Histopathologic effects of dimethyl sulfoxide on equine endometrium.

This research explores the effects of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a substance known for its anti-inflammatory attributes, on the endometrium of mares, and its implications on endometrial fibrosis, which is a common cause of infertility in these animals.

Objective of the Research

• The study sought to inspect the influence of DMSO, particularly for its anti-inflammatory properties and effects on collagen, on the endometrium of mares. The goal was to discover if DMSO could be used as a potential treatment for endometrial fibrosis, a primary cause of infertility in mares.

Methodology

• The experiment involved administering varying concentrations of DMSO (25%, 50%, and 75%) directly into the uterus of clinically healthy mares. The effects of the DMSO infusions were then observed through regularly collected biopsy samples.

Findings

• The results demonstrated that the infusion of DMSO caused epithelial ulceration and stromal inflammation within the endometrium of the treated mares. Notably, the severity of these effects was directly proportional to the concentration of DMSO infused.
• Contrary to expectations, the study did not discover any vasodilatation – the dilation of blood vessels which decreases blood pressure – following the DMSO infusion.
• Importantly, the research found that the affected endometrium returned to its normal state by day 21 after DMSO infusion in all tested mares, irrespective of the concentration of DMSO used.

Implications of the Study

• This research serves as an important contribution to understanding the impact of DMSO on the endometrium of mares. It provides valuable insights which could be utilised in developing potential treatments for endometrial fibrosis in mares.
• The findings suggest that while DMSO may cause temporary epithelial ulceration and stromal inflammation, these effects are not permanent and the endometrium fully recovers within three weeks. This suggests potential therapeutic applications of DMSO in the treatment of endometrial fibrosis, but also indicates that further research is required to fully understand its effects and determine how it can best be utilised.