Phytochemical Protection Against the Anti-Osteogenic Effects of Dioxin, a Major Environmental Contaminant

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Inhibition of bone healing and increased rates of pseudarthrosis are well-established effects associated with cigarette smoking, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Previous studies have implicated the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) as an inhibitor of osteogenic differentiation, but the mechanisms are not well-established. 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD, dioxin) is a prototype AHR ligand constituent of cigarette smoke, as well as an industrial by-product of chlorinated compound combustion, and contaminant found in foods such as meat, dairy and fish. It has been implicated in anti-osteogenic effects.