Evaluation of the Therapeutic Potential of Flaxseed's in Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Rats by Histology

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Authors: Azheen Subhi Abdulrahman, Shang Ziyad Abdulqadir, Ivan Sdiq Maghdid, Ivan Sdiq Maghdid, Esra Y. Perdawd
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Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic condition that impacts females during their reproductive years. PCOS is marked by the presence of multiple cyst-like follicles on the ovaries, irregular or absent ovulation, and resistance to insulin. This research seeks to investigate the consequences of flaxseed extract on the ovary in the PCOS rat’s model by histological techniques and serum hormone level. Materials and Methods: Sixteen female albino rats (6–8 weeks old, estrous cycle in female rats repeats every 4–5 days) were assigned to four groups: the first group was the control, second group received 0.2 mg/kg body weight of letrozole by gavage, the third group was given 100 mg/kg body weight flaxseed extract intraperitoneally, and the mixed group received both letrozole and flaxseed daily for 21 days. The total period of the study was 2 months, including 15-20 days for preparation, 21 days for animal experimentation, and 20 days for histological and statistical analysis. Results: Histological examination of the ovary revealed letrozole-induced ovarian cysts and disruption of follicles. Flaxseed treatment significantly restored ovarian morphology, with a recovery of follicular development. Hormonal assay indicated that testosterone and AMH were elevated, while estrogen and progesterone were decreased in the letrozole group to other groups. Extraction of flaxseed supplementation restored hormonal equilibrium, lowering testosterone and increasing estrogen and progesterone.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Phytoestrogen effects and research Ovarian function and disorders Menopause: Health Impacts and Treatments

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of University of Babylon for Pure and Applied Sciences
Volume
33
Issue
4
Pages
297–311
Publication date
2 January 2026