Comparison of ovarian striation and ovarian fragmentation in a rat model of ovarian insufficiency

Abstract

Background/Aim: Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is defined as the depletion of the primordial follicle pool in women under the age of 40. New methods for stimulating ovarian follicle cells are being investigated in order to ensure the continuity of the menstrual cycle and fertility. The present study aimed to compare follicle reserves after ovarian striation or ovarian fragmentation in rats with ovarian insufficiency. Methods: Thirty adult female rats in the estrus phase were randomized into three groups. Group 1 and Group 2 were medicated with intraperitoneal 7.5 mg/kg paclitaxel to create ovarian insufficiency. Group 3 was the control group, and intraperitoneal 3 mL 0.9% sterile saline solution was administered. The first laparotomy was performed to evaluate ovarian insufficiency 1 week after chemotherapy. In Group 1, the right ovarian cortex was striated using an insulin injector. In Group 2, the right ovary was divided into five parts. These five pieces were transferred to the pocket created under the right pelvic peritoneum. In Group 3, only laparotomy was performed. After 1 month, all rats underwent a second laparotomy, and the number of ovarian follicles (primordial, primary, secondary, antral) were compared, as were their serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol (E2) levels. Results: There was a significant difference in the number of follicles among all three groups (P<0.05). The number of follicles (primordial, primary, secondary, antral) was significantly higher in the striated group than in the fragmented group (P<0.001). There were no statistically significant differences between the three groups in terms of mean serum FSH and E2 values measured at the second laparotomy (P>0.05). Conclusion: Ovarian striation on the ovary cortex may be a new method for the treatment of ovarian insufficiency.