Introduction: vitamin D is one of the most important biological regulators of calcium metabolism which ultimately promotes healthy bones. It is also helpful in reducing inflammation as well as enhancing immune functions and cell growth. Despite its importance, its deficiency is prevalent worldwide. Moreover, it is difficult to obtain this vitamin from diet because it is not present in many foods. Consequently, Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplementation is nowadays used worldwide to maintain optimal bone health. However, studies evaluating the effect of standard doses of vitamin D supplements on bone have been inconsistent. In addition, the effects of higher doses have not been revealed and needs further studies.
Aim of the study: to determine the effect of supplementation of varying doses of dietary vitamin D3 on the structure of mandibular bone in albino rats.
Materials and methods: Thirty adult female rats were randomly divided into three groups: Group I control, while Group II and Group III received daily dose of vitamin D3 (400 IU/Kg) and (1000 IU/Kg) respectively. All rats were fed on same diet. After 6 weeks animals were euthanized and their mandibles were dissected out. The effects of each dose of vitamin D3 on the mandibular bone structure were assessed by scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis.
Results:After6 weeks, Group I control and Group II supplemented with 400 IU/day, showed loss of its normal cortical bone smoothness. Moreover, the trabecular bone showed wide bone marrow spaces with thin trabeculae. However, group III supplemented with 1000 IU/day, showed smoother and more uniform cortical bone surface with wider trabeculae and narrower marrow spaces compared to the other groups.
Conclusion: This study showedthatadministration of vitamin D3 (1000 IU/day) enhanced bone architecture in adult rats.However, the administration of 400 IU/day showed slight enhancement in bone structure.