Deer Antler Extract Promotes Osteoblast Differentiation and Improves Bone Microarchitecture in an Ovariectomy-Induced...

Deer antler has long been recognized for its pronounced influence on bone growth and regeneration via its unique ability to induce rapid repeated ossification. This study aimed to investigate whether deer antler water extract (DWE) can prevent osteoporosis by promoting osteoblast differentiation and preserving bone microarchitecture. In vitro experiments using MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblast cells demonstrated that DWE enhanced osteoblast differentiation without affecting cell viability. DWE increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity; intensified ALP, Von Kossa, and Alizarin Red S staining; and upregulated the expression of osteogenic markers, including runt-related transcription factor 2, ALP, osteopontin, and procollagen type I, in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. In an ovariectomy (OVX)-induced osteoporosis mouse model, DWE improved serum biochemical parameters. Micro-computed tomography analysis of the femur revealed a marked restoration of bone microarchitecture, as indicated by increased bone volume to total volume and trabecular number, along with reduced trabecular separation. Histological examination using hematoxylin and eosin staining further confirmed morphological improvements in bone tissue. Overall, these findings demonstrate that DWE contributes to bone homeostasis maintenance by enhancing osteoblast differentiation and improving bone microarchitecture both in vitro and in an OVX-induced osteoporosis model. This study suggests that DWE may serve as a promising natural product for osteoporosis prevention.