The Effect of 8-Methoxypsoralen on Pituitary-Gonad Axis and Ovarian Function in Mice

Objective: 8-Methoxypsoralen (8-MOP) is a photoactive compound widely used in the treatment of proliferate disorders. The present study investigates the effects of 8-MOP on ovary function and pituitary-gonad axis in mice. Materials and Methods: In this experimental analytical study, 45 female Balb/C mice were divided into three groups (n=15), control, sham (olive oil injection) and experimental. The experimental group were received an intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of the LD50 dose of 60 mg/kg 8-MOP. At 30 days after injection, the animals were sacrificed while in the proestrus stage and examined for morphological and histological changes their ovaries. Blood samples were collected and estrogen, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were assessed by radioimmunoassay. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and the t test. Results: The mean levels of estrogen and progesterone in the experimental group significantly decreased (p < 0.001). However, there was a significant increase in LH and FSH levels in this group compared to the control groups (p < 0.001). The mean number and diameter of the corpus luteum (CL) and the number of growing follicles in the experimental group significantly reduced compared to the control and sham groups (p < 0.001). The mean granulosa thickness in the experimental group also significantly decreased compared to the control and sham groups (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our data indicated that 8-MOP can affect the levels of LH, FSH, estrogen and progesterone. Our findings further suggest that consecutive doses of 8-MOP may impair the female reproductive tract (or development).