The effect of magnolia offinalis extract on the liver of dhea-induced PCOS rats

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder that affects the endocrine, metabolic and reproductive systems. It is highly correlated with Insulin resistance (IR) which exacerbates the pathogenesis of PCOS. Several studies have demonstrated the ability of insulin sensitizing drugs such as Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) (PPARγ agonists) in ameliorating the characteristics of PCOS. The Magnolia officinalis plant is rich in natural PPARγ agonists, magnolol and honokiol, that have demonstrated an insulin sensitizing effect in various experimental models. By using dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) to induce the PCOS and IR phenotype in Sprague-Dawley female rats, we aim to explore the molecular mechanisms of action of Magnolia Officinalis Extract (MOE) on the liver of DHEA-induced PCOS rats. The DHEA group experienced greater body weight gain, as well as higher serum insulin, AMH and testosterone levels than the control group. The DHEA group also had significantly higher expression of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in the liver, and significantly lower insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), protein kinase B (Akt) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) expression compared to the control group. Following 28 days of oral MOE treatment, the MOE-treated DHEA group exhibited a significant decrease in body weight, serum insulin and serum testosterone levels compared to the non-treated DHEA group, while there was no significant difference in serum AMH levels. Moreover, the MOE-treated DHEA group had a significant increase in the liver expression of IRS-1, Akt and PPARγ as well as a decrease in mTOR expression compared to the non-treated DHEA group. In conclusion, Magnolia officinalis extract ameliorates the hormonal and metabolic disturbances in the DHEA-induced PCOS phenotype.