Effect of Vitex negundo L. seeds in letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome

Mitigation of letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome associated inflammatory response and endocrinal dysfunction by Vitex negundo seeds

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder in women that necessitates effective and safe treatment alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Vitex negundo seed in a letrozole-induced PCOS rat model.

RESULTS

Findings of the present study demonstrated that administration of hydro-ethanolic extract of Vitex negundo (VNE) effectively restored endocrino-metabolic imbalances associated with PCOS, along with correction of antioxidant enzymes level, proinflammatory cytokines, and apoptotic bio-markers. LC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of cinnamic acid, plumbagin and nigundin B as the prominent phytochemicals in VNE. The observed beneficial effects could be attributed to the active compounds in Vitex negundo extract, which exhibited hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and catabolic effects on body weight. Additionally, the extract contributed to hormonal balance regulation by modulating the steroidogenic enzymes, specifically by tuning gonadotropins level and correcting the LH:FSH ratio, through the modulation of ERα signalling and downregulation of NR3C4 expression. The antioxidant properties of phytochemicals in Vitex negundo seed were apparent through the correction of SOD and catalase activity. While it's anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic action were associated with the regulation of mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6, BAX, Bcl2. Molecular docking study further indicated the molecular interaction of above mentioned active phytocompounds of VNE with ERα, NR3C4 and with TNFα that plays a critical mechanistic gateway to the regulation of hormone signalling as well as synchronizing the inflammation cascade. Furthermore, the histomorphological improvement of the ovaries supported the ameliorative action of Vitex negundo extract in the letrozole-induced PCOS model.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates the potential of Vitex negundo seed as a multifaceted therapeutic option for PCOS. VNE offers a holistic strategy for PCOS with antiandrogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, driven by its major compounds like cinnamic acid, plumbagine, and nigundin B.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): A Mini-Review of Lipid Profile, Blood Glucose, and Ovarian Histological Improvements

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women that is characterized by fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries and various symptoms, including high androgen levels, endometrial irregularities, and cysts. Although the main cause of PCOS remains unknown, it has been linked to genetic, endocrine, and metabolic factors, and there are several treatment options, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and surgery. Natural products such as medicinal plants and fruits are being explored as potential treatments for PCOS because of their bioactive compounds with pharmacological effects related to antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. Some of these compounds improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and enhance glucose metabolism, thereby benefiting patients with PCOS. This mini-review examined the effects of natural products on PCOS, including their effects on ovarian histological changes, blood glucose, sex hormones, and lipid profiles, based on animal and human studies. This study suggests that the use of natural products as complementary medicines can be a promising resource for the development of effective therapeutics for PCOS; however, further research is needed to fully understand their benefits.

Can some food/medicinal plants directly affect porcine ovarian granulosa cells and mitigate the toxic effect of toluene?

The action of buckwheat, rooibos and vitex on healthy female reproductive systems, as well as their ability to mitigate the reproductive toxicity of environmental contaminant toluene have not yet been examined. We analysed the influence of toluene (0, 10, 100 or 1000 ng/mL) with and without these plant extracts (10 μg/mL) on cultured porcine ovarian granulosa cells. Cell viability, proliferation (PCNA accumulation), apoptosis (accumulation of bax) and release of progesterone (P) and oestradiol (E) were measured. Toluene reduced ovarian cell viability and proliferation, increased apoptosis and suppressed E but not P release. Plant extracts, given alone, were also able to directly suppress some ovarian cell functions. The addition of buckwheat promoted toluene action on cell viability, proliferation and P release, but it did not modify other toluene effects. Rooibos mitigated toluene action on cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis but promoted its action on P and E. The addition of vitex mitigated all the tested toluene effects. These observations: (1) demonstrate the direct toxic influence of toluene on ovarian cells, (2) demonstrate the ability of food/medicinal plants to either promote or mitigate toluene effects and (3) suggest that vitex could be a natural protector against the suppressive effect of toluene on female reproduction.

