Hesperidin improves the follicular development in 3D culture of isolated preantral ovarian follicles of mice

From root to Recovery: The role of herbs in polycystic ovary syndrome management

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent complicated endocrine condition affecting women, caused by both hereditary and environmental factors. It often emerges during the reproductive years (15-35 years) and now affects 1 out of 10 women worldwide. PCOS is distinguished by high androgen levels, particularly testosterone, as well as the appearance of many ovarian cysts (more than 10), which result in anovulation, infertility, and irregular menstrual periods. Furthermore, PCOS is associated with a variety of endocrine and metabolic abnormalities, including obesity, hirsutism, acne, diabetes, insulin resistance, and poor glucose tolerance. PCOS treatment includes allopathic, Ayurvedic, and natural therapies, as well as lifestyle changes. In comparison to allopathic treatments, herbal medicines are recognized for their cost-effectiveness, efficacy, and favourable role in PCOS management/treatment. This literature review briefly examines PCOS diagnosis, symptoms, hormonal imbalance, causes, related risk factors, and management, with a particular emphasis on the role of herbal remedies in PCOS treatment. This review highlights several medicinal plants with potential therapeutic benefits for various health conditions. These herbs have demonstrated efficacy in managing ailments such as hypothyroidism, hyperplasia, obesity, diabetes, menorrhagia, sleep disturbances, cardiovascular disorders, hyperlipidemia, hirsutism, infertility, and irregular menstrual cycles. The information was sourced from PubMed and multiple review articles. Various herbs, whether used individually, in combination, or as extracts, may help reduce risk factors associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Exploring recent advances in signaling pathways and hallmarks of uveal melanoma: a comprehensive review

The purpose of this review was to provide a comprehensive review of the latest insights on the pathogenesis of uveal melanoma (UM) and its intracellular pathways. This article covers the epidemiology of UM, racial predispositions, cytogenetic and chromosomal alterations, gene mutations, key defective pathways, and their underlying mechanisms, as well as the application of hallmarks of cancer to UM. A key knowledge gap remains in identifying the most effective targeted therapy and determining the central pathway linking multiple signaling networks. UM is a malignant tumor arising from uveal melanocytes, predominantly affecting the choroid, with both genetic and epigenetic contributors. Key cytogenetic alterations include monosomy 3, chromosome 6p gain, chromosome 1p loss, and chromosome 8q gain. The most important UM-related signaling pathways are RAS/MAPK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, Hippo-YAP, retinoblastoma (Rb), and p53 pathways. In the RAS/MAPK pathway, GNAQ/GNA11 mutations occur which account for more than 80% of UM cases. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway promotes cyclin D1 overexpression and MDM2 upregulation, leading to p53 pathway inhibition. GNAQ/GNA11 mutations activate YAP via the Trio-RhoGTPase/RhoA/Rac1 signaling circuit in the Hippo-YAP pathway. Rb pathway dysregulation results from cyclin D1 overexpression or cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI) inactivation. In the p53 pathway, UM is characterized by p53 mutations, MDM2 overexpression, and Bcl-2 deregulation. Eventually, the ARF-MDM2 axis serves as a critical link between the RAS and p53 pathways. Hallmarks of cancer, such as evasion of growth suppression and self-sufficiency in growth signals, are also evident in UM. Genetic and epigenetic alterations, including NSB1, MDM2 and CCND1 amplification, and BAP1 mutations, play pivotal roles in UM pathobiology. Thus, UM exhibits a multifactorial pathology. By consolidating key mechanisms underlying UM pathogenesis, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on the involved pathways, offering insights that may facilitate the development of effective therapeutic strategies.

Use of complementary and alternative medicine among females with polycystic ovary syndrome in Jordan: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent female reproductive and metabolic disorder. Among patients with chronic conditions, an increasing number have approached complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to cope with their disease. This study aimed to assess the use of CAM among females with PCOS in Jordan.

DESIGN, SETTINGS AND PARTICIPANTS

A cross-sectional study was conducted at one of the largest tertiary centres in Jordan. Adult females with PCOS were interviewed using a data collection tool.

OUTCOME MEASURES

CAM use and the factors associated with its use.

RESULTS

A total of 402 women participated in the study, the median-IQR age was 25 (31-21) years. Common PCOS signs/symptoms included menses irregularity (81.8%), fatigue (71.6%) and hyperandrogenism (77.6%). Among all participants, 63.2% used CAM with the most common being herbs (60.4%). The primary sources of information were family and friends (46.1%).Longer duration since diagnosis, having more PCOS signs/symptoms and a higher level of education were factors significantly associated with CAM use (β=1.257, 95% CI=1.018 to 2.552, p=0.034; β=1.146, 95% CI=1.052 to 1.250, p=0.002 and β=1.584, 95% CI=1.054 to 2.379, p=0.027, respectively). Of all the CAM users, 57.5% reported an amelioration in PCOS symptoms; this was significantly associated with the long-term use of CAM (β=12.759, 95% CI=6.789 to 23.976, p<0.001). Just a few participants (9.4%) reported side effects.

