THE ROLE OF OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS IN OVARIAN FUNCTION AND HORMONAL BALANCE IN FEMALE RABBITS

Abstract

Background: Omega-3 fatty acids are now widely familiar for their physiological activity in reproductive processes, although their specific effects on ovarian function and hormonal balance remain less well known. The investigation was a mechanistic study on the action of omega-3 supplementation concerning folliculogenesis, ovarian morphology, and hormonal milieu in female rabbits through a controlled interventional study.

Methods: The experimental design used was controlled, meaning that the animals were divided into treatment and control groups. Each group consisted of 3 animals. Daily oral omega-3 administration was given using a syringe to the treated group for 30 days. Histological checks on ovarian morphological changes were assessed after 30 days of the experiment. Some of the things checked included follicular development and structural changes. Hormonal profiling for levels of estradiol, progesterone, FSH, and LH was done using ELISA, with statistical comparisons between the treated and control groups being presented.

Results: Results showed that there was marked improvement in follicular development and maturation in the omega-3-supplemented group, typified by increased density of healthy antral follicles, less atretic degeneration, and more preserved ovarian histoarchitecture. Analysis of hormonal assays revealed a significant increase in estradiol and FSH levels, which suggest stimulation of folliculogenesis, while progesterone and LH exhibited marginal changes suggesting feedback control.

Conclusion: These results emphasize the fact that omega-3 FAs have the potential to alter ovarian functions by interfering with steroidogenesis and follicular development pathways. This study undoubtedly confirms the therapeutic potential of omega-3 supplementation in reproductive health conditions, hence necessitating further research at molecular and mechanistic levels for its potential role in ovarian endocrinology.