Carnosic acid serves as a dual Nrf2 activator and PTEN/AKT suppressor to inhibit traumatic heterotopic ossification.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Heterotopic ossification (HO) pathogenesis involves ROS-driven stem cell differentiation. Carnosic acid (CA), a natural antioxidant, remains unexplored for HO.

Methods

In vitro, tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs) were stimulated with IL-1β, and CA was used for intervention to assess its effects on differentiation and ROS production via real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR), western blotting (WB), and immunofluorescence. Additionally, a burn and Achilles tendon transection-induced mouse model of traumatic HO was established to evaluate the therapeutic potential of CA.

Results

In vitro, CA activated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and inhibited nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase 1 (NOX1), leading to increased antioxidant enzyme

SUBMITTER: Wei D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12859974 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature