Therapeutic Potential of Moringa Oleifera in Testosterone-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting women of reproductive age and is a leading cause of infertility worldwide. It is characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, insulin resistance, and metabolic abnormalities that increase the risk of long-term complications. Conventional treatments primarily focus on symptom management and often produce undesirable side effects, highlighting the need for alternative therapeutic strategies. The present study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of Moringa oleifera aqueous extract (MOE) in alleviating reproductive and metabolic disturbances associated with PCOS using an experimental rat model. PCOS was induced in female rats through testosterone propionate administration combined with a high-fat diet, mimicking key pathological features of the syndrome. Following induction, animals were treated with varying doses of MOE over defined time periods. Reproductive, metabolic, and hematological parameters were evaluated, along with ovarian morphology and renal characteristics, to assess treatment outcomes. The PCOS model exhibited hallmark features of the condition, including ovarian cyst formation, anovulation, hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and altered lipid metabolism. Treatment with MOE resulted in notable improvement in ovarian morphology, reduction in PCOS severity, and partial restoration of metabolic balance, with more pronounced effects observed at higher doses and longer treatment durations. Although dyslipidemia was not fully replicated in the model, MOE demonstrated beneficial hypoglycemic and insulin-sensitizing effects. No significant renal damage was observed despite increased kidney size in PCOS-induced rats. In conclusion, Moringa oleifera shows promising therapeutic potential in mitigating key reproductive and metabolic features of PCOS. Further studies are warranted to elucidate its mechanisms of action and explore its clinical applicability in PCOS management.