| Objective To explore the effect of emodin (DHS) on bone loss in ovariectomized rats and to explore its possible mechanism. Methods In this study, osteoporosis rat model was established with bilateral ovariectomy. Rats were then randomly divided into a sham operation group (Sham), ovary removal group (OVX), and emodin group (DHS), with 10 rats in each group. Rats in DHS group received 90mg / kg ?d of emodin for 12 weeks. After the treatment, micro-CT, HE stained sections, bone metabolism indicators, and Western blotting were used to observe the treatment effect and possible mechanism. Results After 12 weeks of treatment, compared with the OVX group, the results of Micro-CT and HE staining in DHS group showed that the number of trabeculae and bone mineral density were significantly improved. BMD, TV/BV, Tb.N, Tb.Th, and Tb.Sp in DHS group were significantly improved compared with those in OVX group (P<0.05). Compared with the OVX group, BALP level in DHS group increased significantly (P<0.05). The levels of TRACP-5b and β-CTX reduced significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the OVX group, the expression level of OPG in DHS group increased (P<0.05), while the expression levels of RANKL and β2AR decreased (P<0.05). Conclusion Emodin mediates the protection of bone loss in ovariectomized rats by reducing β2AR expression and activating OPG/RANKL signaling pathway. |