Objective To observe the effect of total Flavonoids of Malus hupehensis on ovarian function and bone metabolism in rats with premature ovarian failure. Methods 48 adult female rats were randomly divided into blank group, model group, estradiol valerate group, and high dose, middle dose, and low dose groups of total flavonoids of Malus hupehensis, with 8 rats in each group. Except for blank group, the other groups were given Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside tablets (75 mg/kg) daily by gavage for 14 days to replicate the model of premature ovarian failure. From the 15th day, the positive control group was given estradiol valerate (1 mg/kg), and the high, middle and low dose groups were given total flavonoids of Malus hupehensis orally once a day for 21 consecutive days. The estrous cycle, ovarian index, uterine index, and serum E2, P, FSH and LH levels were observed. ALP, BALP, 1,25(OH)2D3, SOD and MDA were measured, and the expression of ERa in ovarian tissue was detected. Results After administration, compared with the blank group, estrous cycle was irregular, ovarian index and uterine index decreased, serum E2 and P levels decreased and FSH levels increased in the model group (P<0.05, P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the serum reproductive hormone levels in estradiol valerate group and total Flavonoids of Malus hupehensis treatment groups were significantly improved (P<0.05), the number of follicles in ovary increased, and endometrium thickened. The activity of serum ALP and BALP content decreased, 1,25(OH)2D3 content increased (P<0.05, P<0.01). The activity of SOD increased and the content of MDA decreased in serum; the expression of ER alpha in granulosa cells and stromal cells in ovarian tissue were promoted. Conclusion Total Flavonoids of Malus hupehensis have certain protective and therapeutic effects on premature ovarian failure and secondary osteoporosis. Its mechanism may be closely related to the enhancement of antioxidant capacity in vivo and the expression of estrogen receptor in granulosa cells. |