Therapeutic Effect of Tinospora cordifolia (Willd) Extracts on Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and its Complications in Murine Model

Background

Tinosopora cordifolia (Willd) (TC) is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine since long time for number of ailments and its preparations are also considered by food safety and standards authority of India as nutritional supplement. However the scientific evidence on its possible safety and efficacy in polycystic ovarian syndrome and associated complications was not studied in detail.

Objectives

The purpose of this investigation is to examine whether or not TC can have therapeutic effects on letrozole induced PCOS and related complications such as body weight, dyslipidaemia, glucose tolerance, hormonal regulation, insulin resistance and sensitivity, severity of PCOS and histopathological changes in ovary using mice animal model.

Design

Present study is a preclinical study involving laboratory animals.

Methods and analysis

After verifying the absence of PCOS, the animals began receiving Letrozole, which lasted for 21 days. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), triglycerides, cholesterol, and weight were recorded. The levels of hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, insulin, testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), histopathology was carried out.

Ethics

The Institutional Animal Ethics Committee at DITU gave its clearance to the animal experimentation on July 10, 2021 (DITU/IAEC/21-22/07-06).

Discussion

The majority of cornified epithelial cells were seen in groups treated with TC extract during the estrous phase of the cycle. Mice exposed to TC retained normal body weight. FBG, 1- and 2-hour OGTT, triglyceride and cholesterol levels were all significantly improved by extracts. Estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, insulin, LH and FSH concentration were all corrected in TC-treated animals. The HOMA-IR, HOMA-Beta and QUICKI values were also corrected with TC extracts. The morphological and microscopic features of the ovary were also greatly enhanced. Based on these findings, we conclude that treating PCOS mice with TC extracts significantly ameliorates the disease and severity down to nil-to-moderate levels by reducing hyperinsulinemia, hyperandrogenism, dyslipidaemia, enhancing insulin sensitivity, correcting oestrogen, progesterone, LH and FSH levels via enhanced ovarian function. Further molecular and cellular level of study is recommended for further elaboration of mechanism of action.

Plain language summaries

• Tinospora cordifolia satva, oil and hydroalcoholic extract were studied in letrozole-induced PCOS in mice model• Anti PCOS efficacy of 3 preparations studied with respect to their mechanism of action in detail• For the first time proposing method of calculating severity of PCOS in animal model• Tinospora cordifolia oil preparation completely reversed PCOS effect of letrozole and made them normal• Histopathological and morphological studies support the biochemical claims.

Regulation of Insulin Resistance, Lipid Profile and Glucose Metabolism Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome by Tinospora cordifolia

Background: The plant Tinospora cordifolia (TC), traditionally known as guduchi or giloy, is used for a number of health conditions as a nutritional supplement and rejuvenation medicine. Its nutritional supplementary products are traditionally recommended for a wide range of health issues, including diabetes, menstruation discomfort, fever, obesity, inflammation, and more. Unfortunately, there has not been extensive research into its effectiveness in treating or managing insulin resistance, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, hormonal imbalance, and metabolic syndrome-associated polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: Consequently, the present study was designed to induce insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hormonal abnormality, hyperglycemia, and menstrual disturbance of PCOS using dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in mice and study the effect of oral TC extracts on these factors by using ancient and modern technologies. During the 21-day study, 6 mg/100 g/day of DHEA was given to female mice. Levels of glucose, insulin, lipids, and hormones were estimated. In addition to being seen with the naked eye, the morphological and microscopic changes were also observed on histology slides. Results: The study outcomes show that pretreatment with TC preparations significantly improved biochemical and histological abnormalities in female mice. Diestrus phase was only observed in DHEA-treated animals, while cornified epithelial cells were present in TC-treated mice. Pretreatment with TC satva showed significant (p < 0.001) reductions in body weight compared to placebo. Fasting blood glucose, 1-h OGTT, and 2-h OGTT levels were all significantly lower in TC satva- and oil-treated animals in comparison to the disease control group (p < 0.001). Treatment with TC extracts resulted in a normalization of estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone levels (p < 0.05). Treatment with TC extract improved lipid profiles (p < 0.001), LH/FSH ratios (p < 0.01), fasting insulin levels (p < 0.001), HOMA-IR (p < 0.001), HOMA-Beta (p < 0.001), and QUICKI (p < 0.001). Both macroscopic and microscopic alterations were seen to be restored after TC extract treatment. After being treated with TC satva, oil, and hydroalcoholic extract, the severity of PCOS decreased by 54.86%. Conclusions: These findings lead us to the conclusion that TC extracts and satva as nutritional supplements are useful for treating PCOS and associated symptoms. It is recommended that additional research be conducted to determine the molecular mechanism of action of TC nutritional supplements on PCOS-related changes in metabolic profiles. We also recommend further clinical studies to explore the clinical efficacy and effectiveness of TC nutritional supplements in treating and/or managing PCOS.

