Antioxidant systems and oxidative stress in the testes

(1 → 3)-β-d-glucan enhances the toxicity induced by Bortezomib in rat testis

We aimed to determine the possible effects of the antioxidant agent (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan on bortezomib-induced rat testis damage. We used five groups of rats; control, (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan (75 mg/kg), bortezomib group, bortezomib + (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan groups (injection of (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan after bortezomib and sacrificed at 48th or 72nd h). The effects of these substances were assessed by measuring the levels of the antioxidant enzymes and LPO, and by performing immunohistochemical analysis with NF-κB. The histology of testis was evaluated using aniline blue staining. (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan leads to significant reductions in the levels of antioxidant enzymes and increased levels of LPO in testes. Moreover, it increased the NF-κB immunopositivity significantly in testis, especially in Bortezomib + (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan group at 48th h. The histological changes were observed in the bortezomib and/or (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan groups. Our results demonstrated that testis damage caused by the treatment with bortezomib was not eliminated by (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan and shockingly it increased the damage. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The testis damage caused by the treatment with bortezomib was not eliminated by (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan and as a result, β-1,3-(D)-glucan enhanced the toxicity by leading a decrease in the levels of GSH, SOD, and CAT, thus caused an elevation in the immunoreactivity of NF-κB and altered the histopathological changes by enhancing the toxic effects of bortezomib. The findings of the previous studies about the antioxidative activity of (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan are controversial. So, it is necessary to consider the cytotoxicity of (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan in testis tissue. Thus, more studies on testis tissue are necessary to confirm that (1 → 3)-β-D-glucan is safe as an antioxidant.

Attenuation of sleep deprivation dependent deterioration in male fertility parameters by vitamin C

PURPOSE

Male fertility is multifaceted and its integrity is as well multifactorial. Normal spermatogenesis is dependent on competent testicular function; namely normal anatomy, histology, physiology and hormonal regulation. Lifestyle stressors, including sleep interruption and even deprivation, have been shown to seriously impact male fertility. We studied here both the effects and the possible underlying mechanisms of vitamin C on male fertility in sleep deprived rats.

METHODS

Thirty male Wistar albino rats were used in the present study. Rats were divided (10/group) into: control (remained in their cages with free access to food and water), sleep deprivation (SD) group (subjected to paradoxical sleep deprivation for 5 consequent days, rats received intra-peritoneal injections of vehicle daily throughout the sleep deprivation), and sleep deprivation vitamin C-treated (SDC) group (subjected to sleep deprivation for 5 consequent days with concomitant intra-peritoneal injections of 100 mg/kg/day vitamin C). Sperm analysis, hormonal assay, and measurement of serum oxidative stress and inflammatory markers were performed. Testicular gene expression of Nrf2 and NF-κβ was assessed. Structural changes were evaluated by testicular histopathology, while PCNA immunostaining was conducted to assess spermatogenesis.

RESULTS

Sleep deprivation had significantly altered sperm motility, viability, morphology and count. Serum levels of cortisol, corticosterone, IL-6, IL-17, MDA were increased, while testosterone and TAC levels were decreased. Testicular gene expression of Nrf2 was decreased, while NF-κβ was increased. Sleep deprivation caused structural changes in the testes, and PCNA immunostaining showed defective spermatogenesis. Administration of vitamin C significantly countered sleep deprivation induced deterioration in male fertility parameters.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with vitamin C enhanced booth testicular structure and function in sleep deprived rats. Vitamin C could be a potential fertility enhancer against lifestyle stressors.

The Role of Genetics and Oxidative Stress in the Etiology of Male Infertility-A Unifying Hypothesis?

Despite the high prevalence of male infertility, very little is known about its etiology. In recent years however, advances in gene sequencing technology have enabled us to identify a large number of rare single point mutations responsible for impeding all aspects of male reproduction from its embryonic origins, through the endocrine regulation of spermatogenesis to germ cell differentiation and sperm function. Such monogenic mutations aside, the most common genetic causes of male infertility are aneuploidies such as Klinefelter syndrome and Y-chromosome mutations which together account for around 20-25% of all cases of non-obstructive azoospermia. Oxidative stress has also emerged as a major cause of male fertility with at least 40% of patients exhibiting some evidence of redox attack, resulting in high levels of lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage in the form of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG). The latter is highly mutagenic and may contribute to de novo mutations in our species, 75% of which are known to occur in the male germ line. An examination of 8OHdG lesions in the human sperm genome has revealed ~9,000 genomic regions vulnerable to oxidative attack in spermatozoa. While these oxidized bases are generally spread widely across the genome, a particular region on chromosome 15 appears to be a hot spot for oxidative attack. This locus maps to a genetic location which has linkages to male infertility, cancer, imprinting disorders and a variety of behavioral conditions (autism, bipolar disease, spontaneous schizophrenia) which have been linked to the age of the father at the moment of conception. We present a hypothesis whereby a number of environmental, lifestyle and clinical factors conspire to induce oxidative DNA damage in the male germ line which then triggers the formation de novo mutations which can have a major impact on the health of the offspring including their subsequent fertility.

Effects of gallic acid on rat testopathy following morphine administration: an experimental study

Introduction: Morphine (MOR) as a psychoactive agent in the opium family causes free radicals accumulation which leads to failure in spermatogenesis. Gallic acid (GA), a polyphenolic acid, is found in various plants with antioxidant, anti-fungal, anti-viral, and anti-allergic activities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of GA against MOR-induced damage to the reproductive parameter of rats. Methods: Sixty-four male Wistar rats (8 weeks, 220-250 g) were categorized into 8 groups by random (n=8/each); normal control and MOR control groups; GA groups (5, 10, 20 mg/kg) and MOR + GA groups (5, 10, 20 mg/kg). Treatments were administered intraperitoneally (i.p), daily for 4 weeks. The sperm parameters, spermatogenesis index (SI), total antioxidant capacity, testosterone level, and seminiferous tube diameter (STD) were assessed. Results: All sperm parameters reduced significantly in the MOR control group than to the normal control group (P < 0.01). All parameters were significantly improved in GA and GA + MOR treatment groups compared to the MOR control group (P < 0.01). Conclusion: MOR caused a detrimental effect on male reproductive parameters. Also, no significant modifications were observed in all doses of GA treatments in comparison with the normal control group. GA compensates the toxic effect of MOR on reproductive parameters. Hence, GA administration is beneficial in MOR users.

Imbalanced testicular metabolism induced by thyroid disorders: New evidences from quantitative proteome

Thyroid dysfunctions, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, are the second most prevalent endocrinopathies and are associated to reproductive disorders in men. Several genes are differentially modulated by thyroid hormones in testes and imbalances in thyroid hormone levels are also associated to alterations on sperm functionality. Imbalances on antioxidant defense mechanism and stress oxidative have been pointed out as the main factors for the impairments on male reproductive function. To clarify this issue, we investigated the expression and activity of antioxidant enzymes in testis, followed by their proteomic profile in attempt to characterize the mechanisms involved in the alterations induced by hypo- or hyperthyroidism in adult male rats. Hypothyroidism reduced the Gsr transcript expression and the activity of CAT and GSR enzymes, while the hyperthyroidism reduced the Gpx4 var2 transcript expression. Among 1082 identified proteins, 123 and 37 proteins were downregulated by hypothyroidism compared to euthyroid and hyperthyroid condition, respectively, being 36 proteins commonly reduced in both comparisons and one exclusively in hypo-hyperthyroidism comparison. A network containing 29 nodes and 68 edges was obtained in protein-protein interaction analysis and the functional enrichment analysis of differentially expressed proteins revealed significant alterations for several functions in hypo-euthyroid and hypo-hyperthyroid comparisons, such as ATP metabolic process, coenzyme binding, sperm part, peroxiredoxin activity, mitochondrial protein complex, intramolecular oxidoreductase activity, binding of sperm to zona pellucida, glutathione transferase activity, response to testosterone. Thus, there is a correlation between thyroid disorders and impaired antioxidant defense mechanism, resulting in reproductive dysfunctions, as infertility, mainly observed in hypothyroidism.

