Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the protective effects of combined atorvastatin and amygdalin in a rat model of endometriosis. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 levels in the peritoneal fluid were determined. The expression of TNF-α, IL-6, MMP-2, and MMP-9 mRNA, and the levels of lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (Gpx) were measured. Histopathological analysis was also conducted. The results showed that peritoneal TNF-α, IL-6, MMP-2, and MMP-9 levels were reduced by > 50%, and mRNA expression was decreased. Lipid peroxidation was considerably reduced, while GSH, SOD, Gpx, and catalase levels increased by > 40%. Reductions in leukocyte infiltration and fibrosis following treatment were also observed. Thus, our study suggested that combined treatment consisting of atorvastatin and amygdalin attenuates endometriosis. A detailed investigation of molecular mechanism of atorvastatin and amygdalin in endometriosis is needed.