Cystic Follicles Research Articles

High‐refined carbohydrate diet leads to polycystic ovary syndrome-like features and reduced ovarian reserve in female rats

Obesity is associated with several female reproductive complications, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The exact mechanism of this relationship remains unclear. Few previous studies using diet containing refined carbohydrate (HCD) leading to obesity have been performed and it is unclear if HCD is linked with reproductive dysfunctions. In this investigation, we assessed whether subchronic HCD exposure results in reproductive and other irregularities. Female rats were fed with HCD for 15 days and metabolic outcomes and reproductive tract morphophysiology were assessed. We further assessed reproductive tract inflammation, oxidative stress (OS) and fibrosis. HCD rats displayed metabolic impairments, such as an increase in body weight/adiposity, adipocyte hypertrophic, abnormal lipid profile, glucose tolerance and insulin resistance (IR) and hyperleptinemia. Improper functioning of the HCD reproductive tract was observed. Specifically, irregular estrous cyclicity, high LH levels and abnormal ovarian morphology coupled with reduction in primordial and primary follicle numbers was observed, suggesting ovarian reserve depletion. Improper follicular development and a reduction in antral follicles, corpora lutea and granulosa layer area together with an increase in cystic follicles were apparent. Uterine atrophy and reduction in endometrial gland (GE) number was observed in HCD rats. Reproductive tract inflammation, OS and fibrosis were seen in HCD rats. Further, strong positive correlations were observed between body weight/adiposity and IR with estrous cycle length, cystic follicles, ovarian reserve, GE and other abnormalities. Thus, these data suggest that the subchronic HCD exposure led to PCOS-like features, impaired ovarian reserve, GE number, and other reproductive abnormalities in female rats.

Effects Of Aerobic Exercise On Leptin, Sex Hormone In Rats With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PURPOSE: To investigate the influence of aerobic exercise in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS: 32 23-day-old SD female rats were randomly assigned into 4 groups, i.e. normal control group (NC, n=8), exercise control group (EC, n=8), PCOS control group (PC, n=8) and PCOS exercise group (PE, n=8). PC group and PE group were modeled by injecting DHEA. EC group and PE group simultaneously implemented Masashi exercise intervention (unloaded free swimming, 20 min/time, 6 d/week for 15 d). Measure the serum testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and leptin (LP) of rats by ELISA. Observe ovarian histological changes through the hematoxylin-eosin stain, the P450arom expression (optical density, OD) in ovarian by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: There were obvious cystic dilated follicles in the ovarian tissue of the PC group, and compared with the, there are many normal follicles in the ovary of the PE group. The PC group exhibited a higher serum level of FSH, T, E2 and the P450arom expression in ovarian than NC group (P < 0.05). Compare with the PC group, the serum level of LP, T, E2 were decreased in the PE group (P < 0.05). However, compared with the NC group, the EC group showed no difference in the serum level of FSH, T, E2, and the P450arom expression in ovarian (P > 0.05). Besides, the PE and PC group showed no difference in the serum level of FSH and the P450arom expression in ovarian (P > 0.05). The serum LP level in rats was positively correlated with T (r=0.893), E2 (r=0.612), FSH (r=0.620) level and the P450arom expression(r=0.501) in ovarian. CONCLUSION: Aerobic exercise can reduce the LP levels of PCOS rats, relieve leptin resistance, alleviate high estrogen blood disease and abnormal P450arom expression in ovarian, but cannot eliminate the sex hormone disorder. The Changes of T, FSH, E2, LP, And OD among 4 groups(x ̅±SD)

Impact of Water Temperature Fluctuation on the Health Status and Reproduction in Female Oreochromis niloticus

