Effects Hydro-alcoholic extract of (Nigella sativa L.) on the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of the ovary tissue in a rat model of PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorders that affects approximately 5-10% women in their reproductive age. It is characterized by endocrine anovulation, hyperandrogenism and insulinresistance. Nigella sativa (NS) grain has a rich medical and religious history and consists of powerful chemical compounds that can have many effects on human health. In this study the effect of Hydro-alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa on antioxidant properties of the ovary tissue in a rat model of PCOS has been investigated. For this purpose, 32 mature female rats were randomly divided into 4 groups as: Control, PCOS-induced (received 4mg estradiol valerate, IM), PCOS+NS (200 mg/kg B.W-1)-treated and PCOS+NS (600 mg/kg B.W-1)-treated. Animals received NS orally by gavages for 63 days. After 63 days, the animals were sacrificed in the estrous phase and MDA and TAC were measured in ovary tissue. This study showed that Nigella sativa compared to the PCOS-induced group thereby increasing the TAC and decreasing MDA. And from the used doses the dose of 600mg/kg/bw had the most positive impact. So Nigella sativa has marked antioxidant activity; therefore, it can reduce the amount of stressoxidative.