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Karacetin S, Akpolat M, Safi Oz Z, Hamamcioglu AC. Protective effects of L-carnitine on X irradiation-induced uterus injury via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. Int J Radiat Biol 2023:1-11. [PMID: 36512341 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2158247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ionizing radiation causes oxidative stress induced tissue damage as well as a decline in reproduction incidence. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effects of L-carnitine on radiation-induced uterine injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty Wistar albino rats were classified into five groups. Physiological saline was administered intraperitoneally to the control group. A single dose of 8.3 Gy whole body X-irradiation was applied to the radiation-1 and radiation-2 groups. These groups were sacrificed on the 6th hour and 4th day, respectively, after irradiation. Radiation-1 + L-carnitine and radiation-2 + L-carnitine groups received a daily dose of 200 mg/kg L-carnitine in addition to the same dose of irradiation. L-carnitine was also applied one day before and four days after irradiation. RESULTS L-carnitine therapy partially blocks the depletion of the deep glands and radiation-induced flattening of the glandular epithelium and endometrial surface. Proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were found to be significantly expressed in the uterus tissue of irradiated mice. In the radiation groups, NFκB and PARP-1 expressions in uterine tissue was significantly increased compared to L-carnitine treated and the control groups. It was observed that the oxidative stress index increased in the radiation groups, but decreased in the L-carnitine applied groups. CONCLUSIONS Our findings showed that L-carnitine has a positive effect on radiation-induced uterine damage. L-carnitine may be a potential safe radio protective agent during radiotherapy for pelvic cancer provided the tumor is not protected from radiation damage to the same extent as the normal tissue is. However, prospective clinical trial studies are necessary to understand its efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Karacetin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Institute of Health Sciences, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Meryem Akpolat
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Faculty of Medicine, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Zehra Safi Oz
- Department of Medical Biology, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Faculty of Medicine, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Ayse Ceylan Hamamcioglu
- Department of Biochemistry, Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zonguldak, Turkey
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Al Malahi NM, Al Jumaily MM, Al-shaibani EA, Alajmi RA, Alkhuriji AF, Al-Tamimi J, Alhimaidi AR. Ameliorative effect of L-carnitine on lambda-cyhalothrin-induced anatomical and reproductive aberrations in albino mice. Saudi J Biol Sci 2022; 29:103373. [PMID: 35865321 PMCID: PMC9293953 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2022.103373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this research was to look at how the pesticide lambda-cyhalothrin (LCT) affected the liver, kidney, testis, and ovary of albino mice; and on morphological and skeletal features of the newborn of treated females. The study also aimed to test the ameliorative effects of L-carnitine (LC) against (LCT). Five sets of mice were created, Group 1 acted as the control, while Group 2 received a high dose of LCT, Group 3 received a high dose of LCT + LC, Group 4 received a low dose of LCT that was a residue of in khat (Qat), and Group 5 received a low dose of LCT + LC. The findings revealed that the treated groups' body weights were reduced significantly, whereas the absolute and relative weights of the liver in all groups were statistically decreased insignificantly. There were histopathological changes in the tissues in groups 2 and 4. While the tissues of the ovary and testis showed recovery in groups 3 and 5. When compared to the control group, the values of the seminiferous tubules parameters were statistically significant in the 3 and 5 groups. The newborn had a high dose of pesticides and showed some malformations in the skeleton. However, in group 3 the skeletal malformation was minimized and in-group 5 the skeleton malformations had completely disappeared. It could be concluded that LCT is highly harmful to mouse tissues and caused neonatal malformations, whereas LC has a marked protective effect against LCT.
