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Guan HR, Li B, Zhang ZH, Wu HS, Wang N, Chen XF, Zhou CL, Bian XR, Li L, Xu WF, He XL, Dong YJ, Jiang NH, Su J, Lv GY, Chen SH. Exploring the efficacy and mechanism of Bailing capsule to improve polycystic ovary syndrome in mice based on intestinal-derived LPS-TLR4 pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 331:118274. [PMID: 38697410 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder associated with reproductive dysfunction and metabolic abnormalities, particularly characterized by insulin resistance and chronic low-grade inflammation. Multiple clinical studies have clearly demonstrated the significant efficacy and safety of the combination of Bailing capsules (BL) in the treatment of PCOS, but its pharmacological effects and mechanisms still require further study. AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluate the effect of BL on improving PCOS in mice and explore the mechanism. METHODS In this study, Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) injection was administered alone and in combination with a high-fat and high-sugar diet to induce PCOS-like mouse. They were randomly divided into five groups: normal group (N), PCOS group (P), Bailing capsule low-dose group (BL-L), Bailing capsule high-dose group (BL-H) and Metformin + Daine-35 group (M + D). Firstly, the effects of BL on ovarian lesions, serum hormone levels, HOMA-IR, intestinal barrier function, inflammation levels, along with the expression of IRS1, PI3K, AKT, TLR4, Myd88, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, IL-6, and Occludin of the ovary, liver and colon were investigated. Finally, the composition of the gut microbiome of fecal was tested. RESULTS The administration of BL significantly reduced body weight, improved hormone levels, improved IR, and attenuated pathological damage to ovarian tissues, up-regulated the expression of IRS1, PI3K, and AKT in liver. It also decreased serum LPS, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels, while downregulating the expression of Myd88, TLR4, and NF-κB p65. Additionally, BL improved intestinal barrier damage and upregulated the expression of Occludin. Interestingly, the abundance of norank_f__Muribaculacea and Lactobacillus was down-regulated, while the abundance of Akkermansia was significantly up-regulated. CONCLUSION The results of the study showed that BL exerts a treatment PCOS effect, which may be related to the modulation of the gut microbiota, the improvement of insulin resistance and the intestinal-derived LPS-TLR4 inflammatory pathway. Our research will provide a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Ru Guan
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Bo Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R & D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products. Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, 313000, PR China
| | - Ze-Hua Zhang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Han-Song Wu
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Ning Wang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Xian-Fang Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Cheng-Liang Zhou
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Xue-Ren Bian
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Lu Li
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Wan-Feng Xu
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Xing-Lishang He
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China
| | - Ying-Jie Dong
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, PR China
| | - Ning-Hua Jiang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314000, PR China.
| | - Jie Su
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, PR China.
| | - Gui-Yuan Lv
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, PR China.
| | - Su-Hong Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, PR China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R & D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products. Huzhou, Zhejiang Province, 313000, PR China.
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Li X, Lin S, Yang X, Chen C, Cao S, Zhang Q, Ma J, Zhu G, Zhang Q, Fang Q, Zheng C, Liang W, Wu X. When IGF-1 Meets Metabolic Inflammation and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 138:112529. [PMID: 38941670 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder associated with insulin resistance (IR) and hyperandrogenaemia (HA). Metabolic inflammation (MI), characterized by a chronic low-grade inflammatory state, is intimately linked with chronic metabolic diseases such as IR and diabetes and is also considered an essential factor in the development of PCOS. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) plays an essential role in PCOS pathogenesis through its multiple functions in regulating cell proliferation metabolic processes and reducing inflammatory responses. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms by which IGF-1, via MI, participates in the onset and progression of PCOS, aiming to provide insights for studies and clinical treatment of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiushen Li
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Sailing Lin
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaolu Yang
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Can Chen
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Shu Cao
- Xin'an Academy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingxin Ma
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Guli Zhu
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiongfang Fang
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunfu Zheng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Weizheng Liang
- Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, Hebei, China.
| | - Xueqing Wu
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
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Deng YP, Zhou YL, Wei TT, He GS, Zhu ZX, Zhang SN, Liu MJ, Xue JJ, Zhang WX, Yang XG. Combined traditional Chinese medicine therapy for the treatment of infertility with polycystic ovary syndrome: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38912. [PMID: 38996123 PMCID: PMC11245265 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) infertility has attracted great attention from researchers due to its high incidence. Numerous studies have shown that Chinese medicine is effective in treating this disease, but there is a wide variety of Chinese medicine therapies available, and there is a lack of comparative evaluation of the efficacy of various Chinese medicine combination therapies in the clinic, which requires further in-depth exploration. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a combined traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy for the treatment of infertility with PCOS using network meta-analysis (NMA). METHODS In PubMed, web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, China Knowledge Network, Wanfang Data, VIP Database, China Biomedical Literature Database (SinoMed) databases, searchs were conducted for information about the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of combined TCM therapy for the treatment of infertility with PCOS. Quality evaluation was performed using the Cochrane 5.3 risk of bias assessment tool, and NMA using Stata 16.0. RESULTS This study comprised 28 RCTs using 8 combined TCM therapies in total. The results of the NMA showed that moxibustion + herbal, fire acupuncture + herbal, acupuncture + herbal, electroacupuncture + herbal, and acupoint application + herbal improved the clinical pregnancy rate better than acupuncture, herbal, and western medicines monotherapy (P < .05). Additionally, ear point pressure + herbal enema + herbal, acupuncture and moxibustion + herbal, fire acupuncture + herbal, and acupuncture + herbal improved the ovulation rate better than acupuncture, herbal, and western medicines monotherapy (P < .05). Moxibustion + herbal, fire acupuncture + herbal, and acupuncture + herbal are the 3 most effective therapies for improving the clinical pregnancy rate. Fire acupuncture + herbal, acupuncture + herbal, and ear point pressure + herbal enema + herbal are the 3 most effective therapies for improving the ovulation rate. CONCLUSION The combined TCM therapy demonstrated better efficacy for the treatment of infertility with PCOS compared to acupuncture, herbal, and western medicines monotherapy. However, the optimal treatment therapy varied depending on the outcome indicators. Further large sample, high-quality, and standardized RCTs are needed to verify these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Peng Deng
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yan-Li Zhou
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Teng-Teng Wei
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guang-Shuai He
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Xin Zhu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shu-Ning Zhang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mei-Jun Liu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing-Jing Xue
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wei-Xing Zhang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xu-Guang Yang
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