This research designed monitoring effect of increased water temperature on female O. niloticus experimentally and survey. One hundred female O. niloticus from private farm divided into four groups: 1 st kept at room temperature (Control) and 3 kept at 30, 33 and 36 oC water temperatures respectively for 2 weeks. Two Survey groups collected from El monib at 27 oC (Control) and other at 36 oC water temperature. Experimental fish suffered of nervous manifestations, suffocation, detached scales, ulcers and tail rot. Postmortem lesions included unsymmetrical friable ovaries with autolysis. Females showed highly significant decrease in B.W., WG, WH, IG, K condition, relative and absolute fecundity at all experimented groups. Survey females B.L., B.W., F.B.L., F.B.W., WG and IG showed high to moderate significant increase. Oppositely, F.O.W., K condition and absolute fecundity copied moderate to high significant decrease. Among experimental groups, albumin (at 30 oC), glucose and testosterone increased highly significant whereas albumin at 33 & 36 oC and E2 at 36 oC showed highly significant decrease. Survey group registered highly significant increase in albumin, glucose and testosterone. Total proteins, globulins and E2 showed highly significant decrease. Ovaries affected by increased water temperature; worst lesions appeared in survey. Ovaries showed necrosis, clumping and perforation of the chorion, fragmentation of nucleus, or cystic atretic follicles. Liver showed swollen hepatic cells. Favorable water temperature for O. niloticus fish is 27 ± 2oC. Thus, it is recommended to use more aerators in fish ponds especially brood stocks or to be covered during summer season.

Foetal wastages and some gross reproductive abnormalities in small ruminants slaughtered at Dogarawa slaughter slab Zaria, Kaduna State

Introduction: Slaughtering of pregnant animals resulting in foetal wastages abound in many countries of the world. The practice of slaughtering of gravid animals in Nigeria is largely due to lower economic standards of the citizens. This study was to establish the nature and incidence of reproductive abnormalities and foetal wastages in small ruminants observed at Dogarawa slaughter slab Zaria, Kaduna state. Methods: Ante-mortem and post-mortem examinations of the genital tract of slaughtered small ruminants were conducted using visual examination, palpation and incision. A total of 1695 animals slaughtered on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) within the months of August and September 2019 were examined. A total of 1158 bucks, 264 does, 111 ewes and 162 rams were slaughtered. Values obtained were presented in percentages using Microsoft excel, 2016. Results: A total of 52 foetal wastages were recorded (71.15% in sheep and 28.85% in goats). Abnormalities of the ovaries observed include ovarian hypertrophy (6.25%), the cystic follicle (12.5%) and unilateral ovarian agenesis (6.25%), which were detected at post-mortem examination. Abnormalities of the uterus observed were pyometra (6.25%), hydrometra (6.25%), metritis (12.5%) and uterine atrophy (6.25%). Supernumerary teats (25%) and mastitis (18.75%) were also observed. Ante-mortem and post-mortem gross pathological conditions of the male reproductive tract revealed; cryptorchidism (41.18%), paraphimosis (11.26%), testicular hypoplasia (5.88%), epididymitis (29.41%) and balanoposthitis (11.76%). Significance: The results from this study revealed various types of reproductive anomalies in animals brought to slaughter. The study also revealed the practice of slaughtering of pregnant animals resulting in foetal wastages.

Fibrin Facilitates Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Ameliorate Rats with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a ubiquitous hormonal disorder and induces female infertility and heterogeneous syndromes, for which there is still no effective treatment. Thanks to the properties of immunomodulatory and endocrine regulation, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely used in various disease types. There were few reports for MSCs injected to ovaries due to the size limitation and complicated vascular network. Here, we develop one simple and efficient approach to deliver and stabilize MSCs in the outside of the ovary without blood leaking through the fibrin gelation, which also possesses excellent biocompatibility to support MSC survival. Notably, the transplantation of MSCs, encapsulated in fibrin hydrogel, could rescue ovarian function more efficiently compared to only MSC control in terms of elevated estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) levels, diminished gonadotropins (LH/FSH), testosterone (T), and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) levels, regular estrous cycles, enhanced number of granulosa cells, and reduced number of immature cystic follicles. The size and weight of the ovary increased for MSCs both within and without fibrin in PCOS rat models in two weeks. Moreover, we have shown the versatility of fibrin hydrogel as a cell-compatible platform for advanced stem cell translation, including identifying novel mechanisms of cell survival support, tissue development, and regenerative medicine.

