Effects of Qing’E Formula on the Expression of Bone Metabolic Markers and VDR mRNA in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis Patients

Abstract

Objectives: To study the partial mechanism of treating postmenopausal osteoporosis patients (POPs) using the ancient recipe of Qing’E Formula (QEF) by observing its effects on bone metabolic markers and VDR mRNA expression in primary POPs. Methods: Analysis was performed on 120 outpatient and inpatient POPs treated in our hospital between January and October 2013, where the patients were randomly divided into Qing’E group (QEF + Caltrate), Calcitriol group (Caltrate + Calcitriol soft capsules), and Compare group (Caltrate), each with a follow-up period of 1 year. Statistical analysis was then performed on bone mineral density, blood bone metabolic markers ( β -CTX, N-MID, T-PINP) and changes in VDR mRNA expressions in the POPs before and after the treatments. Results: Prior to the treatments, bone mineral density and blood β -CTX, N-MID, T-PINP and VDR mRNA expression in the 3 groups of POPs exhibited no statistically significant differences, and the blood β -CTX, N-MID, T-PINP and VDR mRNA expression in the control group showed no statistically significant differences before and after the treatments. There were no significant differences in bone mineral density in the Qing’E group and the Calcitriol group before and after the treatments whereas the bone mineral density decreased in the control group after the treatments. As for blood β -CTX, N-MID, T-PINP and VDR mRNA expression, the measurements in POPs in the Qing’E group and the Calcitriol group were significantly higher than that of the control group. Conclusion: By adjusting the VDR mRNA expression, the QEF, a kidney-invigorating Chinese herbal formula, is capable of activating bone metabolism to prohibit further losses of bone mass, thereby preventing the deterioration of osteoporosis.