CHARACTERISTICS OF PATHOMORPHOLOGICAL AND MORPHOFUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN THE ADRENAL GLANDS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF LEONTOSIDE IN EXPERIMENTAL ATHEROSCLEROSIS (AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY)

Аннотация

This study investigates the pathomorphological and morphofunctional changes in the adrenal glands under the influence of Leontoside in a model of experimental atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis, a major cardiovascular condition, has widespread systemic effects, including on the adrenal glands, which are critical in regulating the body's stress response and metabolic functions. Leontoside, a glycoside compound, has been proposed to have therapeutic properties in cardiovascular diseases, but its specific effects on adrenal morphology and function have not been extensively studied. In this experimental study, we explore the alterations in adrenal tissue structure, function, and biochemical composition in atherosclerotic rats treated with Leontoside. The results provide insights into the potential effects of Leontoside on adrenal health and its broader implications in managing atherosclerosis-related changes intheendocrinesystem. Keywords: Atherosclerosis, Leontoside, Adrenal Glands, Pathomorphological Changes, Morphofunctional Changes. Introduction: Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the accumulation of lipids and fibrous elements within the arterial walls, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. The condition results in the thickening and hardening of arteries, which leads to the disruption of blood flow and the impairment of organ function. While the effects of atherosclerosis on the heart and blood vessels are well-established, its systemic consequences, particularly on endocrine function, are less frequently studied. Among the endocrine organs, the adrenal glands, which are located atop the kidneys and are responsible for producing vital hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and catecholamines, are significantly impacted by the disease. The adrenal glands play a crucial role in regulating the body’s stress response, fluid balance, and metabolism. Therefore, alterations in adrenal function during atherosclerosis may have profound implications for an individual's overall health and disease progression. The pathophysiology of atherosclerosis involves oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, which contribute not only to vascular injury but also to disturbances in the function of other organ systems. For instance, previous research has demonstrated that atherosclerosis can lead to abnormal hormone secretion from the adrenal glands, with alterations in cortisol and aldosterone production. These hormonal changes can further exacerbate cardiovascular damage, enhance fluid retention, and promote systemic inflammation. The exact mechanisms by which atherosclerosis induces these alterations in adrenal function remain a subject of ongoing research, but it is clear that the adrenal glands are integral in thebody’sresponse to cardiovascular stress. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the therapeutic potential of plant-derived compounds to mitigate the effects of atherosclerosis. One such compound, Leontoside, a 98,7:ROTCAFTCAPMI.SECNEICS LACIDEM,5202, yraurbeF,5emuloV gro.srehsilbupcimedaca.www glycoside isolated from certain medicinal plants, has shown promise in improving lipid metabolism, reducing oxidative stress, and exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. Previous studies have suggested that Leontoside may have cardiovascular protective effects, such as reducing atherosclerotic plaque formation and improving endothelial function. However, despite its potential, the effects of Leontoside on the adrenal glands in the context of atherosclerosis remain poorly understood. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the pathomorphological and morphofunctional changes in the adrenal glands of rats with experimentally induced atherosclerosis and evaluating how Leontoside treatment impacts these alterations. We hypothesize that Leontoside may not only mitigate atherosclerotic changes in the cardiovascular system but also restore adrenal gland structure and function, thereby offering a dual benefit in managing atherosclerosis and its endocrine consequences. By exploring the influence of Leontoside on adrenal morphology and function, this study seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the interaction between atherosclerosis and endocrine health. Additionally, the findings could open new therapeutic avenues for treating atherosclerosis-related adrenal dysfunction and enhancing overalldisease management. Literature review Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial disease involving lipid accumulation, chronic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, which leads to progressive narrowing and hardening of the arteries. This condition not only affects the cardiovascular system but also induces alterations in various organ systems, including the endocrine system. The adrenal glands, responsible for secreting critical hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and catecholamines, are sens