Ameliorative effects of crocin on paraquat-induced oxidative stress in testis of adult mice: An experimental study

Background

Paraquat (PQ), as a pyridine compound, is widely used worldwide to control annual weeds. The oxidative stress caused by PQ can cause deleterious changes in the testicular tissue.

Objective

An investigation on the protective effects of Crocin (CCN) against PQ-induced oxidative damages and apoptotic indices in testicular tissue.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-eight adult male albino mice (20-25 gr) were divided into four groups (n = 7/each). The control group received 0.1 ml/day of normal saline by intraperitoneal injection (IP); sham-control group received PQ 5 mg/kg/day, IP, and the experimental groups received PQ (CCN+PQ) and CCN-sole (200 mg/kg/day, IP), respectively, for 35 continuous days. At the end of the treatment period, the testes were dissected out and used for biochemical, molecular, and histological analyses. The expressions of tumor suppressor p53, B-cell lymphoma 2 (bcl-2), and caspase-3 were considered as hallmark factors of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis. Moreover, the testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were evaluated as key biomarkers for oxidative stress.

Results

The PQ significantly (p < 0.02, p < 0.01) diminished the spermatogenesis indices and SOD, increased MDA levels, and enhanced the apoptosis-related gene expression. However, the co-administration of CCN and PQ significantly (p < 0.01, p < 0.01, p < 0.02) ameliorated the spermatogenesis ratio, upregulated the SOD level as well as bcl-2 expression, and reduced the MDA content and apoptosis vs the PQ-sole group.

Conclusion

This study showed that the antioxidant properties of CCN enable to ameliorate the PQ-induced destructive effects by upregulating the testicular structure, antioxidant and apoptotic status.

Effect of monosodium glutamate on testicular tissue of paclitaxel-treated mice: An experimental study

Background

Paclitaxel (PTX), a chemotherapeutic agent, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) have oxidative effects on testicular tissue.

Objective

In this study, the effects of MSG administration on the exacerbation of testicular tissue alterations related to PTX treatment were evaluated.

Materials and Methods

MSG (30 & 60 mg/kg i.p.) was administrated to six groups (n = 8/each) of adult mice before or after PTX treatment: control, PTX-treated, MSG30 + PTX, MSG60 + PTX, PTX + MSG30, and PTX + MSG60. Following the euthanizing, the body weight measurement, pituitary-testicular axis hormonal analysis and serum lipid peroxidation index assessment was prepared, testicular histomorphometry (tubular diameter and germinal epithelium height), immunohistochemistry of p53 was completed. Microscopic indices of spermatogenesis (tubular differentiation, spermiogenesis and repopulation indices) were studied.

Results

Body weight was not changed significantly. The levels of testosterone (p = 0.0001), follicle stimulating hormone (p = 0.019), and luteinizing hormone (p = 0.08) were decreased while the level of lipid peroxidation index was increased (p = 0.208) in the treated groups. The histomorphometry indices (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.001, respectively), germ cells population (p < 0.05) and microscopic indices of spermatogenesis (p = 0.001, p = 0.005, p < 0.0001, respectively) were significantly reduced in all treated groups. The administration of MSG before PTX treatment induces more changes. The most positive reaction to p53 was observed in MSG30 or 60 + PTX groups compared to other groups.

Conclusion

The administration of MSG could intensify testicular tissue alterations related to PTX chemotherapy.

The protective effect of Pentoxifylline on testopathy in male rats following Dimethyl Nitrosamine administration: An experimental study

Background

Nitrosamines as a carcinogenic agent has unfavorable effects on some of the male reproductive parameters. Pentoxifylline (PX) is a xanthine derivative used as a drug inhibiting the inflammatory factors, reducing blood viscosity, improving peripheral blood flow, and so on. Objective: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effects of PX against Dimethyl nitrosamine (DMN)-inducing the damage to the reproductive parameter of male rats.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, 48 male Wistar rats (8 wk, 220-250 gr) were randomly assigned to eight groups (n = 6/each): normal control and DMN control groups (40 mg/kg); PX groups (25, 50, 100 mg/kg), and DMN + PX groups (25, 50, 100 mg/kg). Treatments were administered intraperitoneally and the gavage applied daily for 28 days. The sperm parameters, spermatogenesis index, total antioxidant capacity, testosterone level, and seminiferous tube diameter were assessed.

Results

The values of all parameters reduced significantly in the DMN control group compared to the normal control group (p < 0.001). The PX and PX + DMN treatments at all entirely doses improved all parameters significantly compared to the DMN control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

DMN caused detrimental effects on reproductive parameters. Also, no significant modifications were observed in PX treatments at all doses compared to the normal control group. PX compensated the toxic effect of DMN on reproductive parameters.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate modulates germ cell apoptosis through the SAFE/Nrf2 signaling pathway

To examine the role of the transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and the SAFE pathway (JAK/STAT) in the induction of germ cell apoptosis (GCA) and the protective role of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) during testicular ischemia reperfusion injury (tIRI). Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 18) were divided into three groups: sham, unilateral tIRI, tIRI + epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG, 50 mg/Kg). Unilateral tIRI was induced by 1-h ischemia followed by 4-h reperfusion, and EGCG was injected i.p. 30-min post ischemia. Immuno-histological analyses were used to detect spermatogenesis, oxidative DNA damage, and the immuno-expression of the JAK2, STAT3, and STAT1. Biochemical assays were used to investigate the oxidative, apoptosis proteins and enzymes, while Western blot was used to detect the expression of NOX and Nrf2. Expression of apoptosis-related genes was measured by real-time PCR. During tIRI, there was a clear damage to spermatogenesis associated with decreased activities of SOD, CAT, and GPx and increased levels of lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. In addition, GCA was indicated by the activation of caspase1, PARP, decreased gene expression of survivin and increased Bax to Bcl2 ratio. In contrast to lowered Nrf2 levels, NOX levels were augmented and phosphorylation of JAK2, STAT3, and STAT1 was increased. Pre-perfusion treatment with EGCG prevented the above modulations. The coordinated activation of the SAFE pathway and suppression of Nrf2 contribute to the tIRI-induced oxidative damages and GCA, which were modulated by EGCG.

