The effects of abscisic acid administration in PCOS rat model and H202 induced human granulosa cell damage: A preliminary investigation

Abstract Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is commonly associated with metabolic disorders. Abscisic acid (ABA) is a phytohormone present in vegetables and fruits that can be naturally supplied by the dietary intake and has been previously studied for its benefits to human health, especially in diabetes people. It has been demonstrated that ABA plays a key role in glucose metabolism, inflammation, and tumor growth.Methods: Wistar rats were implanted with letrozole-continuous-release pellets to induce a PCOS-like phenotype, subsequently treated with ABA or vehicle control. Bodyweight changes, Testosterone(T) level, fasting insulin measurements, and glucose tolerance tests have been investigated. A cell apoptosis model was established induced by H2O2. Cell viability was tested by cell counting Kit-8 (CCK-8). Cell apoptosis was tested by flow cytometry, and the oxidative stress state of cells was examined using ROS array.Results: Body weights, glucose impairment, and T level were significantly improved in the ABA treated PCOS rat than in vehicle-treated control PCOS rats. ABA significantly reduced H2O2-induced KGNs cell apoptosis and ROS levels and increased cell viability. Conclusions: The findings suggest that ABA could be a candidate adjunctive treatment for improving the insulin sensitivity and hyperandrogenemia of PCOS patients, and ameliorated H2O2-induced KGN cell apoptosis and oxidant stress.