Steroidogenic effects of Eurycoma longifolia standardized extract in rat model of polycystic ovarian syndrome

• Main Authors: Abdul Rahman, Suzanah, Ahmad, Nur Amalina, Mamat, Suhana, Chan, Kit Lam
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Health 2020
• Subjects: QP Physiology; RG Gynecology and obstetrics; RG125 Therapeutics; RG133.7 Ovulation induction; RM Therapeutics. Pharmacology
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/87060/1/87060_Steroidogenic%20effects%20of%20Eurycoma%20longifolia.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/87060/; https://journals.lww.com/jpbs/fulltext/2020/12002/symposium___icprp_2019_era_of_big_data.168.aspx

Introduction: Female reproductive disorders are multifaceted in nature and the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome has remained a challenge in the gynaecological field. Objectives: Eurycoma longifolia has long been used for enhancement of male reproductive functions. This study sought to elucidate its effects in the female reproductive system. Materials and Methods: Eurycoma longifolia standardized extract, TAF 273, was tested on rats representing the polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) following induction with a single subcutaneous injection of estradiol valerate (2 mg/rat). At the end of two moths, clomiphene citrate and TAF 273 (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) were administered daily via oral gavage for 28 consecutive days. Serum testosterone, oestradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone levels were then measured followed by assessment of ovary histomorphology. Steroidogenic enzymes were also examined in histological paraffin sections using HRP-DAB detection method. Results: The expression levels of CYP11A1, CYP17A1 and CYP19A1 genes were detected by quantitative RT-PCR. TAF 273 extract at 100 mg/kg was found to possess beneficial effects in improving the PCOS condition by restoration of the oestrous cycle and improvement of the ovarian morphology as observed by the presence of healthy follicles and corpora lutea indication the process of ovulation. Hormonal imbalances and expressions of steroidogenic genes were also found to be attenuated probably through its action on oestradiol hormones and CYP19A1 gene. Conclusion: Results obtained showed that the standardized extract has the potential in maintaining normal functions of the female reproductive system and may have economic value in the management of female disorders and reproductive health.