Dose-Dependent Ameliorative Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar on Ovarian Architecture and Body Weight in a Rat Model of Letrozole-Induced PCOS

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent effects of apple cider vinegar (ACV) on body weight regulation and ovarian histoarchitecture in female Wistar rats with letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Study Design: The employed randomized controlled design.  A total of thirty-five adult female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 7 per group). Group A (control) received normal feed; Group B received 1 mg/kg of letrozole only; while Groups C, D, and E received letrozole alongside 1 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg, and 3 mg/kg of ACV, respectively. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out between February and April 2025 in the Animal Research Laboratory of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciencs, University of Calabar, Nigeria. Methodology: Letrozole and ACV were administered orally for 14 consecutive days. Body weight was measured before induction, after induction, and following treatment. At the end of the treatment period, the rats were euthanized, and ovaries were harvested, fixed in 10% formalin, and processed for histological evaluation using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Letrozole administration resulted in significant weight gain and disruption of normal ovarian architecture, including numerous primary follicles and absence of mature structures. Treatment with ACV induced dose-dependent reductions in body weight gain, with Groups D and E showing significantly lower gains compared to the PCOS group (p < 0.05). Histological analysis revealed improved ovarian morphology in ACV-treated groups, with restoration of secondary and mature Graafian follicles and corpora lutea. Conclusion: Apple cider vinegar demonstrated dose-dependent ameliorative effects on both body weight and ovarian histoarchitecture in a letrozole-induced PCOS model. These findings support the potential of ACV as a natural therapeutic option for managing PCOS-associated metabolic and reproductive disturbances.