| Objective To explore the effect of berberine on bone mineral density and bone mass in type 2 diabetic rats and explore the possible mechanism. Methods 60 rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: control group (CG) (n=15), diabetic group (DG) (n=15), diabetic group + 50 mg/kg? day berberine treatment (BRB-50) (n=15), and diabetes group+100 mg/kg?day berberine (BRB-100) (n=15). After 12 weeks of treatment with berberine, the femurs of all rats were evaluated by Western blotting, Micro-CT, histology and other blood biochemical indexes. Results The bone mineral density (BMD), bone microstructure and bone biomechanical indexes of rats in DG group were significantly lower than those in CG group (P<0.05). The oxidation index (8-OHdG) increased, while the antioxidant activity indexes SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and GST decreased significantly. After berberine treatment, the bone mineral density, bone microstructure and antioxidant activity were significantly improved. The results of WB showed that Runx2 and Osterix in DG group decreased significantly, while PPAR γ increased significantly, Runx2 and Osterix increased, while PPAR γ level decreased after berberine treatment. Conclusions This study shows that berberine can reduce bone mass loss in type 2 diabetic rats by lower oxidative stress and improving osteogenic activity. |