Total lignans from Vitex negundo seeds attenuate osteoarthritis and their main component vitedoin A alleviates osteoclast differentiation by suppressing ERK/NFATc1 signaling

The seeds of Vitex negundo have been used for inflammation-related disease treatment in traditional medicine. This study focused on the anti-osteoarthritis (OA) effects of the total lignans of V. negundo seeds (TOV) in monosodium iodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis rats and its pharmacokinetic properties, as well as the effects and potential mechanism of its main components VN1 (6-hydroxy-4-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-phenyl)-3-hydro-xymethyl-7-methoxy-3,4-dihydro-2-naphthaldehydeb) and VN2 (vitedoin A) on receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation in bone marrow macrophages (BMMs). TOV significantly attenuated osteoarthritis, leading to an increase in pain thresholds, improvement of knee articular cartilages and chondrocytes loss, and decreased total joint scores and serum levels of TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in osteoarthritis rats. The half-time (T_1/2 ) was 2.82 h and 1.33 h, and the bioavailability was 15.34%-21.89% and 16.29%-22.11%, for VN1 and VN2, respectively. VN2, rather than VN1, remarkably inhibited tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity, reduced the number of TRAP-positive multinuclear cells, diminished the formation of actin ring, and decreased mRNA levels of cathepsin K (CTSK), TRAP, nuclear factor of activated T cell 1 (NFATc1), and osteoclast-associated receptor, as well as downregulated protein levels of p-ERK (phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase), TRAP, CTSK and NFATc1 in BMMs. These findings suggest TOV has promising therapeutic potential for OA treatment and VN2, in particular, attenuates osteoclast differentiation by suppressing ERK/NFATc1 signaling and actin ring, mainly accounting for the anti-OA efficacy of TOV.

Protective efficacy of dark chocolate in letrozole-induced ovary toxicity model rats: hormonal, biochemical, and histopathological investigation

OBJECTIVE

To assess the protective effect of dark chocolate (DC) on the letrozole-induced rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

METHODS

In this experimental study, 32 female Wistar rats, weighing (200 ± 20) g, were randomly categorized into 4 groups including control, letrozole (1 mg·kg·d), metformin (500 mg·kg·d) along with letrozole, and DC (500 mg·kg·d) along with letrozole for 28 d by oral gavage. Twenty-four hours after the last supplementation, direct blood sampling was taken from the heart to obtain blood serum for evaluation of sex hormones and gonadotropins, oxidative parameters, inflammatory cytokines, and ovarian tissue was examined for histology.

RESULTS

The DC treatment significantly improved PCOS signs, as demonstrated by the significant restoration of ovarian morphology and physiological functions as compared with the letrozole group. DC treatment also decreased ovarian interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α levels and improved total oxidative/antioxidative status as compared with the letrozole group.

CONCLUSIONS

Treating the animals with DC could alleviate the PCOS symptoms and reduced the toxic effects of letrozole in the ovary. This effect may mediate through antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties.

Therapeutic Effects of Silibinin Against Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Induced by Letrozole in Rats via Its Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Oxidant Activities

Background

Current therapies for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are accompanied by unwanted effects. Silibinin; a flavonolignan has pleiotropic activities and favorable safety profile.

Purpose

To investigate the efficacy of silibinin on estrous cyclicity, inflammation, oxidative stress and ovarian morphology in letrozole-induced PCOS in rats.

