Functions of Epimedin C in a zebrafish model of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis

Research indicates that Epimedin C (EC), an active compound in Epimedium, offers a potential treatment for glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP). Studies on zebrafish larvae revealed that EC treatment enhances bone mineralization, increases bone mass, and improves bone density, thus mitigating bone tissue damage caused by prednisolone. Additionally, EC impacts key signaling pathways related to bone development, such as osteoclast differentiation, estrogen, MAPK, insulin resistance, PPAR, and AMPK pathways. This study highlights EC's role in bone health and its promising osteoprotective effects, presenting it as a viable, cost-effective treatment for GIOP.