Introduction: Hyperprolactinemia (HPRL) commonly causes primary amenorrhea and reproductive disorders. Resveratrol (RES), a natural phenol, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. However, its protective role on the histological structure of female reproductive organs in case of HPRL remains unclear.
Aim of the work: This study aimed at evaluating the protective effect of RES against the HPRL induced by metoclopramide in female albino rats.
Materials and Methods: Female rats that showed three regular estrus cycles (determined by vaginal smears) were divided into three groups. Group I was the control group. Group II rats were given oral metoclopramide (2 mg/Kg/day) for 28 consecutive days. Group III rats were given oral RES (20 mg/kg/day) for 28 days concurrently with metoclopramide. Serum superoxide anion (O2−), prolactin (PRL), estradiol (E2), progesterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were assessed, in addition to measurement of tissues tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Sections from uteri, oviducts and ovaries were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and caspase-3 immunohistochemical stain and were subjected to morphometric and statistical studies.
Results: Group II showed significant increase in O2−, TNF-α and PRL, with significant decrease in the sex hormones. There were histological alterations in the uteri, oviducts and ovaries, with significant increased caspase-3 immunoexpression compared to the control. While, in group III, there was significant decrease in O2−, TNF-α and PRL, with significant increase in the sex hormones. The uteri, oviducts and ovaries showed minimal changes, with significant reduction in caspase-3 immunoreactivity compared to group II.
Conclusion: Administration of resveratrol ameliorates the oxidative stress, inflammation, hormonal assay alterations, histological changes and apoptosis resulted from induced HPRL in female rats.