Methods

Forty-eight female Wistar albino rats were divided into 2 sets. Rats of the first set (n = 12), assigned as a negative control (NC) received only the vehicle, rats of the second set (n = 36), assigned as PCOS rats, were given letrozole 1mg/Kg orally for 21 days. On day 21, six rats from the first set and six rats from the second set were euthanized for confirmation of PCOS-induction. The remaining animals from the first set assigned as group 1, those in the second set (n = 30) were equally divided into 5 groups and treated daily for 19 days as follows: group 2 (positive control) received only the vehicle, group 3 treated with metformin 300mg/Kg orally, groups 4 and 5 treated respectively with 100 and 200 mg/Kg silibinin intraperitoneally (IP), and group 6 treated with a combination of metformin 300mg/Kg orally and silibinin 100mg/Kg IP. On day 40, blood samples were examined for luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (TS) and estradiol (EST) levels, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant parameters, ovarian and uterine morphology.

Results

Silibinin alone or in combination with metformin was found to be effective in restoring the regularity of estrous cycle by ameliorating the abnormal alterations of LH, TS, EST, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and oxidative status and by resuming the appearance of corpora lutea and decreasing or even total absence of cystic follicles in the ovaries.

Conclusion

Silibinin was effective in restoring estrous regularities and alleviating hormonal and histomorphological abnormalities of the ovarian and uterine tissues, this could be due to its anti-androgenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Therapeutic effects of aqueous extract of bioactive active component of Ageratum conyzoides on the ovarian-uterine and hypophysis-gonadal axis in rat with polycystic ovary syndrome: Histomorphometric evaluation and biochemical assessment

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder, affecting women of reproductive age. Ageratum conyzoïdes (AGC) is used traditionally in the treatment of fever, rheumatism, and ulcer. This study investigates the effects of AGC on ovarian-uterine in PCOS rats.

Methods

Female rats were randomized into four groups (n = 6). Group A control received 2 ml distilled water. Group B received a single dose of 4 mg/kg body weight (bwt) i.p estradiol valerate (EV). Group C received 500 mg/kg bwt AGC and group D received a single dose of 4 mg/kg bwt i.p EV followed by 500 mg/kg bwt AGC orally for 30 days. Parameters tested include follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), progesterone (P), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-18 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- α, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), total protein (TP), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), and ovary and uterus histomorphometric.

Results

Ageratum conyzoides decrease insulin resistance, obesity indices, TC, TG, LDL, MDA, T, LH, FSH, CRP, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF- α in PCOS rats. And increase HDL, E2, P, TP, CAT, and SOD in PCOS rats. AGC improved ovary and uterus histo-architecture, tertiary, and Graafian follicles, corpus luteum and endometrial thickness increased,and cystic and atretic follicles decreased.

Conclusion

Ageratum conyzoides improved insulin sensitivity, antioxidant activities, hormonal imbalance, inflammatory makers, and histological changes in PCOS rats. Therefore AGC can be used as a potential adjuvant agent in the treatment of PCOS.

Evaluation of Formulated Herbal Syrup (Containing Fennel, Anise, and Celery) on the Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Model

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder associated with irregular menstrual cycles, hyperandrogenism, obesity, and reduced fertility. Objectives: The present study aimed to formulate herbal syrup based on Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) and evaluate its effect on the letrozole-induced PCOS model in female rats. Methods: The herbal syrup contains anise, fennel, and celery seed extracts. Five different formulations were made with different percentages of additive components. Quality control and stability tests were performed on the selected formulation. During the in vivo step, 6 groups of rats were evaluated: The control group (received carboxymethyl cellulose 1% as a vehicle) and the other 5 groups (received letrozole 1 mg/kg orally for 21 days). During 21 days, daily vaginal smears were examined to detect irregularities of the estrous cycle. After induction of PCOS, rats were orally administered with herbal syrup (1, 2, 4 mL/kg) or metformin (200 mg/kg) for 28 days. Moreover, body and ovarian weights, serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone were measured. Finally, ovarian tissues were isolated for histological examination. Results: The best formulation of the syrup contained the plant extract (totally 10%), sugar (50%), sodium benzoate (0.1%), and potassium sorbate (0.1%). Body weight was significantly increased in all groups compared to the control group, and after treatment, a significant weight reduction was seen in the metformin and 1-mL/kg dose group. Following PCOS induction, ovary weight was significantly increased, while after treatment, it showed a significant decrease. After 21 days of letrozole administration, induction of PCOS was confirmed by the irregularities in estrous cycles and an increase in testosterone and LH levels. After treatments with the syrup, LH levels significantly decreased in all groups (P < 0.05), and serum testosterone and FSH levels significantly decreased in the 2-mL/kg dose group compared to the PCOS group (P < 0.05). Estradiol and progesterone levels significantly increased in the treatment groups in a dose-dependent manner. Histological studies of metformin and herbal syrup groups exhibited normal follicular development with fewer and smaller cystic follicles compared to the PCOS group. Conclusions: The herbal syrup made from anise, fennel, and celery seed extracts improved serum levels of sex hormones, recovered the ovarian morphology in PCOS-induced rats, and can be a good candidate for further clinical trials.