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Drosophila Lysophospholipase Gene swiss cheese Is Required for Survival and Reproduction. INSECTS 2021; 13:insects13010014. [PMID: 35055857 PMCID: PMC8781823 DOI: 10.3390/insects13010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Biological evolution implies fitness of newly evolved organisms that have inherent adaptive traits because of mutations in genes. However, most mutations are detrimental, and they spoil the organism’s life, its survival and its ability to leave progeny. Some genes are extremely vital for an organism, and therefore, they tend to save their structure and do not mutate or do it very composedly. That is the case of the gene encoding PNPLA6 lysophospholipase domain that evolved in bacteria, and evolution obliged it to save its function in higher animals. In mammals, complete dysfunction of such a gene is lethal because of its high importance in placenta for early embryo development. Why is it conserved in other species, for instance insects, that have no placenta? Here we studied the role of the PNPLA6-encoding gene named swiss cheese in Drosophila melanogaster fitness. We have found that its dysfunction results in premature death of specimens and their inability to leave enough progeny. Thus, we provide the first evidence for significance of the gene that encodes the lysophospholipase enzyme in fitness of insects. Abstract Drosophila melanogaster is one of the most famous insects in biological research. It is widely used to analyse functions of different genes. The phosphatidylcholine lysophospholipase gene swiss cheese was initially shown to be important in the fruit fly nervous system. However, the role of this gene in non-nervous cell types has not been elucidated yet, and the evolutional explanation for the conservation of its function remains elusive. In this study, we analyse expression pattern and some aspects of the role of the swiss cheese gene in the fitness of Drosophila melanogaster. We describe the spatiotemporal expression of swiss cheese throughout the fly development and analyse the survival and productivity of swiss cheese mutants. We found swiss cheese to be expressed in salivary glands, midgut, Malpighian tubes, adipocytes, and male reproductive system. Dysfunction of swiss cheese results in severe pupae and imago lethality and decline of fertility, which is impressive in males. The latter is accompanied with abnormalities of male locomotor activity and courtship behaviour, accumulation of lipid droplets in testis cyst cells and decrease in spermatozoa motility. These results suggest that normal swiss cheese is important for Drosophila melanogaster fitness due to its necessity for both specimen survival and their reproductive success.
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Mohammadi V, Sharifi SD, Sharafi M, Mohammadi-Sangcheshmeh A, Shahverdi A, Alizadeh A. Manipulation of fatty acid profiles in roosters' testes, alteration in sexual hormones, improvements in testicular histology characteristics and elevation sperm quality factor by L-carnitine. Theriogenology 2020; 161:8-15. [PMID: 33278693 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the effects of different levels of l-carnitine (LC) on sperm quality factor (SQF), alterations in testis fatty acid profiles, testicular histology and reproductive hormones in young roosters. Eighteen broiler breeders (Ross 308) weighed at 3 months of age. They were randomly classified while each group had six birds. There were three experimental groups based on the LC concentrations (i.e. LC-0, LC-250, LC-500 mg per kg of diet). After two weeks of adaptation, semen samples were collected and evaluated for seminal attributes every two weeks (from week 24 to week 34). At the end of the experiments, four roosters from each treatment group were sacrificed in order to analyze testicular histology, testis fatty acid profiles and reproductive hormones. Supplementing the diet with two of the LC levels for 22 weeks caused significant rise in sperm concentration, viability and SQF compared to that of the control group (P < 0.05). Quadratic analysis in terms of number of seminiferous tubules and spermatogenesis index were significant (P<0.05). Tubular differentiation index improved linearly by the increasing levels of LC supplementation (P<0.01). The analysis of fatty acid profiles showed that LC significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the percentages of C14:0, C21:0, total saturated fatty acids, total odd-chain fatty acids and n-6/n-3 ratio. Moreover, LC significantly increased the percentage of C20:5n-3 (Eicosapentaenoic acid; EPA) (P < 0.05). Analysis of the correlation coefficient revealed that the SQF is in consistency with EPA (r = 0.98; P < 0.04). In contrast, SQF negatively and significantly correlates with odd-chain fatty acids (r = - 0.99; P < 0.001). The desaturation index for C16 fatty acids (16:1cis/C16:0) negligibly increased linearly as LC was added to the diet (P < 0.05). Furthermore, LC caused the roosters to have significant (P < 0.05) high levels of total testosterone and FSH concentrations. The concentration of LH in different treatment groups, however, turned out to be similar in response to the different levels of LC. In conclusion, long-term supplementation of rooster diet with LC can have beneficial effects on SQF and testis histology. The benefits include alterations in testicular histology, reproductive hormones and testicular fatty acid profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Mohammadi