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Martin LJ, Touaibia M. Prevention of Male Late-Onset Hypogonadism by Natural Polyphenolic Antioxidants. Nutrients 2024; 16:1815. [PMID: 38931170 PMCID: PMC11206339 DOI: 10.3390/nu16121815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Androgen production primarily occurs in Leydig cells located in the interstitial compartment of the testis. In aging males, testosterone is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and strength, bone density, sexual function, metabolic health, energy levels, cognitive function, as well as overall well-being. As men age, testosterone production by Leydig cells of the testes begins to decline at a rate of approximately 1% per year starting from their 30s. This review highlights recent findings concerning the use of natural polyphenolics compounds, such as flavonoids, resveratrol, and phenolic acids, to enhance testosterone production, thereby preventing age-related degenerative conditions associated with testosterone insufficiency. Interestingly, most of the natural polyphenolic antioxidants having beneficial effects on testosterone production tend to enhance the expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (Star) gene in Leydig cells. The STAR protein facilitates the entry of the steroid precursor cholesterol inside mitochondria, a rate-limiting step for androgen biosynthesis. Natural polyphenolic compounds can also improve the activities of steroidogenic enzymes, hypothalamus-pituitary gland axis signaling, and testosterone bioavailability. Thus, many polyphenolic compounds such as luteolin, quercetin, resveratrol, ferulic acid phenethyl ester or gigantol may be promising in delaying the initiation of late-onset hypogonadism accompanying aging in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc J. Martin
- Biology Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
| | - Mohamed Touaibia
- Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada;
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Moustafa PE, Abo El Nasr NME, Shabana ME, Saleh DO. Fisetin mitigates letrozole-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome in rats: crosstalk of AMPK/PI3K/AKT-mediated-Nrf2 antioxidant defense mechanism and the inflammasome NLRP3/NF-κB P65/IL-1β signaling pathways. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03124-5. [PMID: 38789632 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03124-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a highly prevalent condition affecting reproductive-aged women, causing insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, weight gain, and menstrual problems. The present study intended to investigate the potential role of fisetin (FT) in letrozole (LZ)-induced PCOS in adult female rats and the possible mechanism underlying its action. PCOS was induced by oral administration of LZ (1 mg/kg) for 21 days. Treated rats received FT (1.25 or 2.5 mg/kg) orally once daily for 14 consecutive days. Following the experimental duration, blood samples and ovary tissues were isolated and preserved for biochemical and histopathological examinations. The results revealed that LZ-induced PCOS led to significant abnormalities in sex hormones and metabolic parameters. Additionally, it initiated an inflammatory cascade, evidenced by activation of the NF-κB p65/IL-1β and AMPK/PI3K/AKT pathways, alongside downregulation of Nrf2 ovarian gene expression and NLRP3 inflammasome activity, which enhanced the production of proinflammatory cytokines. FT demonstrated its beneficial impacts by restoring hormonal disturbance and reversing the imbalanced metabolic parameters. Moreover, FT increased the mRNA of ovarian Nrf2 levels and suppressed the up-regulated inflammatory IL-1β/NF-κB p65 signaling pathway, consequently alleviating the elevated levels of ovarian NLRP3. The histopathological examination also confirmed that FT has a beneficial effect in ameliorating PCOS, consistent with the aforementioned parameters. Finally, the present results demonstrated that FT ameliorates LZ-induced PCOS through the intricate interplay between the AMPK/PI3K/AKT-mediated Nrf2 antioxidant defense mechanism and the regulation of the inflammasome NLRP3/NF-κB p65/IL-1β signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Passant E Moustafa
- Pharmacology Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nesma M E Abo El Nasr
- Pharmacology Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Marwa E Shabana
- Pathology Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Dalia O Saleh
- Pharmacology Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
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Wang M, Yang L, Sun G, Shao Y, Liu Y, Yang H, Wang Y, Zhang M, Shang Y, Gu X. Assessment of the Effect of Leonurine Hydrochloride in a Mouse Model of PCOS by Gene Expression Profiling. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:507. [PMID: 38674441 PMCID: PMC11050333 DOI: 10.3390/genes15040507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease commonly associated with metabolic disorders in females. Leonurine hydrochloride (Leo) plays an important role in regulating immunity, tumours, uterine smooth muscle, and ovarian function. However, the effect of Leo on PCOS has not been reported. Here, we used dehydroepiandrosterone to establish a mouse model of PCOS, and some mice were then treated with Leo by gavage. We found that Leo could improve the irregular oestros cycle of PCOS mice, reverse the significantly greater serum testosterone (T) and luteinising hormone (LH) levels, significantly reduce the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level, and significantly increase the LH/FSH ratio of PCOS mice. Leo could also change the phenomenon of ovaries in PCOS mice presented with cystic follicular multiplication and a lacking corpus luteum. Transcriptome analysis identified 177 differentially expressed genes related to follicular development between the model and Leo groups. Notably, the cAMP signalling pathway, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, the calcium signalling pathway, the ovarian steroidogenesis pathway, and the Lhcgr, Star, Cyp11a, Hsd17b7, Camk2b, Calml4, and Phkg1 genes may be most related to improvements in hormone levels and the numbers of ovarian cystic follicles and corpora lutea in PCOS mice treated by Leo, which provides a reference for further study of the mechanism of Leo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Li Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China;
| | - Guojie Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yongbin Shao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yuran Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Huiying Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yan Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Mengyuan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yunxia Shang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
| | - Xinli Gu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China; (M.W.); (G.S.); (Y.S.); (Y.L.); (H.Y.); (Y.W.); (M.Z.); (Y.S.)
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Cong P, Shang B, Zhang L, Wu Z, Wang Y, Li J, Zhang L. New insights into the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: HKDC1 promotes the growth of ovarian granulocyte cells by regulating mitochondrial function and glycolysis. J Mol Histol 2024; 55:187-199. [PMID: 38478190 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-024-10183-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease, and its pathogenesis and treatment are still unclear. Hexokinase domain component 1 (HKDC1) participates in regulating mitochondrial function and glycolysis. However, its role in PCOS development remains unrevealed. Here, female C57BL/6 mice were intraperitoneally injected with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA; 60 mg/kg body weight) to establish an in vivo model of PCOS. In vitro, KGN cells, a human ovarian granular cell line, were used to explore the potential mechanisms. DHEA-treated mice exhibited a disrupted estrus cycle, abnormal hormone levels, and insulin resistance. Dysfunction in mitochondria and glycolysis is the main reason for PCOS-related growth inhibition of ovarian granular cells. Here, we found that the structure of mitochondria was impaired, less ATP was generated and more mitochondrial Reactive Oxygen Species were produced in HKDC1-silenced KGN cells. Moreover, HKDC1 knockdown inhibited glucose consumption and decreased the production of glucose-6-phosphate and lactic acid. Conclusively, HKDC1 protects ovarian granulocyte cells from DHEA-related damage at least partly by preserving mitochondrial function and maintaining glycolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiwei Cong
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for TCM Viscera-State Theory and Applications, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Bing Shang
- Chinese Medicine Literature Research Institute, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Lina Zhang
- Teaching and Experiment Center, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhaoli Wu
- College of Acupuncture and Massage, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- Graduate School, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Jia Li
- Graduate School, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang, China.