Role of high-fat diet on letrozole-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome in rats

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent hormonal disorders in women of reproductive age. Letrozole (LET)-induced PCOS is a good model but has drawbacks such as the absence of metabolic changes. Hence, in the present study, we aimed to develop a new animal model combining a high-fat diet (HFD) and LET. Female Wistar rats were divided into a control group, LET group, and LET + HFD (45% energy from fat) group. Compared with the control group, the LET and LET + HFD groups showed ovarian cysts and elevated testosterone levels, whereas oestradiol and progesterone levels were reduced. The LET + HFD group displayed significant changes in body weight, as well as in levels of triglycerides, fasting blood glucose, direct bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, and uric acid; in terms of glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, the LET + HFD group showed better results than the LET group. Compared with the control group, elevated levels of tumour necrosis factor-α were detected in both the LET and LET + HFD groups. The addition of HFD to the LET model afforded good metabolic aberrations, along with ovarian cysts. In contrast, the LET-only model failed to demonstrate metabolic anomalies observed in the human PCOS condition.

Suppression of neurotransmission on gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons in letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome: A mouse model

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder in reproductive-age women, characterized by the accretion of small cystic follicles in the ovary associated with chronic anovulation and overproduction of androgens. Ovarian function in all mammals is controlled by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, which are the central regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. However, the impact on the neurotransmitter system regulating GnRH neuronal function in the letrozole-induced PCOS mouse model remains unclear.

METHODS

In this study, we compared the response of various neurotransmitters and neurosteroids regulating GnRH neuronal activities between letrozole-induced PCOS and normal mice via electrophysiological techniques.

RESULTS

Response to neurotransmitter systems like GABAergic, glutamatergic and kisspeptinergic were suppressed in letrozole-fed compared to normal mice. In addition, neurosteroids tetrahydrodeoxycorticosterone (THDOC) and 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c] pyridine-3-ol (THIP) mediated response on GnRH neurons were significantly smaller on letrozole-fed mice compared to normal mice. Furthermore, we also found that letrozole-fed mice showed irregularity in the estrous cycle, increased body weight, and anovulation in female mice.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that PCOS is an endocrine disorder that may directly affect the neurotransmitter system regulating GnRH neuronal activity at the hypothalamic level and impact reproductive physiology.

Effect of Silibinin on Dyslipidemia and Glycemic Alteration Associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: An Experimental Study on Rats

PURPOSE

Females with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are found to have hormonal and metabolic alterations. This study investigated the efficacy of the flavonolignan silibinin in restoring the metabolic alterations associated with letrozole-induced PCOS in rats.

METHODS

The study allocated 42 albino rats into two groups. The first group was a normal control group (n=12) in which only the vehicle was given. The second group, the PCOS group (n=30), received letrozole (1 mg/kg/day) orally for 21 days. On day 21, six animals from the first group and six animals from the second group were sacrificed to confirm the development of PCOS, and the rest of the animals (n=24) in the second group were distributed equally into four groups: the PCOS group received vehicle, the metformin (MET) group received 300 mg/kg metformin orally, and the low-dose silibinin (LD-100) and high-dose silibinin (HD-200) groups received 100 and 200 mg/kg silibinin intraperitoneally, respectively. Blockade of the estrus cycle in the diestrus phase, hyperglycemia, and body weight elevation were related to a positive PCOS induction. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was also carried out for all animals on day 21 and on the last day of the experiment (day 40) to investigate the effect of silibinin on insulin resistance. The rats' lipid profile, insulin level, estrus cycle patterns, body weight, and weights of the ovaries and uterus were also measured on day 40.

