Al-Qadisiyah Journal of Pure Science

Modulatory Role of Ilex paraguariensis on the Cytokine– microRNA Axis in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Induced in Albino Female Rats

10.29350/qjps.2025.193161
Volume 30, Issue 2
Autumn 2025
Pages 222-236
Al-Qadisiyah Journal of Pure Science

Author

Lina Abdul Hussein A. ALLaithi

Ministry of Education, General Directorate of Al-Qadisiyah Education, Iraq

Abstract
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders associated with chronic inflammation in women of reproductive age, adversely affecting reproductive health, metabolism, cardiovascular function, and mental health.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Ilex paraguariensis extract on the gene expression of miR-21 and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in rats in which PCOS was induced by the drug letrozole (1 mg/kg) for 21 days.
The experiment included 30 female rats divided into three groups: the control group (C) comprising ten rats; the PCOS group (T1), in which polycystic ovary syndrome was induced; and the group (T2), in which polycystic ovary syndrome was induced and then treated with a dose of 500 mg/kg of mate plant extract for 30 days. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed, and levels of the hormones FSH and LH, the inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, as well as miR-21 expression. The results in the PCOS group showed a statistically significant increase (p<0.05) in the levels of FSH, LH and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) along with an abnormality in miR-21 levels, whilst treatment with Ilex paraguariensis extract resulted in a reduction in hormone and cytokine levels, as well as an improvement in miR-21 expression.
Conclusion: Ilex paraguariensis extract acts as an effective cytokine-miRNA regulator, reducing inflammation and improving histological and hormonal parameters in polycystic ovary syndrome.

Keywords

Ilex paraguariensis
PCOS
miR-21

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