Bone Collagen Research Articles (Page 1)

An in vitro study of the effects of pathophysiologically relevant levels of oxidative damage on cortical bone tissue quality.

Comprehensive insights into the effect of color, texture, flavor and microbial community driven via yak bone-derived collagen peptides combined with tea polyphenols as a versatile additive in fermented sausages.

ABSTRACTMale narwhals are unique in having a long, spiralled tusk, while females of the species do not have a tusk. However, a small number of individuals develop tusk anomalies, including two‐tusked males or females with a tusk. In this study, we combine genetic sexing and bone collagen stable isotope (δ13C and δ15N) analysis to evaluate whether these tooth anomalies impact long‐term foraging ecology. Our analysis of individuals collected in the waters around Greenland showed no systematic impacts; eight of nine two‐tusked male narwhals and all three one‐tusked female narwhals fell within the normal range of known isotopic diversity from their source geographic regions. Two specimens with other forms of unusual dentition both showed stable isotope values outside the range of narwhals, suggesting that their diets were different. Therefore, the most common tusk anomalies in narwhals appear to have limited ecological consequences, while rarer forms of dentition are likely associated with altered foraging ecology.

Biomarkers for Preoperative Bone Quality Assessment: A Prospective Investigation of Dermal Ultrasound and Advanced Glycation End-products in Lumbar Fusion Patients.

Background: Ionizing radiation, including gamma and neutron radiation, can adversely affect bone structure, mineralization, and tissue integrity. While individual effects of gamma or neutron exposure have been studied, comparative analyses of their isolated and combined impacts on bone’s structural and biophysical properties remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of gamma radiation (16 μSv/h), neutron radiation (3 μSv/h), and combined exposure on bone mineral content, collagen synthesis, cytokine levels, biomechanical properties, and histopathological changes in rats. Materials and Methods: Eighty male albino rats were divided into four groups: control (no radiation), gamma-exposed, neutron-exposed, and combined gamma-neutron exposure. Bone calcium was measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, and collagen content was quantified via hydroxyproline-based colourimetric assays. Serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were determined using ELISA. Biomechanical properties of tibia bones, including tensile strength, stiffness, and energy absorption, were assessed through stress-strain analysis and cyclic loading. Skin and mammary tissues were examined histologically using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results: Radiation exposure reduced calcium and collagen content, with the most pronounced effects observed in neutron and combined radiation groups. TNF-α levels were significantly elevated in irradiated rats, while IL-1β showed a non-significant upward trend, indicating an inflammatory response. Biomechanical analysis revealed reduced bone strength and increased energy dissipation, suggesting microstructural damage. Histological examination confirmed inflammation, necrosis, and impaired regenerative capacity, particularly in the combined radiation group. Conclusion: Gamma and neutron radiation, both individually and in combination, hurt bone mineralisation, collagen synthesis, inflammatory cytokine balance, and biomechanical integrity. These findings underscore the susceptibility of skeletal tissue to ionizing radiation and highlight the importance of protective strategies in clinical, occupational, and spaceflight environments. Future research should explore interventions targeting oxidative stress and inflammation to mitigate radiation-induced musculoskeletal damage.

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a detrimental side effect in patients undergoing treatment with antiresorptive agents. The anti-angiogenic agent, bevacizumab (anti-VEGF antibody (Ab)), has also been reported to be associated with MRONJ. However, the role of anti-VEGF Ab in MRONJ development, especially under conditions of pre-existing inflammation, remains elusive. This study examined anti-VEGF Ab effects on bone necrosis and osteomucosal healing, with or without pre-inflammation. Forty mice received biweekly i.p. injections of anti-VEGF Ab (10 mg/kg) or saline (Veh). For the tooth extraction (TE) model (n = 10), maxillary first molars were extracted. For the ligature-induced periodontitis and tooth extraction (LIP-TE) model (n = 10), maxillary second molars were ligated with 5−0 silk for 8 weeks before extraction. Mice were euthanized after 3 weeks of post-extraction healing. In both TE and LIP-TE models, anti-VEGF Ab-treated mice showed delayed osteomucosal healing with diminished bone formation, lower CD31 and collagen III expression, and increased osteoclast numbers than Veh-treated mice. There was no significant difference in necrotic bone areas. IL-23- or IL-17-producing cell numbers remained unchanged in both Veh- and anti-VEGF Ab-treated mice. Anti-VEGF Ab delayed osteomucosal healing by reducing collagen production in the presence or absence of pre-inflammatory conditions, without causing bone necrosis. Our data suggest anti-VEGF Ab delays osteomucosal wound healing but does not cause bone necrosis alone.