RESULTS

A 19-day silibinin treatment led to the restoration of regular estrus cyclicity, reduced the glucose spike in OGTT analysis, and alleviated insulin resistance in PCOS rats. There was a statistically non-significant decrement in insulin level and lipid profile in the treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

Silibinin flavonolignan ameliorated some metabolic and reproductive alterations associated with PCOS. This could be related to the decreased insulin resistance, and antiandrogenic and phytoestrogenic activity of silibinin. Further study with longer term therapy is recommended to clarify more potential effects of silibinin and its mechanism of action in PCOS.

Ficus deltoidea ameliorates biochemical, hormonal, and histomorphometric changes in letrozole-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome rats

BACKGROUND

Insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances are key features in the pathophysiology of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). We have previously shown that Ficus deltoidea var. deltoidea Jack (Moraceae) can improve insulin sensitivity and hormonal profile in PCOS female rats. However, biological characteristics underpinning the therapeutic effects of F. deltoidea for treating PCOS remain to be clarified. This study aims to investigate the biochemical, hormonal, and histomorphometric changes in letrozole (LTZ)-induced PCOS female rats following treatment with F. deltoidea.

METHODS

PCOS was induced in rats except for normal control by administering LTZ at 1 mg/kg/day for 21 days. Methanolic extract of F. deltoidea leaf was then orally administered to the PCOS rats at the dose of 250, 500, or 1000 mg/kg/day, respectively for 15 consecutive days. Lipid profile was measured enzymatically in serum. The circulating concentrations of reproductive hormone and antioxidant enzymes were determined by ELISA assays. Ovarian and uterus histomorphometric changes were further observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining.

RESULTS

The results showed that treatment with F. deltoidea at the dose of 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day reduced insulin resistance, obesity indices, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), malondialdehyde (MDA), testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to near-normal levels in PCOS rats. The levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), estrogen, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) are also similar to those observed in normal control rats. Histomorphometric measurements confirmed that F. deltoidea increased the corpus luteum number and the endometrial thickness.

CONCLUSIONS

F. deltoidea can reverse PCOS symptoms in female rats by improving insulin sensitivity, antioxidant activities, hormonal imbalance, and histological changes. These findings suggest the potential use of F. deltoidea as an adjuvant agent in the treatment program of PCOS.

Nutrition Strategy and Life Style in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome-Narrative Review

Here we present an extensive narrative review of the broadly understood modifications to the lifestyles of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The PubMed database was analyzed, combining PCOS entries with causes, diseases, diet supplementation, lifestyle, physical activity, and use of herbs. The metabolic pathways leading to disturbances in lipid, carbohydrate, and hormonal metabolism in targeted patients are described. The article refers to sleep disorders, changes in mental health parameters, and causes of oxidative stress and inflammation. These conditions consistently lead to the occurrence of severe diseases in patients suffering from diabetes, the fatty degeneration of internal organs, infertility, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, dysbiosis, and cancer. The modification of lifestyles, diet patterns and proper selection of nutrients, pharmacological and natural supplementation in the form of herbs, and physical activity have been proposed. The progress and consequences of PCOS are largely modifiable and depend on the patient’s approach, although we have to take into account also the genetic determinants.

High Doses of D-Chiro-Inositol Alone Induce a PCO-Like Syndrome and Other Alterations in Mouse Ovaries

