Resveratrol Effects on the Reproductive System in Ovariectomized Rats: Deciphering Possible Mechanisms

Abstract

Phytoestrogen resveratrol (R) has been demonstrated to benefit human reproductive health. However, R bioavailability and pharmacokinetics are still problematic under oral supplementation. We used an experimental vaginal gel with R and hyaluronic acid (HA) to improve bioavailability and pharmacokinetic properties. The study aimed to assess the impact of vaginal R-HA gel on the reproductive system in ovariectomized rats. Methods: The study was carried out on Wistar female rats. It investigated the body weight, tail temperature, vaginal pH, estrogen and progesterone blood levels, and immunohistochemical biomarkers (COX2, Casp-3, Bcl-2, and VEGF). Animals were divided into control animals; ovariectomized rats (OVX); and OVX group treated with vaginal 0.5% R-HA gel (0.5%, 0.1 mL, daily 28 days). Results: The R-HA gel’s therapeutic effect was manifested by slowing weight gain by 17% (p < 0.001), less pronounced symptom of fever at the root of the tail by 9% (p < 0.001) and lowering the vaginal pH to 4.4–4.5 compared with OVX rats. The anti-inflammatory effect and the reduction of COX-2 expression in vagina were accompanied by antiapoptotic impact of RA-H on endometrium, associated with the decreased Casp-3 expression (p < 0.001) and elevated Bcl-2 score in endometrial glands (p = 0.01). Together with enhanced VEGF expression in endometrial glands (p < 0.001) and stromal cells (p = 0.007), these changes prevented endometrial atrophy (p < 0.001) after ovariectomy. Thus, this study substantiates the feasibility of developing an innovative topical drug with R and HA for treating hypoestrogenic disorders.

Pathomorphological characteristics of heat stress in the experiment

“…28,29 Under extreme conditions, the total number of neurons in the hippocampus declines. 30,31 The recorded asymmetry of hippocampal morphological changes is consistent with the available literature data on the existence of interhemispheric asymmetry of hippocampal cytoarchitectonics both in the normal state and in the conditions of adaptive response of brain components. [32][33][34][35] The studies of the rat thyroid gland allowed identifying some features of its microstructural organization, establishing morphological criteria for functional activity, and determining the role of the gland in adaptive processes under conditions of heat stress.…”

Ameliorative Effect of Citrus Lemon Peel Extract and Resveratrol on Premature Ovarian Failure Rat Model: Role of iNOS/Caspase-3 Pathway

“…It has been observed that resveratrol (RES) reduces inflammation and possesses, antioxidant, antiproliferative, proapoptotic, anticancer, neuroprotective, antiviral, and antiaging actions [13]. It has direct ROS scavenging activities and can enhance endogenous antioxidant cellular mechanisms.…”

Modern baby breastfeeding trends

“…Women with longer maternity leave and access to lactation support in the workplace are more likely to continue exclusive breastfeeding for the recommended six months. In addition, public health interventions that address social and economic inequalities have played a key role in promoting breastfeeding practices at the community level [30][31][32]. Such initiatives have been aimed at improving breastfeeding support and awareness among underserved populations, reducing the breastfeeding gap between different socioeconomic groups.…”