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Chen J, Lin C, Huang X, Bian W. Baicalin enhances proliferation and reduces inflammatory-oxidative stress effect in H 2O 2-induced granulosa cells apoptosis via USP48 protein regulation. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:42. [PMID: 38245760 PMCID: PMC10799411 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04346-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxidative stress and inflammation can lead to apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs), resulting in ovulation disorders and infertility. Baicalin (BAI) promotes cell proliferation and reduces inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the mechanisms by which BAI treatment affects oxidative stress and inflammation in GCs remain incompletely understood. METHODS KGN cells were treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to analyze the effect of oxidative stress on GCs in vitro. Subsequently, H2O2-stimulated KGN cells were treated with BAI. The levels of GSH-Px, CAT, and SOD were measured using an activity assay kit. The levels of MDA, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α were measured by ELISA. Proliferation, apoptosis, and mRNA and protein levels were measured using the CCK8, flow cytometry, qRT-PCR, and western blotting. RESULTS H2O2 treatment inhibited KGN cell proliferation and promoted apoptosis, accompanied by increased oxidative stress and inflammation. BAI promoted proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in H2O2-stimulated KGN cells. BAI treatment promoted USP48 protein expression, and USP48 knockdown abrogated the protective effects of BAI, indicating that USP48 is a downstream mediator of BAI. CONCLUSION BAI treatment enhanced cell proliferation and ameliorated oxidative stress and inflammation by enhancing USP48 protein expression. BAI, which is used clinically and as a dietary supplement, may alleviate oxidative stress-induced GC injury and ovarian disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology), No. 1017, Dongmen North Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Chuhua Lin
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology), No. 1017, Dongmen North Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Xiurong Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Wei Bian
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology), No. 1017, Dongmen North Road, Luohu District, Shenzhen, 518020, China.
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Anbar HS, Vahora NY, Shah HL, Azam MM, Islam T, Hersi F, Omar HA, Dohle W, Potter BVL, El-Gamal MI. Promising drug candidates for the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as alternatives to the classical medication metformin. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 960:176119. [PMID: 37852569 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is characterized by abnormal production of androgens, typically present in small quantities in females. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of Irosustat (STX64), STX140, and compound 1G as new drug candidates for the treatment of letrozole-induced PCOS in female Wistar rats. 36 rats were divided into six groups of equal size. PCOS was induced in all groups, except the normal control group, by administering letrozole orally (1 mg/kg/day for 35 days). The onset of abnormal estrous cycle was confirmed by examining daily vaginal smears under a microscope. Subsequently, each rat group was assigned to a different treatment regimen, including one control group, one letrozole group, one metformin group (500 mg/kg/day) as a reference drug, and the other groups received a different drug candidate orally for 30 days. After treatment, blood collection was performed for biochemical measurements and determination of oxidative stress markers. The rats were dissected to separate ovaries and uterus for morphological, histological, and western blotting studies. Treatment with the drug candidates improved the ovaries and uterus weight measurements compared to the untreated PCOS group. The three tested drug candidates demonstrated promising improvements in lipid profile, blood glucose level, testosterone, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol levels. In addition, western blotting confirmed their promising effects on Akt, mTOR, and AMPK-α pathways. This study led to the discovery of three promising drug candidates for the management of PCOS as alternatives to metformin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan S Anbar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapeutics, Dubai Pharmacy College for Girls, Dubai, 19099, United Arab Emirates.
| | | | | | | | - Tamanna Islam
- Dubai Pharmacy College for Girls, Dubai, 19099, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fatima Hersi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hany A Omar
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62514, Egypt
| | - Wolfgang Dohle
- Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QT, United Kingdom
| | - Barry V L Potter
- Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Discovery, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QT, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed I El-Gamal
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
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10
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Wang K, Li Y. Signaling pathways and targeted therapeutic strategies for polycystic ovary syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1191759. [PMID: 37929034 PMCID: PMC10622806 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1191759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Although promising strides have been made in the field of PCOS over the past decades, the distinct etiologies of this syndrome are not fully elucidated. Prenatal factors, genetic variation, epigenetic mechanisms, unhealthy lifestyles, and environmental toxins all contribute to the development of this intricate and highly heterogeneous metabolic, endocrine, reproductive, and psychological disorder. Moreover, interactions between androgen excess, insulin resistance, disruption to the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary (HPO) axis, and obesity only make for a more complex picture. In this review, we investigate and summarize the related molecular mechanisms underlying PCOS pathogenesis from the perspective of the level of signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, TGF-β/Smads, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo/YAP. Additionally, this review provides an overview of prospective therapies, such as exosome therapy, gene therapy, and drugs based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and natural compounds. By targeting these aberrant pathways, these interventions primarily alleviate inflammation, insulin resistance, androgen excess, and ovarian fibrosis, which are typical symptoms of PCOS. Overall, we hope that this paper will pave the way for better understanding and management of PCOS in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanhua Li
- Department of General Practice, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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11
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Kouhetsani S, Khazali H, Rajabi-Maham H. Orexin antagonism and substance-P: Effects and interactions on polycystic ovary syndrome in the wistar rats. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:89. [PMID: 37147728 PMCID: PMC10161431 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01168-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder without definitive treatments. Orexin and Substance-P (SP) neuropeptides can affect the ovarian steroidogenesis. Moreover, there are limited studies about the role of these neuropeptides in PCOS. We aimed here to clarify the effects of orexins and SP in PCOS as well as any possible interactions between them. METHODS For this purpose, the animals (n = five rats per group) received intraperitoneally a single dose of SB-334,867-A (orexin-1 receptor antagonist; OX1Ra), JNJ-10,397,049 (orexin-2 receptor antagonist; OX2Ra), and CP-96,345 (neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist; NK1Ra), alone or in combination with each other after two months of PCOS induction. The blocking of orexin and SP receptors was studied in terms of ovarian histology, hormonal changes, and gene expression of ovarian steroidogenic enzymes. RESULTS The antagonists' treatment did not significantly affect the formation of ovarian cysts. In the PCOS groups, the co-administration of OX1Ra and OX2Ra as well as their simultaneous injections with NK1Ra significantly reversed testosterone levels and Cyp19a1 gene expression when compared to the PCOS control group. There were no significant interactions between the PCOS groups that received NK1Ra together with one or both OX1R- and OX2R-antagonists. CONCLUSION The blocking of the orexin receptors modulates abnormal ovarian steroidogenesis in the PCOS model of rats. This suggests that the binding of orexin-A and -B to their receptors reduces Cyp19a1 gene expression while increasing testosterone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Kouhetsani
