Effects of Baicalin on the Galectin-9-tim-3 pathway in ovarian damage induced by X-ray irradiation and bacterial lipopolysaccharide in pregnant rats and their fetuses

Abstract

Introduction

Exposure to X-ray irradiation and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced infection during pregnancy can harm both maternal and fetal health by increasing oxidative stress, immune exhaustion, and inflammation. The Galectin-9-Tim-3 signaling pathway plays a crucial role in immune regulation and inflammation, particularly during tissue injury and stress. Baicalin (BC), a flavonoid known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown potential in protecting against tissue damage. This study aims to investigate the effects of BC on ovarian damage and the Galectin-9-Tim-3 pathway in pregnant rats subjected to X-ray irradiation and LPS exposure.

Materials and methods

Forty-eight pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly into eight groups, each consisting of six rats, including control group, BC-only group, X-ray irradiation group, LPS group, X-ray + LPS group, X-ray + BC group, LPS + BC group, and X-ray + LPS + BC group. Fetal characteristics (length, height, and abortion/resorption), as well as pathological and immunohistological examination parameters of ovarian tissue, oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, and GPx levels), and the expression levels of Tim-3 and Galectin-9, were evaluated in each group. Furthermore, the correlation between Tim-3 expression on CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells and the Galectin-9 immunoreactive score (IRS) was assessed to evaluate the Galectin-9-Tim-3 pathway.

Results

Pathological analyses revealed that X-ray and LPS exposure increased ovarian degeneration and fibrosis scores. However, BC treatment preserved ovarian tissue integrity in the exposed groups (X-ray and/or LPS). BC treatment significantly improved fetal outcomes, including increased weight and length, as well as reduced abortion rates, in rats exposed to X-ray and/or LPS. A strong correlation was observed between the Galectin-9 IRS and Tim-3 expression. BC treatment decreased the expression of Galectin-9 and Tim-3, suggesting modulation of this pathway.

Conclusion

BC demonstrated protective and therapeutic effects against oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and tissue damage in pregnant rats exposed to X-ray irradiation and/or LPS infection. These results emphasize its potential as a therapeutic option for reducing pregnancy complications caused by environmental and inflammatory stressors. Further clinical studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety in humans.