The role and underlying mechanisms of Qi Gong Wan in enhancing the endometrial receptivity of a rat model with polycystic ovary syndrome
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Qi Gong Wan (QGW) is a herbal formula which is used for treating infertility associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the mechanism of action remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether QGW enhances endometrial receptivity in a PCOS with insulin resistance (PCOS-IR) rat model and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms and primary active constituents.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A PCOS with insulin resistance (IR) rat model was established using dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and a high-fat diet. Rats were treated with QGW or metformin as a positive control. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to identify potential drug-disease targets and active components. Endometrial receptivity was evaluated by assessing key markers-including HOXA10, HOXA11, ITGβ3, LIF, GLUT4, and IGFBP1-using histological examination, scanning electron microscopy (to observe pinopode formation), quantitative real-time PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. SiRNA-mediated knockdown of Hoxa11 was employed to validate its functional role. Network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques were applied to identify potential drug-disease targets and active constituents.
RESULTS: QGW significantly restored regular estrous cycles, reduced testosterone, fasting insulin, and HOMA-IR levels, and improved ovarian morphology in PCOS-IR rats. Network pharmacological analysis identifies HOXA10, HOXA11, and IGFBP1 as core targets. Molecular docking…
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