CONCLUSION

A variety of CAM approaches were reported by the study population; herbs were the most widely used and accepted by the patients. Considering the primary source of information and the potential interactions of herbal medicine with the standard PCOS treatment, efforts are needed by healthcare providers to better understand the use of CAM among their patients with PCOS.

Hesperidin attenuates radiation-induced ovarian failure in rats: Emphasis on TLR-4/NF-ĸB signaling pathway

Young women suffering from premature ovarian failure after radiotherapy carry a huge burden in the field of cancer therapy including reproductive loss, emotional stress, and physical troubles that reduce their long-term quality of life. Hesperidin (HSP) exhibited antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. HSP enhanced in vitro follicular maturation and preserved in vivo ovarian stockpile. In this research, the role of HSP in radiation-induced POF in rats was investigated besides ascertaining its underlying mechanisms. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were arbitrarily allocated into four groups: control-group, ϒ-irradiated-group (3.2 Gy once on the 7th day), HSP-group (100 mg/kg, orally for 10 days), and HSP/ϒ-irradiated-group (ϒ-radiation was applied one hour after HSP). At the end of experiment, the whole ovaries were collected for histological and biochemical analyses. Administration of HSP preserved the ovarian histoarchitecture and follicular stock, retained ovarian weight, and conserved serum estradiol and AMH levels following radiation exposure. HSP ameliorated the ovarian oxidative damage mediated by radiation through augmenting the activities of glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and catalase antioxidant enzymes. HSP exhibited remarkable anti-inflammatory activity by downregulating the expression of ovarian TLR-4, NF-ĸB, and TNF-α. Moreover, HSP suppressed the apoptotic machinery triggered by radiation by reducing p53 and Bax while increasing Bcl-2 mRNA expressions alongside diminishing caspase-3 expression. Additionally, HSP regulated estrous cycle disorder of irradiated rats and improved their reproductive capacity reflected by enhancing pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, HSP represents an appealing candidate as an adjunct remedy for female cancer patients during radiotherapy protocols owing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and hormone-regulatory effects.

Protective Effects of Boric Acid Taken in Different Ways on Experimental Ovarian İschemia and Reperfusion

Ovarian ischemia is a gynecological emergency that occurs as a result of ovarian torsion, affects women of reproductive age, and reduces ovarian reserve. The current study was designed to investigate the effect of boric acid taken in different ways on histopathological changes, autophagy, oxidative stress, and DNA damage caused by ischemia and reperfusion in the ovary of adult female rats. We established seven groups of 70 adult female rats: untreated control, intraperitoneal boric acid group (IpBA), oral boric acid group (OBA), ischemia/reperfusion group (ischemia/2 h reperfusion; OIR), ischemia/reperfusion and local boric acid group (OIR + LBA), ischemia/reperfusion and intraperitoneal boric acid group (OIR + IpBA), and ischemia/reperfusion and oral boric acid group (OIR + OBA). On the 31st day of the experimental procedure, both ovaries were harvested for histologic (hematoxylen and eosin and Masson trichrom), biochemical (ELISA and AMH, MDA, SOD, and CAT analyses), and comet evaluation. In the OIR group, hemorrhage, edema, inflammation, and diminished follicle reserve were seen in the ovary. Boric acid treatment reduced the ovarian ischemia/reperfusion damage, and the follicles exhibited similar morphological features to the control group. Moreover, boric acid treatment decreased the levels of Hsp70, NF-KB, COX-2, and CD31, which increased as a result of OIR. On the other hand, SCF and AMH levels, which decreased as a result of OIR, increased with boric acid treatment. The levels of autophagy markers (Beclin-1, LC3, and p62) reached values close to those of the control group. According to the biochemical findings, it was concluded that boric acid is also effective on oxidative stress, and the AMH level was particularly high in the OIR + OBA group, consistent with the immunohistochemical staining result. In addition, it was observed that the DNA damage caused by OIR reached values close to those of the control group, especially in the OBA after OIR. This study showed the therapeutic effects of boric acid on OIR injuries; thus, boric acid may be a potential therapeutic agent for ovarian protection and fertility preservation in cases that may cause ovarian torsion.

The role of PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway in cancer pathogenesis and treatment: a systematic review

Aim: Cancer as a complex disease poses significant challenges for both diagnosis and treatment. Researchers have been exploring various avenues to find effective therapeutic strategies, with a particular emphasis on cellular signaling pathways and immunotherapy. One such pathway that has recently been suggested is the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, which is an immune checkpoint signaling system that plays an important role in regulating the immune system and maintaining tissue homeostasis. Cancer cells exploit this pathway by producing PD-L1, which attaches to PD-1 on T cells, thus inhibiting immune responses and enabling the cancer cells to escape detection by the immune system. This study aimed to evaluate the role of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway in cancer pathogenesis and treatment. Method: This study was performed based on the principles of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). All in vitro , in vivo , and clinical studies that were published in English have been considered during a thorough search of the Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases without date restriction until March 2024. Results: According to the studies reviewed, the PD-1/PD-L1 signaling axis suggests promising therapeutic effects on various types of cancers such as non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and colorectal cancer, among others. Additionally, research suggests that immune checkpoint inhibitors that block PD1/PD-L1, such as pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, nivolumab, durvalumab, cemiplimab, avelumab, etc. , can effectively prevent tumor cells from escaping the immune system. Moreover, there might be a possible interaction between microbiome, obesity, etc. on immune mechanisms and on the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Conclusion: Although we have gained considerable knowledge about ICIs, we are still facing challenges in effectively prescribing the appropriate ICIs for individual patients. This is largely due to the complex interactions between different intracellular pathways, which need to be thoroughly studied. To resolve this issue, it is necessary to conduct more reliable clinical trials that can produce a scientific consensus.

