Effects of Methandienone on the ovaries of rabbits in relation to the aromatase gene (CYP19A1) and oxidative markers and the possible protective role of selenium

Background Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), such as methandienone, are synthetic testosterone derivatives that are widely used for the enhancement of physical performance and the growth of muscles. This study looked at the effect of methandienone on ovarian CYP19A1 gene expression and oxidative status in rabbits. The work also examined whether supplementation with selenium could reduce the adverse effects caused by methandienone. Methods Twenty healthy adult female rabbits were randomly assigned to four groups and maintained under uniform management for 30 days. The groups included a control, a methandienone-treated group (T1), a selenium group (T2), and a combined methandienone plus selenium group (T3). Serum oestrogens concentrations were measured using standard biochemical techniques. CYP19A1 mRNA expression in ovarian tissue and markers were quantified by established molecular and biochemical protocols. Results Rabbits receiving methandienone alone (T1) showed a significant decline (P≤0.05) in CYP19A1 mRNA expression and serum oestrogens when compared with the control and other treatment groups. Selenium supplementation (T2) produced marked increases in both parameters relative to G1 and G3, indicating a robust corrective effect. Oxidative stress analysis revealed elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl content (PCC) in the T1 group, consistent with increased oxidative stress. Intermediate oxidative stress values were observed in the T3 group, exceeding those in the T1 group but remaining below those in the T2 group. Conclusion Methandienone appears to impair ovarian function by suppressing CYP19A1gene expression and promoting oxidative stress, leading to reduced steroidogenic activity. Selenium administration mitigates these disturbances by enhancing antioxidant defense and partially restoring gene expression and oestrogens levels. These findings highlight the potential of selenium as a supportive intervention against methandienone -induced oxidative and hormonal disruptions in rabbits.