Biochemical markers of bone and osteoclastic differons in plasma at subacute dichloroethane intoxication

Aim. To explore the plasma level of soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin and sclerostin in a model of subacute dichloroethane intoxication in rats.

Methods. Experiments were carried out on 20 adult male rats weighing 180-200 g. The rats of the experimental group were administered dichloroethane at the dose of 0.84 mg/kg, mixed with olive oil by a gastric tube daily for two months, which amounted to 0,1 LD50. Control animals received an adequate amount of olive oil. Levels of soluble RANKL, osteoprotegerin and sclerostin were determined in blood serum by ELISA using commercially available reagent kits (reagents «Free RANKL», «Osteoprotegerin» and «Sclerostin» by «Biomedica Medizinprodukte Gmb and CoKG» company. Statistical data processing was performed using the Statistica 6.0 (Stat Soft) software package.

Results. Exposure to dichloroethane resulted in increased levels of soluble RANKL, reduced levels of osteoprotegerin, reflecting the intense new bone formation and the functional state of osteoclasts. The level of sclerostin, which is the negative regulator for new bone formation, was elevated, indicating osteoblast precursors’ differentiation inhibition and decreased function of osteoblasts.

Conclusion. In subacute dichloroethane intoxication, the serum level of soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) increases, osteoprotegerin level reduces, sclerostin level increases.