MON-437 False Positive I-131 Uptake

BackgroundIodine has high specificity for thyroid tissue hence it plays very important role is management for differentiated thyroid cancer. Despite its high specificity and sensitivity, false-positive I-131 uptake could be seen on whole body scan (WBS).We are presenting a case of false positive intense uptake in lung due to bronchiectasis.Clinical casePatient is a 78-year-old Asian female who initially present with left sided 5.8 cm thyroid nodule. The fine needle aspiration was performed, and the cytology came back as Bethesda category III. Per our institute protocol a molecular mutation panel was sent, which came back with NRAS mutation.She underwent total thyroidectomy and the histology showed 6.2 cm Follicular carcinoma with extensive angioinvasion, oncocyte type. She received adjuvant 165.2 mci of RAI. Per protocol she had a one-week I-131whole body scan.There was intense abnormal uptake in left mid and upper chest. The stimulate thyroglobulin with a TSH of >100mcIU/ml was only 0.17 ng/dl with Tab negative.Patient subsequently had a PET CT which showed a faint diffuse FDG activity noted in the cystic bronchiectasis predominantly in the left apex, lingula, and right middle lobe. Patient informed us that she has history of pulmonary tuberculosis in 1970’s for which she was successfully treated in her home country. We had 10-year-old chest X-ray which showed stable cystic bronchiectasis lesion in the region of intense uptake.DiscussionAlthough I131 whole body scan has high specificity and sensitivity but physician should be aware of potential false positive uptake to avoid unnecessary intervention. In a retrospective evaluation i the most common non-thyroid conditions included were bronchiectasis, lung infection, subcutaneous injection into gluteal fatty tissue, aortic calcification, benign bone cyst, vertebral hemangioma, recent nonthyroidal surgical procedure site, rotator cuff injury, mature cystic teratoma and ovarian follicle cyst). The accumulation of the bronchial secretion is the proposed mechanism of the high false positive uptake in bronchiectasis.Endnotes i Mol Imaging Radionucl Ther 2018; 27:99–106 DOI:10.4274/mirt.37450

Subchronic and Low Dose of Tributyltin Exposure Leads to Reduced Ovarian Reserve, Reduced Uterine Gland Number, and Other Reproductive Irregularities in Female Mice.

Tributyltin (TBT) chloride is an endocrine disrupting chemical associated with reproductive complications. Studies have shown that TBT targets the reproductive tract, impairing ovarian folliculogenesis, and uterine morphophysiology. In this investigation, we assessed whether subchronic and low dose of TBT exposure results in abnormal ovarian follicular reserve and other irregularities in female mice. TBT was administered to female mice (500 ng/kg/day for 12 days via gavage), and reproductive tract morphophysiology was assessed. We further assessed reproductive tract inflammation and oxidative stress. Improper functioning of the reproductive tract in TBT mice was observed. Specifically, irregular estrous cyclicity and abnormal ovarian morphology coupled with reduction in primordial and primary follicle numbers was observed, suggesting ovarian reserve depletion. In addition, improper follicular development and a reduction in antral follicles, corpora lutea, and total healthy ovarian follicles together with an increase in cystic follicles were apparent. Evidence of uterine atrophy, reduction in endometrial gland number, and inflammation and oxidative stress were seen in TBT mice. Further, strong negative correlations were observed between testosterone levels and primordial, primary, and total healthy ovarian follicles. Thus, these data suggest that the subchronic and low dose of TBT exposure impaired ovarian follicular reserve, uterine gland number, and other reproductive features in female mice.

Ameliorative Potential of Riboceine, Vitamin D and Calcium on Amodaiquine‐Induced Reproductive Dysfunctions in Female Sprague‐Dawley Rats

