Investigation of Expression Level of Hifla and Beclin-1 Proteins in Ovarian Ischemia Reperfusion Injury

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the histopathological effects of ovarian ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury and analyze the expression levels of HIF-1α and Beclin-1 proteins, focusing on their roles in hypoxia and autophagy mechanisms. Materials and Methods: The study involved 24 Wistar albino female rats divided into three groups: control, ischemia, and ischemia/reperfusion. Ovarian torsion was applied for 1 hour in the ischemia group, followed by 2 hours of detorsion-induced reperfusion in the I/R group. Ovarian tissues were examined through hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemical analysis. Total antioxidant (TAS) and total oxidant (TOS) levels were measured biochemically. Results: Compared to the control group, the ischemia and I/R groups exhibited significant increases in follicular degeneration, the number of atretic follicles, and stromal damage. HIF-1α expression was markedly elevated in the I/R group, particularly in oocytes, zona pellucida, and stromal cells. Beclin-1 expression demonstrated strong positive reactions in stromal areas and thecal cells, while remaining low in granulosa cells. TAS levels were reduced, whereas TOS levels were elevated in both experimental groups compared to controls. Conclusion: The increased expression of HIF-1α and Beclin-1 indicates activation of hypoxia adaptation and autophagy processes in ovarian I/R injury. These proteins may serve as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for managing I/R-induced damage. Keywords: Ovary, HIF1α, Beclin1, TAS, TOS