Endocrine disturbance and metabolic dysregulation related to hyperandrogenism in polycystic ovary syndrome female mice

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine/metabolic disorders with complex pathogenesis in women of reproductive age. PCOS is a multifaceted disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction and insulin resistance. Current evidence suggest that Atriplex halimus, a saltbush used in folk medicine could potentially help in treating ovarian cysts and female infertility due to its therapeutic compounds. Our objective was to explore the effects of Atriplex on ovarian function, endocrine and metabolic parameters using PCOS mouse model induced by an aromatase inhibitor (letrozole). NMRI female mice aged 4–5 weeks were orally administered by letrozole (2.5 mg/kg) for 21 days to establish PCOS model and control group was set up. After modelling, mice were divided into PCOS model group and two treatment groups receiving daily oral gavage of Atriplex (150 mg/kg) or Metformin (200 mg/kg) during 28 days. During the experiment, body weight and estrous cycle were monitored. Blood biochemical parameters related to metabolic disorders were measured. ECLIA was used for determination of endocrine changes in plasma hormones (testosterone, estradiol, LH, FSH and insulin). Ovarian tissue was used for histopathological study and oxidative stress assessment. Compared with the model group, estrous cycle was restored, ovarian polycystic lesions were reduced and the ovarian function was improved in Atriplex and Metformine groups. Furthermore, results showed that Atriplex administration improved metabolic disorders, decreased elevated androgen levels and inhibited ovarian oxidative stress in PCOS mice. Our study confirmed that Atriplex exhibited promising beneficial effects via amelioration of metabolic, endocrine and ovarian dynamics in PCOS mice.