EFFECTS OF ZIZIPHORA CLINOPODIOIDES EXTRACT ON POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME, OBESITY, AND INSULIN RESISTANCE

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. The anti-inflammatory properties of the Ziziphora clinopodioides plant inhibit the NF-KB signal by suppressing the oxidative stress pathway in cells and preventing inflammation. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of Z. clinopodioides extract on PCOS, obesity, and insulin resistance. Methods: In this experimental study, 60 adult Wistar rats were divided into three control (n=12), PCOS (n12), and experimental groups(n=12). After inducing the syndrome for 60 days, the experimental groups were injected intraperitoneally with 100, 150, and 200 mg/kg body weight for 10 successive days. The animals were euthanized with chloroform and their ovaries and blood were collected for histomorphometric and hormonal studies and to determine the inflammatory index CRP levels. Data were analyzed using the one-way ANOVA at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Changes in the weight of animals were observed in the control and PCOS groups (n = 12 per group). The body weight of the PCOS group rats increased significantly (P < 0.001) compared to the control group. A significant increase was recorded in the ovarian weight of the PCOS group compared to the control group (n = 12 per group). Comparison of ovarian weights in the PCOS group and the PCOS group treated with Z. clinopodioides extract (n = 12 per group) indicated a significant decrease in the PCOS group treated with Z. clinopodioides extract for 10 consecutive days compared to the PCOS group. Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory effects of Z. clinopodioides extract can significantly reduce ovarian weight in the PCOS group.