Effect of amino acids lysine and arginine on fracture healing in rabbits: A radiological and histomorphological analysis

Abstract

Background: Amino acids like arginine and lysine have been suggested to hasten the process of fracture healing by improving the local blood supply, supplementing growth factors, and improving collagen synthesis. We studied the role of lysine and arginine in the fracture repair process with regard to the rate of healing, probable mechanisms involved in the process, and mutual synergism between these agents.

Materials and methods: In an experimental study, 40 rabbits were subjected to ulnar osteotomy. They were distributed in control (14) and test groups (26). Twenty-six animals in the test group were fed with a diet rich in lysine and arginine. Both the groups were followed radiologically and histologically till union.

Results: There was better healing of osteotomy in terms of better vascularization, callus formation, and mineralization in the test group. The time of healing in the test group was reduced by a period of 2 weeks.

Conclusion: We conclude that amino acids like arginine and lysine may hasten fracture healing.

Keywords: Arginine; fracture healing; lysine; nitric oxide.

Figure 1

Comparison between histology of control and test at 12 weeks, showing partial union in control with an island of cartilage (a) and complete union in the test with marrow formation Haversian system development (b)

Figure 2

Sequential X-rays at 0, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks in control animal shows radiological union at 8 weeks

Figure 3

Sequential X-rays at 0, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 weeks in test animal shows radiological union at 6 weeks