Therapeutic potential of phenolic acids in bone tissue healing and regeneration: a scoping review

This scoping review evaluated the effects of dietary phenolic acids on bone healing and regeneration, focusing on their osteogenic and antiresorptive properties. The review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Eligible studies included in vitro and in vivo investigations assessing the effects of phenolic acids on bone tissue. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and synthesized the findings. Of 1053 records identified, 49 studies were included. Phenolic acids, naturally found in fruits, vegetables, coffee, tea, cereals, and other plant-derived foods, demonstrated osteoprotective effects in experimental models. Caffeic acid (CAPE), chlorogenic acid, and ferulic acid stimulated osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, enhanced mineralization and osteogenic gene expression, and inhibited osteoclastogenesis and inflammatory pathways. Other compounds, including cinnamic and gallic acids, also exhibited anabolic and antiresorptive effects. In animal models, CAPE and chlorogenic acid prevented bone loss, whereas ferulic acid promoted bone repair and regeneration. Overall, phenolic acids demonstrated multifunctional properties related to osteogenesis, modulation of bone metabolism, and inhibition of bone resorption, thereby contributing to bone regeneration and homeostasis. However, current evidence remains predominantly preclinical, and translation to humans may be influenced by factors such as dietary intake, bioavailability, metabolism, and long-term exposure. Therefore, well-designed clinical and nutritional studies are needed to validate their efficacy and translational applicability in human bone health.