Phytate is a natural molecule abundant in plant seeds and grains that acts as an inhibitor of bone resorption. It is adsorbed on the surface of hydroxyapatite crystals, the mineral constituent of the bone matrix, inhibiting its dissolution and decreasing the progressive loss of bone mass in osteoporotic animal models.
Metallic surfaces coated with phytate show osteogenic and anti-inflammatory properties and a decrease in bacterial adhesion.