The therapeutic effect of Astaxanthin on drill-induced closed femoral fracture model in male Wistar rats.

PURPOSE: Bone fracture is one of the most significant injuries of the body, which is usually caused by trauma. Astaxanthin (AST) showed beneficial effects on inflammation and oxidative stress, indicating protective effects on bone tissue. This study was performed with the aim of evaluating the effect of AST on the improvement of behavioral changes and the ossification process in the defect created in the femur of the rats.

METHODS

Animals were randomly divided into 3 groups, sham (healthy), control (bone fracture), and treatment. The sham group received water and normal food. In the control group, the fracture of the femur (3 holes) was done through a dental drill. A group of animals was treated daily with AST (1 mg/kg) by intraperitoneal injection (i.p.) 24 h after surgery for 3 weeks.

RESULTS

Behavioral tests (open field test and grid walk test) showed increased movement inconsistency and balance in the control group compared to the sham group. At the same time, treatment with AST for 3 weeks improved movement disorders in behavioral tests. The results of histological analysis and radiography showed that the treatment with AST led to decreased inflammation and necrosis and increased bone optical density. Fracture caused elevation in the levels of oxidative stress marker (MDA) as well as the pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α and (IL-1β). However, treatment with AST reversed it.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results from this study, AST, as an anti-inflammatory, and an antioxidant therapeutic agent, has therapeutic effects on bone fractures.