Regression of endometrial implants by resveratrol in an experimentally induced endometriosis model in rats

Objective: To evaluate the effect of resveratrol on an experimentally induced endometriosis rat model. Study design: After endometriotic implants were surgically formed, rats were randomly divided into 2 groups as control group (saline treated, n = 6) and resveratrol group (10 mg/kg/d, n = 6). The inflammatory markers and histopathological changes were assessed at the end of the treatment period. Results Our results showed (1) significant reduction in the implant size (P < .0005); (2) significantly decreased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the peritoneal fluid and plasma (P < .005); and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) in the peritoneal fluid (P < .05), (3) highly significant suppression of VEGF expression in the endometriotic tissue (P < .0005); and (4) considerable histological changes in the endometriotic foci following resveratrol treatment. Conclusion: Resveratrol appears to be effective on the development of endometriosis through its antiangiogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. Future studies with different doses of resveratrol might provide more comprehensive results regarding the treatment of endometriosis. © The Author(s) 2013.