ObjectiveTo explore the effects of puerarin on the bone tissue and PI3K/Akt signal transduction pathway in rats with femoral head osteonecrosis induced by hormone.

MethodsThe rats were divided into the control group, model group and observation group.The model of femoral head osteonecrosis induced by hormone was established by intramuscular injection of methylprednisolone sodium succinate.The observation group was established by intraperitoneal injection with puerarin in model rat.The general state, pathological change and bone mineral density of femoral head, serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF) and nitric oxide(NO), and levels of Akt and p-Akt protein in femoral head among three groups were compared.

ResultsThe activity of the rats in observation group increased significantly after administration, and the hair color and spirit were good.The serum levels of VEGF and NO in model group were less than those in control group and observation group(P < 0.01).The differences of the expression levels of Akt protein in femoral head among three groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05), and the expression level of p-Akt protein in model group was significantly higher and lower than that in control group and observation group, respectively(P < 0.01).

ConclusionsPuerarin plays a therapeutic effect on the femoral head necrosis, and the mechanism of which may be related to increase the level of angiogenic activity factor, form the angiogenesis, reconstruct the blood supply and circulation, and promote the formation of new bone at the necrotic site.