Alternative treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: pre-clinical and clinical basis for using plant-based drugs

The most common cause of infertility and metabolic problems among women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a multifaceted disorder. It is an endocrine disorder that occurs in approximately one in seven women. Among these PCOS patients, two thirds will not ovulate on a regular basis and seek treatment for ovulation induction. The symptoms vary in their severity, namely ovulation disorders, excessive androgen levels, or polycystic ovarian morphology. All these symptoms require a therapeutic approach. Many drugs are used to eradicate PCOS symptoms, like metformin, clomiphene citrate, spironolactone, and pioglitazone. Long-term treatment is required to achieve the desired outcome, which is often accompanied by significant adverse reactions. Some herbs and phytochemicals are equally effective for treating PCOS and produce minimal side effects. Recently, herbal products are gaining popularity due to their wide biological activities, safety, availability, and efficacy. The present review covers aetiology, current treatment, pathophysiology, and detailed pre-clinical and clinical studies on plants and phytochemicals that are proven to be useful for the treatment of symptoms associated with PCOS.

The amelioration of ovarian dysfunction by hesperidin in malathion-treated mice through the overexpression of PCNA and FSHR proteins

OBJECTIVE

Malathion (MAL), a pesticide used for decades, is a highly toxic substance. Several studies have documented the negative effects of such agents on reproductive organ physiology, but the precise mechanism of action in the induction of ovarian dysfunction remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to examine the effects of the antioxidant hesperidin (HES) on ovarian damage and toxicity caused by malathion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experiment, forty adult female bulb/c mice weighing 27-30 g were categorized into four groups, namely hesperidin (20 mg/kg, i.p.), malathion (3 mg/kg, i.p.), malathion + hesperidin, and control groups. Following a period of 35 consecutive days of treatment, mice were euthanized, and their ovarian tissues were gathered for the purposes of histopathological analysis by H&E staining, immunohistochemical assessment via proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) immunostaining, and biochemical evaluation via measuring the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). In addition, serum samples were collected from the blood of mice to perform hormonal analyses, especially 17β-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that MAL exposure resulted in the development of abnormalities in the architecture and structure of ovaries. Also, the treatment of mice with MAL led to declined follicular counts at all three stages, namely, primary, secondary, and tertiary, reduced serum levels of sex hormones, decreased immunoreactivity of FSHR and PCNA, and diminished activity of CAT and SOD enzymes. In contrast, it caused an increase in MDA, IL-1β, and TNF-α, as well as the count of atretic follicles. Nonetheless, it was observed that HES exhibited the ability to ameliorate the deleterious impacts of malathion across all the aforementioned parameters.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with HES via upregulating the protein expression of PCNA and FSHR and activating antioxidant defense was able to ameliorate the adverse effects of MAL on ovarian tissues.

Effect of saponin on spermatogenesis and testicular structure in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice

About a third of human infertility is related to male factors. Of these, idiopathic-related infertility is not curable. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder affecting male impotence and fertility by increased production of free radicals and oxidative stress. Saponin, a glycosidic compound found in many plants, improves sperm parameters. The present study investigated the effect of saponin on sperm oxidative stress and testicular structure in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. The diabetes was induced by the administration of 150 mg kg-1 STZ via a single intra-peritoneal injection. All experimental mice were allocated to the following groups: Control group, diabetic control group, diabetic group administrated 100 mg kg-1 saponin daily and one healthy group administrated saponin daily for 56 days. At the end of the treatment period, serum levels of insulin, glucose and oxidative stress markers were measured. A histological evaluation of testicles was performed. Treatment of diabetic mice with saponin ameliorated testicular tissue damage as well as serum glucose and insulin concentrations. Furthermore, in the diabetic group, the serum concentration of malondialdehyde was increased; while, the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes was reduced. The mean Johnsen's score and the diameter and thickness of seminiferous tubules were lower in the diabetic mice than control ones. However, these parameters were higher in the saponin-treated mice than controls. Overall, saponin administration rectified all examined parameters. The anti-oxidant role of saponin improves sperm parameters and diabetes-induced testicular oxidative damage.