- Department of Animal Sciences and Marine Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Homayoun Khazali
- Department of Animal Sciences and Marine Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hassan Rajabi-Maham
- Department of Animal Sciences and Marine Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Luo ED, Jiang HM, Chen W, Wang Y, Tang M, Guo WM, Diao HY, Cai NY, Yang X, Bian Y, Xing SS. Advancements in lead therapeutic phytochemicals polycystic ovary syndrome: A review. Front Pharmacol 2023; 13:1065243. [PMID: 36699064 PMCID: PMC9868606 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1065243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases in women of reproductive age and features complex pathological symptoms and mechanisms. Existing medical treatments have, to some extent, alleviated the deterioration of PCOS. However, these strategies only temporarily control symptoms, with a few side effects and no preventive effect. Phytochemicals extracted from medicinal herbs and plants are vital for discovering novel drugs. In recent years, many kinds of research have proven that phytochemicals isolated from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and medicinal plants show significant potential in preventing, alleviating, and treating PCOS. Nevertheless, compared to the abundance of experimental literature and minimal specific-topic reviews related to PCOS, there is a lack of systematic reviews to summarize these advancements in this promising field. Under this background, we systematically document the progress of bioactive phytochemicals from TCM and medicinal plants in treating PCOS, including flavonoids, polyphenols, and alkaloids. According to the literature, these valuable phytochemicals demonstrated therapeutic effects on PCOS supported by in vivo and in vitro experiments, mainly depending on anti-inflammatory, antioxidation, improvement of hormone disorder and insulin resistance (IR), and alleviation of hyperinsulinemia. Based on the current progress, future research directions should emphasize 1) exploring bioactive phytochemicals that potentially mediate bone metabolism for the treatment of PCOS; 2) improving unsatisfactory bioavailability by using advanced drug delivery systems such as nanoparticles and antibody-conjugated drugs, as well as a chemical modification; 3) conducting in-depth research on the pathogenesis of PCOS to potentially impact the gut microbiota and its metabolites in the evolution of PCOS; 4) revealing the pharmacological effects of these bioactive phytochemicals on PCOS at the genetic level; and 5) exploring the hypothetical and unprecedented functions in regulating PCOS by serving as proteolysis-targeting chimeras and molecular glues compared with traditional small molecule drugs. In brief, this review aims to provide detailed mechanisms of these bioactive phytochemicals and hopefully practical and reliable insight into clinical applications concerning PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er-Dan Luo
- GCP Institution, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Hai-Mei Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Chengdu, China
| | - Mi Tang
- GCP Institution, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Wen-Mei Guo
- GCP Institution, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao-Yang Diao
- GCP Institution, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Ning-Yuan Cai
- GCP Institution, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- GCP Institution, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Ying Bian, ; Sha-Sha Xing,
| | - Sha-Sha Xing
- GCP Institution, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Central Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Ying Bian, ; Sha-Sha Xing,
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13
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Shieh A, Bagheri SM, Yadegari M, Javidmehr D, Farhadi Z. Therapeutic effect of Ferula assa-foetida oleo-gum resin in rats with letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2022; 49:239-247. [PMID: 36482498 PMCID: PMC9732079 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2022.05449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Asafoetida is a gum derived from Ferula assa-foetida, which is used in traditional Iranian medicine to treat some reproductive system disorders. The effects of asafoetida on ovarian tissue, expression of certain genes associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and levels of liver, kidney, and blood cell factors after treatment in a rat model were investigated. METHODS Thirty rats were divided into five groups: normal, polycystic, and treatment with three doses of asafoetida (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg for 3 weeks after PCOS induction). PCOS was induced by letrozole at a dose of 1 mg/kg administered orally for 3 weeks. Blood samples were taken, and the ovaries were removed and prepared for histomorphometric examination. Liver and kidney parameters were measured. The mRNA expression levels of luteinizing hormone receptor, CYP11A1, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, adiponectin, and adiponectin receptors 1 and 2 were also measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The levels of liver, kidney, and blood parameters did not significantly differ between the treatment groups and the control group. At doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg, ovarian histopathology, especially the thicknesses of the theca and granulosa layers, was significantly improved relative to the PCOS group. The expression of target genes also improved in the 25 and 50 mg/kg treatment groups. CONCLUSION Asafoetida can be used to treat PCOS as a complementary approach to conventional therapies. Asafoetida appears to act by regulating and activating metabolic and ovarian cycle enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Shieh
- Department of Physiology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Seyyed Majid Bagheri
- Department of Physiology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Neuroendocrine Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Maryam Yadegari
- Department of Anatomy, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Davoud Javidmehr
- Department of Embryology, Research Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Royan Institute, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeinab Farhadi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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14
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Zhang J, Zhang H, Xin X, Zhu Y, Ye Y, Li D. Efficacy of Flavonoids on Animal Models of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14194128. [PMID: 36235780 PMCID: PMC9571610 DOI: 10.3390/nu14194128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common gynecological endocrinopathies. Evidence suggest that flavonoids have beneficial effects on endocrine and metabolic diseases, including PCOS. However, high-quality clinical trials are lacking. We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental studies to determine the flavonoids' effects in animal models of PCOS. Three electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched from their inception to March 2022. The Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation's risk of bias tool was used to assess methodological quality. The standardized mean difference was calculated with 95% confidence intervals as the overall effects. R was used for all statistical analyses. This study was registered in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42022328355). A total of eighteen studies, including 300 animals, met the inclusion criteria. Our analyses demonstrated that, compared to control groups, flavonoid groups showed a significantly lower count of atretic follicles and cystic follicles and the count of corpus luteum was higher. A significant reduction in the luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and free testosterone were observed in intervention groups. Nevertheless, there was no significant difference in the effects of flavonoids on the level of FSH, estradiol, and progesterone. Subgroup analyses indicated that the type of flavonoid, dose, duration of administration, and PCOS induction drug were relevant factors that influenced the effects of intervention. Current evidence supports the positive properties of flavonoids on ovarian histomorphology and hormonal status in animal models of PCOS. These data call for more randomized controlled trials and further experimental studies investigating the mechanism in more depth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yang Ye
- Correspondence: (Y.Y.); (D.L.)
| | - Dong Li
- Correspondence: (Y.Y.); (D.L.)
