Effects and mechanism of puerarin on lactation of postpartum hypogalactia mice

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 School of Chinese Medical, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102446, China

2 Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Xinjiang, 830092, China

10.22038/ijbms.2025.81350.17611

Abstract

Objective(s): 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.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences
Volume 28, Issue 6
June 2025
Pages 739-745

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