Issue 6, 2024

Mechanisms of probiotic modulation of ovarian sex hormone production and metabolism: a review

Abstract

Sex hormones play a pivotal role in the growth and development of the skeletal, neurological, and reproductive systems. In women, the dysregulation of sex hormones can result in various health complications such as acne, hirsutism, and irregular menstruation. One of the most prevalent diseases associated with excess androgens is polycystic ovary syndrome with a hyperandrogenic phenotype. Probiotics have shown the potential to enhance the secretion of ovarian sex hormones. However, the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. Furthermore, comprehensive reviews detailing how probiotics modulate ovarian sex hormones are scarce. This review seeks to shed light on the potential mechanisms through which probiotics influence the production of ovarian sex hormones. The role of probiotics across various biological axes, including the gut–ovarian, gut–brain–ovarian, gut–liver–ovarian, gut–pancreas–ovarian, and gut–fat–ovarian axes, with a focus on the direct impact of probiotics on the ovaries via the gut and their effects on brain gonadotropins is discussed. It is also proposed herein that probiotics can significantly influence the onset, progression, and complications of ovarian sex hormone abnormalities. In addition, this review provides a theoretical basis for the therapeutic application of probiotics in managing sex hormone-related health conditions.

Graphical abstract: Mechanisms of probiotic modulation of ovarian sex hormone production and metabolism: a review

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
10 okt 2023
Accepted
19 feb 2024
First published
04 mar 2024

Food Funct., 2024,15, 2860-2878

Mechanisms of probiotic modulation of ovarian sex hormone production and metabolism: a review

X. Liu, X. Chen, C. Wang, J. Song, J. Xu, Z. Gao, Y. Huang and H. Suo, Food Funct., 2024, 15, 2860 DOI: 10.1039/D3FO04345B

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