BackgroundFemale reproductive functions are susceptible to various disruptive agents including environmental factors and therapeutic agents. Such disruptions often include irregularity of menstrual/estrous cycle and anovulation. Many of the disruptive agents’ mechanism of action is the production of free radicals and it is thus proposed that agents with antioxidant capacity can potentially mitigate their disruptive effects.ObjectiveThis study investigated the ameliorative potential of Riboceine, vitamin D and Calcium.Methods40 female Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into two main groups. Group A, estrous cycle study, and Group B, the ovulation study. Group A consisted of 20 rats divided into 4 sub‐groups. Sub‐group A1 (control) received distilled water, A2‐ Amodiaquine 12 mg/kg body weight, A3‐ Amodiaquine 12 mg/kg and vitamin D 30mcg/kg and Calcium 1800mg/kg, A4‐ Amodiaquine 12 mg/kg and Riboceine 30mg/kg, administered orally, daily for 6 cycles. Sub‐group B1 (control B) received distilled water, B2‐ Amodiaquine 12 mg/kg, B3‐Amodiaquine 12 mg/kg and vitamin D 30mcg/kg and Calcium 1800mg/kg, B4‐ Amodiaquine 12 mg/kg and Riboceine 30mg/kg, administered orally, at 9 a.m on proestrus (only once), to determine the effects of Vitamin D with Calcium and Riboceine on Amodiaquine‐induced anovulation. At the end of the administration, rats were sacrificed to collect blood and ovarian tissue for hormonal, oxidative stress and histological analyses.ResultsThe cycling patterns showed that rats administered only amodiaquine, had prolonged diestrus phases while rats that had co‐administration of amodiaquine and riboceine had elongated estrus phases. Rats administered amodiaquine, vitamin D and Calcium, had almost normal cycling patterns. There was a significant decrease in malondialdehyde concentration of all other sub‐groups compared to control, A1 at p&lt;0.05, with the lowest concentration in sub‐group A4. Glutathione reductase was higher in all subgroups (A2, A3, A4) in comparison to control, but A3 and A4 showed a significant increase when compared to control (A1) at p&lt;0.05. Catalase was highest in A2 and statistically significant compared to the control at p&lt;0.05.The concentration of follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) was significantly higher in “A4” when compared to the control at p&lt;0.05. Although other subgroups were higher in comparison to the control, they were not statistically significant. Luteinizing hormone (LH) was highest and significant in A4 compared to the control.The cytoarchitecture of ovaries in A4, and B4 showed well‐preserved cells, especially in A4 in which there were more cystic ovarian follicles seen, compared to A2 and A1. In A3, there were reduced atretic follicles, compared to A2, in which abundant atretic follicles were seen.ConclusionThe results from show that factors that increase fertility chances were observed in all subgroups that had supplements co‐administered with amodiaquine. The results showed that the fertility‐enhancing factors are more pronounced in Riboceine‐treated groups compared with subgroups given vitamin D and calcium.

Subcutaneous grafting of ovaries from newborn rabbits into adult ovariectomized mice does not result in normal folliculogenesis

About 10% (6.1 million) of women in the United States ages 15–44 have difficulty becoming pregnant or staying pregnant. About 1/3 are fertility problems in women. Abnormal ovarian function is a major contributor. A greater understanding of ovarian function and especially follicular development would improve treatment. Follicles form when germ cells arrive in the primitive sex cords, which are derived from the coelomic epithelium. In most species, these cords fragment and the germ cells become covered by precursors of the granulosa cells. Thus primordial follicles form. Pools of these follicles are eventually recruited and undergo maturation; a series of functional and morphological transformations that lead to ovulatory follicles. In species like humans, cattle and pigs, follicles form during the embryonic phase of gestation, while maturation takes place after birth. In contrast, both phases occur postnatally in rabbits and makes them an excellent model to study folliculogenesis. Laboratory studies using non‐rodent species are logistically more difficult and even prohibitive. One alternative is ovarian grafting into immunocompromised mice. When adult ovarian tissue is transplanted from large animals into mice, some primordial follicles survive and undergo maturation. We investigated the rabbit model by transplantation of immature rabbit ovaries under the dorsal skin of adult ovariectomized NCr N ude mice (1 ovary / mouse). At 4 – 5 weeks, growth of the grafted ovaries was evident. Macroscopically, 50% of the grafts (5/10) had one or two follicle‐like structures on their surface. Histologically the structures were cysts lined by cuboidal cells and contained cells with the germ cell phenotype. In conclusion, ovaries grafted subcutaneously from newborn rabbits into ovariectomized adult mice developed cystic primordial follicles. Normal follicle formation and maturation did not occur.Support or Funding InformationMidwestern University intramural funds

