The efficacy of Linum usitatissimum seeds to inhibit estrogen receptor as a natural therapy for PCOS: An in silico and in vitro analysis

Abstract

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrinological disorder aroused due to hormonal disturbances. It is characterized by anovulation due to an excess of androgen and estrogen hormones, thus leading to the formation of multiple cysts, imposing life‐threatening conditions. This manuscript aimed to introduce a natural estrogen receptor (ESR) inhibitors that can provide protection against PCOS. The computational analysis of Linum usitatissimum seeds compounds against ESR alpha receptor was performed, and the binding affinities of the ligand compounds and receptor proteins were scrutinized. Nine lignin compounds were docked, and the results were compared with that of reference estrogen receptor inhibitors, clomiphene, and tamoxifen. The binding affinity scores for pinoresinol, lariciresinol, secoisolariciresinol, and matairesinol were −10.67, −10.66, −10.91, and −10.60 kcal mol−1, respectively. These were comparable to the binding affinity score of reference compounds −11.406 kcal mol−1 for clomiphene and −10.666 kcal mol−1 for tamoxifen. Prime MM‐GBSA studies showcased that Linum usitatissimum seeds compounds exhibit significant efficacy and efficiency towards receptor protein. Moreover, MD‐simulation studies were performed and the results depict that the lignin compounds form stable complexes at 300 K throughout the simulation time. For further clarity, in‐vitro experiments were carried out. The results exhibit the decline in cell proliferation in a concentration‐dependent manner by extract 1 (ethyl acetate) EX1 and extract 2 (petroleum ether) EX2. Hence, providing evidence regarding the anti‐estrogenic activity of the sample extracts. Collectively, these results showed that flax seed can reduce the levels of estrogen, which can induce ovulation and prevent cyst formation, and ultimately can provide protection against PCOS.