Administration of 1000-1500 mg/day D-Chiro-Inositol (DCIns) or a combination of Myo-Inositol (MyoIns) and DCIns in their plasma molar ratio (40:1) for three or more months are among recommended treatments for metabolic syndrome and/or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). We previously confirmed the efficacy of this formulation (8.2 mg/day MyoIns and 0.2 mg/day DCIns for 10 days) in a mouse PCOS model, but also observed negative effects on ovarian histology and function of formulations containing 0.4-1.6 mg/day DCIns. We therefore analyzed effects of higher doses of DCIns, 5, 10 and 20 mg/day, administered to young adult female mice for 21 days, on ovarian histology, serum testosterone levels and expression of the ovarian enzyme aromatase. Five mg/day DCIns (human correspondence: 1200 mg/day) altered ovarian histology, increased serum testosterone levels and reduced the amount of aromatase of negative controls, suggesting the induction of an androgenic PCOS model. In contrast, 10-20 mg/day DCIns (human correspondence: 2400-4800 mg/day) produced ovarian lesions resembling those typical of aged mice, and reduced serum testosterone levels without affecting aromatase amounts, suggesting a failure in steroidogenic gonadal activity. Notwithstanding physiological/biochemical differences between mice and humans, the observed pictures of toxicity for ovarian histology and function recommend caution when administering DCIns to PCOS patients at high doses and/or for periods spanning several ovulatory cycles.

Buckwheat, rooibos, and vitex extracts can mitigate adverse effects of xylene on ovarian cells in vitro

This study examines whether selected functional food and medicinal plants can mitigate the adverse effects of xylene on ovarian cells. The influences of xylene (0, 10, 100, or 1000 ng/mL), buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), vitex (Vitex agnus-castus), extracts (10 μg/mL each), and a combination of xylene with these plant additives on cultured porcine ovarian granulosa cells are compared. Cell viability, proliferation (PCNA accumulation), apoptosis (accumulation of bax), and release of progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) were analyzed by the trypan blue tests, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively. Xylene suppressed all measures of ovarian cell function. Rooibos prevented all of xylene's effects, whereas buckwheat and vitex prevented four of five of the analyzed effects (buckwheat prevented xylene influence on viability, PCNA, bax, and E2; vitex prevented xylene action on viability, PCNA, and P4 and E2). These observations show that xylene has the potential to suppress ovarian cell functions, and that buckwheat, rooibos, and vitex can mitigate those effects, making them natural protectors against the adverse effects of xylene on ovarian cells.

Effects of benzene on gilts ovarian cell functions alone and in combination with buckwheat, rooibos, and vitex

We aimed to examine the influence of benzene and of three dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) plant extracts-buckwheat (Fagopyrum Esculentum), rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), and vitex, (Vitex Agnus-Castus), and the combination of benzene with these three plant extracts on basic ovarian cell functions. Specifically, the study investigated the influence of benzene (0, 10, 100, or 1000 ng/mL) with and without these three plant additives on porcine ovarian granulosa cells cultured during 2 days with and without these additives. Cell viability, proliferation (accumulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, PCNA), apoptosis (accumulation of Bcl-2-associated X protein , bax), and the release of progesterone (P) and estradiol (E) were analyzed by the Trypan blue test, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Benzene reduced cell viability, as well as P and E release. Plant extracts, given alone, were able directly promote or suppress ovarian cell functions. Furthermore, buckwheat and rooibos, but not vitex prevented the inhibitory action of benzene on cell viability. Buckwheat induced the stimulatory action of benzene on proliferation. Rooibos and vitex promoted benzene effect on cell apoptosis. All these plant additives were able to promote suppressive action of benzene on ovarian steroidogenesis.These observations show that benzene may directly suppress ovarian cell viability, P, and E release and that buckwheat, rooibos, and vitex can directly influence ovarian cell functions and modify the effects of benzene-prevent toxic influence of benzene on cell viability and induce stimulatory action of benzene on ovarian cell proliferation, apoptosis, and steroidogenesis. The observed direct effects of benzene and these plants on ovarian cells functions, as well as the functional interrelationships of benzene and these plants, should be taken into account in their future applications.

Effect of Vitex agnus-castus ethanolic extract on hypothalamic KISS-1 gene expression in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine system disruption that affects 6-10% of women. Some studies have reported the effect of Vitex agnus-castus (Vitagnus) on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad axis (HPG). This study was conducted to investigate Vitagnus effect on the expression of kisspeptin gene in a rat model of PCOS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two female rats were distributed into: control, Vitagnus-treatment (365 mg/kg for 30 days), PCOS (Letrozole for 28 days) and PCOS animals treated with Vitagnus (30 days of Vitagnus after PCOS induction). At the end of the treatments, serum and ovaries were collected for analysis. Expression level of KISS-1 gene in the hypothalamus was investigated, using Real-Time-PCR.

