[Effects of genistein on bone mineralization in ovariectomized rats].

AIM: To investigate the effects of genistein on bone mineralization in ovariectomized rats. METHODS: Forty-seven Wistar rats were randomly allocated into six groups: sham-operated (sham), ovariectomized (ovx), ovariectomized supplied with diethyl stilbestrol (E, 20 microg x kg bw(-1) x d(-1)) or genistein (25, 50, 100 mg x kg bw(-1) x d(-1)). After the rats had been fed for three months, analysis of the bone mineral density, parameters related to mineralization, bone content of Ca, P, Mg, Mn and Zn and serum concentration of parathyroid calcitonin and estrogen was performed. RESULTS: Bone mineral density, bone Ca, P, Zn and Mg content and serum estrogen concentration in ovariectomized rats were significantly decreased, but mean osteoid width increased, mineralization lag time and osteoid maturation period prolonged compared with sham animals. After three months supplementation to ovariectomized rats, bone Ca, P and Mg content increased, mean osteoid width decreased, mineralization lag time and osteoid maturation period shortened compared with ovariectomized animals. CONCLUSION: Genistein promotes bone mineralization by increasing bone Ca, P, Mg and adjusting serum calcitonin to prevent osteoporosis.