Effects and mechanism of puerarin on lactation of postpartum hypogalactia mice.

OBJECTIVES

Insufficient breast milk supply is a common reason cited for discontinuing breastfeeding prematurely. Natural galactagogues offer promise as a solution for mothers with low milk production. This study aimed to explore puerarin's potential effects and underlying mechanism on lactation of postpartum hypogalactia mice.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Postpartum mice were randomly assigned to five groups: control group, agalactosis model group, domperidone group (3.5 mg/kg), low dose puerarin group (18 mg/kg), and high dose puerarin group (72 mg/kg). The effects of puerarin on postpartum hypogalactia mice were evaluated by lactation indicators and pathological morphology. Related hormones and prolactin receptor (PRLR)/Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transduction and activator (STAT) 5 signaling pathway were also measured.

RESULTS

Puerarin significantly improved lactation yield and stimulated mammary gland development in postpartum hypogalactia mice. Additionally, puerarin increased the expression levels of β-casein, fatty acid synthase (FAS), and glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1). Mechanically, puerarin stimulated secretion of prolactin (PRL), estradiol (E2), and progesterone (P4) in agalactosis mice. Puerarin also substantially increased PRLR, JAK2, and STAT5a expression levels in postpartum hypogalactia mice.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that puerarin may promote lactation by stimulating PRL secretion and activating the PRLR/JAK2/STAT5 signaling pathway.