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15
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Guo X, Xu Y, Sun J, Wang Q, Kong H, Zhong Z. Exploring the Mechanism of Wenshen Huatan Quyu Decotion for PCOS Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Verification. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:3299091. [PMID: 36071733 PMCID: PMC9441343 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3299091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify the active chemical in Wenshen Huatan Quyu Decotion (WHQD) and to explore its possible network interactions with the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods The Traditional Chinese Medicine Systematic Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) and the Bioinformatics Analysis Tool for Molecular Mechanisms in Chinese Medicine (BATMAN-TCM) were used to decompose compound formulations, detect active chemicals and their corresponding target genes, and then convert them into UniProt gene symbols. Meanwhile, PCOS-related target genes were collected from GeneCards to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, which was further analyzed by STRING online database. Gene Ontology (GO) functional analysis was also performed afterwards to construct the component-target gene-disease network to visualize the correlation between WHQD and PCOS. We then performed an in silico molecular docking study to validate the predicted relationships. Results WHQD consists of 14 single drugs containing a total of 67 chemical components. 216 genes were predicted as possible targets. 123 of the 216 target genes overlapped with PCOS. GO annotation analysis revealed that 1968 genes were associated with biological processes, 145 with molecular functions, and 71 with cellular components. KEGG analysis revealed 146 pathways involved PPI, and chemical-target gene-disease networks suggest that PGR, AR, ADRB2, IL-6, MAPK1/8, ESR1/2, CHRM3, RXRA, PPARG, BCL2/BAX, GABRA1, and NR3C2 may be key genes for the pharmacological effects of WHQD on PCOS. Molecular docking analysis confirmed that hydrogen bonding was the main interaction between WHQD and its targets. Conclusion WHQD exerts its pharmacological effects by improving insulin sensitivity, subfertility, and hormonal imbalance, increasing ovulation rates, which in turn may increase pregnancy rates in patients with significant efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Yunyi Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 310053, China
| | - Juan Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Haibo Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
| | - Zixing Zhong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, China
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Taheri M, Roudbari NH, Amidi F, Parivar K. Investigating the effect of Sulforaphane on AMPK/AKT/NRF2 pathway in human granulosa-lutein cells under H 2O 2-induced oxidative stress. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2022; 276:125-133. [PMID: 35882072 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in granulosa cells (GCs) plays a role in pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) by developing oxidative stress (OS). It was shown that Sulforaphane (SFN), with known antioxidant properties, can have protective effects in different diseases through affecting the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) signaling pathway. Thus, the purpose of the current work was to examine the protective impact of SFN through the activation of the AMPK/AKT/NRF2 pathway against OS produced by H2O2 in granulosa-lutein cells (GLCs). Individuals' GLCs were obtained during ovum retrieval in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. First, the induced OS model was created in GLCs using H2O2 exposure. To examine the protective effect of SFN against OS, the cells were cultured for 24 h in presence or absence of SFN. Eventually, the levels of intracellular ROS and apoptosis were measured by flow cytometry, and genes and proteins expression levels of AMPK, AKT, and NRF2 were evaluated using qRT-PCR and western blotting. Compared to the control group, the levels of intracellular ROS and apoptosis rose dramatically in GLCs with enhanced OS. SFN therapy decreased ROS and apoptosis levels and increased the overexpression of AMPK, AKT, and NRF2 genes and proteins. This study's results revealed that SFN exposure results in the alleviation of ROS and apoptosis levels possibly through activating the overexpression of genes and proteins of AMPK, AKT, and NRF2, and exerts its protective effects against OS in GLCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Taheri
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasim Hayati Roudbari
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kazem Parivar
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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Hu X, Li X, Deng P, Zhang Y, Liu R, Cai D, Xu Q, Jiang X, Sun J, Bai W. The consequence and mechanism of dietary flavonoids on androgen profiles and disorders amelioration. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 63:11327-11350. [PMID: 35796699 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2090893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Androgen is a kind of steroid hormone that plays a vital role in reproductive system and homeostasis of the body. Disrupted androgen balance serves as the causal contributor to a series of physiological disorders and even diseases. Flavonoids, as an extremely frequent family of natural polyphenols, exist widely in plants and foods and have received great attention when considering their inevitable consumption and estrogen-like effects. Mounting evidence illustrates that flavonoids have a propensity to interfere with androgen synthesis and metabolism, and also have a designated improvement effect on androgen disorders. Therefore, flavonoids were divided into six subclasses based on the structural feature in this paper, and the literature about their effects on androgens published in the past ten years was summarized. It could be concluded that flavonoids have the potential to regulate androgen levels and biological effects, mainly by interfering with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, androgen synthesis and metabolism, androgen binding with its receptors and membrane receptors, and antioxidant effects. The faced challenges about androgen regulation by flavonoids masterly include target mechanism exploration, individual heterogeneity, food matrixes interaction, and lack of clinical study. This review also provides a scientific basis for nutritional intervention using flavonoids to improve androgen disorder symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Hu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xusheng Li
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Pan Deng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, PR China
| | - Yulin Zhang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Ruijing Liu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
- Key Laboratory for Bio-Based Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Dongbao Cai
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Qingjie Xu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xinwei Jiang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Jianxia Sun
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Weibin Bai
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Jinan University, Guangzhou, PR China
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18
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Mohammed HM. Zingerone ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in rats by activating AMPK. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14149. [PMID: 35338494 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to test the protective potential of Zingerone against a high-fat diet (HFD)-mediated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) development in rats and examined in this protection is mediated modulating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Animals were segregated based on their diet and treatment into four groups (n = 6 each): (a) fed standard diet (STD), (b) treated with Zingerone (100 mg/kg), (c) fed HFD, (d) HFD + Zingerone (100 mg/kg), and (e) HFD + Zingerone (100 mg/kg) + compound c (CC) (an AMPK inhibitor) (0.2 mg/kg). The treatment with Zingerone attenuated the gain in final body weights, preserved liver structure, and downregulated the transcription of Bax and cleaved caspase-3. In the HFD and STD-fed rats, Zingerone reduced levels of fasting glucose and insulin and circulatory levels of cholesterol (CHOL) and triglycerides (TGs). Concomitantly, Zingerone enhanced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, depleted levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), and enhanced the nuclear levels of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). In addition, it lowered the levels of inflammatory cytokines and the nuclear levels of the nuclear factor kappa beta p65 (NF-κB p65). All these biochemical changes were associated with an increment in the phosphorylation of AMPK (p-AMPK) (activation) and reduced mRNA levels of SREBP1 and SREBP2. All observed effects afforded by Zingerone were abolished by CC. In conclusion, Zingerone prevents hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis by activating AMPK. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The findings of this study identified Zingerone, isolated from ginger, as a very effective drug that not only can attenuate fasting hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, but also prevent hepatic deposition, steatosis, and oxidative damage induced by high-fat-fed rats by activating the AMPK/Nrf2 antioxidant axis and concomitant suppression of SREBP1, SREBp2, and NF-κB p65. These data list Zingerone as a potent stimulator of AMPK which suggests an effective strategy to treat and alleviate NAFLD and encourages further translational and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heitham M Mohammed
