Anti-osteoporotic effects of cuttlebone powder in an ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis model in mice

Osteoporosis, characterized by reduced bone density and weakened structure, is prevalent with aging. As interest grows in natural alternatives to synthetic calcium supplements for preventing this global health issue, cuttlebone, a marine source rich in calcium and essential minerals, has emerged as a promising candidate. This study investigates the effects of dried cuttlebone powder (DCB) and calcined cuttlebone powder (CCB) on bone health using ovariectomized (OVX) mice as a model for postmenopausal osteoporosis. ICR mice were divided into six groups: Sham and OVX control groups received a normal diet and treated OVX groups received supplemented diet with either DCB (1%, 2%) and CCB (1%, 2%) for five weeks. After sacrifice, biochemical tests, bone density measurements and histological analyses were conducted. DCB and CCB supplementation significantly enhanced bone density, mineralization, and structural recovery compared to the untreated OVX group. The OVX + DCB (2%) group exhibited the highest percentage of femoral cancellous bone at 21.73 ± 0.86%, followed by the OVX + CCB (2%) group. Bone mineral composition improved with increased calcium levels reaching 20.65 ± 0.42%, accompanied by similar increases in phosphorus levels. Serum markers such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAcP) indicated increased bone formation and reduced bone resorption in treated groups. Histological analysis supported these findings through micro-CT imaging of cancellous bones showing restored structure. This study suggests that cuttlebone, particularly in its DCB form, is a natural option for managing osteoporosis by supporting the bone remodeling processes crucial for maintaining optimal mineralization.