Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) represents endocrine disorder which impacts women in the reproductive age. Due to the side effects of medications and the subsequent discontinuation of therapy, the influence of alternative medicine is increasing. The aim of this study was to investigate morphometric parameters and ovarian and adipose tissue histological structure in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome treated by standardized Aronia melanocarpa extract (SEA) and/or metformin. 24 animals with induced PCOS were divided into 4 groups: PCOS group, PCOS+MET group (treated with metformin), PCOS+SEA group (treated with aronia melanocarpa extract), and PCOS+MET+SEA (treated with metformin and aronia melanocarpa extract). Final body weight and body weight gain were significantly lower after all three type of treatments. Ovary weight was reduces in all three treated groups, while relative ovary weight was significantly lower only in SEA treated rats. However, both MET treated groups expressed lower adipocyte area, while adipocyte diameter was lowered only after combined treatment. Lower number of cysts and greater number of corpora lutea were registered in all treated groups. Our study highlights the significant impact of these interventions on morphometric parameters, indicating their potential to address obesity, a prevalent comorbidity in PCOS. Notably, the reduction in adipocyte size and the modulation of adipose tissue morphology suggest a potential avenue for ameliorating metabolic dysregulations associated with PCOS. Future research endeavors should aim to comprehensively address the multifaceted nature of this syndrome, with a view towards developing integrated therapeutic approaches that offer renewed hope for individuals grappling with PCOS-related challenges.