Danshou Tang (DST) is a well-known traditional Chinese herbal remedy, reputed for its benefits in reproductive health, especially in the treatment of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). While prior research has shown DST's antioxidative and anti-apoptotic properties, the exact mechanisms by which DST influences the female reproductive system and placental health remain not fully understood. We aim to explore the impact of DST on placental and embryonic development, with a focus on its potential role in reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting apoptosis. JEG-3 cells and a placental tissue model were utilized to examine the effects of DST on embryo absorption rates, placental structure, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, oxidative stress markers (MDA and 8-OHdG), and the modulation of pro-apoptotic proteins and apoptosis-related molecules. DST treatment significantly reduced embryo absorption rates and improved placental structure. Additionally, ROS levels and oxidative stress markers (MDA and 8-OHdG) were reduced. DST treatment significantly reduced embryo absorption rates and improved placental structure. Additionally, ROS levels and oxidative stress markers were reduced. Mechanistically, DST inhibited the mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic pathway by downregulating pro-apoptotic proteins (Bax, Bak), reducing the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, and decreasing the activation of key apoptosis executors such as caspase-9 and caspase-3. DST can improve the prognosis of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). It can play multiple roles, including reducing oxidative stress damage to cells and protecting mitochondrial function. These effects work together to bring new hope for the treatment of this type of patient.
Li et al. (2026) studied this question.