ABSTRACTRationaleThe Japanese sea lion (Zalophus japonicus), once abundant in Japan, Korea, and Russia, went extinct by the mid‐20th century due to hunting and environmental change. This study examines the diet and ecological role of Korean Z. japonicus using stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis of bone collagen from archaeological and historical contexts.MethodsSkeletal remains of the extinct Korean sea lion (Z. japonicus) were excavated from Gajae‐gull, Ulleungdo, in 2021. A rib bone was analyzed for radiocarbon dating using AMS and calibrated with the Marine20 curve, applying a ΔR correction. Stable isotope analysis of extracted bone collagen (δ13C, δ15N) was performed via EA‐IRMS. Isotopic niches of Z. japonicus and modern marine mammals were compared using SIBER in R, with ANOVA and post hoc tests.ResultsRadiocarbon dating of a rib from Gajae‐gull, Ulleungdo, indicated burial between 1548 and 1952 cal ad, representing the most recent evidence of Z. japonicus in Korea. Stable isotope analysis revealed dietary shifts from high δ15N values in the Chulmun periods, indicating consumption of large fish and cephalopods, to lower δ15N and higher δ13C values in the Mumun and historic periods, indicating reliance on coastal mid‐trophic prey. Comparisons with modern marine mammals showed clear isotopic niche partitioning.ConclusionsThese findings underscore the dietary flexibility of Korean Z. japonicus and its shifting ecological role in response to changing prey availability and environmental conditions. Future research incorporating additional samples and diverse isotopic markers will enhance paleoecological reconstructions of this extinct species and its historical marine ecosystems.

One important component found in the dermis layer of the skin is collagen. A decrease in collagen levels can result in reduced skin thickness and strength, loss of elasticity, and decreased skin hydration. Chicken bones serve as a valuable alternative source for the commercial production of collagen, which can be used in easily applicable pharmaceutical preparations, such as gel serum. Antioxidant gel serum preparations are developed by optimizing chicken bone collagen gel serum combined with Na CMC (0-2%) and propylene glycol (8-10%) using the Simplex Lattice Design method, so it is obtained 8 consecutive runs, the comparison is R1 and R3 (1% : 9%), R2 and R8 (2% : 8%), R4 (0,5% : 9,5%), R5 (1,5% : 8,5%) R6 and R7 (0% : 10%). The results indicate that the optimal formula consists of 1.984% Na CMC and 8.016% propylene glycol, yielding a pH of 4.50, a viscosity of 1700 cps, adhesion of 1.72 seconds, spreadability of 6.15 cm, and an IC50 of 57,36 ppm. Validation tests using the T-test demonstrated no significant difference between the observation and prediction results, confirming that the obtained formula was valid.