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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19
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Fan H, He J, Bai Y, He Q, Zhang T, Zhang J, Yang G, Xu Z, Hu J, Yao G. Baicalin improves the functions of granulosa cells and the ovary in aged mice through the mTOR signaling pathway. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:34. [PMID: 35300716 PMCID: PMC8932175 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-00965-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mammalian follicle is the basic functional unit of the ovary, and its normal development is required to obtaining oocytes capable of fertilization. As women get older or decline in ovarian function due to certain pathological factors, the growth and development of follicles becomes abnormal, which ultimately leads to infertility and other related female diseases. Kuntai capsules are currently used in clinical practice to improve ovarian function, and they contain the natural compound Baicalin, which is a natural compound with important biological activities. At present, the role and mechanism of Baicalin in the development of ovarian follicles is unclear. Methods Human primary granulosa cells collected from follicular fluid, and then cultured and treated with Baicalin or its normal control, assessed for viability, subjected to RT-PCR, western blotting, flow cytometry, and hormone analyses. The estrus cycle and oocytes of CD-1 mice were studied after Baicalin administration and compared with controls. Ovaries were collected from the mice and subjected to hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry analysis. Results We showed that Baicalin had a dose-dependent effect on granulosa cells cultured in vitro. A low concentration of Baicalin (for example, 10 μM) helped to maintain the viability of granulosa cells; however, at a concentration exceeding 50 μM, it exerted a toxic effect. A low concentration significantly improved the viability of granulosa cells and inhibited cell apoptosis, which may be related to the resultant upregulation of Bcl-2 expression and downregulation of Bax and Caspase 3. By constructing a hydrogen peroxide-induced cell oxidative stress damage model, we found that Baicalin reversed the cell damage caused by hydrogen peroxide. In addition, Baicalin increased the secretion of estradiol and progesterone by upregulating P450arom and stAR. The results of the in vivo experiment showed that the intragastric administration of Baicalin to aged mice improved the estrous cycle and oocyte quality. Furthermore, we observed that Baicalin enhanced the viability of granulosa cells through the mTOR pathway, which in turn improve ovarian function. Conclusion These results indicate that Baicalin could improve the viability of ovarian granulosa cells and the secretion of steroid hormones and thus could help to improve degenerating ovarian function and delay ovarian aging. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13048-022-00965-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiying Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jiahuan He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yucheng Bai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Qina He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Tongwei Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Junya Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ziwen Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jingyi Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Guidong Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China. .,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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20
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Falahatian S, Haddad R, Pakravan N. Modulatory effects of R10 fraction of garlic (Allium sativum L.) on hormonal levels, T cell polarization, and fertility-related genes in mice model of polycystic ovarian syndrome. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:4. [PMID: 34991678 PMCID: PMC8734287 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-021-00926-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an inflammatory endocrine-metabolic disorder related to reproductive system characterized by polycystic ovarian morphology, androgen excess, and chronic anovulation. Current treatments haven't been very successful in PCOS treatment and the problem still remains as a challenge. Therefore, new approaches should be applied to overcome the disease. Previous studies demonstrated immunomodulatory effects of R10 fraction of garlic in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as cancer. Considering previous studies suggesting immunomodulatory therapy for PCOS, therapeutic effects of R10 fraction was evaluated in a mouse model of PCOS. To do so, PCOS was developed by intramuscular injection of estradiol valerate. Treatment with R10 fraction, isolated from garlic, was performed and the alterations in hormonal levels (estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone), T cell polarization markers (IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-17), and expression of fertility-related genes (Gpx3 and Ptx3) were evaluated. The results showed that hormonal levels were elevated in PCOS model comparing to normal animals but were markedly modulated after treatment with R10 fraction. Moreover, a severe disturbance in T cell polarization with a significant reduction of fertility-related genes expression were detected in PCOS-induced ovaries. Treatment with R10 fraction also represented modulatory effects on T cell polarization by increasing IL-4 and decreasing IL-17 and IFN-γ levels. Accordingly, fertility-related genes were also modulated following treatment with R10 fraction in PCOS. Our study elucidated that R10 fraction of garlic possess immunomodulatory effects alleviating PCOS symptoms. This approach could be adjusted to give rise the optimum therapeutic results and considered as a candidate therapeutic approach for PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somaye Falahatian
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Raheem Haddad
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Nafiseh Pakravan
- Department of Immunology, Medical School, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Nabowat Blvd, West Bou-Ali St, Karaj, Iran.
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21
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The protective effect of sulforaphane against oxidative stress in granulosa cells of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) through activation of AMPK/AKT/NRF2 signaling pathway. Reprod Biol 2021; 21:100563. [PMID: 34678578 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in granulosa cells (GCs) causes oxidative stress (OS) and plays a role in pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Sulforaphane (SFN) has received a great deal of attention as potent antioxidant because of its ability to induce expression of antioxidant enzymes through nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) signaling pathway. Therefore, the present study was done to investigate the protective effect of SFN against OS in granulosa-lutein cells (GLCs) of patients with PCOS through activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/AKT/NRF2 signaling pathway. GLCs were isolated from patients with PCOS and healthy fertile women, as control group, during egg retrieval procedure. Level of intracellular ROS and apoptosis was determined in the isolated cells. For investigating the protective effect of SFN against ROS production and apoptosis in GLCs, the cells were cultured for 24 h in the presence or absence of SFN. Finally, expression of AMPK, AKT, and NRF2 proteins and genes was evaluated by western blotting and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), respectively. The results indicated the increased ROS and apoptosis levels in GLCs isolated from patients with PCOS compared to the control group. Addition of SFN to culture medium of GLCs of patients with PCOS reduced intracellular ROS and apoptosis levels, and increased expression of AMPK, AKT, and NRF2 proteins and genes. Our findings demonstrated the protective effect of SFN against OS by lowering level of ROS and apoptosis possibly through activation of AMPK, AKT, and NRF2 proteins and genes expression.