EFFECT OF NUTRACEUTICAL FORMULATION OVAJAL ON DHT AND FRUCTOSE INDUCED PCOS IN RODENT MODEL.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a most common female reproductive disorder, involving endocrine and metabolic disorders with unclear etiology. It may clinically be manifested in young women of reproductive age as oligo-ovulation, abnormal levels of reproductive hormones, clinical hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, male pattern baldness, acne, acanthosis nigricans, and polycystic ovaries, additionally having a long prodroma with detectable abnormalities that present as the metabolic syndrome like Insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, obesity, and dyslipidemia. Current treatment options are unable to manage PCOS and suffer from unwanted effects. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of nutraceutical formulation ovajal on dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-fructose-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in Sprague Dawley (S.D.) female rats. Prepubertal rats in the experimental group (except control) received coadministration of DHT (s.c.) and fructose(p.o.). Along with DHT+F other groups were treated with OV100 and OV200, clomiphene, and metformin, at a dose of 100 mg/kg p.o., 200 mg/kg p.o., 100 mg/kg p.o., and 200 mg/kg p.o., respectively for 90 days. Estrus cyclicity, OGTT, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, insulin, testosterone, and estradiol serum levels were assessed. Ovary, uterus, abdominal fat, and subcutaneous fat were collected, weighed and an ovary histomorphology examination was done. Results showed that OV100 and OV200 reversed the DHT-fructose induced changes by significantly (p is less than 0.05) increasing serum FSH level, estradiol level and decreasing their body weight, ovary weight, uterine weight, serum luteinizing hormone level, testosterone level, oral glucose tolerance, irregular estrous cyclicity and no. of cystic follicles. However, the OV200 notably ameliorated the abnormalities of experimental PCOS. Our study findings demonstrate that ovajal formulation exerted preventive benefits in an experimental model of PCOS. Hence can be suggested in the management of PCOS.

A combination of spearmint and flaxseed extract improved endocrine and histomorphology of ovary in experimental PCOS

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex reproduction and endocrine disorder of women in the reproductive age. Spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) has anti-androgenic activity and flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) contains phytoestrogen and was reported to improve PCOS conditions. This study aimed to evaluate PCOS conditions following administration of a mixture of these two plants.MethodsTwenty-four rats with regular cycles were randomly divided into four groups as control (C) and treatment-control (TC) received a combination of spearmint extract (SE) + flaxseed extract (FE). PCOS was induced in PCOS and treatment (T) groups by a single intramuscular injection of estradiol valerate. The treatment group received a combination of SE and FE for 30 days, 7 weeks after injection of estradiol valerate. Estrous cycles were monitored for 10 days and in the last day animals were sacrificed, ovaries were collected for the histomorphometric study and the serum levels of progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) were measured.ResultSignificant rise in progesterone and a decrease in testosterone and estradiol with no significant change of DHEA in the T group, was observed in comparison with the PCOS group (P < 0.05). No significant difference noticed between T and control groups (C &CT) regarding evaluated hormones. A significant increase in primary, pre-antral and antral follicles noticed in the T group compared to the PCOS group. The number of cystic follicles decreased in the T group compared with the PCOS group. Granulosa layer thickness increased while the thickness of theca decreased significantly in the T group compared to the PCOS group (P < 0.05). No significant endocrine or histological differences noticed between C and TC groups.ConclusionA combination of flaxseed and spearmint extract improved the endocrine profile and the histomorphometric features of the ovary in the T group compared to the PCOS group.

Protective effect of alpha lipoic acid on 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide induced primary ovarian failure in female rats

ObjectiveThe effects of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) and its possible mechanisms in treating Primary ovarian failure (POF) model was studied with 4 vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD). Material and methodsRats were divided into 4 groups (n = 7) as Control, VCD, VCD + ALA and ALA. POF model was induced by applying VCD intraperitoneally and ALA was administered by oral gavage as 100 mg/day to the VCD + ALA and ALA groups. ResultsAt the end of 42 days, ovarian and uterine tissues were received. The number of primordial and primary follicles were increased and corpus luteum and cystic follicles were decreased in ovarian tissues in VCD + ALA group compared to VCD group. Caspase-3 immunoreactivity in follicular cells was decreased in VCD + ALA group compared to VCD group. eNOS immunoreactivity and eNOS levels were decreased in VCD group and increased in VCD + ALA group while iNOS immunoreactivity and iNOS levels were increased in VCD group, decreased in VCD + ALA group in ovary and uterine tissue. Plasma FSH and LH hormone levels were increased in the VCD but decreased in VCD + ALA group. Estradiol level decreased in the VCD group compared to the other groups. The MDA values were significantly increased in the VCD + ALA group compared to VCD group. In addition, the levels of GSH values were decreased in VCD + ALA group compared to VCD group. ConclusionAlpha lipoic acid treatment of rats with VCD-induced POF had a beneficial effect on reducing ovarian damage by improving histological, immunohistochemical, hormone level and oxidative stress markers. Our results show that ALA is an effective treatment of VCD-induced POF rats.