Oxygen deprivation within large or poorly vascularized bone defects remains a key barrier to successful regeneration, especially during the early postimplantation period before vascular ingrowth. Here, the development of COSnPPOD (CaO2-Silica NP Platform for Osteogenic Development) is reported, a visible light digital light processing-printed hydrogel scaffold that integrates oxygen-releasing nanoparticles (NPs) within a Primitive-type triply periodic minimal surface architecture. The scaffold combines a gelatin methacrylate-poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate matrix with calcium peroxide (CaO2)-loaded hollow silica NPs, enabling localized, short-term oxygen release while preserving structural fidelity. COSnPPOD scaffolds demonstrate favorable degradation kinetics, tunable stiffness, and increased protein adsorption in vitro. In a preosteoblast model, COSnPPOD maintains cell viability and supports osteogenic gene expression without cytotoxic effects. While overall gene expression is comparable to controls, a 16-fold increased expression of phosphoprotein 1 (Spp1) suggests scaffold-driven activation of matrix remodeling pathways. In vivo, COSnPPOD scaffolds enhance bone regeneration in a murine calvarial defect model, with significantly greater bone formation and collagen deposition than untreated defects and hydrogel controls. Additionally, vascular endothelial growth factor immunostaining is increased within the defect, consistent with a proangiogenic response, and no systemic toxicity is observed. These findings establish COSnPPOD as a promising scaffold system that combines sustained oxygenation with biomimetic geometry to support localized bone regeneration.

Exploring the characteristics and mechanisms of novel salt taste-enhancing peptides from porcine bone collagen via virtual screening, sensory evaluation, and molecular dynamics simulations.

Bone regeneration is a key therapeutic objective in periodontology, particularly in the treatment of alveolar defects caused by periodontal disease, dentoalveolar trauma, or surgical interventions. Among current regenerative strategies, collagen-enriched biomaterials have demonstrated an active role in modulating cellular behavior during bone repair. However, the specific effects of different collagen formulations on human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) have not yet been fully characterized. To evaluate the impact of xenogeneic bone grafts with and without collagen-OsteoBiol® Gen-Os® (GO), OsteoBiol® GTO® (GTO), and Geistlich Bio-Oss® (BO)-on cell viability, adhesion, migration, osteogenic differentiation, and mineralization potential of hDPSCs, and to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying their effects. In vitro assays were conducted to assess viability (MTT and fluorescence staining), adhesion (SEM), migration (wound healing assay), and mineralization (Alizarin Red S staining). Gene expression analyses (RT-qPCR) were performed for adhesion/migration markers (FN, SDF-1, COL1A1), angiogenic/proliferation markers (VEGF, FGF2), and osteogenic differentiation markers (RUNX2, ALP, COL1A1). GO showed a higher early expression of genes associated with adhesion, migration, angiogenesis (FN, SDF-1, VEGF and FGF2: p < 0.05; COL1A1: p < 0.01), and osteogenic differentiation (7 days: COL1A1 and ALP (p < 0.001)); (14 days: RUNX2, ALP: p < 0.001; COL1A1: p < 0.05), indicating a sequential activation of molecular pathways and mineralization capacity comparable to the control group. GTO demonstrated the best biocompatibility, with significantly higher cell viability (p < 0.05), strong adhesion, and markedly increased mineralization at 21 days (p < 0.001), despite moderate early gene expression. BO showed reduced cell viability at 10 mg/mL (p < 0.05) and 20 mg/mL (p < 0.001), with mineralization levels similar to the control group. Collagen-based xenografts demonstrate favorable interactions with hDPSCs, enhancing viability and promoting osteogenic differentiation. Our findings suggest that beyond the presence of collagen, the specific formulation of these biomaterials may modulate their biological performance, highlighting the importance of material design in optimizing regenerative outcomes. The formulation of collagen in xenogeneic bone substitutes may be a determining factor in enhancing periodontal regenerative outcomes by modulating the early cellular response and osteogenic activity in stem cell-based tissue engineering.

Fluorescent collagen hybridizing peptide for quantifying collagen denaturation in cortical bone.

Gas diffusion-mediated single-sided in situ gradient mineralized silk fibroin membrane for enhanced guided bone regeneration.

