Effects of Tribulus Terrestris extract and Vitamin C on changes induced by cyclophosphamide in the rat ovary

Cyclophosphamide (CYP) is an alkylating agent, which is used in different diseases. It has several important side effects on ovaries. Tribulus terrestris extract (TTE) has different steroidal saponins and has been used for a long time as an aphrodisiac. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of TTE on the toxicity of CYP in the ovary of rats. Forty-eight female rats were divided into 6 groups. First group received only normal saline. Group 2, 3 and 5 received CYP (30 mg/kg, 2 times/week for 7 weeks). Groups 3 and 4 received TTE (10 mg/kg, 2 times/week for 10 weeks) and groups 5 and 6 received vitamin C (80 mg/kg, 2 times/week for 7 weeks). At the end of study, blood was collected and the rats were sacrificed. Ovaries were dissected for the histopathological study. Serum levels of estrogen were measured. Histopathological examination revealed significant decrease in the number of follicles in group 2. Estrogen was significantly decreased by CYP in comparison with other groups. Number of follicles in group 3 and 5 were increased. Estrogen levels were also increased. These findings indicated that TTE similar to Vitamin C may improve the side effects of CYP toxicity in the ovary of rats.