Hyperactive LH Pulses and Elevated Kisspeptin and NKB Gene Expression in the Arcuate Nucleus of a PCOS Mouse Model.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common reproductive disorder in women, is characterized by hyperandrogenemia, chronic anovulation, cystic ovarian follicles, and luteinizing hormone (LH) hyper-pulsatility, but the pathophysiology isn't completely understood. We recently reported a novel mouse model of PCOS using chronic letrozole (LET; aromatase inhibitor). Letrozole-treated females demonstrate multiple PCOS-like phenotypes, including polycystic ovaries, anovulation, and elevated circulating testosterone and LH, assayed in "one-off" measures. However, due to technical limitations, in vivo LH pulsatile secretion, which is elevated in PCOS women, was not previously studied, nor were the possible changes in reproductive neurons. Here, we used recent technical advances to examine in vivo LH pulse dynamics of freely moving LET female mice versus control and ovariectomized (OVX) mice. We also determined whether neural gene expression of important reproductive regulators such as kisspeptin, neurokinin B (NKB), and dynorphin, is altered in LET females. Compared to controls, LET females exhibited very rapid, elevated in vivo LH pulsatility, with increased pulse frequency, amplitude, and basal levels, similar to PCOS women. Letrozole-treated mice also had markedly elevated Kiss1, Tac2, and Pdyn expression and increased Kiss1 neuronal activation in the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus. Notably, the hyperactive LH pulses and increased kisspeptin neuron measures of LET mice were not as elevated as OVX females. Our findings indicate that LET mice, like PCOS women, have markedly elevated LH pulsatility, which likely drives increased androgen secretion. Increased hypothalamic kisspeptin and NKB levels may be fundamental contributors to the hyperactive LH pulse secretion in the LET PCOS-like condition and, perhaps, in PCOS women.

Effects of Stachys sylvatica hydroalcoholic extract on the ovary and hypophysis-gonadal axis in a rat with polycystic ovary syndrome

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy affecting women. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of Stachys sylvatica hydroalcoholic extract on biochemical and histological parameters in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome. Thirty adult female Wistar rats with an average weight of 180 g were divided into five groups of six rats. Animals were divided into groups of control, PCOS (intramuscular injection of 2 mg estradiol valerate, Aburaihan Co., Iran/rat, once), and treated with hydroalcoholic extract of Stachys sylvatica. After 60 days of PCOS induction, 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg BW Stachys sylvatica hydroalcoholic extract were injected intraperitoneally. The control group was just injected with olive oil as a solvent. After 10 days of treatment, animals were weighed and then sacrificed and blood samples were taken from their heart for hormonal studies. Ovaries of all groups were cut for histological studies and fixed in formaldehyde, and 7-μm sections were prepared by microtome and stained using hematoxylin–eosin. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer post hoc test with the SPSS software. The significant level was p < 0.05.ResultsThe Stachys sylvatica extract can improve obesity in the PCOS group. The histological and hormonal results showed that PCOS induction can decrease the number of preantral, antral, and Graafian follicles as well as corpus luteum in comparison with the control (p < 0.001), whereas the number of cystic follicles increased significantly (p < 0.001). After treatment with Stachys sylvatica hydroalcoholic extract (500 mg/kg), a significant increase was observed in all these parameters. In addition, the number of cystic follicles decreased significantly (p < 0.001). The level of LH and FSH hormones decreased significantly (p < 0.01) in the PCOS group compared with the control. In contrast, the estrogen level increased significantly (p < 0.01). In the 250 and 500 mg/kg group, treatment with the extract could increase FSH and decrease estrogen concentration significantly relative to the PCOS group (p < 0.01). Results of antral follicle morphometry indicated an increase in follicle diameter and theca thickness, but the thickness of the granulosa layer decreased significantly. An improvement in these measurements was observed in the treated PCOS groups with all doses.ConclusionsIt can be concluded that Stachys sylvatica hydroalcoholic extract can improve some symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome because of components such as iridoids, flavonoids, and sesquiterpenes with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this experiment, 500 mg/kg dose of extract was considered as the most effective dose.

