Changes in the oxidant/antioxidant balance in rats with pharmacologically induced ovarian failure

Reactive oxygen species are constantly produced in all aerobic organisms, following intracellular metabolism, in response to environmental stimuli. With a composition including free oxygen radicals, they are incriminated in inflammatory, cardiovascular diseases, playing a role in the damage and loss of function of various tissues and organs. The aim of the present work was to assess the effect of different cyclophosphamide doses onto the serum oxidant/antioxidant balance in female rats with ovarian failure. We also monitored the effect after the administration of an antioxidant complex (Sel-E-Vit). Oxidative stress was measured based on the serum levels of malondialdehyde and protein carbonyls; antioxidant defence was quantified based on the serum levels of hydrogen donors and reduced glutathione. Sel-E-Vit treatment causes changes in the oxidant/antioxidant balance of animals with cyclophosphamide-induced ovarian failure. Our results demonstrate the presence of oxidative stress in menopause and recommend non-hormonal antioxidant therapy during perimenopause.