Black Garlic Extract Modulates Endothelin Expression and Ovulatory Function in Monosodium Glutamate Treated Rats

GEZER A., Yediel Aras Ş., ÖZKARACA M., KILIÇ BAYGUTALP N., Gundogdu G., Karadag Sari E., ...More

Food Science and Nutrition, vol.13, no.1, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 13 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1002/fsn3.4766
  • Journal Name: Food Science and Nutrition
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, Greenfile, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Keywords: black garlic, endothelin-1, endothelin-2, follicle, monosodium glutamate, ovary
  • Erzincan Binali Yildirim University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a widely used food additive, has been associated with various health concerns, including potential reproductive toxicity. This study investigated the protective effects of black garlic (BG) ethanol extract against MSG-induced ovarian damage in rats. Thirty-two female rats in estrus were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8 per group): control (saline), BG (250 mg/kg BW), MSG (4 mg/g BW), and BG+MSG (combined treatment). Treatments were administered daily for 14 days. Ovarian tissues were collected for histopathological, immunohistochemical (IHC), and biochemical analyses. Histopathological examination revealed a significant reduction in cystic follicles in the BG+MSG group compared to the MSG group (p < 0.0001). IHC analysis showed decreased immunoreactivity of endothelin-1 and endothelin-2 in the BG+MSG group compared to the MSG group (both p < 0.01). Biochemical assays demonstrated significantly increased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol levels in the BG+MSG group compared to the MSG group (all p < 0.05), while progesterone levels were significantly lower in the MSG group compared to the BG+MSG group (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that BG ethanol extract may mitigate MSG-induced ovarian dysfunction in rats by alleviating degenerative changes in follicles and modulating hormonal levels. This study provides insights into potential natural interventions for MSG-related reproductive toxicity.