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Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential of quercetin in ovarian functions

Zhang X, Cui X, Ma F, Zhou Y, Song S, Li Y, Ma Y

Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology, 2025

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Quercetin is a naturally occurring flavonoid abundant in various fruits and vegetables, known for its broad pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-fibrotic effects. Emerging evidence suggests that quercetin exerts protective roles in a range of ovarian-related reproductive disorders.

PURPOSE: This review aims to comprehensively summarize and critically assess current evidence on the therapeutic potential and molecular mechanisms of quercetin in the treatment of ovarian-related reproductive conditions. The goal is to provide a scientific foundation for its prospective clinical applications in female reproductive health.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in major scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect, covering literature published up to February 2025. The search strategy utilized a combination of keywords-"Quercetin", "Ovarian", "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome", "Premature Ovarian Failure", "Ovarian Dysfunction", "Premature Ovarian Insufficiency", and "Infertility"-combined using Boolean operators (AND, OR).

RESULTS: Quercetin has demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in multiple ovarian conditions, including ovarian aging, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), and chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage. Mechanistic studies reveal that quercetin modulates several critical biological pathways, particularly those involved in oxidative stress,…

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