Amoxicillin and gentamicin antibiotics treatment adversely influence the fertility and morphology through decreasing the Dazl gene expression level and increasing the oxidative stress

The present study was designed to explain the impact of amoxicillin, gentamicin, and cefazolin on the oxidative stress (OS) and reproductivity in the mouse testes. Our data showed that reduced glutathione (GSH) level, which is a marker for OS, strikingly reduced and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) level, which acts as a signaling molecule in mammalian germ cells, strikingly increased with amoxicillin, gentamicin, and cefazolin treatment. The gene expression and enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), and glutathione-S-transferases (GST) were significantly affected in the presence of these antibiotics. Also, spermatogenesis was adversely affected by suppressing Deleted in Azoospermia (Dazl) gene expression. Finally, oxidative stress and spermatogenesis failure distorted to sperm viability, motility, and morphology in amoxicillin and gentamicin-treated mice.

Evaluation of Sperm Impairing Factor from Serratia marcescens as Male Contraceptive in Mouse Model

The present study was carried out to assess the contraceptive efficacy of sperm agglutinating factor (SAF) isolated from Serratia marcescens, in male Balb/c mice. Mice were administered via an intratesticular route with different concentrations of SAF, viz., 10, 50, 100, 200, or 400 µg, in the right testis only which served as a test while the left side served as control except otherwise stated. Mice were sacrificed on day 3, 7, 14, 21, 30, 45, 60, and 90 after administration, and results in terms of change in body weight, seminal parameters, tissue somatic indices (TSI), hematological parameters, serum level of testosterone, lipid peroxidation, and histology were studied. The body weight and TSI remained unaffected in all the experimental groups. In case of seminal parameters, the right testis treated with 10 μg, 50 μg, 100 μg, 200 μg, or 400 μg of SAF showed azoospermia up to day 7, 14, 21, 45, and 90, respectively. The hematological indices, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were found to be unaltered when the group receiving SAF (test) was compared with the groups receiving phosphate buffer saline (control) in the right testis; however, the treatment had a negative effect on the serum level of testosterone. It also affected the oxidative status of the right testis. Furthermore, histological studies revealed hypospermatogenesis and alterations in the seminiferous tubules which included intraepithelial vacuolation and exfoliation in the right side as compared to the left side. Thus, the results suggest that SAF (400 µg) causes suppression of spermatogenesis, without causing apparent toxic effects.

Subacute Testicular Toxicity to Cadmium Exposure Intraperitoneally and Orally

The toxic effects of cadmium (Cd) on reproductive parameters are widely described in the literature. Experimental models often make use of the intraperitoneal route (i.p.), although human intoxication occurs preferentially by the oral route and can be continuous. However, little is known about the effect of Cd administration routes on the testicular structure. Thus, this study investigated the testicular impact of Cd exposure comparing both i.p. and oral routes, both single dose (SD), in addition to the oral route in fractional doses (FD). Swiss adult male mice received CdCl₂ 1.5 mg/kg i.p., 30 mg/kg oral SD, and 4.28 mg/kg oral FD for 7 consecutive days. The Cd bioaccumulation was observed in all routes, mainly in the oral FD route. The concentrations of testicular Ca and Cu decreased in all animals exposed to Cd, while Zn and Mn decreased only in the i.p. route. Testicular SOD activity was reduced in both routes of oral administration, while CAT increased in the i.p. route, and GST increased in all animals exposed to Cd. Changes in the tubular parameters and cell viability were observed in both routes of Cd administration but were more intense in the oral route, mainly in the FD. Serum testosterone concentration was reduced in both routes of oral administration. Tubular damage, such as the vacuolization of the seminiferous epithelium, germ cell detachment, and seminiferous tubule degeneration, occurred in all groups exposed to Cd. Therefore, the oral Cd administration presented greater potential to promote testicular damage, mainly when the metal was given in a fractionated way.

Coenzyme Q10 mitigates ionizing radiation-induced testicular damage in rats through inhibition of oxidative stress and mitochondria-mediated apoptotic cell death

Radiotherapy is a common treatment modality for cancer patients; however, its use is limited by decreasing the probability of fertility in male cancer survivors. Therefore, this study aimed to define the capability of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a potent stimulator of mitochondrial function, in attenuating ionizing radiation (IR)-induced spermatogenesis impairments. Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to a single dose of ϒ-rays (10 Gy) and/or treated with CoQ10 (10 mg/kg, orally, for 2 consecutive weeks). IR mediated irregular seminiferous tubules, which were emerged with typical morphological characteristics of apoptosis, and nuclear condensation, while CoQ10 significantly preserved the testicular structure and maintained spermatogenesis, which was displayed by higher levels of serum estradiol and testosterone. CoQ10 remarkably augmented sperm count, motility, and viability while diminished the rate of sperm-defects relatively to their counterparts after IR exposure. CoQ10 modulations in reproductive parameters were underpinned by attenuating IR-induced oxidative stress as evidenced by decreasing lipid peroxidation and increasing the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-s-transferase activities, and glutathione level. Supporting the involvement of CoQ10 in the anti-apoptotic response, the reduced mRNA expression levels of p53, Puma, and Bax accompanied by the increased Bcl-2 mRNA expression were observed. Subsequently, CoQ10 ameliorated the mitochondria dependent apoptotic pathway through diminishing Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, caspase-3 protein expression, and DNA fragmentation in testes of irradiated rats. Taken together, our findings showed that CoQ10 conserved against IR-induced steroidogenesis disruption through subsiding mitochondria-mediated oxidative stress injury in germinal cells.

The effect of maternal treatment with diclofenac sodium and thymoquinone on testicular parameters in rat offspring

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Diclofenac sodium (DS) can have toxic effects on various tissues and organs, as well as causing foetal and new-born malformations. Thymoquinone (TQ), the basic bioactive compound of black seed oil, is an antioxidant and antineoplastic substance. The aim of our study was to explore the effects of DS and TQ exposure during gestation on offspring rat testicular histology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mother pregnant rats were divided into five groups: control, saline, DS, TQ and DS plus TQ (DS+TQ) four animals for each group. They were then treated as follows between day of 5 and 15 of gestation: the control group received no treatment. The saline group received physiological saline (1mg/kg/d) via the intraperitoneal (IP) route; the DS group received an intramuscular (IM) injection of DS (6.1mg/kg/d); the TQ group received TQ (5mg/kg/d) dissolved in drinking water; and the DS+TQ group received DS (6.1mg/kg/d) and TQ (5mg/kg/d) dissolved in water. After birth, the male rats were fed for four weeks, and at the end of this period offspring were sacrificed. Stereological methods, physical disector and Cavalieri principle were used for particle counting and volume estimation respectively.

RESULTS

The results revealed a significant decrease in the total number of Sertoli and Leydig cells in 4-week-old rats in the DS group (p<0.05), and TQ not have provide protection against this adverse effect of DS.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, DS at a dose of 6.1mg/kg, equivalent to a dose of 1mg/kg in humans, decreased the number of Sertoli and Leydig cells, and TQ did not have a protective effect against the adverse effect of DS during the gestation period. These results show that new dose depend studies on TQ and DS interaction are requested to see protective effect of TQ.