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Davood Sharifi
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohsen Sharafi
- Department of Poultry Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Reproductive Epidemiology Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - AliReza Alizadeh
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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Said RS, Mohamed HA, Kassem DH. Alpha-lipoic acid effectively attenuates ionizing radiation-mediated testicular dysfunction in rats: Crosstalk of NF-ĸB, TGF-β, and PPAR-ϒ pathways. Toxicology 2020; 442:152536. [PMID: 32649955 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2020.152536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Radiotherapy is one of the principal approaches employed in the treatment of pelvic cancers. Nevertheless, testicular dysfunction and infertility are among the most common adverse effects in young adult cancer survivors. Clinically, alpha-lipoic acid (LA) has been applied to improve the quality of sperm with a satisfactory effect. Therefore, the present study investigated the underlying mechanisms of the radioprotective effects of LA against testicular damage. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 10 Gy of whole-body ϒ-radiation and LA (50 mg/kg, P.O.) was administered one week before and three days post-irradiation. LA showed remarkable capacity in preserving testicular tissue against radiation damage by improving histological and ultrastructural changes of disorganized seminiferous tubules, besides enhancing its diameter, germinal epithelial thickness, and Johnsen's score. Radiation instigated a significant decrease in sperm quality and quantity associated with depletion of serum testosterone levels, while the LA administration maintained spermatogenesis. Strikingly, LA exhibited antioxidant properties by restoring reduced glutathione levels and antioxidant enzyme activities such as catalase and glutathione-s-transferase, besides diminishing malondialdehyde levels in the testis of irradiated group. Furthermore, LA alleviated testicular inflammation through downregulation of nuclear factor-ĸB (NF-ĸB) expression with a subsequent reduction in interleukin (IL)-6 and cyclooxygenase-2 expression, accompanied by the augmented expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Additionally, testicular fibrosis markers including Masson's trichrome and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β expression were noticeably declined in LA-treated irradiated rats, together with the upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-ϒ expression. Collectively, LA ameliorates radiation-mediated spermatogenesis-defects and testicular-damage via suppression of oxidative stress/NF-ĸB/TGF-β signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riham Soliman Said
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Heba A Mohamed
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dina Hamada Kassem
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Said RS, Mohamed HA, Kamal MM. Coenzyme Q10 mitigates ionizing radiation-induced testicular damage in rats through inhibition of oxidative stress and mitochondria-mediated apoptotic cell death. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2019; 383:114780. [PMID: 31618661 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2019.114780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riham S Said
- Drug Radiation Research Department, National Center for Radiation Research & Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Heba A Mohamed
- Drug Radiation Research Department, National Center for Radiation Research & Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M Kamal