17β-Estradiol-Loaded Exosomes for Targeted Drug Delivery in Osteoporosis: A Comparative Study of Two Loading Methods

Purpose

Exosomes are natural nanoparticles that participate in intercellular communication through molecular transport. Recently, due to their membrane vesicular structure and surface proteins, exosomes have been used extensively in the research field of drug delivery. Osteoporosis is an inflammation in which the cellular balance of bone tissue is disturbed that reduces bone density and making bone prone to abnormal fractures with small amount of force. Utilizing estrogen is one of the main therapeutic strategies for osteoporosis. Despite the positive effects of estrogen on bone tissue, changes in the natural estrogen levels of the body can cause a number of diseases such as different types of cancer. Therefore, designing a therapeutic system which controls more accurate tissue targeting of estrogen seems to be a rational and promising practical approach.

Methods

In this study, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs)-derived exosomes were loaded by estradiol using two different methods of drug loading, namely incubation and sonication methods and then the survival effects of the drug loaded exosomes on BMMSCs was investigated.

Results

Examination of size, shape, and surface factors of exosomes in different states (pure exosomes and drug-loaded exosomes) showed that the round morphology of exosomes was preserved in all conditions. However, the particles size increased significantly when loaded by sonication method. The increased survival of BMMSCs was noted with estradiol-loaded exosomes when compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The results suggest that estradiol-loaded exosomes have potential to be used as nano-drug carriers in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Impact of antioxidant supplementation during in vitro culture of ovarian preantral follicles: A review

The in vitro culture systems of ovarian preantral follicles have been developed for studying follicular and oocyte growth, for future use of immature oocytes as sources of fertilizable oocytes and for screening ovarian toxic substances. One of the key limitations of the in vitro culture of preantral follicles is the oxidative stress by accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can impair follicular development and oocyte quality. Several factors are associated with oxidative stress in vitro, which implies the need for a rigorous control of the conditions as well as addition of antioxidant agents to the culture medium. Antioxidant supplementation can minimize or eliminate the damage caused by ROS, supporting follicular survival and development and producing mature oocytes competent for fertilization. This review focuses on the use of antioxidants and their role in preventing follicular damage caused by oxidative stress in the in vitro culture of preantral follicles.

Detrimental effects of vitrification on integrin genes (α9 and β1) and in vitro fertilization in mouse oocytes

OBJECTIVE

Integrins are known as key molecules that importantly involve in fertilization. This study aimed to evaluate effects of vitrification on fertilization rate and expression of integrin genes, α9 and β1, on mice oocytes in GV and MІІ stages.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From the ovarian tissue and fallopian tube of NMRI mice, germinal vesicle (GV, n = 200) and metaphase II (MII, n = 200) oocytes were obtained. Then, oocytes were distributed into 4 groups including non-vitrified GV, non-vitrified MII, vitrified GV, and vitrified MII. Cryotop method was used for vitrification and oocytes (for 4 weeks) were kept in liquid nitrogen. After that, by using an inverted microscope, the rate of survived oocytes was assessed. Also, in vitro fertilization (IVF) for oocytes, obtained from in vitro maturated MII and mice ovaries (ovulated MII), was done to assess embryos at differenced stages (2-cells, morula, and hatched). Finally, RT-qPCR was performed to investigate the mRNA expression of integrin genes (α9 and β1).

RESULTS

After vitrification, the rate of survived oocytes, 68.65%for GV and 65.07% % for MII, did not show a remarkable difference related to non-vitrified groups, while the fertilization rate in vitrified groups remarkably decrease compared to non-vitrified groups (p < 0.05). Also, the expression of α9 and β1 genes was significantly altered in vitrified groups when compared to non-vitrified groups (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in embryo developmental rates for non-vitrified and vitrified groups.

CONCLUSION

Cryotop method for vitrification caused an alternation in oocyte quality by reducing fertilization rate and integrin gene expression.

Hesperidin Mitigates Cyclophosphamide-Induced Testicular Dysfunction via Altering the Hypothalamic Pituitary Gonadal Axis and Testicular Steroidogenesis, Inflammation, and Apoptosis in Male Rats

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a cytotoxic, cell cycle, non-specific, and antiproliferative drug. This study aimed to address the toxic effects of CP on male fertility and the possible ameliorative role of hesperidin (HSP). Thirty-two adult albino rats were randomly divided into four groups, namely, the negative control, HSP, CP-treated, and CP+HSP-treated groups. The CP-treated rats showed a significant reduction in the levels of serum LH, FSH, testosterone, prolactin, testicular glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) with an elevation in levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), and p53, and iNOS immune expression, compared to the control group. A significant downregulation in hypothalamic KISS-1, KISS-1r, and GnRH, hypophyseal GnRHr, and testicular mRNA expression of steroidogenesis enzymes, PGC-1α, PPAR-1, IL10, and GLP-1, as well as a significant upregulation in testicular mRNA of P53 and IL1β mRNA expression, were detected in the CP-treated group in comparison to that in the control group. The administration of HSP in CP-treated rats significantly improved the levels of serum LH, FSH, testosterone, prolactin, testicular GPx, and TAC, with a reduction in levels of MDA, and p53, and iNOS immune expression compared to the CP-treated group. A significant upregulation in hypophyseal GnRHr, and testicular mRNA expression of CYP19A1 enzymes, PPAR-1, IL10, and GLP-1, as well as a significant downregulation in testicular mRNA of P53 and IL1β mRNA expression, were detected in the CP+HSP-treated group in comparison to that in the CP-treated group. In conclusion, HSP could be a potential auxiliary agent for protection from the development of male infertility.

