Pharmacological sympathetic denervation prevents the development of polycystic ovarian syndrome in rats injected with estradiol valerate

Background The injection of estradiol valerate in female rats induces polycystic ovary syndrome, which is characterized by polycystic ovaries, anovulation, and hyperandrogenism. These characteristics have been associated with an increase in the ovarian concentration of norepinephrine, which occurs before establishing the polycystic ovary syndrome. The bilateral section of the superior ovarian nerve restores ovarian functions in animals with polycystic ovary syndrome. The superior ovarian nerve provides norepinephrine and vasoactive intestinal peptide to the ovary. An increase in the activity of both neurotransmitters has been associated with the development of polycystic ovary syndrome. The purpose of the present study was analyzed the participation of the noradrenergic nervous system in the development of polycystic ovary syndrome using guanethidine as a pharmacological tool that destroys peripheral noradrenergic nerve fibers.