Liquiritin ameliorates metabolic and endocrine alterations in a mouse model of polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract Objective: Altered bile acid transformation induces low-grade chronic inflammation and may play an important role in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Liquiritincan regulate bile acid metabolism and anti-inflammatory properties; however, limited information is available regarding its therapeutic potential in PCOS. Methods: Female C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 6 mice/group): the control, letrozole or dehydroepiandrosterone-induced PCOS groups, PCOS + 20 mg/kg liquiritin group, and control + liquiritin groups. After 21 days of treatment, the mice were euthanized, and the associated metabolism indications were investigated. Ovarian histological examinations were performed, and serum hormone concentration was measured. The expression of key genes involved in steroid hormone synthesis, ovarian follicle development, and ovulation was assessed. Results: Liquiritin reduced fasting blood glucose levels and increased insulin sensitivity compared to the PCOS group. Liquiritin also significantly decreased serum levels of total testosterone (P < 0.001) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (P < 0.05) in the PCOS group. Histomorphological inspection of ovaries from the liquiritin group revealed fewer cystic dilated follicles than in the PCOS group. Moreover, liquiritinsignificantly (P < 0.01) decreased Cyp17a1, Cyp19a1, Fshr, Hsd3b2, Runx2, and Ccn2 mRNA expression compared to letrozole-induced PCOS. Conclusion: Liquiritin may be safe and helpful in ameliorating PCOS-associated hyperandrogenemia and hyperglycemia. However, clinical trials investigating different liquiritin dosages are needed to confirm these findings.