The gut-bone axis: potential influence of anthocyanins and implications for postmenopausal osteoporosis

With the aging population worldwide and increased life expectancy, the risk of postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) is an increased public health concern. Current treatments for PMO have declined in use over the past decade which has led to an increased focus on finding dietary agents that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties for prophylaxis and treatment of osteoporosis. Anthocyanins (ACNs) have been shown to exert therapeutic effects in chronic diseases due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. ACNs are also thought to be involved in modulating the gut microbiome owing to their prebiotic properties. The gut microbiome has been implicated as a potential target for osteoporosis prevention and treatment since it can modulate immune and endocrine systems, which influence bone metabolism. This review summarizes findings related to ACNs' influence on the gut-bone axis, with a focus on the immune and endocrine systems and potential implications for PMO prevention.