- Pharmacology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt (BUE), Cairo, Egypt; Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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Eksioglu U, Atilgan HI, Yakin M, Yazihan N, Altiparmak UE, Yumusak N, Korkmaz M, Demir A, Ornek F, Aribal Ayral P, Koca G. Antioxidant effects of vitamin D on lacrimal glands against high dose radioiodine-associated damage in an animal model. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2018; 38:18-24. [PMID: 30003810 DOI: 10.1080/15569527.2018.1498507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate antioxidant effects of active vitamin D (calcitriol) against high-dose radioiodine (RAI) therapy-associated damage of lacrimal gland. MATERIALS AND METHODS Wistar albino rats were used and divided into three groups randomly (n = 12/group). The first group was appointed as the negative control group and received no RAI or medication. The second group was appointed as the positive control group that only received 3 mCi/kg (111 MBq/kg) RAI via gastric gavage and the last group was the treatment group that received 3 mCi/kg RAI via same method and calcitriol (200 ng/kg/day) via intraperitoneal administration. Seven days after RAI administration, bilateral intraorbital (IG), extraorbital (EG) and Harderian (HG) glands were removed for the evaluations of histopathologic, tissue cytokine, total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS). RESULTS RAI led to significant increase in tissue TOS, TNF-α, IL-6 levels and significant decrease in IL-10 and TAS levels (p < 0.05 for each). Addition of adjunctive calcitriol reversed all these parameters significantly (p < 0.05 for each).The following histopathologic parameters were seen more frequently in positive control group than the other groups: Abnormal lobular pattern, perivascular infiltration, periductal infiltration, lipofuscin-like accumulation, acinar atrophy, periductal and periacinar fibrosis in all lacrimal gland types (p < 0.05), acinar fibrosis in EG (p = 0.049), periductal fibrosis in EG and HG (p = 0.049 and 0.038, respectively), abnormal cell outlines in EG and HG (p = 0.020 and 0.011, respectively) and variation in cell size in the IG and the HG (p = 0.003 and 0.049 respectively). CONCLUSIONS RAI caused significant oxidative stress and inflammation in lacrimal glands. Vitamin D demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and radio-protective effects on lacrimal glands in histopathologic, tissue cytokine and oxidant/antioxidant level evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umit Eksioglu
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Ankara Training and Research Hospital of University of Health Sciences , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Hasan Ikbal Atilgan
- b Department of Nuclear Medicine , Mustafa Kemal University, Faculty of Medicine , Turkey
| | - Mehmet Yakin
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Ankara Training and Research Hospital of University of Health Sciences , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Nuray Yazihan
- c Department of Pathophysiology , Ankara University, Faculty of Medicine , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Ugur Emrah Altiparmak
- d Department of Ophthalmology , Acibadem University Medical School, Acibadem Ankara Hospital , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Nihat Yumusak
- e Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , Harran University , Sanliurfa , Turkey
| | - Meliha Korkmaz
- f Department of Nuclear Medicine , Ankara Training and Research Hospital of University of Health Sciences , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Ayten Demir
- g Faculty of Health Sciences , Ankara University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Firdevs Ornek
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Ankara Training and Research Hospital of University of Health Sciences , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Pelin Aribal Ayral
- c Department of Pathophysiology , Ankara University, Faculty of Medicine , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Gokhan Koca
- f Department of Nuclear Medicine , Ankara Training and Research Hospital of University of Health Sciences , Ankara , Turkey
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da Silva Mansano N, Jorge IF, Chies AB, Viani GA, Spadella MA. Effects of telmisartan and losartan on irradiated testes. Life Sci 2018; 194:157-167. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2017.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Revised: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Yaman O, Topcu-Tarladacalisir Y. L-carnitine counteracts prepubertal exposure to cisplatin induced impaired sperm in adult rats by preventing germ cell apoptosis. Biotech Histochem 2018; 93:157-167. [DOI: 10.1080/10520295.2017.1401661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- O Yaman
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Y Topcu-Tarladacalisir
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, Edirne, Turkey
