Reproductive outcomes in female mice offspring due to maternal metformin treatment

Abstract

Aims

Metformin has shown beneficial effects on reproduction in women. However, its use during pregnancy remains controversial, as metformin can cross the placenta. Most studies have focused on the metabolic impact on the offspring of treated mothers, with limited information regarding its reproductive effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate potential alterations in ovarian function and fertility in female offspring of mothers treated with metformin during pregnancy and lactation.

Materials and methods

C57BL/6 female mice were treated with metformin four weeks before mating, and the treatment was maintained during gestation and lactation. Seven weeks after weaning, metabolic parameters as well as ovarian and reproductive function of the offspring were analyzed.

Key findings

The offspring of treated mothers were lighter at birth and, in adulthood, they had more gonadal adipose tissue with no alterations in body weight. No changes in glucose metabolism were observed. Their follicular development was modified, with more early antral and atretic follicles and less primary and late antral follicles. Anti-Müllerian hormone expression and ovarian angiogenesis were increased. The estrous cycle, hormonal production and fertility were not affected by metformin exposure, however, the F2 generation showed higher body weight at birth.

Significance

Metformin can induce fetal programming in animals exposed to it during development, impacting metabolism and ovarian functionality in adulthood. Under physiological conditions, these alterations do not result in reduced fertility or endocrine disruptions. Our data warrant studies in women to make informed decisions regarding metformin administration during critical developmental periods in clinical settings.