Three-Dimensional Culture for In Vitro Folliculogenesis in the Aspect of Methods and Materials

In vitro ovarian follicle culture is a reproduction technique used to obtain fertilizable oocytes, for overcoming fertility issues due to premature ovarian failure. This requires the establishment of an in vitro culture model that is capable of better simulating the in vivo ovarian growth environment. Two-dimensional (2D) culture systems have been successfully set up in rodent models. However, they are not suitable for larger animal models as the follicles of larger animals cultured in 2D culture systems often lose their shape due to dysfunction in the gap junctions. Three-dimensional (3D) culture systems are more suitable for maintaining follicle architecture, and therefore are proposed for the successful in vitro culturing of follicles in various animal models. The role of different methods, scaffolds, and suspension cultures in supporting follicle development has been studied to provide direction for improving in vitro follicle culture technologies. The three major strategies for in vitro 3D follicle cultures are discussed in this article. First, the in vitro culture systems, such as microfluidics, hanging drop, hydrogels, and 3D-printing, are reviewed. We have focused on the 3D hydrogel system as it uses different materials for supporting follicular growth and oocyte maturation in several animal models and in humans. We have also discussed the criteria used for biomaterial evaluations such as solid concentration, elasticity, and rigidity. In addition, future research directions for advancing in vitro 3D follicle culture system are discussed. Impact statement A new frontier in assisted reproductive technology is in vitro tissue or follicle culture, particularly for fertility preservation. The in vitro three-dimensional (3D) culture technique enhances follicular development and provides mature oocytes, overcoming the limitations of traditional in vitro two-dimensional cultures. Polymer biomaterials have good compatibility and retain the physiological structure of follicles in the 3D culture system. Utilizing hybrid in vitro culture materials by merging matrix, hydrogel, and unique patterned materials may facilitate follicular growth in the future.

Network Pharmacology, Integrated Bioinformatics, and Molecular Docking Reveals the Anti-Ovarian Cancer Molecular Mechanisms of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia (L.) J. Presl)

Cinnamon ( Cinnamomum cassia (L.) J. Presl) is a popular natural spice with various pharmacological properties. This study was based on network pharmacology integrating bioinformatics and molecular docking to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of cinnamon in the treatment of ovarian cancer (OC). The chemical composition of cinnamon was collected from the TCMSP database to predict its targets and construct a “cinnamon active component target” network. OC-related genes were retrieved from Genecards and DisGeNET databases. The “disease-target” network was established, and the drug targets were mapped to the disease targets, and the key targets obtained from the mapping were subjected to DAVID analysis to construct a “component-target-pathway” network diagram. The active ingredients of cinnamon were molecularly docked to the core targets to predict the molecular mechanism of cinnamon in the treatment of ovarian cancer. From cinnamon, 105 chemical components were screened and de-duplicated to obtain 15 active components and 74 drug target proteins, and 26 common targets were obtained after mapping drug targets to disease targets. 368 entries were identified by GO enrichment analysis, mainly including biological progresses such as regulation of smooth muscle contraction and regulation of tube diameter, and molecular functions such as antioxidant activity, and peroxidase activity. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis identified 4 signaling pathways, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, HIF-1 signaling pathway, regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes, and complement and coagulation cascades. Molecular docking analysis showed good affinity of these key targets with representative components of OC. There was a stable interaction between DIBP and ADRB2 and NR3C1. There is a stable interaction between oleic acid and C2K, EDN1, ERBB2, PLAU, PLG, PRSS3, PTGS1, PTGS2, SERPINE1 and SLC2A1. Cinnamon exerted its therapeutic effects on OC through multiple pathways and targets.

Growth performance, morphometric of the small intestine, lymphoid organ, and ovary of laying hens supplemented with Dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) extract in drinking water

Background and Aim:

Antibiotic, improves the growth performance of laying hens when used as a feed additive; however, it has been banned in Europe. Furthermore, secondary metabolites used as a substitute for antibiotics are compounds produced by plants. Therefore, this aims to determine the effect of dates water extract (DWE) on the performance of laying hens. This study used dates containing secondary metabolites as a feed additive and substitute for antibiotics.

Materials and Methods:

A completely randomized design was used, dividing 400 Lohmann brown day old chick into five groups (each group has five replications and each replication consisted of 16 laying hens). Furthermore, there were two control groups such as mineral water control group and antibiotic growth promoters (basal feed+50 mg/kg of bacitracin), and three DWE groups such as 5% DWE (50 mg/mL), 10% DWE (100 mg/mL), and 20% DWE (200 mg/mL). Dates extract treatment was administered through drinking water for 54 days, whereby three laying hens from each replication were taken randomly and decapitated on the neck. Afterwards, a necropsy was performed for histological preparations of the small intestine, ovary, and lymphoid organs. The structure and morphology of the small intestine, and ovaries were observed through histological preparations, while lymphoid organs were observed through histological preparation and morphometry, and body morphometry, body weight, feed intake and weight gain were observed by measurements and weighing.

