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Publication Date
2025
Document Type
Poster
Degree Type
Undergraduate
Department
Biological Sciences
Mentor
Dr. Ryan Paitz
Mentor Department
Biological Sciences
Abstract
This study investigates quercetin, a natural antioxidant, for mitigating the negative effects of elevated cortisol levels on chicken embryo development compared to trolox, a vitamin E derivative known for its antioxidant properties. The hypothesis posited that quercetin would effectively modulate mitochondrial functions and lower plasma cortisol levels, thus promoting better embryo development under stress. This research serves a broader purpose by contributing to strategies that could counteract high cortisol levels during pregnancy and ultimately mitigate fetal mortality risks. The experimental design involved four treatment groups: trolox + oil, trolox + corticosterone (TroloxCort), quercetin + oil, and quercetin + corticosterone (QuercCort). An oil overlay was utilized to prevent evaporation and assess the isolated effects of the antioxidants. Corticosterone was introduced to simulate stress conditions and evaluate the protective capabilities of both antioxidants. Results revealed that quercetin did not surpass trolox in protecting embryos from the adverse effects of corticosterone. The QuercCort group had a survival rate of only 23%, and the surviving embryos were significantly smaller compared to those in other treatment groups. These findings indicate that while quercetin exerts some positive influence on embryo development in the presence of elevated cortisol levels, it does not provide superior protection compared to trolox. In conclusion, further research is essential to explore the underlying mechanisms through which these antioxidants operate and optimize their applications in alleviating the negative impacts of stress hormones on embryonic development. This study highlights the significance of strategically selecting antioxidants for therapeutic uses related to stress in embryogenesis while laying the groundwork for future studies in human pregnancy contexts.
Recommended Citation
Ayorinde, Ayomi and Paitz, Ryan, "Quercetin’s Impact on Chicken Embryo Development Under Corticosterone Influence: A Comparative Study with Trolox" (2025). University Research Symposium. 492.
https://ir.library.illinoisstate.edu/rsp_urs/492