Polycystic ovary syndrome alters the endocrine profile and increases histomorphological alterations in the uterus of aged rats in the long-term

BRACHO, GISELA S; IÑIGUEZ, INRI; LÓPEZ, ANGIE FIORELLA; ACOSTA, MARÍA V; KASS, LAURA; LUQUE, ENRIQUE H; BOSQUIAZZO, VERÓNICA LIS

Mar del Plata

Congreso; LXVIII Reunión Anual de la Sociedad Argentina de Investigación Clínica (SAIC); 2023

Sociedad Argentina de Investigación Clínica (SAIC)

This study aimed to investigate the long-term impacts of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) on rat uterine health. To achieve this, we evaluated: a) Levels of serum steroid hormones, b) determination of uterine lesions incidence and multiplicity, c) evaluation of uterine collagen remodeling, and d) infiltration of eosinophils. PCOS was induced in female Wistar rats through sc injection of dehydroepiandrosterone (6mg/100g bw) from 21 to 40 days of age. The CONTROL group received injections of sesame oil. Animals were euthanized at 18 months (CONTROL18 and PCOS18) and at 24 months (CONTROL24 and PCOS24). Blood samples were collected for the quantification of sex steroids, and uterine were dissected and processed for histomorphological analysis. At 18 months, levels of 17β-estradiol, progesterone and testosterone were comparable between the groups and distinct alterations in luminal epithelium and glands were demonstrated. PCOS18 rats exhibited an increased in multiplicity of glands with squamous metaplasia and gland conglomerates. Additionally, elevated collagen remodeling was observed in subepithelial stroma along with a reduction in the myometrium. Eosinophil infiltration remained unchanged. At 24 months, PCOS24 rats displayed lower serum progesterone compared to CONTROL24 rats (CONTROL24: 22.4± 6.2 vs. PCOS24: 5.9 ± 1.9 ng/mL, p