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Khushboo M, Murthy MK, Devi MS, Sanjeev S, Ibrahim KS, Kumar NS, Roy VK, Gurusubramanian G. Testicular toxicity and sperm quality following copper exposure in Wistar albino rats: ameliorative potentials of L-carnitine. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:1837-1862. [PMID: 29103113 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0624-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Copper is a persistent toxic and bio-accumulative heavy metal of global concern. Continuous exposure of copper compounds of different origin is the most common form of copper poisoning and in turn adversely altering testis morphology and function and affecting sperm quality. L-carnitine has a vital role in the spermatogenesis, physiology of sperm, sperm production and quality. This study was designed to examine whether the detrimental effects of long-term copper consumption on sperm quality and testis function of Wistar albino rat could be prevented by L-carnitine therapy. The parameters included were sperm quality (concentration, viability, motility, and morphology), histopathology, serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), serum urea, serum creatinine, serum testosterone and testis antioxidant enzyme levels (superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-transferase), and biomarkers of oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation and expression of heat shock protein 70 in testis). Three-month-old male Wistar rats (n = 30) were divided into six groups as group 1 (G1, 0.9% saline control), group 2 (G2, CuSO4 200 mg/kg dissolved in 0.9% saline water), groups 3 and 4 (G3 and G4, L-carnitine 50 and 100 mg/kg dissolved in 0.9% saline water, respectively), and groups 5 and 6 (G5 and G6, CuSO4 200 mg/kg plus L-carnitine, 50 and 100 mg/kg dissolved in 0.9% saline water, respectively). Doses of copper (200 mg/kg) and L-carnitine (50 and 100 mg/kg) alone and in combinations along with untreated control were administered orally for 30 days. The following morphological, physiological, and biochemical alterations were observed due to chronic exposure of copper (200 mg/kg) to rats in comparison with the untreated control: (1) generation of oxidative stress through rise in testis lipid peroxidation (12.21 vs 3.5 nmol MDA equivalents/mg protein) and upregulation of heat shock protein (overexpression of HSP70 in testis), (2) liver and kidney dysfunction [elevation in serum ALT (81.65 vs 48.08 IU/L), AST (156.82 vs 88.25 IU/L), ALP (230.54 vs 148.16 IU/L), urea (12.65 vs 7.45 mmol/L), and creatinine (80.61 vs 48.25 μmol/L) levels], (3) significant decrease in body (99.64 vs 106.09 g) and organ weights (liver-3.48 vs 4.99 g; kidney-429.29 vs 474.78 mg; testes-0.58 vs 0.96 g), (4) imbalance in hormonal and antioxidant enzyme concentrations [significant decline in serum testosterone (0.778 vs 3.226 ng/mL), superoxide dismutase (3.07 vs 8.55 μmol/mg protein), and glutathione-S-transferase (59.28 vs 115.58 nmol/mg protein) levels], (5) severe alterations in the testis histomorphology [sloughed cells (90.65%, score 4 vs 15.65%, score 1), vacuolization (85.95%, score 4 vs 11.45%, score 1), cellular debris along with degenerative characteristics, accentuated germ cell depletion in the seminiferous epithelium, severe damage of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells (73.56%, score 3 vs 0%, score 1)], (6) suppression of spermatogenic process [hypospermatogenesis (low Jhonsen testicular biopsy score 4 vs 9.5), decrease in tubules size (283.75 vs 321.25 μm in diameter), and no. of germ cells (81.8 vs 148.7/100 tubules), Leydig cells (5.2 vs 36.65/100 tubules), and Sertoli cells (8.1 vs 13.5/100 tubules)], (7) sperm transit time was shorter in caput and cauda and ensued in incomplete spermatogenic process and formation of immature sperm leading to infertility, (8) sperm quality was affected significantly [decreased daily sperm production (13.21 vs 26.9 × 106 sperms/mL), sperm count (96.12 vs 154.25 × 106/g), sperm viability (26.88 vs 91.65%), and sperm motility (38.48 vs 64.36%)], and (9) increase of head (32.82 vs 2.01%) and tail (14.85 vs 0.14%) morphologic abnormalities and DNA fragmentation index (88.37 vs 11.11%). Oxidative stress and their related events appear to be a potential mechanism involved in copper testicular toxicity and L-carnitine supplementation significantly modulated the possible adverse effects of copper on seminiferous tubules damage, testes function, spermatogenesis, and sperm quality. It was validated that the use of L-carnitine at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg protects against copper-induced testicular tissue damage and acts as a therapeutic agent for copper heavy metal toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurya Khushboo
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram Central University, Aizawl, Mizoram, 796004, India
| | | | - Maibam Sunita Devi
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram Central University, Aizawl, Mizoram, 796004, India
| | - Sanasam Sanjeev
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram Central University, Aizawl, Mizoram, 796004, India
| | | | | | - Vikas Kumar Roy
- Department of Zoology, Mizoram Central University, Aizawl, Mizoram, 796004, India.