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22
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Liu W, Chen Q, Liu Z, Weng Z, Nguyen TN, Feng J, Zhou S. Zihuai recipe alleviates cyclophosphamide-induced diminished ovarian reserve via suppressing PI3K/AKT-mediated apoptosis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 277:113789. [PMID: 33422655 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.113789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Zihuai recipe (ZHR), a Chinese herbal prescription, is widely used for the clinical treatment of Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) infertility. However, little is known regarding its underlying mechanisms of DOR treatment. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of ZHR on the treatment of DOR and to reveal the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty female 8-week-old Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the following six groups (n=10 per group): control, DOR, low-dose(2.7 g/kg/day) ZHR (L-ZHR), medium-dose(5.4 g/kg/day), ZHR (M-ZHR), high-dose(10.8 g/kg/day) ZHR (H-ZHR), and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) treatment groups. The DOR model was established in all the groups, except the control group, by a single intraperitoneal injection of 90 mg/kg cyclophosphamide. After the induction of the DOR model, rats were weighed and administered either the relevant dose of ZHR or an equal volume of saline solution (in the control and DOR groups). Rats in the HRT group received estradiol valerate tablets (0.16 mg/kg/day), and with medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets (0.86 mg/kg/day) added on day 4. After 32 days of treatment, the rats were euthanized and the ovaries were collected for sampling. Ovarian morphology was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining and the number of follicles was counted under a microscope. The serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol (E2) were quantified by ELISA. A TUNEL assay was used to analyze the level of apoptosis of the ovarian cells. The protein expressions of p-PI3K, p-AKT, PI3K, AKT, cleaved caspase-3, BAX, and Bcl-2 were measured by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Data analysis was performed with SPSS 20.0 software. RESULTS ZHR administration increased the ovarian index and the serum levels of AMH, GnRH, and E2, while lowering those of FSH and LH. ZHR treatment also increased the number of primordial, primary, secondary, and antral follicles, as well as the number of corpora lutea, but decreased the number of atretic follicles. Furthermore, ZHR administration decreased the percentage of TUNEL-positive ovarian cells. After treatment with ZHR, the protein expression levels of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT, cleaved caspase-3 and BAX were decreased, whereas the level of Bcl-2 was increased. CONCLUSIONS ZHR improved the ovarian reserve in CTX-induced DOR rats. The mechanisms of ZHR on DOR may be mediated through the regulation of gonadal hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (HPOA), and the inhibition of PI3K/AKT-mediated apoptosis in granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiping Liu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Qi Chen
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Zhidan Liu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Zhiwei Weng
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | | | - Jiaming Feng
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Shaohu Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510120, China.
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23
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Dabravolski SA, Nikiforov NG, Eid AH, Nedosugova LV, Starodubova AV, Popkova TV, Bezsonov EE, Orekhov AN. Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Chronic Inflammation in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3923. [PMID: 33920227 PMCID: PMC8070512 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine-metabolic disorder affecting a vast population worldwide; it is linked with anovulation, mitochondrial dysfunctions and hormonal disbalance. Mutations in mtDNA have been identified in PCOS patients and likely play an important role in PCOS aetiology and pathogenesis; however, their causative role in PCOS development requires further investigation. As a low-grade chronic inflammation disease, PCOS patients have permanently elevated levels of inflammatory markers (TNF-α, CRP, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18). In this review, we summarise recent data regarding the role of mtDNA mutations and mitochondrial malfunctions in PCOS pathogenesis. Furthermore, we discuss recent papers dedicated to the identification of novel biomarkers for early PCOS diagnosis. Finally, traditional and new mitochondria-targeted treatments are discussed. This review intends to emphasise the key role of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in PCOS pathogenesis; however, the exact molecular mechanism is mostly unknown and requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siarhei A. Dabravolski
- Department of Clinical Diagnostics, Vitebsk State Academy of Veterinary Medicine [UO VGAVM], 7/11 Dovatora str., 210026 Vitebsk, Belarus
| | - Nikita G. Nikiforov
- Center of Collective Usage, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 34/5 Vavilova Street, 119334 Moscow, Russia;
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Institute of Experimental Cardiology, National Medical Research Center of Cardiology, 121552 Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology of Cardiovascular System, Institute of Human Morphology, 3 Tsyurupa Street, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (E.E.B.); (A.N.O.)
| | - Ali H. Eid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar;
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon
| | - Ludmila V. Nedosugova
- Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), 8/2 Trubenskaya Street, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Antonina V. Starodubova
- Federal Research Centre for Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, 2/14 Ustinsky Passage, 109240 Moscow, Russia;
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 1 Ostrovitianov Street, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatyana V. Popkova
- V.A. Nasonova Institute of Rheumatology, 34A Kashirskoye Shosse, 115522 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Evgeny E. Bezsonov
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology of Cardiovascular System, Institute of Human Morphology, 3 Tsyurupa Street, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (E.E.B.); (A.N.O.)
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, The Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, 8 Baltiyskaya Street, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander N. Orekhov
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathology of Cardiovascular System, Institute of Human Morphology, 3 Tsyurupa Street, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (E.E.B.); (A.N.O.)
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24
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Feng R, Zhang X, Yin J, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Zhang X, Zhang L, Li D. A comprehensive study of the metabolism of flavonoid oroxin B in vivo and in vitro by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2021; 197:113905. [PMID: 33636644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2021.113905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Oroxin B, a flavonoid, is a major bioactive component form Oroxylum indicum (L.) Vent. with enormous anti-hepatoma effects. To data, the oroxin B metabolism studies remain underexplored. This study was designed to characterize oroxin B metabolism in vivo and in vitro by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS). Consequently, 30 metabolites in rats, 8 metabolites in liver microsomes and 18 metabolites in intestinal bacteria were identified, and 9 metabolites were recognized by comparison with standards. The biotransformation processes involved ketone, acetylation, loss of C12H20O10, and loss of C6H10O5. And baicalein and oroxin A were generated after loss of C12H20O10, and loss of C6H10O5, respectively, and further went through some other reactions, such as oxidation, methylation, internal hydrolysis, hydrogenation, loss of O, ketone, glycine conjugation, glucuronide conjugation and their composite reactions. The results provide valuable evidence for elucidation the potential mechanism of oroxin B pharmacological action, and offer reasonable guidelines for further investigations of oroxin B safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Feng
- The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, PR China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, PR China
| | - Jintuo Yin
- The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050011, PR China; Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China
| | - Yuqian Zhang
- The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, PR China
| | - Yinling Ma
- Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050051, PR China
| | - Xia Zhang
- The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, PR China
| | - Lantong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, PR China.
| | - Deqiang Li
- The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, PR China.
