The protective effect of piperine on ovariectomy induced bone loss in female mice and its enhancement effect of osteogenic differentiation via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway

Piperine (PIP) demonstrates extensive pharmacological effects. Recent studies reported that PIP enhanced osteogenic differentiation and inhibited osteoclast functions. Nevertheless, its effect has not been evaluated in vivo. In the current study, ovariectomised female mice and MC3T3-E1 cells were used to examine its effect on osteoblastogenesis. Oral administration of PIP significantly elevated bone mineral density and suppressed bone remodeling without dose dependence. The deterioration of trabecula and biomechanical properties were significantly improved. Moreover, new bone formation was also accelerated with increased mineral apposition rate. At the presence of PIP, the cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase as well as mineralized nodules formation were significantly enhanced. The expression of osteogenic markers and Wnt/β-catenin signals were significantly up-regulated by the treatment of PIP. Conclusively, as an alternative supplement or functional food ingredient, PIP has the potential to treat osteoporosis induced by estrogen deficiency by enhancing osteogenic differentiation via Wnt/β-catenin signaling.