Fenpropathrin induces testicular damage, apoptosis, and genomic DNA damage in adult rats: Protective role of camel milk

Fenpropathrin (FNP) is a member of the synthetic pyrethroids. Herein, the present study was conducted to investigate, for the first time, the potentially harmful effects of FNP on the reproductive system of male rats. In addition, the prophylactic or concurrent influence of camel milk (CM) was assessed. Adult male rats were divided into five groups; control, vehicle control (oil), CM (2ml/rat/day), FNP (15mg/kg bwt/60 days), CM/FNP (prophylaxis) and FNP /CM (co-treated) groups. Sperm morphology, count, serum testosterone (TES), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), testicular enzymes, and comet assay analysis were estimated. In addition, histopathology, the ultrastructure of testicular tissue and apoptosis were evaluated. Reduced body weight and gonadosomatic index were observed in the FNP exposed group. TES, LH, FSH were markedly declined following FNP treatment. SOD and TAC concentrations were reduced while PC and TBARS were significantly elevated in FNP group indicating oxidative stress. Furthermore, FNP induced DNA damage and apoptosis in the testis which was evidenced histopathologically and by electron microscope examination. CM significantly counteracted FNP reprotoxic effects, particularly at the prophylactic routine (CM/FNP) than the co-exposure (FNP/CM) one. Conclusively, these findings verified that CM could be a potential candidate therapy against FNP reprotoxic impacts.

Effects of N-nitro L-arginine methyl ester and α-tocopherol on testicular oxidative stress caused by exposure to cigarette smoke

Testis is a rich organ with blood vessels. For this reason, it is possible that the toxic substances of the cigarette carried in the blood change the balance between the oxidant and the antioxidant system in this organ. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of N-nitro L-arginine methyl ester and α-tocopherol on testicular oxidative stress caused by exposure to cigarette smoke. 45 wistar male rats were used in the study. Five groups were formed: control, cigarette smoke, cigarette smoke + α-tocopherol, cigarette smoke + N-nitro L-arginine methyl ester and cigarette smoke + α-tocopherol + N-nitro L-arginine methyl ester. Biochemical and histological evaluations were performed to determine the damage caused by cigarette smoke. It was observed that there were structural and functional disturbances at the cellular and hormonal level in the smoking group. Biochemical evaluations showed that cellular damage was reduced in treatment groups. Histological examinations were revealed that the damage caused by cigarette smoke exposure was eliminated in treatment groups. As a result of our study, we think that oxidative damage and hormonal irregularity in the testes tissue caused by cigarette smoke exposure can be improved with α-tocopherol and N-nitro L-arginine methyl ester application.

Warfarin-induced vitamin K deficiency affects spermatogenesis in Sprague-Dawley rats

Vitamin K is present in the testes though its actual function in male reproduction is poorly understood. This study investigated the harmful effect of extrahepatic vitamin K insufficiency on the testicular structure. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed with a diet containing warfarin for 2, 4 and 8 weeks; control animals received a standard diet without warfarin. It was found that extrahepatic vitamin K deficiency that is induced by warfarin results in histopathological features that range from delayed spermiation, presence of multinucleated giant cells in the seminiferous tubules, germ cells degeneration, asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia and increase in the percentage of abnormal sperm morphology when compared to the controls. Data obtained from the two groups were analysed using the Student t test. It is concluded that warfarin-induced vitamin K deficiency has a negative impact on spermatogenesis.

Combined addition of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase improves quality of cooled stored stallion semen

During cold storage stallion spermatozoa experience undergo oxidative stress, which can impair sperm function and fertilizing capacity. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) are the main endogenous enzymatic antioxidants in stallion seminal plasma, and counteract reactive oxygen species. Semen dilution reduces the endogenous antioxidant concentrations. The aim of this study was to investigate whether addition of 15 IU/mL each of SOD, CAT, and GPX to diluted stallion semen would ameliorate a reactive oxygen-mediated decrease in semen quality during 72 h of storage at 5 °C. Ejaculates (n = 7) were divided in two aliquots and diluted in INRA 96 without (control) or with addition of antioxidants. Semen analysis was performed at the time of dilution and every 24 h during chilled storage. Antioxidant supplementation completely inhibited the storage-dependent increase in activated caspase 3 (P < 0.05). Concomitantly, the antioxidant-supplemented samples had a greater percentage of viable, motile and rapidly moving sperm than control samples after 72 h storage (P < 0.05). The DNA damage, as evaluated by TUNEL assay and SCSA, increased with storage time (P < 0.05). Antioxidant supplementation did not prevent, but did significantly reduce the increase in DNA strand breakage. The results indicate part of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway leading to effector caspase activation was inhibited, although an activation of molecules with endonuclease activity still occurred. In conclusion, adding equal concentrations of SOD, CAT and GPX to a semen extender suppressed caspase-3 activation and improved preservation of stallion sperm motility and viability during 72 h of storage at 5 °C.

Ameliorative Effect Of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Against Dermal Toxicity Induced By Lead Oxide In Rats

Background

Recently, several studies demonstrate the possible role of zinc oxide (ZnO) in the protection of several skin diseases, but less is known about the role of ZnO nanoparticles in the inflammatory skin disease. So, this study was designed to confirm the pivotal role of the nano zinc oxide cream in the alleviation of lead oxide (PbO) induced-allergic dermatitis in rats.

Materials and methods

Two concentrations (1% and 6%) of ZnONPs creams were prepared and characterized prior to being used in the study. A total number of 30 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups. Group 1 (negative control), groups 2&3 (either 1% or 6% ZnONPs control groups), group 4 (PbO), groups 5&6 (co-treatment of each ZnONPs concentration+PbO). All rats in different groups were observed daily to determine the severity of dermal gross lesions. Histopathological studies, mRNA analysis, and oxidative stress evaluations were performed on the affected skin tissue. Immunohistochemical studies were performed to evaluate the expression of cluster of differentiation CD4, CD8 and intercellular adhesion molecules ICAM-1 in different groups.

Results

PbO caused extensive skin oxidative damage manifested by a significant increase in MDA level with a decrease in GSH content and CAT activity. The results of histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations revealed that topical application of PbO for 14 days led to severe allergic dermatitis with remarkable elevations in the number of CD4+ T-helper, CD8+ T-cytotoxic lymphocytes, and ICAM-1 expression. On the other hand, noticeable improvements were recorded in all the previous toxicopathological parameters among the groups treated by either 1% or 6% ZnO-NPs cream. However, the best results were observed in the group treated with 1% ZnO-NPs cream.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that 1% of ZnO-NPs cream is safe when applied topically on the inflamed skin. Moreover, it had anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects so that, it is recommended to use the 1% ZnO-NPs cream to avert the dermal toxicity-induced by PbO.

Reproductive toxic effects and possible mechanisms of zonisamide in male rats

Zonisamide (ZNS) is an anticonvulsant which is used to treat the symptoms of epilepsy. Although it is frequently used during reproductive ages, studies that investigated the effects of ZNS on reproductive system are limited. Therefore, we aimed to assess the effects of ZNS on male reproductive system by oral administration to rats in 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg doses for 28 days. After the exposure period, sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and DNA damage, as biomarkers of reproductive toxic effects, were determined, and histopathological examination of testis was performed. In addition, levels of the hormones that play a role in the regulation of reproductive functions, such as follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone were measured and the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers that take part in the reproductive pathologies such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and malondialdehyde, were determined. Reproductive toxic effects related to ZNS administration were shown by the significant decrease of sperm concentration and normal sperm morphology in ZNS groups. Additionally, pathological findings were observed in the testicular tissues of ZNS-administered groups dose dependently. In addition, serum LH and testosterone levels were significantly decreased in the ZNS groups. Decreased catalase activities and increased malondialdehyde levels in ZNS groups were evaluated as oxidative stress findings in the testis tissue. It could be expressed that ZNS administration induced dose-dependent reproductive toxic effects in rats, and pathological findings associated with the reproductive system could be the result of that hormonal changes and testicular oxidative stress, which in turn might be considered as possible mechanisms of male reproductive toxicity.

