Promotion of fracture healing by conjugated linoleic acid in rats

Abstract

Background: The ability of fracture healing in Tibetans is significantly superior to Chinese Hans, which may attribute to factors from diet, altitude to physical conditions. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is an important ingredient in Tibetan diet, playing a role in antioxidation, antiatherosclerosis, and decrease in body fat accumulation. Methods: This study further quantified CLA effect in fracture healing in rats using combined structural evaluation (X-ray and micro-computed tomography), biomechanical test, and histological examination. Results: CLA could promote fracture healing with quicker development of trabecular connection, network and thickening and were more active at the stage of bony union and remodeling. The load to failure could reach 78.12 ± 10.03 N, 41.4% stronger than the control by week 6 (p = 0.0209). Conclusions: CLA improved the quality and mechanical strength of fracture healing in rats callus. The information may offer insight in development of new therapeutic strategies of fracture healing for general populations beyond Tibetans.