Influence of Glucocorticoid-Induced Stress on Reproductive Function in Female Mus terricolor during Reproductively Active Phase

Abstract

Inhibitory effects of glucocorticoids have been reported in a number of species ranging from rodents to humans. No report till date exists demonstrating the effect of stress on reproduction in Mus terricolor, a tropical, wild, nocturnal, short day breeder. To replicate stress-like situation under experimental condition, dexamethasone (60μg/ 100g body weight) treatment was given to female M. terricolor during the reproductively active phase (RAP) of its breeding cycle. Suppressive effect of dexamethasone on reproductive functions of this tropical nocturnal rodent was inferred. There was a significant reduction in ovarian and uterine weight, which was accompanied by a significant reduction in uterine protein and plasma estradiol and progesterone levels while there was a significant increase in ovarian cholesterol. Histological observations revealed an inhibitory effect of dexamethasone on the reproductive tissues. The presence of glucocorticoid receptor in the ovary and uterus suggests that glucocorticoid might be directly involved in modulating reproductive functions of this rodent. Thus, exogenous glucocorticoid suppressed the reproductive function of this mouse suggesting a stressful condition.