Effects of aqueous extract of &lt;i&gt;Viscum album (Linn.) &lt;/i&gt;leaf on some biochemical parameters and ovarian morphology of oestradiol valerate-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome rats

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) has a worldwide prevalence of 15-20% in women of reproductive age group and account for 75% anovulatory infertility cases in them. Aqueous extract of Viscum album leaf was evaluated for its therapeutic effects on oestradiol valerate – induced PCOS rats. Female rats (176. 96 ± 2.01) g were assigned to groups A – G, (n=10) each. Group A (Control) were administered 0.5 ml of distilled water. Groups B, C, D, E, F and G were PCOS-induced with single intramuscular injection of oestradiol – valerate, each group then received 0.5 ml of distilled water, 2.4 mg/kg body weight of metformin, 10, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract respectively for 30 days. Vaginal smear cytology, serum follicle stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone, testosterone, progesterone and polycystic ovarian morphology were assessed. Aqueous extract of Viscum album leaf significantly (p&lt;0.05) reversed PCOS related increased serum concentrations of follicle stimulating hormone and testosterone and decreased concentration of luteinizing hormone towards the control values. Persistent oestrus cells and cystic follicles in the ovaries of PCOS-induced rats were restored towards control. Aqueous extract of Viscum album leaf ameliorated some clinical, biochemical and ovarian features of polycystic ovarian syndrome rats. Keywords: Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Testosterone, vaginal smear, antihypertensive, antidiabetic.

Hydroxysafflor yellow A exerts beneficial effects by restoring hormone secretion and alleviating oxidative stress in polycystic ovary syndrome mice.

What is the central question of this study? What are the potential therapeutic roles of ginsenoside Rb1 and hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). What is the main finding and its importance? HSYA restored the oestrous cycles of PCOS mice, reduced follicular cysts in ovaries and rescued abnormal hormone secretion; ginsenoside Rb1 did not ameliorate the main symptoms of PCOS mice. HSYA alleviated oxidative stress along with an enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activity. This highlights a potential role of HSYA in PCOS therapy. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disease resulting in female infertility. Hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) and ginsenoside Rb1 have been shown to have antioxidant properties, but little is known about their impact in PCOS. Here dehydroepiandrosterone was used to induce PCOS in a mouse model that was characterized by an irregular oestrous cycle, cystic follicles and an elevated serum testosterone level. Supplementation of HSYA restored the oestrous cycle of PCOS mice, reduced follicular cysts in PCOS mouse ovaries and brought about a decline in serum testosterone level, while ginsenoside Rb1 did not ameliorate the above symptoms of PCOS mice. After HSYA treatment, there was elevation of serum oestradiol, progesterone, luteinizing hormone and anti-Müllerian hormone levels and a reduction of follicle-stimulating hormone level, but ginsenoside Rb1 only rescued the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and anti-Müllerian hormone. Further analysis evidenced that HSYA reversed the expression of steroid hormone secretion-related genes Star, Hsd3b1, Cyp11a1 and Cyp19a1. In PCOS mice HSYA weakened the elevation of ovarian malondialdehyde, which is regarded as a biomarker for oxidative stress. Moreover, HSYA improved reduced glutathione content accompanied by a simultaneous increase in reduced to oxidized glutathione ratio, and enhanced the activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase. Collectively, HSYA exerted beneficial effects on PCOS mice by restoring hormone secretion and alleviating oxidative stress.

Investigation of the effects of vitamin D treatment on the ovarian AMH receptors in a polycystic ovary syndrome experimental model: an ultrastructural and immunohistochemical study

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the effects of vitamin D treatment on ultrastructural changes and AMHR2 expression in the ovary in PCOS rat model. A total of 24 female prepubertal rats were divided into 3 groups. In group 1, sesame oil was injected and used as control group. In group 2, PCOS was created by the injection of 6 mg/kg/day DHEA. In group 3, PCOS was created and 120 ng/100 g 1,25 (OH)2D3 treatment was performed. At the end of the 28th day, the blood samples were collected. The ovarian tissues were obtained for electron microscopic and immunohistochemical examinations.Serum AMH, testosterone, FSH, LH levels and LH/FSH ratios were higher in the PCOS group compared to the control group and decreased in the treatment group compared to the PCOS group. AMHR2 expression was increased in atretic and premature luteinizate antral follicles in the PCOS group compared to the control group, and decreased in the treatment group compared to the PCOS group. PCOS group electron micrographs showed degenerative changes in developing follicles, cystic follicles characterised with granulosa cell layer attenuation and thickening of the theca cell layer, and lipid accumulation in the interstitial cells. Structural changes observed in the PCOS group were improved with vitamin D treatment.As a result, there is an interaction between PCOS, AMH serum levels and AMHR2 in the ovarian follicles. Vitamin D has a positive effect on hormonal and structural changes in the PCOS group. We concluded that vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial in PCOS patients.

