Dose-Dependent Effects of Royal Jelly on Estrogen- and Progesterone-Induced Mammary Gland Hyperplasia in Rats

Scope Royal jelly (RJ) has a wide range of biological functions, its effect on hyperplasia of the mammary gland (HMG) in mammals is unclear. This study aims to investigate the effect of RJ on HMG and the dose-response relationship of RJ in the treatment of HMG. Methods and Results HMG rats are induced by intramuscular injection of estrogen (E2) and progesterone, and are treated with different doses of RJ (100, 200, 400, and 800 mg kg(-1) d(-1)). As a result, RJ improves the expansion of acinar and breast tissue ducts, particularly at 100 and 800 mg kg(-1) d(-1). These two doses also inhibit serum E2 and prolactin (PRL) secretion and increase serum progesterone secretion and the expression of estrogen receptor (ER)-beta in the breast tissue. In addition, 800 mg kg(-1) d(-1) decrease and increase the mRNA expression of, respectively, hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and pituitary GnRH receptors (GnRH-R). The lowest dosage (100 mg kg(-1) d(-1)) increases GnRH-R mRNA expression as well. However, the effects of 200 and 400 mg kg(-1) d(-1) RJ on the reproductive parameters of HMG are not significant, implying a dose-dependent effect. Conclusion RJ regulates endocrine dyscrasia in HMG rats and improves the breast tissue structure, indicating its potential in the prevention and treatment on HMG.

Automated summary

Royal jelly has a therapeutic effect on mammary gland hyperplasia by improving breast tissue structure and regulating endocrine dyscrasia, with the most significant effects observed at a dosage of 100 and 800 mg kg(-1) d(-1). It also increases the expression of estrogen receptor and inhibits the secretion of estrogen and prolactin.