Chronic dietary administration of lower levels of diethyl phthalate induces murine testicular germ cell inflammation and sperm pathologies: Involvement of oxidative stress

The wide occurrence of male infertility is a matter of grave concern. One of the major causes being exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) many of which are known reproductive toxicants but the molecular mechanisms of action remain much unexplored. Diethyl phthalate (DEP) is ubiquitous in the environment due to its extensive use as plasticizer in myriad consumer products. In the present study, we sought to find out whether chronic DEP exposure affects reproductive function in sexually mature adult male mice. For this, 8-week old Swiss albino mice were treated with DEP (1 mg and 10 mg kg^-1 body weight day^-1) in diet for three months, mirroring the relevant doses of human exposure, and various analyses were carried out in the testicular germ cells and epididymal spermatozoa. We found that altered testicular histoarchitecture was accompanied with disturbed prooxidant: antioxidant balance in the germ cells. Involvement of Nrf2-HO-1 pathway was crucial in this altered cellular redox state. Besides, NFκB mediated inflammatory response was triggered in the germ cells leading to enhanced levels of proinflammatory cytokines. DEP adversely affected sperm count, motility, viability and morphology. Numerous structural anomalies were found in DEP treated mice spermatozoa reflecting decline in sperm function. Our results revealed overactivation of PARP-1 and subsequent cleavage in spermatozoa with induction of apoptosis as a key mechanism in DEP mediated sperm pathology. Given the indiscriminate use of plasticizers and long term low level human exposure, the present study highlights the undesirable male reproductive outcomes following chronic DEP exposure.

Direct actions of adiponectin on changes in reproductive, metabolic, and anti-oxidative enzymes status in the testis of adult mice

Obesity is a major health problem that is linked to decreased sperm count. It is hypothesized that an obesity-associated reduction in adiponectin secretion may be responsible for impairment of spermatogenesis. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate the direct role of adiponectin in spermatogenesis and steroid synthesis in adult mice. This study showed that adiponectin receptors (AdipoR1 and AdipoR2) were localized in Leydig cells and seminiferous tubules in the testis of adult mice. The result of the in vitro study showed the direct action of adiponectin on spermatogenesis by stimulating cell proliferation (PCNA) and survival (Bcl2) and by suppressing cell apoptosis. Treatment of testis with adiponectin also enhanced transport of the energetic substrates glucose and lactate to protect cells from undergoing apoptosis. Adiponectin treatment further showed a significant reduction in oxidative stress and nitric oxide. Our findings suggest that adiponectin effectively facilitates cell survival and proliferation, as well as protects from apoptosis. Thus, adiponectin treatment may be responsible for enhancing sperm counts. Interestingly, this study showed the stimulatory effect of adiponectin in spermatogenesis but showed an inhibitory effect on testosterone and estradiol synthesis in the testes. Based on the present study, it is hypothesized that systemic adiponectin treatment may be a promising therapeutic strategy for the improvement of spermatogenesis and sperm count.

The relationship of body condition, superoxide dismutase, and superoxide with sperm performance

Sperm competition theory predicts a negative correlation between somatic investment and traits that aid in pre- and postcopulatory sexual selection. Sperm performance is critical for postcopulatory success but sperm are susceptible to damage by free radicals such as superoxide radicals generated during mitochondrial respiration (mtSOx). Males can ameliorate damage to spermatozoa by investing in the production of antioxidants, like superoxide dismutase (SOD), which may act as a mechanistic link to pre- and postcopulatory trade-offs. Some male Australian, color-polymorphic painted dragon lizards (Ctenophorus pictus) possess a yellow throat patch (bib) that females prefer over nonbibbed males and are also more likely to win male–male contests indicating that males with bibs may be better at monopolizing females. We tested whether the sperm performance in nonbibbed males was superior to that of bibbed males. We show that overall sperm performance was not different between the bib-morphs, however, higher mtSOx levels were negatively correlated with sperm performance in bibbed males, but not of nonbibbed males. Blood cell mtSOx levels are negatively correlated with SOD activity in the plasma in all males early in the breeding season but SOD was lower in bibbed males. Nonbibbed males maintain a positive correlation between body condition and SOD activity over time while bibbed males do not. Together, these data suggest physiological associations between body condition, SOD activity, and sperm performance are linked to the expression of a yellow gular patch, which may be related to intrinsic differences in the metabolism of bibbed versus nonbibbed males.

Physiological Adaptation to Simultaneous Chronic Exposure to High-Fat Diet and Dichlorodipheniletylhene (DDE) in Wistar Rat Testis

Environmental chemicals can be introduced by consuming contaminated foods. The environmental chemical dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), a persistent metabolite of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), can affect spermatogenesis. Our study aims to evaluate, by using spectrophotometric analyses, western blot, and immunohistochemistry, the adaptive responses in testis of adult rats treated with a non-toxic dose of DDE, alone or in association with a high-fat diet (HFD). Four experimental groups were performed: N (normal diet); D (HFD); D + DDE (HFD + DDE); N + DDE (normal diet + DDE). D group showed a reduction in antioxidant capacity, and increases in lipid peroxidation, apoptosis, and proliferation associated with morphological impairment. A reduction in androgen receptor (AR) and serum testosterone levels were also found. DDE-treated groups exhibited higher lipid peroxidation levels compared to N and D, associated with pronounced defect in antioxidant capacity, apoptosis, cellular proliferation, as well as with tissue damage. Moreover, decreases in AR and serum testosterone levels were found in DDE-treated groups vs. N and D. In conclusion, HFD and DDE produced cellular stress leading to antioxidant impairment, apoptosis, and decreases in AR and serum testosterone levels associated with tissue damage. Cellular proliferation could be used as an adaptation to counterbalance the occurred damage, maintaining a pool of tubules that follow physiological maturation.

Prepubertal exposure to perfluorononanoic acid interferes with spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in male mice

Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are widely used in industrial and commercial products and possess endocrine disrupting properties. Perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), one of PFAAs, has been mainly reported to produce testicular toxicity in adult animals. The objective of the present study was to examine the effect of acute exposure of PFNA to prepubertal male Parkes (P) mice on spermatogenesis and testicular steroidogenesis, and to study the possible mechanism(s) of its action. PFNA (2 and 5 mg/kg) was orally administered to male P mice for 14 days from postnatal day 25-38. Histologically, testis in PFNA-treated mice showed non-uniform diverse degenerative changes in the seminiferous tubules; both normal and affected tubules were seen in the same testicular sections. The treatment caused a reduction in intra-testicular and serum testosterone levels accompanied by a decrease in testicular expression of SF1, StAR, CYP11A1, and 3β- and17β-HSD. Further, the activity of antioxidant enzymes and expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 in the testis were markedly decreased, while the level of lipid peroxidation and expression of IKKβ, NF-κB and caspase-3 were significantly increased in testis of PFNA-treated mice. There was also a decrease in PCNA expression and in PCNA-index and an increase in TUNEL-positive germ cells in testes of PFNA-treated mice. In conclusion, the results suggest that PFNA exposure to prepubertal male mice altered antioxidant enzymes activity and Nrf2-HO-1 signaling, leading to oxidative stress and a decrease in testosterone biosynthesis in the testis; these changes, in turn, caused increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation of germ cells, thereby suppression of spermatogenesis.