The Effects of Zinc Methionine on Reproductive and Thyroid Hormones in Rats with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

Background:Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder in fertile women, which seems to be adversely affected by associated thyroid dysfunction. Zinc methionine (ZM) has positive effects on PCOS, but its concerted effects on PCOS and thyroid function have not been investigated. We evaluated the effects of ZM on reproductive and thyroid hormones and the number of follicles in rats with PCOS.Materials and Methods:This study was conducted on 45 female rats, using sesame oil as control; PCOS animals administered with 0, 25, 75, and 175 mg/kg BW of ZM. Serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and thyroid function were investigated. Premature follicles (PMF), primary follicles (PF), preantral follicles (PAF), antral follicles (AF), corpus luteum (CL), and cystic follicles (CF) were assessed.Results:PCOS decreased the concentrations of FSH and free T4, but increased the levels of LH, TSH, and LH/FSH ratio (ALL P < 0.05). ZM at a dose of 75 and 175 mg increased the level of FSH, free T4, and decreased LH, TSH, and LH/FSH ratio (ALL P < 0.05). Induction of PCOS decreased PMF, PF, PAF, AF, and CL, but increased CF (P < 0.05). PCOS treated groups (75 and 175 mg/kg) increased these follicle numbers and decreased CF compared to ZM 25 mg/kg and PCOS groups (Both P < 0.05).Conclusions:Although the induction of PCOS had a negative effect on reproductive and thyroid hormones and follicle numbers, ZM treatment (75 and 175 mg/kg) overcame the negative effects. A high dosage of ZM can alleviate the hormonal and cysts disturbances occurring in PCOS.

Induction of cystic ovarian follicles (COFs) in cattle by using an intrafollicular injection of indomethacin.

The aim of this study was to establish a model to induce cystic ovarian follicles (COFs) in cattle using the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin. Eighteen Holstein-Frisian cattle were synchronized with prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2α) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Ultrasound-guided transvaginal intrafollicular injections were performed in 23 preovulatory follicles with different concentrations of indomethacin 16 h after GnRH administration. An injection of 0.2 ml 35 µM indomethacin solution (resulting in a final concentration of 8 µg/ml in the follicular fluid) was the minimal dosage leading to COF formation. The induced COFs reached a maximum mean diameter of 36.9 ± 4.5 mm eleven days after injection. The estrous cycle was extended to 25–39 days. Luteinization was first observed 4 days after injection, accompanied by a slight increase in plasma progesterone concentration. The bioactivity of indomethacin was demonstrated by the decrease of prostaglandin E2 in the follicular fluid of three animals. The method presented here is minimally invasive and allows for the generation of defined COFs for further investigations.

Follicular Dermatoses in Iraqi Patients (Clinical and Histopathological Evaluation)

Background: Follicular dermatoses are skin diseases that involved the hair follicle either early or during the course of the disease. Objective: To collect a number of dermatoses where there is follicular involvement, to be studied and analysed in order to reach a conclusion that hair follicles are the most important target area in the pathogenesis of these dermatoses. Patients and Methods: This is a descriptive, clinical and histopathological study that was carried out at the Centre of Dermatology and Venereology, Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq during the period from December 2017 to August 2019. Forty patients with follicular dermatoses were included and all socio- demographic data related to the disease was obtained from each patient, in addition to clinical examination was performed for each patient. Lesional biopsies were done for 20 patients, for histopathological examination by Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E). Results: The mean age ± SD was 30.2±16.96 years, 25 patients were males and 15 patients were females, the clinical diagnosis of follicular diseases was established for all skin diseases included in the present work. The histopathological findings of lesional biopsies were mainly: perifollicular lymphocytes, follicular invasion and degeneration, follicular plugging, fibrous tract remnant, perifollicular melanophages and hair follicle cyst. Conclusion: The result of the present study does encourage us to suggest that almost all skin diseases included in this study start initially on the hair follicle and then spread to involve the adjacent epidermis.