Background/purpose: Osteoporosis is commonly treated with daily or weekly teriparatide, yet its impact on microdamage accumulation - a critical contributor to bone fragility - remains insufficiently evaluated in animal models. We evaluated the effects of weekly teriparatide on microdamage in tibial trabecular bone and examined its associations with bone mass, structure, turnover, and collagen cross-linking in ovariectomized (OVX) cynomolgus monkeys.Methods: Seventy-seven adult female cynomolgus monkeys were randomized into four groups (n = 18-20 each): sham-operated, OVX + vehicle, and OVX + weekly teriparatide at 1.2 μg/kg or 6.0 μg/kg. After 18 months, proximal tibiae and iliac crest specimens were harvested. Tibial trabecular sections were assessed for histomorphometry, microdamage (crack density, crack surface density), and collagen cross-linking. Iliac crest samples were analyzed for bone turnover indices.Results: The OVX group showed significantly higher microdamage accumulation compared to all other groups. Weekly teriparatide administration effectively prevented microdamage accumulation and improved collagen cross-link profile. Regression analysis revealed that reductions in microdamage correlated more strongly with decreased non-enzymatic pentosidine cross-links than with increases in trabecular bone volume or enzymatic cross-links.Conclusions: Weekly teriparatide administration attenuates tibial trabecular bone microdamage by restoring collagen cross-link balance, independent of bone mass gain. This suggests that teriparatide enhances bone quality and resistance to fracture via modulation of bone matrix integrity.

Objective: Bone defects present a significant clinical challenge, often requiring surgical intervention due to delayed healing. Terahertz (THz) radiation, a noninvasive physical energy-based therapy, has shown potential in promoting bone regeneration through biomolecular interactions. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of THz irradiation in enhancing bone repair using a pre-clinical rat tibial fracture defect model. Methods: A standardized tibial bone defect model was created in rats, with daily THz irradiation (0.1 THz, 20 min/session) administered continuously for 28 days. Micro-computed tomography (CT) evaluations were performed weekly throughout the study period, while histological assessments (hematoxylin and eosin [HE] and Masson staining), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) immunohistochemistry, and serum biomarker analyses were exclusively conducted at the 28-days endpoint. Micro-CT imaging, histopathological staining, and tyramide signal amplification analyses were conducted to assess bone volume fraction, collagen deposition, and angiogenesis. Blood biochemical markers were also evaluated to determine systemic metabolic effects. Results: By week 4, the THz-treated group demonstrated a higher new bone formation compared with control group. Micro-CT analysis revealed significantly improved cortical continuity and bone volume fraction at weeks 3 and 4 (p < 0.05). HE and Masson staining showed enhanced collagen alignment and trabecular organization. The IF test indicated increased VEGFA expression in local new bone (p < 0.01), suggesting augmented angiogenesis. No significant changes were observed in serum biochemistry markers, indicating localized rather than systemic effects. Conclusions: THz radiation effectively accelerates bone defect healing by enhancing osteoblast activity and vascularization without systemic metabolic alterations. These findings highlight the potential of THz therapy as a novel, noninvasive approach for bone regeneration, warranting further research for clinical translation.

New model for estimating trophic position in mammalian carnivores based on bone collagen individual amino acids nitrogen stable isotopes

Population movements constitute a significant driver of cultural change in prehistoric societies. In recent years, sulfur isotopes have emerged as a valuable approach for distinguishing human/animal provenance. However, the scarcity of sulfur isotope studies and the lack of baseline maps predicting their variations in the landscape limit our current knowledge about mobility behaviours. Here, we first present the δ34S isotope values of 142 human and animal bone collagen samples from coastal and inland funerary sites located in northern Iberia. Second, to apply a multivariate machine-learning regression and a random forest model to predict sulfur isotope variations across Iberia, we compiled the sulfur isotope data from 554 specimens of 41 archaeological locations from Holocene contexts. Our research demonstrated that population movement between coastal and inland locations is observable through differences in the δ34S isotope values of individuals linked to their respective environments, suggesting migrations on both sides of the Cantabrian mountain range. The resulting isoscape model demonstrates that sulfur isotope patterns are highly predictable, with 82% of the sulfur isotope variation explained by only four variables: elevation, Bouguer anomaly, distance from the coast, and strontium isotope values. While the model is highly accurate for regions with large amounts of data, such as northern Iberia, Central and Eastern Iberia still require more sulfur isotope data to predict isoscapes.

