Exploring the Impact of Catechins on Bone Metabolism: A Comprehensive Review of Current Research and Future Directions

• Published in: Metabolites 2024-10, Vol.14 (10), p.560
• Main Authors: German, Iris Jasmin Santos, Barbalho, Sandra Maria, Andreo, Jesus Carlos, Zutin, Tereza Lais Menegucci, Laurindo, Lucas Fornari, Rodrigues, Victória Dogani, Araújo, Adriano Cressoni, Guiguer, Elen Landgraf, Direito, Rosa, Pomini, Karina Torres, Shinohara, André Luis
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Antioxidants; Apoptosis; Bioactive compounds; bone diseases; Bone growth; bone metabolism; Bone mineral density; Bone resorption; Bone turnover; Bones; Care and treatment; Catechin; catechins; Cocoa; Comparative analysis; Epicatechin; Epigallocatechin gallate; Fractures; Genetic aspects; Gingival index; Growth factors; Health aspects; Metabolism; Microenvironments; Mineralization; Musculoskeletal diseases; osteoblasts; Osteocalcin; Osteoclastogenesis; Osteogenesis; Osteoporosis; Osteoprotegerin; Oxidative stress; Participation; Phosphatase; Physiological aspects; Polyphenols; Proteins; Public health; Review; Reviews; Root resorption; TRANCE protein; Transcription factors
• ISSN: 2218-1989; 2218-1989
• DOI: 10.3390/metabo14100560

Degenerative musculoskeletal diseases represent a global health problem due to the progressive deterioration of affected individuals. As a bioactive compound, catechins have shown osteoprotective properties by stimulating osteoblastic cells and inhibiting bone resorption. Thus, this review aimed to address the mechanism of action of catechins on bone tissue. The search was applied to PubMed without limitations in date, language, or article type. Fifteen articles matched the topic and objective of this review. EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and epicatechin demonstrated action on the osteogenic markers RANKL, TRAP, and NF-κβ and expression of BMPs and ALP, thus improving the bone microarchitecture. Studies on animals showed the action of EGCG in increasing calcium and osteoprotegerin levels, in addition to regulating the transcription factor NF-ATc1 associated with osteoclastogenesis. However, it did not show any effect on osteocalcin and RANK. Regarding human studies, EGCG reduced the risk of fracture in a dose-dependent manner. In periodontal tissue, EGCG reduced IL-6, TNF, and RANKL in vitro and in vivo. Human studies showed a reduction in periodontal pockets, gingival index, and clinical attachment level. The action of EGCG on membranes and hydrogels showed biocompatible and osteoinductive properties on the microenvironment of bone tissue by stimulating the expression of osteogenic growth factors and increasing osteocalcin and alkaline phosphate levels, thus promoting new bone formation. EGCG stimulates cytokines related to osteogenes, increasing bone mineral density, reducing osteoclastogenesis factors, and showing great potential as a therapeutic strategy for reducing the risk of bone fractures.