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25
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Shpakov AO. Improvement Effect of Metformin on Female and Male Reproduction in Endocrine Pathologies and Its Mechanisms. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14010042. [PMID: 33429918 PMCID: PMC7826885 DOI: 10.3390/ph14010042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin (MF), a first-line drug to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), alone and in combination with other drugs, restores the ovarian function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and improves fetal development, pregnancy outcomes and offspring health in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and T2DM. MF treatment is demonstrated to improve the efficiency of in vitro fertilization and is considered a supplementary drug in assisted reproductive technologies. MF administration shows positive effect on steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in men with metabolic disorders, thus MF treatment indicates prospective use for improvement of male reproductive functions and fertility. MF lacks teratogenic effects and has positive health effect in newborns. The review is focused on use of MF therapy for restoration of female and male reproductive functions and improvement of pregnancy outcomes in metabolic and endocrine disorders. The mechanisms of MF action are discussed, including normalization of metabolic and hormonal status in PCOS, GDM, T2DM and metabolic syndrome and restoration of functional activity and hormonal regulation of the gonadal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander O Shpakov
- I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of Russian Academy of Sciences, 194223 Saint Petersburg, Russia
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26
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He S, Mao X, Lei H, Dong B, Guo D, Zheng B, Sun P. Peripheral Blood Inflammatory-Immune Cells as a Predictor of Infertility in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Inflamm Res 2020; 13:441-450. [PMID: 32884325 PMCID: PMC7443446 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s260770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the inflammatory-immune cells in the peripheral blood of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and assessed the potential correlation between inflammatory-immune cells and infertility in PCOS women. Materials and Methods In this case-control study, the profiles of lymphocyte subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry. White blood cells (WBC), neutrophils (Neu), lymphocytes, Ferriman-Gallwey (F-G) score, testosterone, prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, fasting blood glucose, and fasting plasma insulin were measured, together with body mass index. Association between inflammatory-immune cells and PCOS was evaluated. Moreover, inflammatory-immune cells of the PCOS women with infertility were evaluated, and the relative operating characteristic (ROC) curve and cutoff values were calculated. Results The number of WBC, Neu, and lymphocytes was higher in PCOS women than controls (P<0.05). The percentages of total T lymphocytes, CD4+T, and NK were significantly increased in the PCOS group (P<0.001). The CD4/CD8 ratio was obviously elevated for increasing CD4+T (P<0.05). Consequently, T%, CD4+T%, and NK% were found to be the independent risk factors of PCOS by ROC curve and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, only NK% was significantly higher in PCOS women with infertility than those who had PCOS without infertility (P<0.001). To diagnose infertility in PCOS, the cutoff value of NK% was calculated as 16.43%. Conclusion These findings suggest that the pathogenesis of PCOS is related to immune cells including T, CD4+T, and NK cells. NK cells are likely to be a potential predictive factor for PCOS women with infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- ShuQiong He
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - XiaoDan Mao
- Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Women and Children's Critical Diseases Research, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - HuiFang Lei
- Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Women and Children's Critical Diseases Research, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - BinHua Dong
- Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Women and Children's Critical Diseases Research, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - DanHua Guo
- Department of Prenatal Diagnosis, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - BeiHong Zheng
- Department of Reproduction, Fujian, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
| | - PengMing Sun
- Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China.,Fujian Key Laboratory of Women and Children's Critical Diseases Research, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, People's Republic of China
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27
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Wang C, Zuo G, Wang X, Kim HY, Zhao S, Sun W, Tong S, Lim SS. Retention mechanism of pH-peak-focusing in countercurrent chromatographic separation of baicalin and wogonoside from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. J Sep Sci 2020; 43:3806-3815. [PMID: 32729149 DOI: 10.1002/jssc.202000455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
An efficient and target-oriented pH-peak-focusing countercurrent chromatographic method was established for large-scale separation of baicalin and wogonoside from the crude exact of traditional Chinese medicinal herb Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. An optimized two-phase solvent system composed of n-butanol-ethyl acetate-methanol-water (1:4:0.5:5, v/v) was selected. Trifluoroacetic acid (10 mmol/L) was added to the upper organic phase, used as the stationary phase. One liter of the aqueous lower phase was used as the mobile phase for 0-350 min, and then 10 mmol/L ammonia was added to remaining 1 L of the aqueous lower phase and used as the mobile phase for 350-600 min. In total, 493.2 mg of baicalin with 98.6% purity and 88.6 mg of wogonoside with 98.9% purity were obtained from 1.0 g of crude exact of S. baicalensis by countercurrent chromatography in a single run. The acid dissociation constant (pKa) and oil-water partition coefficient values of two components were measured to better understand the mechanism of separation. Results showed that pH-peak-focusing countercurrent chromatography with a polar solvent system added with trifluoroacetic acid could be an efficient method for large-scale isolation of organic acids, which are difficult to separate with conventional countercurrent chromatography due to their poor solubility in non-polar solvents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoyue Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Guanglei Zuo
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Xiang Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Hyun Yong Kim
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Shanshan Zhao
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Wenyu Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Shengqiang Tong
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Soon Sung Lim
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Korean Nutrition, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Natural Medicine, Hallym University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
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28
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Improvement of Testicular Steroidogenesis Using Flavonoids and Isoflavonoids for Prevention of Late-Onset Male Hypogonadism. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9030237. [PMID: 32183155 PMCID: PMC7139932 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9030237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen production, being important for male fertility, is mainly accomplished by the Leydig cells from the interstitial compartment of the testis. Testosterone plays a critical role in testis development, normal masculinization, and the maintenance of spermatogenesis. Within seminiferous tubules, appropriate Sertoli cell function is highly dependent on testicular androgen levels and is essential to initiate and maintain spermatogenesis. During aging, testosterone production by the testicular Leydig cells declines from the 30s in humans at a rate of 1% per year. This review outlines the recent findings regarding the use of flavonoids and isoflavonoids to improve testosterone production, contributing to normal spermatogenesis and preventing age-related degenerative diseases associated with testosterone deficiency. With the cumulation of information on the actions of different flavonoids and isoflavonoids on steroidogenesis in Leydig cells, we can now draw conclusions regarding the structure-activity relationship on androgen production. Indeed, flavonoids having a 5,7-dihydroxychromen-4-one backbone tend to increase the expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), being critical for the entry of cholesterol into the mitochondria, leading to increased testosterone production from testis Leydig cells. Therefore, flavonoids and isoflavonoids such as chrysin, apigenin, luteolin, quercetin, and daidzein may be effective in delaying the initiation of late-onset hypogonadism associated with aging in males.
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