Osteogenic and Angiogenic Differentiation of Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cells Induced by Different Concentrations of Icariin

Background: Bone defects resulting from trauma or lesions are common orthopedic conditions that challenge bone regeneration. Bone mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have garnered attention due to their osteogenic potential. Icariin has shown promise in promoting osteogenic and angiogenic differentiation in BMSCs through pathways such as BMP, MAPK, and Wnt/β- catenin. However, the optimal concentration of icariin and its dual osteogenic and angiogenic roles remain unclear. Objectives: This study was designed to explore the osteogenic and angiogenic differentiation of BMSCs induced by icariin at different concentrations. Materials and Methods: Primary human BMSCs were cultured with varying concentrations of icariin (0–40 μM) for 21 days. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay assessed cell proliferation. Phase-contrast microscopy, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and Western blotting evaluated osteogenic markers (Runx2, VEGF). Angiogenic differentiation was analyzed through cell morphology, transmission electron microscopy, and the expression of VEGF and CD31. Results and Conclusion: Proliferation assays indicated that 1 μM icariin significantly enhanced BMSC viability compared to the control group (p < .05). Osteogenic differentiation, marked by increased Runx2 and VEGF expression, was most pronounced at 1 μM. Elevated VEGF and CD31 expression and the presence of Weibel–Palade bodies in transmission electron microscopy images confirmed angiogenic differentiation. High concentrations (20–40 μM) exhibited cytotoxicity, reducing proliferation and differentiation. Collectively, icariin at 1 μM optimally induces osteogenic and angiogenic differentiation in BMSCs, making it a potential therapeutic agent for bone defect repair. These findings offer insights into the dual biological function of icariin, paving the way for advanced bone regeneration strategies. Future studies should focus on validating these effects in preclinical animal models.