AimsThe osteochondral cement line (OCL) plays a key role in joint integrity by attaching articular calcified cartilage (ACC) to underlying subchondral bone (SCB), whose predominant collagens are type 2 (Col-II) and type 1 (Col-I), respectively. Previous studies report contrasting evidence of the presence of collagen fibrils in the OCL, albeit in different species and joints. If present, collagen fibrils might provide a basis for osteochondral bonding in the organic phase. We aimed to study the morphological variations of the osteochondral cement line, to observe whether cartilage and bone collagen fibrils are present in the OCL, and whether they colocalize in a manner that could help explain how ACC attaches to SCB.MethodsWe used immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy, and deconvolution to image Col-I and Col-II collagen fibrils and measure their overlap and colocalization, in OCL harvested from equine and bovine femoral head, patella, and proximal and distal metatarsal condyles. Large mammalian species were chosen to have size and pathobiology relevant to human anatomy. Thousands to millions of Col-I/-II colocalizing complexes were observed per mm² of OCL over a tissue depth of 1 to 5 µm. Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn’s post-hoc tests and Mann-Whitney U tests were conducted for intra- and interspecies statistical analysis.ResultsThe areal volume (µm³/mm²) of Col-I/Col-II complexes was up to ten times greater in equine than bovine OCL (p = 0.016 to 0.029). Similarly, the number of Col-I/-II complexes and mean volume per complex differed significantly (p < 0.001 to 0.032 and p < 0.001 to 0.029, respectively) among anatomical sites between equine and bovine OCL. Gaps or tears near OCL were present uniquely in the bovine patella.ConclusionCol-I/Col-II overlap and colocalize at OCL, which could be a critical source of bond strength between cartilage and bone that should be considered when cartilage repair is attempted in clinical settings.Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2025;14(8):735–744.

Ultrasonic pretreatment assisted enzymolysis for preparation of low molecular weight osteogenic collagen peptides: Kinetics, thermodynamics, and osteogenic activity☆

This paper describes a promising candidate molecule, investigates the pattern of scaffold composition which arises and assesses the effect of the agent on its mechanical properties.MethodsScaffold samples were fabricated using a commercial extrusion bioprinter equipped with a pneumatic printhead fitted with a 21G conical nozzle. The Pore Printability Index, and the area and perimeter of the pore within the grid patterns were quantified using ImageJ software (NIH, USA). Mechanical properties of scaffolds were assessed using atomic force microscopy. The phase composition and crystal structures were analyzed using X-ray diffraction and Raman mapping. Morphologies of human gingival fibroblastic cells were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Lactobacillus biofilms were generated for cytolysin peptide cleavage. A rabbit bone defect model with scaffold implantations was used to provide histologic specimens for measuring percentages of bone trabeculae, collagen fibers and inflammatory cells along with granulation tissue. The Primeway Total RNA Extraction Kit was used for RNA extraction.ResultsAll bioink formulations demonstrated successful printing of 3D grid and solid square patterned scaffolds achieving Pr values exceeding 0.9. 0.1 %K21 group showed the highest elastic modulus. XRD revealed a pattern producing around 90 % β-tricalcium phosphate displaying two peaks at 2θ angles. 0.1 % K21 and 0.1 %CHX did not alter scaffold's pore size and porosity. 0.1 %K21 group exhibited highest ratio (62.5 ± 6.1 θ), significantly surpassing control. Surface morphologies of cells were also well retained. TEM image shows a sequence of structural changes in fibroblastic cell structure when exposed to K21. 0.1 % K21 proved to be critical in completely eradicating the biofilm. 0.K21 group closed the openings of wound areas completely. Correlation coefficient of gene expression levels demonstrates sample variations and recurring instances among groupings.Conclusion3D-printing technologies with 0.1 %K21 represent a significant advancement over conventional regenerative medicine techniques for bone-related treatments.