Results:

Small intestine morphology, ovarian follicle, and growth performance of the DWE2 group increased significantly compared to the control group, but the lymphoid organs index was influenced by DWE1.

Conclusion:

The administration of 10% dates extract (100 mg/mL) in drinking water improves the morphology of the small intestine, ovarian follicles, lymphoid organs, and growth performance.

The role of trimetazidine in ischemia/reperfusion damage treatment in an ovary torsion model experimentally induced in rats

The aim of this experimental animal study was to investigate the histopathological and biochemical efficacy of trimetazidine (TMZ) in decreasing ovary damage in an ovary ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) model in the rat. A total of 35 Wistar albino female rats were randomly separated into five groups, n = 7 per group: Group 1: Sham (S) was only given a laparotomy procedure. Group 2: Ischaemia (I) group with 2-hour ischaemia using a vascular sutur. Group 3: Ischaemia/Reperfusion (I/R) group with 2 hour ischaemia and 2-hour reperfusion. Group 4: Sham + 10 mg/kg orally TMZ (S + TMZ). Group 5: I/R + 10 mg/kg oral TMZ (I/R + TMZ) group with 2 hours ischaemia and 2 hours reperfusion after the administration orally 10 mg/kg oral TMZ. Two daily doses of TMZ were orally administered to Group 4 (S + TMZ) and Group 5 (I/R + TMZ) for three days. TMZ significantly decreased vascular congestion, haemorrhage, and polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration in group 5 compared to group 3 (p < .05). Despite TMZ decreased the malondialdehyde, total oxidant status, and oxidative stress index values, these decreases were not statistically significant (p > .05). TMZ which is an antioxidant agent can efficiently prevent in I/R damage in rat ovaries but further studies are necessary in order to implement it in the clinical settings.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Adnexial torsion is the most common gynecological emergency and there are no specific clinical, laboratories, or radiological findings for adnexal torsion. Unfortunatelly, the currently accepted treatment is adnexal detorsion. Cytoprotective effects of Trimetazidine (TMZ), an antianginal drug, are well-defined and it has been demonstrated to improve oxidative stress markers and limits membrane damage induced by reactive oxygen species and protects tissues from free radicals with its antioxidant effects. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of TMZ in experimentally induced adnexal torsion in rats and to investigate possible effects in maintaining ovarian reserve to prevent I/R damage or reperfusion damage.What do the results of this study add? Our study showed that TMZ significantly decreased vascular congestion, haemorrhage, and PMNL infiltration. TMZ decreased the malondialdehyde, total oxidant status, and the oxidative stress index values, but these decreases were not statistically significant.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Although various antioxidant drugs and chemicals have been used to protect the ovaries against I/R damage, they have not been demostrated to prevent it completely. TMZ, an antioxidant efficacy agent, has been shown to prevent ovarian I/R damage by suppressing inflammation in terms of histopathological parameters. Further studies involving a greater number of experimental animals are required before using TMZ for the treatment of humans with I/R damage in the clinical setting.

Advances in the applications of polymer biomaterials for in vitro follicle culture

The ovarian reserve (OR) indicates ovarian function by representing the quantity and quality of ovarian follicles, and it gradually decreases with increasing age. With the prolongation of women's lives, the protection provided by estrogen is lost for decades in postmenopausal women, and the related cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and decreased immunity are the main risk factors affecting women's quality of life and longevity. Pharmacologic hormone replacement therapy (PHRT) has been controversial, and the construction of artificial ovary (AO) has attracted increasing attention. The most critical step of AO generation is the establishment of an in vitro culture (IVC) system to support the development of isolated follicles. This article mainly compares the advantages and disadvantages of different polymer biomaterials for use in follicle IVC, provides theoretical support for the development and construction of the follicle IVC system using natural biological materials, and provides a theoretical basis for establishing mature AO technology.

Use of steroid pre-treatments in IVF-ICSI cycles with GnRH antagonist protocol and their impact on gestational outcomes

