The effect of antioxidants on angiogenesis in uterine transplantation

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of antioxidants on angiogenesis in uterine transplantation. We used 24 female rats equally divided into four groups: Group 1 had the uterus stored in HTK (Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate) solution at 4 °C cold storage for 4 h. Group 2 had the uterine tissue stored in HTK solution combined with acetyl L-carnitine (10^-8M) for 4 h at +4 °C. The same procedures with Group 1 and 2 were repeated for 24 h for Groups 3 and 4, respectively. Histological investigation and immunohistochemical analysis were performed. Histological findings showed that storing donor uterus in HTK solution at +4° C for 24 h results in histological alteration in uterus. We also found that immunoreactivity of VEGFR-2 in all layers of rat uterus in Group 2 was lower than that in Group 1, and the expression of the uterus in Group 4 was lower than that in Group 3. We concluded that antioxidant acetyl L-carnitine, which was added to the organ preservation solution HTK, had prevented the formation of free radicals, and thus protected the uterus that was stored in short and long cold storage periods. Impact statement What is already known on this subject? Ischemia-reperfusion is a complex pathophysiological process involve in hypoxia and/or reoxygenation, ionic imbalance-induced oedema and acidosis, oxidative stress, mitochondrial uncoupling, coagulation and endothelium activation. The composition of preservation solutions must be adapted to the severity of ischaemia-reperfusion injuries to reduce cellular damage and inflammation and preserve graft functionality and integrity, thus improving short-term and long-term graft outcome. Clinicians use three types of composition of solution for static cold preservation: intracellular, intermediate and extracellular. HTK will be used frequently, especially with the consideration of lower price and more easy handling aspects. L-carnitine acts as an antioxidant, protects against free radicals and prevents mitochondrial damage. VEGFR-2 plays an important role in angiogenesis, chemotaxis, proliferation and migration of endothelial cells. What this study adds? In this study, we investigate the effect of antioxidants on angiogenesis in uterus transplantation. Our results showed that antioxidant acetyl L-carnitine that added to the organ preservation solution HTK, has prevented the formation of free radicals, thus protect the uterus that was stored in short and long cold storage periods. What the implications are for future studies? Therefore, we will contribute to the literature with the results of this study.