CYTOPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF QUERCETIN ON OVARIAN FUNCTION IN RATS WITH LIPOPOLYSACCHARIDE-INDUCED ENDOTOXEMIA

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are common metabolic byproducts of cellular respiration and play a dual role in physiological and pathological processes. Quercetin, a natural flavonoid, exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the cytoprotective effect of quercetin on ovarian function in rats with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemia. Experimental endotoxemia was induced by intraperitoneal injection of LPS (E. coli O55:B5, 0.1 mg/kg) in Wistar female rats. Quercetin was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 50 mg/kg one hour after LPS injection. Ovarian tissues were collected after 24 hours and examined for morphological and functional changes, including histological structure, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzyme activity, and hormonal levels. LPS-induced endotoxemia led to significant ovarian damage characterized by follicular atresia, stromal edema, and vascular disturbances. Biochemical analysis revealed increased malondialdehyde levels and decreased activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase, indicating oxidative stress. Additionally, a significant reduction in estradiol and progesterone levels was observed. Quercetin treatment markedly attenuated LPS-induced ovarian damage, reduced oxidative stress markers, and partially restored antioxidant enzyme activities and hormone levels. These findings suggest that quercetin exerts a protective effect against endotoxemia-induced ovarian dysfunction by modulating oxidative stress and inflammation.