Evaluation of ameliorating effect of lycopene against testicular toxicity due to diethylnitrosamine using biochemical, spermatological and histopathological data

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible therapeutic or protective effects of lycopene on diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced testicular lipid peroxidation and on the associated changes in spermatological parameters and histopathological architecture of rat testis. DEN is a carcinogenic substance that can be derived from chemicals used in agriculture, such as insecticides and nitrate. The rats were assigned to control, lycopene, DEN(1), DEN(2), lycopene + DEN(1), lycopene + DEN(2), DEN(1) + lycopene and DEN(2) + lycopene groups. During the study, lycopene was administered by oral gavage at a dose of 10 mg kg^-1  bw^-1 every other day for 10 days and DEN was administered at a dose of 200 mg  kg^-1  bw^-1 as a single dose intraperitoneally. DEN was applied for 30 days in group DEN(1) and for 90 days in group DEN(2). Malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, antioxidant enzymes activities, spermatological parameters, the weight of the reproductive organs (v. seminalis, prostate, testis and epididymis) and the histopathological structure were determined. MDA levels significantly increased, while GSH and antioxidant enzymes' activities decreased in DEN groups (p < 0.001). There was an increase in the rate of abnormal spermatozoa and a decrease in sperm density and motility, and reproductive organ weight (the weight of the right and left testis) in both DEN groups. Lycopene has normalised biochemical and spermatological parameters and reproductive organ weight. The histopathological examination of testicular tissue showed that the most significant histopathological change in DEN groups was the seminiferous tubule dilatation. These results suggest that besides the protective effects, the therapeutic effect of lycopene is possibly due to its antioxidant effects on DEN-induced testicular toxicity.

Associations between major dietary patterns and testicular function in a population-based cohort of young men: results from the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study

BACKGROUND

Controversial speculation suggestions that dietary intake may affect semen quality and testicular function, however, there are limited comprehensive studies observing dietary patterns.

OBJECTIVE

To study associations between major dietary patterns and markers of testicular function in adulthood.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Observational cross-sectional study of two hundred and ninety men with an average age of 20 years, from the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study. Usual dietary intake assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire at 20 years of age. Two dietary patterns previously identified using exploratory factor analysis ("Healthy" or "Western") and participants received z-scores for each dietary pattern. Primary endpoints were testicular volume, total sperm per ejaculate, morning serum testosterone concentration. Secondary endpoints were semen sample parameters, inhibin B and sex steroids (DHT: 3α-diol, 3β-diol; LH; FSH; DHEA; estradiol; estrone).

RESULT(S)

Participants were on average 20.0 ± 0.4 years old, had a median of 2 days sexual abstinence and a body mass index of 24.1 ± 3.9 kg/m² , 13% were smokers, 52% were 'moderate' alcohol drinkers, 23% frequently used recreational drugs and 68% reported 'high' physical activity levels. Sperm concentration and DHT 3α-diol were negatively associated with a greater z-score for the "Western" dietary pattern (p = 0.007 and; p = 0.044, respectively), and serum estradiol concentration was positively associated with a "Western" dietary pattern (p = 0.007) after adjustment for BMI, varicocele, cryptorchidism and sexual abstinence.

DISCUSSION

Despite associations between greater intake of the "Western" dietary pattern and a decreased male reproductive health markers, our lack of consistent associations of either a "Healthy" or a "Western" dietary pattern, limit clinical or biological significance in isolation.

CONCLUSIONS

A potential negative association of a "Western" dietary pattern with male reproductive health was detected and should be studied further in population-based studies.

Dietary Guanidinoacetic acid modulates testicular histology and expression of c-Kit and STRA8 genes in roosters

Decline in semen quality is considered as a major contributing factor in age-related subfertility of broiler breeder flocks. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation of Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA), as an alternative energy source along with antioxidant potential, on testicular histology and relative gene expression of some spermatogonial markers (c-Kit and STRA8) in aged roosters. Sixteen 24-week-old male broiler breeders were randomly allocated into four groups and fed a basal diet supplemented with increasing levels of GAA including 0 (GAA-0), 600 (GAA-600), 1200 (GAA-1200) or 1800 (GAA-1800) mg/kg diet/day for 26 successive weeks. At the end of the experiment, all the birds were killed and two ipsilateral testicle samples were taken to either quantify relative gene expression or do histology. Except for seminiferous tubules' diameter, testicular weight, and the number of blood vessels, dietary supplementation of GGA improved the epithelium thickness of seminiferous tubules, the number of spermatogonia and Leydig cells and the relative gene expression of c-Kit and STRA8 (P < 0.01). Increasing levels of GAA cubically affected (P < 0.01) the diameter of seminiferous tubules and their epithelium thickness as well as the number of spermatogonia. However, number of Leydig cells and relative expression of c-Kit were linearly, and relative expression of STRA8 was quadratically (P < 0.01) enhanced in response to graded levels of GAA supplementation. Taking all parameters into account, daily supplementation of 1300-1450 mg of GAA/kg diet was estimated as an optimum dosage maximizing the evaluated traits.

Repeated oral dose toxicity study of nickel oxide nanoparticles in Wistar rats: a histological and biochemical perspective

Despite the increasing use of nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles (NPs), limited information is available on their toxicological effects. Health consequences of 28 days repeated oral exposure to NiO NPs have not been explored thoroughly. Hence, toxicity investigations were performed after 28-day daily exposure in albino Wistar rats with NiO NPs following Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development test guideline 407. Histopathology, biochemical indices including oxidative stress and biodistribution patterns were evaluated to decipher the toxicological impact of NiO NPs. NiO NP characterization by transmission electron microscopy showed an average size of 12.9 (±3.4) nm. Histological studies depicted a prominent impact on the vital organs of the rats. A dose-dependent rise in both aminotransferase enzyme values was recorded in the homogenates of liver and kidney tissues. A significant decrease in superoxide dismutase activity and increase in catalase activity was noted. Further, a dose-dependent decrease in reduced glutathione content was recorded in rats, which suggested generation of reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. Increase in the malondialdehyde levels was observed with an increase in the dose substantiating the antioxidant enzyme activity profiles. Biodistribution studies indicated maximum accumulation of Ni content in liver followed by kidney. Excretion of Ni was predominantly through feces and a little through renal clearance. Our study indicated that NiO NPs adversely alter the biochemical profile of the rats and cause histological damage. Further investigations are warranted to address the mechanism by which physiological path these NiO NPs exhibit their toxic nature in in vivo.

