Effects of bromelain on endocannabinoid system and oxidative stress in a rat model of endometriosis

SUMMARY

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of bromelain on serum endocannabinoid levels and oxidative stress markers in a rat model of surgically induced endometriosis.

Methods

A total of 24 female Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to three groups (n=8 each): Sham, endometriosis, and endometriosis treated with bromelain (endometriosis+B). Endometriosis was induced by autotransplantation of uterine tissue. Bromelain (20 mg/kg/day) was administered orally for 15 consecutive days. Serum levels of 2-arachidonoylglycerol, anandamide, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and malondialdehyde were measured using ELISA. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's post hoc test.

Results

Induction of endometriosis significantly reduced serum 2-arachidonoylglycerol, anandamide, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione levels while increasing malondialdehyde concentrations compared with the Sham group (p<0.05). Bromelain treatment significantly improved most endocannabinoid and oxidative stress parameters compared with the untreated endometriosis group (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Bromelain ameliorated endocannabinoid deficiency and oxidative stress in experimental endometriosis. These findings suggest that bromelain may represent a promising non-hormonal therapeutic candidate targeting interconnected inflammatory and redox pathways in endometriosis.