Journal of Nutrition,Fasting and Health

Journal of Nutrition,Fasting and Health

Vitamin D's Impact on Serum Exosome IL-8 Gene Expression, Biochemical and Microscopic Study in PCOS Rats: An Experimental Study

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Mohammadreza Pourmohammad 1
Jina Khayatzadeh 2
Somaye Erfanian 2
Saeede Zafarbalanezhad 2
1 Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.
2 Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
10.22038/jnfh.2025.86989.1575
Abstract
Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting 5-15% of women of reproductive age, presenting symptoms such as elevated androgen levels and irregular ovulation. Recent research highlights the significance of inflammatory markers, particularly interleukin-8 (IL-8). Additionally, vitamin D deficiency may worsen inflammation, suggesting therapeutic benefits of supplementation. This research aimed to examine the impact of vitamin D therapy on the ovaries of female rats with induced PCOS using biochemical and microscopic methodologies. Methods: In experimental study, twenty-four pre-pubertal female Wistar rats (4-5 wk, 90-100 gr) were divided into four groups: control, laboratory control, PCOS, and treatment. The PCOS group received subcutaneous injections of 6 mg/kg/day dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in sesame oil and ethanol. The treatment group received the same DHEA dosage with 120 ng/100 g/week of 1,25 (OH)2D3. The laboratory control group was injected with sesame oil and ethanol, while the control group received only the vehicle. After 28 days, blood samples and ovarian tissues were collected for analysis. Results: Elevated levels of FSH, LH, and testosterone were noted in the PCOS group compared to controls. The treatment group exhibited lower hormone levels than the PCOS group. Light microscopy revealed increased atretic and cystic follicles in the PCOS group, while vitamin D treatment significantly reduced these follicle types. IL-8 levels were higher in the PCOS group, but vitamin D treatment significantly decreased them. Conclusion: The findings suggest that vitamin D treatment plays a therapeutic role in addressing androgen excess in a rat model of PCOS, benefiting hormonal and structural alterations associated with the condition.
Keywords
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Vitamin D
Interleukin-8
Follicle stimulating hormone
Luteinizing hormone
Subjects
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Journal of Nutrition,Fasting and Health
Volume 13, Issue 4
Autumn 2025
Pages 267-280

  • Receive Date 25 March 2025
  • Revise Date 28 April 2025
  • Accept Date 03 May 2025