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Cabral REL, Mendes TB, Vendramini V, Miraglia SM. Carnitine partially improves oxidative stress, acrosome integrity, and reproductive competence in doxorubicin-treated rats. Andrology 2017; 6:236-246. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. E. L. Cabral
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - T. B. Mendes
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - V. Vendramini
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - S. M. Miraglia
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
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Aktoz T, Caloglu M, Yurut-Caloglu V, Yalcin O, Aydogdu N, Nurlu D, Arda E, Inci O. Histopathological and biochemical comparisons of the protective effects of amifostine and l
-carnitine against radiation-induced acute testicular toxicity in rats. Andrologia 2016; 49. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T. Aktoz
- Department of Urology; Faculty of Medicine; Trakya University; Edirne Turkey
| | - M. Caloglu
- Department of Radiation Oncology; Faculty of Medicine; Trakya University; Edirne Turkey
| | - V. Yurut-Caloglu
- Department of Radiation Oncology; Faculty of Medicine; Trakya University; Edirne Turkey
| | - O. Yalcin
- Department of Pathology; Faculty of Medicine; Trakya University; Edirne Turkey
| | - N. Aydogdu
- Department of Physiology; Faculty of Medicine; Trakya University; Edirne Turkey
| | - D. Nurlu
- Department of Radiation Oncology; Faculty of Medicine; Trakya University; Edirne Turkey
| | - E. Arda
- Department of Urology; Faculty of Medicine; Trakya University; Edirne Turkey
| | - O. Inci
- Department of Urology; Faculty of Medicine; Trakya University; Edirne Turkey
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Lipovac M, Bodner F, Imhof M, Chedraui P. Comparison of the effect of a combination of eight micronutrients versus a standard mono preparation on sperm parameters. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:84. [PMID: 27938385 PMCID: PMC5148870 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0219-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are reports showing that l-carnitine alone or in combination with other micronutrients improve sperm parameters. However, comparative studies are still lacking. This study was carried out to compare the short term effects of a combination of eight micronutrients including l-carnitine vs. a mono-substance (l-carnitine alone) on sperm parameters. METHODS This was a prospective, open-labelled, nonrandomized study that included male subjects (20 to 60 years) with at least 1 year of subfertility and at least one pathological semen analysis who received 3 months treatment with a mono-substance (500 mg l-carnitine/twice a day, n = 156) or a combined compound (440 mg l-carnitine + 250 mg l-arginine + 40 mg zinc + 120 mg vitamin E + 80 mg glutathione + 60 μg selenium + 15 mg coenzyme Q10 + 800 μg folic acid/once a day, n = 143) for the same time period. Sperm parameters were analyzed before and after treatment and groups comparisons performed. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were similar among studied groups (age and body mass indices). Semen parameters (volume, density, overall progressive motility [including slow and fast motility]) and percentage of sperm with normal morphology improved after 3 months in both groups as compared to baseline. However, relative change (expressed as % increase of absolute values) for sperm density and overall progressive motility (including fast motility) was found to be higher for the combined micronutrient treatment group as compared to the mono-treatment using l-carnitine alone. CONCLUSION Both analyzed groups displayed a positive short term effect on all sperm parameters; however effect on density and motility was significantly better for the combined formulation. There is need for more research in this matter that includes long term outcome data. TRIAL REGISTRATION Retrospectively registered at ISRCTN (7th October 2016). Study ID: ISRCTN48594239.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Lipovac
- IMI Fertility Center, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for cell-based therapy in Gynecology, Wiener Ring 3-5, 2100 Korneuburg, Austria
| | - Florian Bodner
- IMI Fertility Center, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for cell-based therapy in Gynecology, Wiener Ring 3-5, 2100 Korneuburg, Austria
| | - Martin Imhof
- IMI Fertility Center, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for cell-based therapy in Gynecology, Wiener Ring 3-5, 2100 Korneuburg, Austria
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Chedraui
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Area for Women’s Health, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
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Cao Y, Wang X, Li S, Wang H, Yu L, Wang P. The Effects ofl-Carnitine Against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Injuries in Mouse Testis. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2016; 120:152-158. [PMID: 27649639 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanchao Cao
