EFFECT OF LOW-DOSE MONOSODIUM GLUTAMATE ON GONADOTROPIN HORMONES IN ADULT FEMALE WISTAR RATS

Monosodium glutamate, widely used as a flavor enhancer in various cuisines, has raised concerns regarding its potential impact on reproductive health despite being classified as safe by regulatory bodies. Adult female Wistar rats, chosen for their hormonal similarities to humans, were exposed to low doses of MSG for a duration of 28 days to assess its effects on reproductive parameters. The results indicated a significant reduction in FSH, LH, and estradiol levels in MSG-treated groups compared to controls. Specifically, LH levels decreased from an average of 3.0 mIU/ml in the control group to approximately 2.3 mIU/ml at the highest dose, while estradiol levels dropped from 6.0 ng/ml to approximately 4.0 ng/ml. These hormonal reductions suggest a disruption in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which is crucial for normal ovarian function. Additionally, histological analyses revealed adverse effects on ovarian morphology, including signs of follicular atresia and degeneration, implying compromised ovarian health. These findings underscore the potential reproductive toxicity of low-dose MSG and highlight the need for further research on its long-term effects on female reproductive health, especially in the context of widespread dietary consumption. KEYWORDS: Monosodium Glutamate, Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, Luteinizing Hormone, Estradiol, Reproductive Health, Wistar Rats, Ovarian Function, Hormonal Disruption, Dietary Additives.