Graphene-Based Smart Platforms for Combined Cancer Therapy

The extensive research of graphene and its derivatives in biomedical applications during the past few years has witnessed its significance in the field of nanomedicine. Starting from simple drug delivery systems, the application of graphene and its derivatives has been extended to a versatile platform of multiple therapeutic modalities, including photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, magnetic hyperthermia therapy, and sonodynamic therapy. In addition to monotherapy, graphene-based materials are widely applied in combined therapies for enhanced anticancer activity and reduced side effects. In particular, graphene-based materials are often designed and fabricated as "smart" platforms for stimuli-responsive nanocarriers, whose therapeutic effects can be activated by the tumor microenvironment, such as acidic pH and elevated glutathione (termed as "endogenous stimuli"), or light, magnetic, or ultrasonic stimuli (termed as "exogenous stimuli"). Herein, the recent advances of smart graphene platforms for combined therapy applications are presented, starting with the principle for the design of graphene-based smart platforms in combined therapy applications. Next, recent advances of combined therapies contributed by graphene-based materials, including chemotherapy-based, photothermal-therapy-based, and ultrasound-therapy-based synergistic therapy, are outlined. In addition, current challenges and future prospects regarding this promising field are discussed.

Deciphering the molecular mechanism during doxorubicin-mediated oxidative stress, apoptosis through Nrf2 and PGC-1α in a rat testicular milieu

Doxorubicin is an extensively applied anti-cancerous drug since 1950's and its usage is constrained because of its accumulation in a non-cancerous organ. Many studies have proven that doxorubicin causes reproductive toxicity depends on its dosage, particularly due to increased oxidative stress and apoptosis. A number of the researches have been carried out concerning its prevention. But there is a need to recognize the mechanism at the back of its toxicity to get better and improved method of treatment. To clarify the feasible mechanism of doxorubicin-mediated reproductive toxicity in rats, we have administrated doxorubicin at distinct dosages inclusive of low dosage (male rats that are at 230-250 g acquired cumulatively 1.5 mg/kg; ip; once per week for five weeks) and high dosage (male rats which are at 230-250 grams obtained cumulatively 15 mg/kg; ip; once every week for five weeks). Doxorubicin decreases antioxidant level such as GSH, Cu/Zn SOD, Mn SOD both in serum and testes. Increased oxidative stress is considered via elevated MDA level both in serum and testes. The level of ROS is measured via the DCFDA method in testes. Apoptosis become found through DNA fragmentation assay and quantification of Caspase 3, Caspase 9, Bcl2 and Cytochrome C. Doxorubicin mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis in testicular milieu is through deregulation of Nrf2, PGC-1α, AHR, ARNT, PXR, SUMO-1, UCP2, UCP3, ANX A5, Caspase 3, Caspase 9, Bcl2, Cytochrome C, GR, and GPX. In end, doxorubicin-mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis is through diverse transcriptional factors and genes with respect to decreased antioxidant level, augmented ROS level and Annexin A5 in the testicular milieu.

Dexamethasone mediated downregulation of PGC-1α and visfatin regulates testosterone synthesis and antioxidant system in mouse testis

Dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid has been used as an immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory and affects reproduction. It has been suggested that testicular steroidogenesis involves PGC-1α and visfatin as key regulators. Previous studies have shown that dexamethasone down-regulates PGC-1α and visfatin expression in muscle and mammary epithelial cells respectively. However, the effect of dexamethasone on testicular visfatin and PGC-1α expressions has not been investigated. The aims of the present study were to investigate the effect of dexamethasone, on the expression of PGC-1α, visfatin and antioxidant enzymes activities in mouse testis. The results of the present study showed that dexamethasone treatment significantly decreased the expression of visfatin and PGC-1α in mice testis, along with significant decreased in testicular antioxidant enzymes activates. Further, dexamethasone treatment also significantly increased the testicular lipid peroxidation and decreased testosterone synthesis. The dexamethasone induced changes in PGC-1α and visfatin in the testis were significantly correlated with changes in serum testosterone concentrations and antioxidant enzymes activities. Thus, dexamethasone induced testicular toxicity may involve the PGC-1α and visfatin as important molecules to exhibit its effects.

Different effects of α-endosulfan, β-endosulfan, and endosulfan sulfate on sex hormone levels, metabolic profile and oxidative stress in adult mice testes

In the environment, endosulfan persists in forms of two isomers (α and β) and a toxic metabolite, endosulfan sulfate. The toxicity of endosulfan on various mammalian tissues has been investigated, but whether the different isomers and metabolites of endosulfans affect mammalian reproductive function remains unclear. This study is aimed to elucidate the different toxicological effects of α-endosulfan, β-endosulfan, and endosulfan sulfate on adult mice testes. We found that the three endosulfans (α endosulfan, β endosulfan and endosulfan sulfate) altered serum sex steroid hormone levels, and changed expression of steroidogenesis genes. By comparing results of ¹H-NMR and LC-MS/MS metabolomics between samples treated with different endosulfans, we found that endosulfans changed levels of metabolites involved in energy metabolism and oxidative stress, and these were associated with the imbalance of sex sterol hormone synthesis. Moreover, endosulfan isomers and sulfate metabolite treatment disrupted the mice testicular antioxidant systems and caused an increase in lipid peroxidation. Interestingly, the three endosulfans tested in this study each yielded different effects on serum sex hormone levels and testicular metabolic profiles in the adult mice. Beta-endosulfan exposure caused the strongest disturbance in the testes compared to the other endosulfans, with significantly higher testosterone levels and more pronounced changes to endogenous metabolites. Taken together, we identified the different effects of endosulfans on the testis by exposing mice to α endosulfan, β endosulfan and endosulfan sulfate, and we found that changes in sex sterol hormone levels induced by treatment with endosulfans were correlated to changes in endogenous metabolites. These findings provide new insight into mechanism of endosulfan-induced testicular toxicity.

Direct effects of neuropeptide nesfatin-1 on testicular spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis of the adult mice

Recent studies have revealed nesfatin-1 as a hypothalamic neuropeptide, regulating food intake, energy expenditure and reproduction primarily by acting on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Nesfatin-1 is also localized in several peripheral tissues including testes. However, functional significance of nesfatin-1 in testicular activities is not yet well documented in mammals. Therefore, this study was aimed to elucidate the direct effects of nesfatin-1 on testicular markers for steroid productions, spermatogenesis, metabolic changes and oxidative stress. The results revealed the expression of both protein and mRNA of nesfatin-1 in the testes of adult mice. The testes treated in vitro with nesfatin-1 showed significant increase in testosterone production, which correlated significantly with increased expression of steroidogenic markers and insulin receptor proteins in the testes. Furthermore, the in vitro treatment with nesfatin-1 showed stimulatory effects on spermatogenesis by promoting cell proliferation (PCNA) and survival (Bcl2), while inhibiting apoptosis (caspase-3) in the testes. The nesfatin-1 treatment in vitro further increased the expression of insulin receptor and GLUT8 proteins, in parallel with increase in the intra-testicular transport of glucose and production of lactate. This nesfatin-1 induced enhanced transport of energy substrate (glucose and lactate) may be responsible for promoting spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. Nesfatin-1 significantly reduced oxidative stress and nitric oxide, which may also be responsible for stimulatory effects on testicular activities. The present finding suggests that nesfatin-1 acts via paracrine manner to increase sperm count and fertility, thus promoting the testicular function.