- Department of Urology; Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University; Qingdao Shandong China
| | - Xinsheng Wang
- Department of Andrology; Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University; Qingdao Shandong China
| | - Shenqian Li
- Department of Andrology; Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University; Qingdao Shandong China
| | - Hongqiang Wang
- Department of Andrology; Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University; Qingdao Shandong China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Andrology; Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University; Qingdao Shandong China
| | - Peitao Wang
- Department of Andrology; Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University; Qingdao Shandong China
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The protective effect of regucalcin against radiation-induced damage in testicular cells. Life Sci 2016; 164:31-41. [PMID: 27620963 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Regucalcin (RGN), a protein broadly expressed in the male reproductive tract, has shown to have beneficial effects on spermatogenesis suppressing chemical-induced apoptosis. This study aimed to evaluate whether RGN overexpression ameliorates the spermatogenic phenotype after radiation treatment. MAIN METHODS Transgenic rats overexpressing RGN (Tg-RGN) and their wild-type (Wt) counterparts were exposed to a single dose of X-rays (6Gy), and at ten weeks after irradiation, the testicular status and the epididymal sperm parameters were evaluated. The expression of RGN and several cell cycle and apoptosis regulators, the enzymatic activity of caspase-3, and RGN immunostaining were also assessed. KEY FINDINGS Tg-RGN animals displayed higher gonadosomatic index, and augmented sperm viability and motility relatively to their Wt counterparts after irradiation, as well as higher frequency of normal sperm morphology and a diminished incidence of head-defects. The differences in reproductive parameters were underpinned by a lower rate of apoptosis, as evidenced by the reduced activity of caspase-3, lower levels of caspase-8, and increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio in the testis of Tg-RGN animals. Supporting the involvement of RGN in the anti-apoptotic response, an enhanced expression of RGN was observed in irradiated rats. SIGNIFICANCE Transgenic-overexpression of RGN protected against radiation-induced testicular damage, which strengthens the role of this protein protecting cells from the damage of external agents. These findings also indicated that the modulation of RGN testicular levels would be a mechanism for fertility preservation in men undergoing oncological treatment.
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Zhu B, Zheng YF, Zhang YY, Cao YS, Zhang L, Li XG, Liu T, Jiao ZZ, Wang Q, Zhao ZG. Protective effect of L-carnitine in cyclophosphamide-induced germ cell apoptosis. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2016; 16:780-7. [PMID: 26365120 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1500015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a widely used anti-cancer agent; however, it can also induce serious male infertility. There are currently no effective drugs to alleviate this side-effect. L-Carnitine has been used to treat male infertility, but whether it can be used to protect against CP-induced male infertility is still unclear. This study aims to explore the effect and mechanism of L-carnitine in male infertility induced by CP. CP was used to establish an animal model. After three weeks of treatment, rats were sacrificed and testis and serum were harvested for further evaluation. Testosterone and estrogen levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Testicular injury was examined by hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) staining, and germ-cell apoptosis was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL). The expression of LC3 and Beclin-1 was examined by immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively. Compared with the CP group, L-carnitine significantly increases sperm motility, viability, and testosterone level (P<0.05). Western blot and real-time PCR results showed that L-carnitine treatment can significantly up-regulate the LC3-II and Beclin-1 expression in the CP+L-carnitine group when compared with the control group (P<0.05). In addition, TUNEL-positive cells were also more numerous in the CP group; however, L-carnitine can effectively retard cell apoptosis in the CP+L-carnitine group. In conclusion, L-carnitine contributes to the inhibition of cell apoptosis and the modulation of autophagy in protecting CP-induced testicular injury. These results suggest the applicability of L-carnitine in the treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yan-fei Zheng
- School of Basic Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yue-ying Zhang
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Beijing Hepingli Hospital, Beijing 100013, China
| | - Yun-song Cao
