Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 10, 2026
12:03
Fertility Preservation in Patients with Severe Ovarian Dysfunction
Published on: March 25, 2021
Oviductus Ranae as a Functional Food for Ovary Protection: Ameliorating Premature Ovarian Failure and Modulating
Hongyu Zhao1,2, Yu Wang1,2, Xianchun Cheng1,2
1Jilin Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences Changchun Jilin P.R. China.
Food Science & Nutrition
|July 9, 2026
Summary
Oviductus Ranae (OR) improves ovarian function in premature ovarian failure (POF) rats by restoring hormone balance and promoting follicle growth. This natural product may offer a therapeutic approach for managing POF symptoms and improving fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a growing concern, impacting fertility and increasing risks for osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
- Oviductus Ranae (OR), a natural product with estrogen-like effects, has shown potential in improving follicle growth for POF management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic effects of Oviductus Ranae (OR) on a rat model of premature ovarian failure (POF).
- To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms, including the PI3K/Akt pathway and apoptotic markers, involved in OR's action on ovarian tissues.
Main Methods:
- POF rat models were induced using cyclophosphamide (CTX) and treated with OR.
- Hormone levels (estrogen, gonadotropins), uterine status, endometrial thickness, and ovarian follicle counts/atresia were assessed.
- Protein expression of the PI3K/Akt pathway, Bcl-2, and Bax in ovarian tissues was analyzed via Western blot.
Main Results:
- OR treatment significantly improved estrous cycle regularity, increased serum estrogen, and decreased gonadotropin levels in POF rats.
- Histological analysis revealed mitigated uterine atrophy, increased endometrial thickness, enhanced ovarian weight, and improved follicle counts with reduced atresia.
- OR upregulated the PI3K/Akt pathway and modulated the Bcl-2/Bax ratio, suggesting an anti-apoptotic effect in ovarian tissue.
Conclusions:
- Oviductus Ranae (OR) demonstrates significant efficacy in alleviating POF symptoms in a rat model.
- OR's beneficial effects are likely mediated through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and regulation of apoptosis in ovarian tissues.
- OR shows promise as a natural therapeutic agent for improving ovarian follicular health and managing premature ovarian failure.
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