PCOS gerbil model: Histopathological changes induced by chronic exposure to bisphenol A

Abstract

Introduction

Recent studies indicate that exposure to environmental pollutants could play a significant role in both the development and pathophysiology of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

This study investigates the impact of Bisphenol A (BPA) on reproductive health and its potential role in inducing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Materials and methods

Female gerbil (gerbilus tarabuli) aged 6–7 weeks were orally administered by Bisphenol A (50 mg/kg/day) by gavage for 6 weeks. During the experiment, body weight and estrous cycle were monitored as the prolonged dioestrus phase indicates the ovulatory dysfunction. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrified and ovaries were dissected and fixed for histopathology study.

Results and discussion

Ovarian sections of the control group showed normal ovarian histoarchitecture: cortex with various stages of ovarian follicles and normal vascularity in the medulla. In BPA treated group, we noticed a decrease in the size of the cortex and disorganisation of the stroma. We observe numerous cystic follicles, with a decrease in number of antral follicles and corpora lutea and an increase of aretric follicles. We also observe a dilatation and congestion of the blood vessels.

Conclusion

Desert-dwelling rodents represent an important faunal heritage of the Algerian Sahara. They are known for their ability to develop various ecophysiological adaptive strategies that allow them to resist and survive in the harsh conditions of the arid environment. Their adaptive performance suggests the presence of endocrine and metabolic regulatory mechanisms, making them valuable experimental models for various fields of biological, medical, and pharmaceutical research.