Protective effects of resveratrol on the expression of , and genes in the ovary and their activity in the serum of rats exposed to lead acetate: An experimental study.

BACKGROUND

Lead (Pb) could be toxic to the female reproductive system, and resveratrol (Res) may overcome this toxicity.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the Res impact on the catalase (), glutathione peroxidase (), and superoxide dismutase () gene expression in the ovary and on the Cat and Gpx enzyme activity in the serum of rats exposed to lead acetate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, 33 female Wistar rats (8-10 wk, 180-200 gr) were divided into 6 groups: a control group (normal saline), a Res group (40 mg/kg), and a Pb group (lead acetate 30 mg/kg). 3 additional groups received lead acetate (30 mg/kg) with Res at 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg for 21 days. Gene expression of , , and was measured via qPCR, and serum Cat and Gpx activity was assessed using standard methods. Bioinformatics tools were used to evaluate Res effects on gene and protein function.

RESULTS

Lead acetate significantly downregulates , , and gene expression, but Res significantly upregulates gene expression, especially at doses of 40 mg/kg for , 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg for , and 80 mg/kg for . Cat and Gpx enzyme activity increased and decreased in the lead acetate group, respectively. However, Res in all doses decreased only the Cat enzyme activity. Bioinformatics analysis indicates that Res can interact with the promoter regions and cavities of all 3 enzymes.

CONCLUSION

Pb can dysregulate the expression and activity of the studied enzymes. However, the impact of Res is influenced by the dose, with 40 mg/kg frequently being the most effective.