Facile Preparation of Iron Nanoparticles Mediated by the Extract of Olea europaea and Chitosan and Assessment of the Anti‐Osteoporosis Properties

ABSTRACTOsteoporosis is characterized by a reduction in bone mineral density, compromised bone microarchitecture and mineralization, and diminished bone strength, which collectively elevates the likelihood of fractures. Various therapeutic approaches exist for managing osteoporosis, including the use of metallic nanoparticles. The present study explored the biosynthesis of iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) using a plant‐based approach. For this purpose, we utilized the aqueous extract of Olea europaea and chitosan to generate FeNPs (FeNPs@ O. europaea/Chit), which were then identified using various analytical methods such as energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, UV–Visible, and infrared spectroscopy. The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited a quasi‐spherical shape with an average diameter of approximately 60 nm. The characteristic peaks at 519, 589, and 769 cm−1 correspond to Fe‐O bending vibrations in FT‐IR assay, confirming the formation of FeNPs@ O. europaea/Chit. The results of EDX assay confirmed the presence of iron, indicated by the peaks at 0.71 keV for FeLα, 6.44 keV for FeKα, and 7.13 keV for FeLβ. The administration of FeNPs@ O. europaea/Chit (100 and 400 μg/kg/day, orally, for a duration of 30 days) after the treatment with methylprednisolone sodium succinate (10 mg/kg, subcutaneously, three times a week for 4 weeks) resulted in the induction of osteoporosis in Wistar rats. This regimen was associated with an elevation in serum levels of markers indicative of bone mineral content, alongside a reduction in both serum and urinary levels of markers associated with bone resorption. An increase in the strength of the femur and tibia was observed, especially at dosages of 100 and 400 μg/kg of FeNPs@ O. europaea/Chit. The mechanisms by which FeNPs@ O. europaea/Chit may exert their effects include the regulation of calcium homeostasis, the synthesis of collagen, and the neutralization of free radicals, which collectively may help counteract glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis. Following the completion of clinical trial studies, these novel nanoparticles could potentially be utilized for the treatment of osteoporosis in humans.