Raffia palm (Raphia hookeri) wine extenuates redox imbalance and modulates activities of glycolytic and cholinergic enzymes in hyperglycemia-induced testicular injury in type 2 diabetic rats

This study investigated the effects of Raffia palm wine (RPW) on redox imbalance, glycolytic and cholinergic enzymes, and ATPase activities in hyperglycemia-induced oxidative testicular injury. Type 2 diabetes (T2D) was induced in male albino rats (Sprague-Dawley) by first administering 10% fructose solution for 14 days, before injecting with an intraperitoneal injection (40 mg/kg body weight) of streptozotocin. Raffia palm wine was administered to two diabetic groups at 150 and 300 mg/kg body weight (bw), when untreated diabetic group was used as a negative control, and metformin-fed group was served as a positive control. The rats were sacrificed after 5 weeks of treatment, and testes were harvested. Treatment with RPW led to lower levels of nitric oxide, malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase activity, with concomitant elevation of reduced glutathione level, superoxide dismutase, catalase and ATPase activities. Raffia palm wine also inhibited glycogen phosphorylase, glucose-6-phosphatase, fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, and acetylcholinesterase, while restoring the altered testicular morphology to near-normal. The results of this study suggest the therapeutic potentials of RPW against the effects of T2D on testicular functions and morphology. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Diabetes mellitus is one of the fastest growing global epidemy, with most developing countries being at the receiving end owing to the cost of treatment. Testicular damage has been recognized as one of the complications of diabetes, and if left untreated will lead to erectile dysfunction followed by infertility. Raffia palm wine is among the common natural beverage in West Africa, which is utilized for both social and medicinal purposes. In this study, for the first time we showed its ability to protect diabetes-induced testicular injury in type 2 diabetic rats. This may be of great benefit in managing diabetes associated erectly dysfunction and male infertility, as Raffia palm wine is readily available in all seasons. This study will also improve the medicinal use of this wine, which may also indirectly improve its commercial benefit.

Recent advances of stimuli-responsive systems based on transition metal dichalcogenides for smart cancer therapy

A comprehensive overview of the development of stimuli-responsive TMDC-based nanoplatforms for “smart” cancer therapy is presented to demonstrate a more intelligent and better controllable therapeutic strategy.

Protective effects of melatonin solid lipid nanoparticles on testis histology after testicular trauma in rats

Testicular traumatic injuries occur frequently, which can result in an alteration in spermatogenesis. These injuries can also cause oxidative stress and male infertility. Antioxidant efficiency of melatonin (MLT), known as a potent antioxidant, will be improved if used in a form of solid lipid nanoparticles (MLT-SLN). The aim of the current study is to evaluate the effect of MLT-loaded SLN on traumatic testis in rats. In this study 32 adult male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups. Group 1 (sham group), right testicle was drawn out from the scrotum and returned without manipulation. Group 2, right testicle was dropped by 25 g sinker for 4 times. Group 3, animals were received a single dose (25 mg/kg) of MLT intraperitoneally after trauma. Group 4, animals were received a single dose of MLT-SLN intraperitoneally after trauma. Under anaesthesia, rats were sacrificed, and their testicles were removed three days after the surgery. After tissue processing, the sample sections were H&E stained. MLT and MLT-SLN could partially repair spermatogenesis by Johnson’s criteria but the repairs were significant only in MLT-SLN group (P = 0.02). Trauma decreased seminiferous tubule diameter and its epithelium height. MLT could restore epithelium height (P ≤ 0.05) but its NPs improved both epithelium diameter (P ≤ 0.05) and thickness (P ≤ 0.001). The Malondialdehyde increased significantly in trauma group (P = 0.002), but decreased in MLT and NPs groups compared to trauma group (P = 0.098 and P = 0.002 respectively). This decrease was significant only in NPs group. Testicular trauma disturbed spermatogenesis, morphometric, and oxidative parameters. MLT and specially MLT-SLN improved traumatic damages.

The role of flavonoid antioxidant, morin in improving procarbazine-induced oxidative stress on testicular function in rat

BACKGROUND

Procarbazine (PCZ) is an effective chemotherapeutic drug used in the treatment of lymphoma; however, oxidative stress-mediated testicular toxicity is a major side effect. Recently, therapeutic intervention using flavonoids against oxidative stress-related pathologies is gaining more attention. Morin (MOR) is a natural flavonoid with proven antioxidant activity. This study was designed therefore to evaluate the potential role of MOR in ameliorating PCZ-induced testicular oxidative stress and altered sperm quality in rat model.

METHODS

A total of 24 male Wistar rats (170-180 g) were randomly assigned into 4 treatment groups: I, control; II, PCZ (2 mg/kg b.w.); III, PCZ (2 mg/kg b.w.) + MOR (100 mg/kg b.w.) simultaneously administered and IV, MOR (100 mg/kg b.w.), and all treatments lasted 14 days.

RESULTS

PCZ treatment displayed significant reduction in sperm number, sperm motility, percentage normal sperm cells, and daily sperm production rate. Meanwhile the activities of testicular enzymes: gamma-glutamyl transferase, acid phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly altered in the PCZ group compared to control. Furthermore, PCZ caused a significant reduction in levels of glutathione and ascorbic acid as well as activities superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione S-transferase in the testes of PCZ-treated rats. A significant increase in testicular malondialdehyde level was also observed in the PCZ group. MOR treatment, however, significantly restored the altered sperm parameters and biochemical markers in the testis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that MOR administration protected against PCZ-induced testicular and spermatotoxicity in rat, by improving testicular antioxidant system.

Orexin A-Mediated Modulation of Reproductive Activities in Testis of Normal and Cryptorchid Dogs: Possible Model for Studying Relationships Between Energy Metabolism and Reproductive Control

Orexin A (OxA) is a neuropeptide produced in the lateral hypothalamus that performs pleiotropic functions in different tissues, including involvement in energy homeostasis and reproductive neuroendocrine functions. The role of OxA is particularly important given the well-studied relationships between physiological mechanisms controlling energy balance and reproduction. The enzyme P450 aromatase (ARO) helps convert androgens to estrogens and has roles in steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and energy metabolism in several organs. The goal of this study was thus to investigate the role of OxA in ARO activity and the effects of this regulation on reproductive homeostasis in male gonads from healthy and cryptorchid dogs. The cryptorchidism is a specific condition characterized by altered reproductive and metabolic activities, the latter of which emerge from impaired glycolysis. OxA helps to stimulate testosterone (T) synthesis in the dog testis. We aimed to investigate OxA-mediated modulation of 17β-estradiol (17β-E) synthesis, ARO expression and metabolic indicators in testis of normal and cryptorchid dogs. Our results indicate putative effects of OxA on estrogen biosynthesis and ARO activity based on western blotting analysis and immunohistochemistry for ARO detection and in vitro tests. OxA triggered decrease in estrogen production and ARO activity inhibition; reduced ARO activity thus prevented the conversion of T to estrogens and increasing OxA-mediated synthesis of T. Furthermore, we characterized some metabolic and oxidative modulations in normal and cryptorchid dog's testis. The steroidogenic regulation by OxA and its modulation of ARO activity led us to hypothesize that OxA is a potential therapeutic target in pathological conditions associated with steroidogenic alterations and OxA possible involvement in metabolic processes in the male gonad.