Journal of International Reproductive Health/Family Planning ›› 2025, Vol. 44 ›› Issue (5): 393-398.doi: 10.12280/gjszjk.20250074

• Original Article • Previous Articles     Next Articles

The Potential Therapeutic Role of Quercetin in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

YU Jian-nan, GAO Zhu-wei, GE Hang, LIU Yang, SHI Bai-chao, BAI Yu-xin, GAO Jing-shu, WANG Yu, WU Xiao-ke()   

  1. Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China (YU Jian-nan, GAO Zhu-wei, GE Hang, LIU Yang, SHI Bai-chao, BAI Yu-xin); Department of Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China (GAO Jing-shu, WANG Yu, WU Xiao-ke)
  • Received:2025-02-18 Published:2025-09-15 Online:2025-09-12
  • Contact: WU Xiao-ke E-mail:xiaokewu2002@vip.sina.com

Abstract:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common multisystem disorder in women of reproductive age, is typically associated with metabolic and reproductive abnormalities. In recent years the attention to the psychological disturbances, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and long-term complications in PCOS patients has been growing. Quercetin (QUE) as a natural flavonoid exhibits the unique therapeutic potential for PCOS management. In terms of metabolic regulation, QUE can improve insulin resistance and modulates glucose/lipid metabolism through multiple pathways. Regarding reproductive endocrinology, QUE can significantly reduce serum androgen level, mitigate follicular atresia and promote follicular maturation, thereby restore normal ovarian function and alleviae ovulatory dysfunction. As for reproductive outcomes, QUE may reduce miscarriage risk via anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. Additionally, QUE may have the effects of anti-depressant and anti-cancer, potentially preventing anxiety/depression and endometrial cancer in PCOS patients. While preclinical evidence supports QUE′s multifaceted benefits in PCOS, further clinical studies are needed to validate its therapeutic applications.

Key words: Polycystic ovary syndrome, Quercetin, Insulin resistance, Depression, Abortion, Endometrial neoplasms