Nano-curcumin potentially ameliorates hormonal function and follicular counts following the vitrification and transplantation of rat ovarian tissue

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation followed by transplantation may damage the ovaries, potentially impeding fertility restoration. The notable antioxidant properties of curcumin highlight its potential as a therapeutic agent for enhancing fertility restoration. The use of nano-curcumin to improve ovarian tissue transplantation outcomes after vitrification for fertility preservation remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate endocrine function, by measuring estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and ovarian follicle count in rats subjected to vitrification and transplantation. Thirty female rats were categorized into three groups (n = 10/group): control (Group 1), untreated (Group 2), and nano-curcumin treated (Group 3; 2 mg/kg/day for 14 days). The rats were euthanized, and blood samples and ovaries were collected for analysis. The FSH level in the treated group (0.99 (0.97-1.00) mIU/ml) was significantly lower compared to that in the other groups, with a significant difference, particularly against Group 2 (p < 0.05). E2 and AMH values were higher in the treated group, with increased primordial and total follicle counts, though not statistically significant (p = 0.069 and p = 0.051). The administration of nano-curcumin may improve hormonal function and increase the number of follicles in rat ovaries after vitrification and transplantation.