Inhibition of 14–3-3 protein enhances steroid hormone production and oxidative stress in mouse ovary: Implications for apoptosis regulation

Abstract

The ovary is a primary reproductive organ where the fine balance between steroidogenesis, oxidative stress, and apoptosis governs female reproductive health. A highly conserved protein, 14–3–3, is known to influence steroid biosynthesis, redox balance, and cell survival; however, its integrative role in ovarian physiology remains poorly defined. This study investigated the consequences of pharmacological inhibition of 14–3–3 protein using BV02 in in vitro cultured mouse ovaries. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed strong expression of 14–3–3 in granulosa cells, with moderate expression in oocytes and theca cells. In the BV02-treated ovary (100 μM), there was significant elevation in the levels of ovarian progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol, indicating enhanced steroidogenesis. However, the treated ovaries showed decreased activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD), along with increased lipid peroxidation (TBARS), indicating increased oxidative stress. Western blot analysis showed downregulation of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 together with elevated levels of the pro-apoptotic protein Caspase-3, signifying a molecular shift toward apoptosis. Correlation analysis further established strong associations (p < 0.05) between oxidative stress markers and apoptotic regulators, highlighting a mechanistic link between impaired antioxidant defenses and apoptosis. These findings reveal that 14–3–3 protein acts as a dual regulator of ovarian physiology by restraining steroid hormone production in addition to maintaining redox balance and cell survival. Disruption of this equilibrium may lead to pathological states such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and ovarian cancer. Thus, this study provides novel mechanistic insights into the regulatory role of 14–3–3 protein in the ovary and underscores its potential as a therapeutic target in reproductive disorders.