The effect of intraperitoneal ozone therapy on number of stem villi, intermediate villi, and placenta terminalized villi in Wistar rats with Deoxycorticosterone Acetate (DOCA) induced preeclampsia model

Background: Preeclampsia, characterized by placental dysfunction, is a significant contributor to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Ozone therapy has demonstrated therapeutic potential in obstetrics, particularly in treating preeclampsia, fetal-placental insufficiency, and reducing fetal growth restriction. This study explores the effect of intraperitoneal ozone therapy on the placental morphology of Wistar rats with a preeclampsia model. Methods: This experimental laboratory study employed a randomized posttest control-only group design. Thirty-six pregnant Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus), aged two months and weighing 200-250 g, were randomly divided into control and treatment groups (18 rats each). Preeclampsia was induced using deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) injections. The treatment group received daily intraperitoneal ozone injections (1.2 cm³ or 1.2 μg) for ten consecutive days. Placental tissue was collected post-treatment, histopathological slides were prepared, and villi morphology (terminal, intermediate, and stem villi) was analyzed under a light microscope. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 for Windows. Results: The treatment group exhibited significant improvements in placental morphology compared to the control group. Terminal villi count increased by 35% (p < 0.05), intermediate villi by 28% (p < 0.05), and stem villi by 42% (p < 0.01). Diameter measurements also revealed significant growth in all villi types, indicating better oxygen and nutrient exchange potential. Conclusion: Intraperitoneal ozone therapy positively impacts placental development in experimental preeclampsia models, suggesting its potential for therapeutic use. Further studies are warranted to understand its mechanisms and long-term effects.