Histomorphological and histomorphometric evaluation of the therapeutic role of sulforaphane on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis in polycystic ovary syndrome rats via its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. Sulforaphane (SFN) is a widely distributed isothiocyanate found in cruciferous vegetables. This study investigated the role of SFN on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis in PCOS rats. Twenty-four female rats randomized into group A control received 2 ml of normal saline. Group B received 4 mg/kg body weight (bwt) I.P of estradiol valerate (EV) on the first day, groups C received 100 mg/kg bwt of SFN orally, and Group D received I.P 4 mg/kg bwt of EV follow by 100 mg/kg bwt of SFN orally. All administrations were done once daily for 30 days. Final body weight, estrous cycle, ovarian weight, blood glucose, serum sex hormones levels, serum lipid profile, ovarian antioxidants assay, ovarian inflammatory cytokines, and ovary and pituitary histology were assessed.

The PCOS rats exhibited the characteristic features of PCOS. Disturbed ovarian cyclicity, histopathological alterations, decreased the number of healthy follicles and corpora lutea and increased degenerated and cystic follicles were detected by light microscopic studies. A significant increase in final body weight, ovarian weight, blood glucose, sex steroids hormone levels, and antioxidant assays in PCOS rats. Sulforaphane reduces the elevated level of serum sex steroids hormone, lipid profile, ovarian diameter, and cysts and restores healthy follicles in PCOS rats. SFN reduces the upraised levels of ovarian oxidant and inflammatory cytokines and increases the suppressed antioxidant enzymes.

Sulforaphane thus ameliorates the disturbed hormonal levels, lipid profile, and antioxidant status in PCOS rats through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity.