Effects Of Estradiol On Liver Mitochondrial Function Of Ovariectomized And Tamoxifen-Treated Female Rats

Given the tremendous importance of mitochondria to basic cellular functions as well as the critical role of mitochondria impairment in a vast number of disorders, a compelling question is whether 17 beta-estradiol (E2) modulates mitochondrial function. To answer this question, we exposed liver mitochondria isolated from control, ovariectomized and tamoxifen-treated ovariectomized female brats to 25 mu M E2. We observed that at basal conditions, ovariectomy and tamoxifen treatment do not induce any statistical alteration in the respirator), chain and the oxidative phosphorylation system parameters. The presence of E2 impairs respiration and oxidative phosphorylation system these effects being similar in all groups of animals studied. Our results indicate that E2 has in general deleterious effects that lead to mitochondrial impairment. Since mitochondrial dysfunction is a triggering event of cell degeneration and death, the use of exogenous E2 must be carefully considered.