Phosphatidylserine nanocochleates (Nanocochs) are novel delivery systems that may play a prominent osteoprotective role with their cargo, vitamin D3 (Vit-D3), against osteoporosis. Therefore, this study was conducted to characterize a Nanococh containing vitamin D3 (Nanococh-D3) and investigate its potential role in improving GIO in a rat model. Roll-shaped Nanococh-D3 particles were obtained in a size range of 320 nm with a sustained release performance. Oral Nanococh-D3 significantly increased the bioavailability of Vit-D3, enhanced bone mechanical strength, and improved osteogenic biomarkers including B-ALP, osteocalcin, Ca, and OPG in GIO rats. This formulation markedly suppressed gene expression of RANK and RANKL in treated rats. Histomorphometric analysis showed significant repairs in bone tissues and TRAP staining indicated a significant decrease in osteoclasts using Nanococh-D3 in osteoporotic rats. Nanococh alone similar to Nanococh-D3 acted better than AL as a standard anti-osteoporotic drug in the improvement of bone strength. In conclusion, our results established the potential role of Nanococh-D3 against osteoporosis in rats.
Keywords: Combination therapy; Glucocorticoid; Nanocochleate; Osteoporosis; Phosphatidylserine.
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