Different steroid pre-treatments have been used to schedule the start of the ovarian stimulation in IVF cycles. Currently, there is controversy about their effects on gestational outcomes. We designed a three-armed randomised controlled trial (RCT). Eighty-six normoresponder patients undergoing IVF treatment with antagonist GnRH protocol were allocated to three different groups. In the group 1, 34 patients received oral contraceptive pill (OCP) from the first day of the cycle to five days before starting ovarian stimulation, in the group 2, 25 patients received 2 mg/12 hours of oral E2 valerate from day 25 of the previous cycle until the day before starting stimulation, and finally, in the group 3, 27 patients did not receive any treatment. There are no statistically significant differences neither in clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) (40.9% OCP vs. 28.6% E2 vs. 53.3% no treatment group, p=.388) nor live birth rate (LBR) (31.8% OCP vs. 28.6% E2 vs. 46.7% no treatment group, p=.537) between groups in fresh embryo transfer. Likewise, no differences were found in the cumulative CPR, nor in cumulative LBR. However, there is a tendency to worst outcomes in the E2 group. In this E2 group, we observed better results with longer exposition, although no significant differences are reached (E2 mean days in the pregnant group 8.29 vs. 6.83 in the non-pregnant group, p=.08). Our study shows no significant differences in pregnancy rates between groups, but the E2 group is trending at worse gestational results. Trial registration number: Eudra-CT registration number is 2014-001809-40.Impact StatementWhat is already known on this subject? Nowadays, there is much controversy about how pregnancy rates could be affected by the selection of steroid pre-treatments used in order to schedule IVF cycles. However, these treatments are widely utilised in clinical practice.What the results of this study add? The results support the clinical findings of most of the studies previously published. No significant differences in gestational outcomes were found between the groups treated with steroid pre-treatments and the control group. Additionally, oestrogen pre-treatment seems to be related to better pregnancy outcomes when the exposition is longer. Thus, an earlier start of this treatment in the luteal phase could be the optimal approach.What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? This study pretends to provide clarity about the treatment guidelines of steroid pre-treatments to schedule the clinical work without impact on gestational outcomes.

The optimized research of the in vitro culture of preantral follicles in mice

OBJECTIVE

Efficiency of preantral follicle culture in vitro is low and is dependent on species, development stage, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration. Here, we optimized the preantral follicle in vitro culture system in mice.

METHODS

The primary follicles (PM follicles, 80-100 μm diameter ) and early secondary follicles (ES follicles, 110-130 μm diameter) isolated from 14-day female mice were cultured in mediums containing 10 mIU/mL or 100 mIU/mL r-FSH. The follicle growth and oocyte maturation were observed. Estradiol (E2) was detected by ELISA. FSH receptor (FSHR), Ki-67, 3β-HSD, CYP17, and CYP19 levels were detected by immunofluorescence and Western blot.

RESULTS

The antrum formation and oocyte maturation rates of ES follicles were significantly higher than those of PM follicles (P < .05). They were also significantly higher in ES follicles with 100 mIU/mL r-FSH than with 10 mIU/mL r-FSH (P < .05). A higher FSHR level was found in ES follicles. Meanwhile, with 10 mIU/mL r-FSH, the ES follicles exhibited a pattern of flat growth, whereas a pattern of stereoscopic spatial growth was observed with 100 mIU/mL r-FSH. The 100 mIU/mL r-FSH stimulated granulosa cell proliferation more significantly than 10 mIU/mL r-FSH. Moreover, FSH significantly promoted ES follicle granulosa cell proliferation compared to PM follicular granulosa cells. The secretion of E2 and the expressions of 3β-HSD, CYP 17, and CYP 19 in ES follicles with 100 mIU/mL r-FSH were significantly higher than those with 10 mIU/mL r-FSH.

CONCLUSIONS

The 100 mIU/mL r-FSH ideally promotes the development of ES follicles, whose growth pattern can more reasonably simulate the growth of follicles in vivo.

Minocycline attenuates testicular damages in a rat model of ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury

Testicular torsion is a serious urological disease leading to testicular damage. This study aimed to assess the effect of minocycline on testicular ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury caused by testicular torsion/detorsion. Male adult Wistar rats (n = 32) were assigned into four groups of sham, I/R, I/R + minocycline and minocycline. I/R injury was induced by two sets of surgical operations, including the rotation of the left testis (720°, counterclockwise), followed by detorsion after 4 hr. The administration of minocycline was carried out 30 min before detorsion and then continued for 8 weeks. At the end of the 8th week, rats were killed and sampling was done. Johnson's score, the height of seminiferous tubule epithelium, the mean seminiferous tubule diameter, as well as biochemical parameters, SOD, GPx and CAT, were significantly enhanced in the I/R + minocycline group compared with the I/R group. The administration of minocycline led to a marked decrease in expression levels of Caspase-3, Bax, IL-1β and TNF-α genes, and a remarkable increase in expression levels of Bcl-2, 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD3 genes compared with the I/R group. Administration of minocycline could also reduce the rate of germ cell apoptosis (TUNEL staining). Hence, minocycline was useful in the management of testicular torsion/detorsion.

Molecular mechanisms of action of hesperidin in cancer: Recent trends and advancements

Hesperidin belongs to flavanones class of flavonoids and is known to possess broad-spectrum applicability to prevent dreadful diseases such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, and cancer. The reported anticancer effects of hesperidin have been found to be associated with its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Hesperidin interacts with numerous recognized cellular targets and inhibits cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. In addition, evidence has suggested its promising role in inhibiting tumor cell metastasis, angiogenesis, and chemoresistance. The present mini-review highlights the ongoing development to identify hesperidin targets in cancer. Furthermore, the potential of nano technology-based hesperidin combinations and delivery systems will also be discussed. Overall, this review highlights all the possible molecular targets affected by hesperidin in tumor cells on a single platform.

