Therapeutic Effect of Methanolic Extract of Nelumbo nucifera Leaves against Letrozole - Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Female Rats

Abstract

Background: The most prevalent endocrine condition, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is characterised by polycystic ovarian morphology, hyperandrogenism, and ovarian dysfunction. Anti-angiogenic, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, hepatoprotective, and anti-hyperlipidemic properties are just a few of the pharmacological activities of N. nucifera. Aim: The purpose of the study is to look at the potential benefits of a methanolic extract of Nelumbo nucifera leaves (MENN) in treating PCOS brought on by letrozole. Methods: Letrozole was administered for 21 days to develop PCOS, and vaginal smear surveillance was used to validate the condition. Both low-dose (250 mg/kg) and high-dose (500 mg/kg) MENN were administered to PCOS rats. A histological evaluation was conducted after estimating the serum glucose, testosterone, lipid profile, and antioxidant enzymes in the ovaries, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Results: According to the findings, MENN raised HDL levels while lowering serum glucose, testosterone, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL levels. Additionally, it lowered MDA levels and raised ovarian antioxidant enzymes like SOD, catalase, and GSH. By raising the amount of corpus luteum and follicles, decreasing the number of cysts, and minimising endometrial hyperplasia, MENN improved the histological abnormalities in the uterus and ovaries. The levels of parameters impacted by letrozole treatment were restored by MENN. Conclusion: By lowering androgen levels and normalising glucose, lipid profiles, and antioxidants, MENN had a preventive effect against PCOS through a regular oestrous cycle, according to the data. Major Findings: Methanolic extract of Nelumbo nucifera leaves was found to have a protective effect against PCOS through antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant and normalisation of histological abnormalities in ovaries and uterus.