Potential preventive effects of angiotensin-(1-7) on bone matrix quality in diabetic rats through modulation of the organic matrix.

Objectives: This experimental study aims to investigate the effects of angiotensin (1-7) (Ang-[1-7]) on the microstructural, biomechanical, and biophysicochemical properties of bone tissue in diabetic rats.

Materials and methods: Forty-eight male Wistar rats, aged three months and weighing between 280 and 330 g, were used in this study. Four groups, each containing 12 rats, were established: Control, diabetes mellitus (DM), DM-Ang-(1-7), and Ang-(1-7). The samples underwent analysis through micro-computed tomography (CT), Raman spectroscopy, and three-point bending biomechanical test.

Results: Diabetes significantly impaired bone quality, with reduced cortical thickness, maximum load, and flexural strength (p<0.05). The Ang-(1-7) treatment improved flexural strength (p<0.05), but did not fully restore mechanical function. Micro-CT showed decreased bone volume and trabecular thickness in both diabetic groups (p<0.05), with no significant recovery by Ang-(1-7). Raman spectroscopy revealed lower mineral-to-matrix ratio and disrupted collagen quality in diabetic bone (p<0.05), while Ang-(1-7) partially restored collagen-related parameters.

Conclusion: These findings highlight that Ang-(1-7) has minimal impact on bone minerals in DM rats. However, it may have a potential preventive effect on the triple-helix structural impairment within the bone organic matrix in this model.