Proliferation and apoptosis features of ovarian follicles after local irradiation with electrons and platelet-rich plasma administration

Relevance. The ovary is strongly radiosensitive organ. Exposure to ionizing radiation can lead to decreased reproductive function, including infertility. One of the promising regenerative substrates is platelet-rich plasma, which contains a large number of biologically active substances. It is necessary to conduct research in this direction in order to determine the dose-dependent effects of electron irradiation on the cell cycle of oocytes and granulosa cells and to assess the risks of developing radiation-induced ovarian failure. It is important to develop methods for the prevention of acute post-radiation complications, which may include platelet-rich plasma injections. Aim: immunohistochemical analysis of ovarian structures’ cell cycle after administration of platelet-rich plasma in a model of radiation-induced ovarian failure. Materials and methods. We divided the animals (Wistar rats; n=40) into four groups: I — control (n=10); II (n=10) — electron irradiation; III (n=10) — administration of platelet-rich plasma before electron irradiation; IV (n=10) — administration of platelet-rich plasma. A morphological assessment and immunohistochemical (Ki-67, caspase 3) examination of the ovaries were performed. Results and Discussion. Number of Ki-67-positive granulosa cells were sharply decreased in group II, but in theca cells the level of expression of this marker exceeded control values. Besides, the number of caspase-3-stained cells increased sharply, mainly due to granulosa cells. The immunohistochemical patterns described were less pronounced in the pre-radiation platelet-rich plasma group. Conclusion. Components of platelet-rich plasma have radioprotective properties, maintaining the cell cycle of follicular cells and reducing the depth and range of radiation damage to the ovary after 20 Gy electron exposure, confirmed by the Ki‑67 and caspase 3 expression levels.