Efficacy and mechanism of Peony pods extract for treating premature ovarian failure: UPLC-Q-TOF/MS method combined with network pharmacology and experimental validation

Peony pods, as a byproduct of peony seeds, are often discarded. This study aimed to explore the effect and mechanism of Peony pods extract (PPE) for treating premature ovarian failure (POF) by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS method combined with network pharmacology and in vivo experimental validation. Firstly, a total of 26 components of PPE were detected by UPLC-Q-TOF/MS analysis. Subsequently, cisplatin was used to construct the POF model, and PPE treatment could significantly improve the ovarian index, estrous cycle and structure of ovarian tissues, increase the serum levels of AMH and estradiol E ₂ , and reduce the serum levels of FSH and LH in POF mice. Then, network pharmacology analysis was performed and found that multiple signaling pathways were involved in improving POF of PPE, including PI3K/AKT, Ras and Rap1 signaling pathways. To further verification, related proteins were detected by WB, and the expression levels of Bax, p-PI3K, and p-AKT were decreased, while the expression levels of Bcl-2, HO-1, and Nrf-2 were increased after PPE administration. In summary, PPE could exert therapeutic effect on POF by reducing cell apoptosis and improving hormone levels, showing great potential for application in functional food.