2006-10-12
A recent study has uncovered the anti-osteoporotic mechanism of *Ligustrum lucidum*, also known as Chinese privet. Conducted by researchers from Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, the State Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Molecular Pharmacology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the research revealed that *Ligustrum lucidum* improves intestinal sensitivity to active vitamin D and enhances renal calcium reabsorption, thus counteracting calcium imbalance caused by estrogen deficiency. This is believed to be the key mechanism behind its anti-osteoporotic effects.
Zhang Yan, a researcher at Shenyang Pharmaceutical University involved in the study, explained that postmenopausal osteoporosis is often associated with increased calcium loss, leading to an overall negative calcium balance. As the global population ages, this condition is becoming a major health concern. While the FDA has approved several drugs for preventing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, long-term use of these medications can lead to various side effects. In response, many are turning to traditional Chinese medicine for safer and more effective alternatives.
*Ligustrum lucidum* is traditionally used in TCM for nourishing the liver and kidneys, strengthening the waist and knees, and treating symptoms like dizziness, early graying hair, and rheumatic pain. Previous studies have shown it supports endocrine function, but its impact on calcium metabolism and vitamin D-related gene expression in ovariectomized rats had not been thoroughly explored. This experiment aimed to lay the foundation for further development of *Ligustrum lucidum* as a potential treatment for osteoporosis.
During the trial, researchers performed ovariectomies on rats and administered the herb for 14 weeks. They measured serum, urine, and fecal calcium levels using colorimetric methods and analyzed gene expression in the small intestine and kidney via RT-PCR. The results showed a significant increase in calcium loss after ovariectomy, including lower blood calcium and higher urinary and fecal excretion. However, *Ligustrum lucidum* effectively reduced calcium loss and restored normal blood calcium levels.
RT-PCR analysis also revealed that both estradiol and *Ligustrum lucidum* inhibited the expression of vitamin D receptor (VDR) mRNA in the small intestine. While the herb had no effect on certain kidney enzymes, it significantly increased the expression of two calcium-binding proteins, CaBP-9k and CaBP-28k. These findings suggest that *Ligustrum lucidum* may help reduce renal calcium excretion by boosting the expression of these proteins, thereby enhancing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys.
The researchers concluded that *Ligustrum lucidum* plays a vital role in maintaining calcium homeostasis and improving postmenopausal osteoporosis. Its potential as a natural and safe alternative to conventional treatments makes it a promising area for future research. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in human populations.
Source: China Medical News
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