By: Aziz Arshad; Gokul Sudhakaran; Ajay Guru; B. Hari Deva Muthu et al.

Article Prepared By: Farah Izana Abdullah

Zebrafish have been used as an animal model for the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal disorder that causes enlargement of the ovaries and tiny cysts on the periphery. Zebrafish PCOS can be characterized by measuring the total Testos­ terone levels in the brain and ovary tissues. The common PCOS zebrafish traits observed similar to the mammalian PCOS are excess Testosterone, altered methylation levels, lower hatching and mating rates. It affects up to 20% of women of reproductive age, making it the most prevalent endocrine disease among pre-menopausal women. PCOS models have been developed using various methods, including androgens, estrogens, anti-progestins, genetic modification, and prolonged light exposure. Some of the researchers’ findings seem to support what was previously known about this field: “Reports showed a significant reduction in FSH, LH, and VTG levels. Growth and maturation of oocyte development inhibited due to fluoride exposure. Results were consistent with lower estradiol and testosterone matching in previous studies,” Sudhakaran claimed.

Discussing potential improvements, “The data from the PCOS model have several limitations, the experimental results and suggested or demonstrated biological mechanisms are compelling and deserve further research. PCOS cannot be cured, the symptoms are managed by targeting PCOS features. The zebrafish model will be beneficial for fast comprehension to induce PCOS and drug library screening,” they observe. The researchers argue that High Testosterone levels decrease the sexual activity of the female zebrafish. The biochemical traits of this condition have not been studied and deserve further research.

Web: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120276

Date of Input: 29/03/2023 | Updated: 30/03/2023 | s_humaira