D-Pinitol attenuates postmenopausal symptoms in ovariectomized mice

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Toxicology
• Neuroscience
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Menopause triggers symptoms like hot flushes, cognitive decline, and depression.
• Hormonal replacement therapy poses risks; natural alternatives are sought.
• D-pinitol, known for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is understudied for menopausal relief.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate D-pinitol's efficacy in alleviating post-menopausal symptoms.
• To evaluate D-pinitol's effects on cognitive function, mood, and physical symptoms in an ovariectomized mouse model.

Main Methods:

• Ovariectomized (OVX) mice received D-pinitol (10-100 mg/kg) or estradiol.
• Behavioral tests assessed cognition, anxiety, and depression.
• Western blot analysis examined protein expression (ERβ, synaptophysin) and signaling pathways (ERK, PI3K-Akt-GSK-3β) in brain tissues.

Main Results:

• D-pinitol (30, 100 mg/kg) improved cognitive function and reduced anxiety and depressive behaviors.
• It normalized elevated tail skin temperature, a marker of hot flushes.
• D-pinitol reversed OVX-induced decreases in ERβ and synaptophysin and modulated ERK and PI3K-Akt-GSK-3β signaling.

Conclusions:

• D-pinitol demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent for post-menopausal symptoms.
• Its mechanism involves enhancing ERβ and synaptophysin levels and activating key signaling pathways.
• D-pinitol offers a promising natural alternative to conventional menopausal treatments.