Molecular Mechanisms of Natural Products in Ovarian Development and Aging

Ovarian aging critically impairs female reproductive function and contributes to systemic metabolic dysregulation. Natural compounds have demonstrated promise in delaying this decline in ovarian function. This study systematically evaluated the bidirectional regulatory effects of several natural products (Celastrol, Norgestimate, Thapsigargin, Cinobufagin, and Brefeldin A) on ovarian development, function, and aging. Focusing on Celastrol and Brefeldin A, we constructed a multi-level experimental model system, including 3-week-old and 12-month-old mouse models, porcine oocyte in vitro maturation systems, and granulosa cell culture models, to investigate the effects and mechanisms of these natural products both in vivo and at the cellular level.