IMPACT STATEMENT

Experimental findings from numerous studies have demonstrated the anticancer effects of hesperidin (Hesp) to be associated with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities along with its potential role in inhibiting the tumor cell metastasis and angiogenesis. Additionally, Hesp can also reverse drug resistance of cancer cells, which make it a promising candidate to be used in combination with existing anti-cancer drugs. This review will be helpful for upcoming researchers and scientific community to find out complete capsular package about cancer drug targets of Hesp and its role in modulating various important hallmarks of cancer.

Aberrations of miR-126-3p, miR-181a and sirtuin1 network mediate Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced testicular damage in rats: The protective role of hesperidin

Recently, oxidative stress was implicated in the environmental contaminant Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)-induced testicular toxicity, however the mechanism is unclear. We investigated the role of oxidative stress-responsive microRNAs in DEHP-induced aberrations and the protective effect of the citrus flavonoid, hesperidin (HSP). Male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups as vehicle-treated control, DEHP-alone group (500 mg/kg/day) for 30 days, and HSP (25 or 50 mg/kg) for 60 days; testicular damage was triggered by oral administration of DEHP (500 mg/kg/day) after thirty days of oral administration of HSP (25 or 50 mg/kg). DEHP administration reduced testis weight coefficient, serum testosterone, testicular 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and antioxidant enzyme activities, and elevated serum fatty acid-binding protein-9, testicular malondialdehyde, and Bax/Bcl2 ratio. Aberrant testicular miR-126-3p and miR-181a expression was observed, along with decreased expression of sirtuin1 (SIRT1) and its targets; nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor2, haeme oxygenase-1, and superoxide dismutase2. HSP administration significantly ameliorated these changes and restored testicular function in a dose-dependent manner. We highlight a novel role of oxidative stress-miR-126/miR-181a-SIRT1 network in mediating DEHP-induced changes which were reversed by the antioxidant HSP.

Upregulation of FSHR and PCNA by administration of coenzyme Q10 on cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian failure in a mouse model

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) has been broadly used in the clinic for the treatment of autoimmune disorders and ovarian cancer. The process of chemotherapy has significant toxicity in the reproductive system as it has detrimental effects on folliculogenesis, which leads to an irreversible premature ovarian failure (POF). Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has positive impacts on the reproductive system due to its antioxidant properties, protecting the cells from free-radical oxidative damage and apoptosis. However, little is known about the possible synergistic effect of CTX and CoQ10 on the expression of genes involved in folliculogenesis, such as proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR). A total of 32 NMRI mice were applied and divided into four groups, including healthy control, CTX, CTX + CoQ10, and CoQ10 groups. The effects of CoQ10 on CTX-induced ovarian injury and folliculogenesis were examined by histopathological and real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analyses. The rates of fertilization (in vitro fertilization), embryo development, as well as the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in metaphase II (MII) mouse oocytes after PMSG/HCC treatment were also assessed. Results showed that the treatment with CTX decreased the mRNA expression of PCNA and FSHR, IVF rate, and embryo development whereas the application of CoQ10 successfully reversed those factors. CoQ10 administration significantly enhanced histological morphology and decreased ROS levels and the number of atretic follicles in the ovary of CTX-treated mice. In conclusion, it seems that the protective effect of CoQ10 is exerted via the antioxidant and proliferative properties of this substance on CTX-induced ovarian damage.

Hesperidin attenuated apoptotic-related genes in testicle of a male rat model of varicocoele

BACKGROUND

Varicocoele is a swollen bulge of the pampiniform venous plexus inside the scrotum. It is also considered one of the causes of infertility in males. It has been demonstrated that hesperidin has remarkable pharmacological potentials, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticarcinogenic effects.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of hesperidin on varicocoele-induced testicular tissue damage and oxidative stress in the testicles of adult male rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Animals were assigned into the following groups: control group (Ctrl) or sham, varicocoele group (Vcl) which received no treatment, varicocoele group that was daily fed with hesperidin (Vcl+Hsp) at a dose of 50 mg/kg for eight weeks, and hesperidin group (Hsp) which received only hesperidin. At the end of the treatment period, the levels of oxidative stress markers were measured in plasma, and the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 was determined by immunocytochemistry and RT-qPCR methods. The index of apoptosis was assessed by the TUNEL assay.

RESULTS

Johnsen's score, the epithelium thickness, and diameter of seminiferous tubules were improved in the Vcl+Hsp group as compared to the Vcl group. Treatment with hesperidin enhanced the serum levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes and decreased the heightened concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) in testicular tissue (p < 0.001). Moreover, our results demonstrated that hesperidin considerably diminished Bax and increased Bcl-2 expression (gene and protein) levels compared with the Vcl group (p < 0.05). It also markedly reduced the rate of programmed cell death in germ cells (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

It seems that the treatment with hesperidin could mitigate testicular tissue damage in rats underwent varicocoele possibly through its antioxidant properties.