Impact of Vitamin a Overdose on Bone Mineral Density and Repair in Femoral Critical- Sized Defect
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study was designed to investigate the impact of vitamin A overdose on bone remodeling and healing capacity in a femoral critical‑sized defect model. Thirty adult female rats, weighing 250–300 g, were randomly allocated into two equal groups. Group A (control) animals were maintained on a balanced diet and water under standard laboratory conditions. Group B (vitamin A group) received 50,000 IU/day of vitamin A (A‑Viton) via oral gavage for seven consecutive days. At the end of the dosing period, blood samples were collected for biochemical assessment of total calcium and albumin levels. Subsequently, a standardized 3 mm critical‑sized defect was surgically created distal to the femoral head in all rats. Animals were euthanized at 14 and 28 days post‑surgery for histopathological and radiological evaluation. Biochemical analysis revealed a significant elevation in total calcium levels in Group B compared to Group A, accompanied by a decline in serum albumin. Histopathological examination of Group B specimens demonstrated marked pathological alterations, including extravasated blood vessels, fibrosis, and granulation tissue, whereas Group A exhibited fewer inflammatory signs and a more gradual healing trajectory. Computed tomography analysis confirmed a significant reduction in bone mineral density in Group B relative to Group A, indicating impaired bone regeneration. In conclusion, excessive vitamin A intake enhances osteoclast differentiation, leading to bone mineral loss and increased susceptibility to fractures. Furthermore, it disrupts the delicate balance between bone resorption and formation, thereby compromising the healing of critical‑sized defects. These findings highlight the detrimental role of hypervitaminosis A in skeletal repair and remodeling.
Language: English
Topic: Bone Metabolism and Diseases
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7168084435
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