Therapeutic Effects of Fermented Soy Extract on Osteoporotic Changes in Ovariectomized Mice as a Model of Menopause

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of fermented soy extract (FSE) on bone metabolism and neuroendocrine regulation in an ovariectomized (OVX) mouse model of postmenopausal conditions. FSE administration improved bone microarchitecture and modulated key markers associated with bone turnover, including reduced CTX-1 and RANKL levels and increased OPG expression, indicating suppression of osteoclastogenesis. In addition, FSE enhanced estrogen receptor-related activity and upregulated genes involved in bone metabolism. Notably, FSE also increased estradiol, serotonin, and norepinephrine levels, suggesting a beneficial role in neuroendocrine regulation. Collectively, these findings indicate that FSE may serve as a promising natural intervention for alleviating postmenopausal bone loss and neuroendocrine imbalance, supporting its potential application in functional nutrition.