In vivo therapeutic effect of Crocus sativus (true saffron) extract on osteoporosis and potential effect on the prevention of mandibular bone loss.

• Grant number: 24/17799-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: January 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Morphology - Histology
• Principal Investigator: Karina Fittipaldi Bombonato Prado
• Grantee: Leticia Luzin
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto (FORP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a chronic and debilitating disease that has posed one of the greatest health challenges in recent decades, primarily affecting premenopausal women and the elderly. The current treatment for this condition is estrogen hormone replacement therapy, which can lead to various side effects, including the development of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. However, an alternative approach to treat osteoporosis could involve the use of strategic nonpharmacological nutritional substances, such as Crocus sativus, composed of safranal and crocetin, commonly known as true saffron, which has significant antioxidant and antiinflammatory potential. In this context, the aim of this study is to analyze in vivo whether Crocus sativus can stimulate bone remodeling and minimize bone tissue loss in rats with osteoporosis. For this purpose, we will use 36 female Wistar Hannover rats divided into four groups: sham, sham + administration of 50 mg/kg Crocus sativus (SHAM/CS), ovariectomized (OVX), and ovariectomized + 50 mg/kg Crocus sativus (OVX/CS). Crocus sativus and water will be administered via gastric tube for three months, three times a week. After this period, the mandibles will be collected to produce histological slides for qualitative and quantitative analysis. The parameters to be evaluated will include qualitative and quantitative analysis of bone remodeling in the mandibular body and alveolar bone crest, with quantification of bone trabeculae and osteocytes. All quantitative data will be subjected to appropriate statistical analysis for p<0.05