RESULTS

In the PCOS group compared to control, FSH, progesterone and estradiol levels were decreased, whereas testosterone and LH levels were significantly increased. No significant changes were observed in the Vitagnus-treated animals in compare to control. However, Vitagnus treatment in the PCOS group, resulted in a raise in progesterone, estrogen and FSH levels and a reduction in the levels of testosterone and LH. Quantitative gene expression analysis showed that PCOS induction resulted in over-expression of KISS-1 gene, however, Vitagnus treatment reduced this up-regulated expression to normal level.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our results indicated that Vitagnus extract inhibited downregulation of KISS-1 gene in the hypothalamus of PCOS rats. Because of the master role of kisspeptin in adjusting the HPG axis, Vitagnus is likely to show beneficial effects in the treatment of PCOS via regulation of kisspeptin expression. This finding indicates a new aspect of Vitagnus effect and may be considered in its clinical applications.

Abatement of the Stimulatory Effect of Copper Nanoparticles Supported on Titania on Ovarian Cell Functions by Some Plants and Phytochemicals

The application of nanoparticles has experienced a vertiginous growth, but their interaction with food and medicinal plants in organisms, especially in the control of reproduction, remains unresolved. We examined the influence of copper nanoparticles supported on titania (CuNPs/TiO2), plant extracts (buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) and vitex (Vitex agnus-castus)), phytochemicals (rutin and apigenin), and their combination with CuNPs/TiO2 on ovarian cell functions, using cultured porcine ovarian granulosa cells. Cell viability, proliferation (PCNA accumulation), apoptosis (accumulation of bax), and hormones release (progesterone, testosterone, and 17β-estradiol) were analyzed by the Trypan blue test, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and ELISA, respectively. CuNPs/TiO2 increased cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and testosterone but not progesterone release, and reduced the 17β-estradiol output. Plant extracts and components have similar stimulatory action on ovarian cell functions as CuNPs/TiO2, but abated the majority of the CuNPs/TiO2 effects. This study concludes that (1) CuNPs/TiO2 can directly stimulate ovarian cell functions, promoting ovarian cell proliferation, apoptosis, turnover, viability, and steroid hormones release; (2) the plants buckwheat and vitex, as well as rutin and apigenin, can promote some of these ovarian functions too; and (3) these plant additives mitigate the CuNPs/TiO2's activity, something that must be considered when applied together.

A Rat Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome with Insulin Resistance Induced by Letrozole Combined with High Fat Diet

Background

Clinically, most patients of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) also have insulin resistance (IR). The methods for establishing PCOS-IR animal model include using dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and sodium prasterone sulfate subcutaneous injection, testosterone propionate combined with high-fat diet, and so on. This study aimed to establish an animal model of PCOS-IR using letrozole combined with a high fat diet.

Material/Methods

Study rats received 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose solution (CMC) or letrozole solution (1 mg/kg/day), with normal diet as control group and a high fat diet as the model group, for 21, 24, 27, and 30 days. The body weight and length were measured weekly. On Day 22, 25, 28 and 31, the weight, and the short and long diameters of the rat ovaries were measured, and blood samples were collected for the measurement of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting insulin (FINS), triglyceride (TG), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone (T). Ovarian tissue was collected for paraffin sectioning and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining.

Results

In model groups, rats’ weight was significantly increased (P<0.05). On Day 28 and 31, the weight, Lee’s index, and ovarian volume significantly increased compared with Day 22 (P<0.05). There were more dense transparent saclike follicles on the ovary surface under the microscope in model groups. Levels of LH/FSH, T, and TG were substantially increased (P<0.05), but levels of FINS and HOMA-IR were significantly increased (P<0.05) on Day 28 and 31 in the model groups.

Conclusions

This study implied that letrozole combined with a high fat diet for 27 days could induce the PCOS-IR rat model which has the characteristics of ovarian polycystic changes and endocrine and metabolic disorders.