Objective: To evaluate the effect of high-fat diet-induced obesity on ovarian function in female rats, and to explore its mechanism.
Methods: 80 female Wistar rats were randomly divided into high-fat diet (HFD) group (n=40) and normal diet (control) group (n=40). After feeding for 60 days, the estrous cycle and rat follicles of each group were evaluated The number and apoptosis of cells at various stages of development were measured, and the serum progesterone and estradiol concentrations of the rats in each group were detected. Then, male and female rats were caged in a ratio of 1:2 for 3 weeks.
Results: HDF induced obesity and hyperglycemia in rats, but did not affect serum triglyceride, cholesterol and C-reactive protein concentrations in rats. Obesity also altered ovarian function, prolonged estrus interval and decreased serum estradiol concentration in HFD rats The number of follicles and antral atresia increased. In addition, the HFD group also developed follicular cysts. Moreover, the HFD group became pregnant later than the control group.
Conclusion: Obesity induces follicular cysts in rats and interferes with ovulation, resulting in delayed pregnancy.