Chronic inflammation is suggested to be a primary factor in progressive bone loss and bone structural deterioration, with oxidative stress and overproduction of pro-inflammatory compounds , most notably tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha).   Previous studies have identified certain compounds as having the capacity to inhibit inflammation by suppressing TNF-alpha expression, and thus may offer therapeutic value in the prevention and treatment of chronic inflammation-induced bone loss. Chwan-Li Shen, from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Texas, USA), and colleagues investigated the effects of green tea polyphenols and alfacalcidol, a form of Vitamin D, on bone microstructure and strength along with possible mechanisms in a rat model.  The team found that both green tea polyphenols and alfacalcidol individually reversed lipopolysaccharide-induced changes in bone structure, and the combination of nutrients helped to sustain bone micro-architecture and strength.  The researchers conclude that: “A rotective impact of [green tea polyphenols]and alfacalcidol in bone microarchitecture during chronic inflammation may be due to a suppression of TNF-alpha.”