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The potential protective effects of curcumin on the diabetic ovary: Experimental and molecular approaches
Kıymet Kübra Tufekci1, Gamze Altun2, Maulilio John Kipanyula3
1Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Türkiye.
Abstract:
Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes numerous systemic diseases in animals and humans. This may also lead to reproductive problems among individuals of reproductive age. Detrimental effects such as apoptosis in ovarian granulosa cells, degradation of communication proteins, decreased oocyte quality, delayed meiotic maturation, and atrophy are among the increasing evidence that chronic hyperglycemia causes reproductive problems. Numerous studies have reported that the antidiabetic properties of the antioxidant curcumin may be due to its inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance. There are also data indicating that curcumin reduces the risk of DM and its associated symptoms. This review discusses the protective or curative properties of curcumin in the treatment of DM-related problems in the ovary and seeks to elucidate potential underlying mechanisms. While the use of curcumin as a supportive/therapeutic agent has been introduced for the reduction of reproductive problems that may be caused by uncontrolled DM, more studies on this subject are needed.
Insights
Curcumin, an antioxidant, may help protect against diabetes mellitus (DM)-related reproductive issues by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Further research is needed to confirm its therapeutic potential for ovarian dysfunction in uncontrolled DM.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus (DM) is linked to systemic diseases and reproductive health problems.
- Chronic hyperglycemia in DM can negatively impact ovarian function, leading to cell apoptosis, impaired oocyte quality, and delayed maturation.
- Curcumin, a natural antioxidant, exhibits antidiabetic properties by mitigating oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the protective and curative effects of curcumin on diabetes-related ovarian dysfunction.
- To explore the potential mechanisms underlying curcumin's therapeutic actions in DM-associated reproductive issues.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating curcumin's role in diabetes and reproductive health.
- Analysis of evidence on curcumin's impact on ovarian granulosa cells, oocyte quality, and meiotic maturation.
- Examination of curcumin's effects on oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance in the context of DM.
Main Results:
- Curcumin demonstrates potential in reducing DM-associated reproductive problems.
- Evidence suggests curcumin's benefits stem from its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and insulin-sensitizing properties.
- Curcumin may counteract detrimental effects of hyperglycemia on ovarian cells and oocyte development.
Conclusions:
- Curcumin shows promise as a supportive or therapeutic agent for managing reproductive complications of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate curcumin's efficacy and mechanisms in treating DM-related ovarian dysfunction.
