The effect of mitochondria-targeted antioxidant MitoQ10 on redox signaling pathway components in PCOS mouse model

Considerable evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress contribute to the pathogenesis of Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, MitoQ10, on the redox signaling pathway's component in PCOS.

We assessed TXNIP, TRX, and ASK1 expression in granulosa cells (GCs) of the DHEA-induced PCOS mouse model. Female BALB/c mice in five groups of Control, DHEA, and DHEA + MitoQ10 in three doses of 250, 500, and 750 μmol/L MitoQ10 were treated for 21 days.

Histological investigation showed a probable improvement in folliculogenesis; besides, ASK1 and TXNIP expression were significantly increased in GCs of the PCOS mouse F4Fmodel as compared to the control groups and decreased steadily in groups treated by MitoQ10. However, TRX expression showed a drop that was restored by MitoQ10 meaningfully (P ≤ 0.05).

The work presented herein suggests mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, MitoQ10, have modulating effects on folliculogenesis in the ovary and also on the redox signaling pathway in GCs of PCOS mouse model which may have potential to attenuate oxidative stress and its relative damages.