Flavonoids are commonly occurring polyphenolic compounds with a wide array of bioactive properties, including its positive role on osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. Their profound ability to chelate various metal ions supported its candidature as a novel biomaterial for tissue engineering applications. We aimed to investigate the role of Morin-zinc complexes (Morin mono complex, [Zn(morin)(H2O)] and Morin bis complex, [Zn(morin)(2)]) in promoting osteoblast differentiation at both molecular and cellular levels. In vitro biocompatibilities of the synthesized complexes (20-200 mu M) were assessed with MG-63, H9c2 and C3H10T1/2 cells and chick embryo model was used to assess in vivo toxicity. Both Morin and Morin zinc complexes were found to be non-toxic at 60 mu M concentration. Furthermore, at cellular level, the complexes increased alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and calcium deposition. At molecular level it increased Runx2, type 1 collagen mRNAs expression and enhanced the secretion of osteocalcin (OC) and osteonectin (ON) proteins. Among the synthesized complexes, [Zn(morin)(2)] exhibited more pronounced effects compared to naive Morin and [Zn (morin)] complex. Overall, the current study proposes that Morin and Morin zinc complexes could be used for bone tissue engineering applications.