- Department of Nephrology, Dongfang Hospital, the Second Clinical Medical College of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100078, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Xin-gang Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Teng Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zhao-zhu Jiao
- School of Basic Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Qi Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Zhi-gang Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
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17
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Bayram S, Kizilay G, Topcu-Tarladacalisir Y. Evaluation of the Fas/FasL signaling pathway in diabetic rat testis. Biotech Histochem 2016; 91:204-11. [DOI: 10.3109/10520295.2015.1129556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
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18
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Ekici K, Temelli O, Parlakpinar H, Samdanci E, Polat A, Beytur A, Tanbek K, Ekici C, Dursun IH. Beneficial effects of aminoguanidine on radiotherapy-induced kidney and testis injury. Andrologia 2015; 48:683-92. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K. Ekici
- Department of Radiation Oncology; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
| | - O. Temelli
- Department of Radiation Oncology; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
| | - H. Parlakpinar
- Department of Pharmacology; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
| | - E. Samdanci
- Department of Pathology; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
| | - A. Polat
- Department of Physiology; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
| | - A. Beytur
- Department of Urology; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
| | - K. Tanbek
- Department of Physiology; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
| | - C. Ekici
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
| | - I. H. Dursun
- Department of Medical Oncology; Medical Faculty; Inonu University; Malatya Turkey
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Virmani A, Diedenhofen A. The Possible Mechanisms Involved in the Protection Strategies against Radiation-Induced Cellular Damage by Carnitines. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.4236/ijcm.2015.62011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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20
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Cabral REL, Okada FK, Stumpp T, Vendramini V, Miraglia SM. Carnitine partially protects the rat testis against the late damage produced by doxorubicin administered during pre-puberty. Andrology 2014; 2:931-42. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2013] [Revised: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. E. L. Cabral
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - F. K. Okada
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - T. Stumpp
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - V. Vendramini
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - S. M. Miraglia
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
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Ahmed MM, Ibrahim ZS, Alkafafy M, El-Shazly SA. L-carnitine protects against testicular dysfunction caused by gamma irradiation in mice. Acta Histochem 2014; 116:1046-55. [PMID: 24925768 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2014.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Revised: 04/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted on mice to evaluate the radioprotective role of L-carnitine against γ-ray irradiation-induced testicular damage. Adult male mice were exposed to whole body irradiation at a total dose of 1 Gy. Radiation exposure was continued 24 h a day (0.1 Gy/day) throughout the 10 days exposure period either in the absence and/or presence of L-carnitine at an i.p. dose of 10 mg/kg body weight/day. Results revealed that γ-rays irradiation suppressed the expression of ABP and CYP450SCC mRNA, whereas treatment with L-carnitine prior and throughout γ-rays irradiation exposure inhibited this suppression. Treatment with γ-ray irradiation or L-carnitine down-regulated expression of aromatase mRNA. With combined treatment, L-carnitine significantly normalized aromatase expression. γ-Ray irradiation up-regulated expression of FasL and Cyclin D2 mRNA, while L-carnitine inhibited these up-regulations. Results also showed that γ-ray-irradiation up-regulated TNF-α, IL1-β and IFN-γ mRNA expressions compared to either controls or the L-carnitine treated group. Moreover, γ-irradiation greatly reduced serum testosterone levels, while L-carnitine, either alone or in combination with irradiation, significantly increased serum testosterone levels compared to controls. In addition, γ-irradiation induced high levels of sperm abnormalities (43%) which were decreased to 12% in the presence of L-carnitine. In parallel with these findings, histological examination showed that γ-irradiation induced severe tubular degenerative changes, which were reduced by L-carnitine pre-treatment. These results clarified the immunostimulatory effects of L-carnitine and its radioprotective role against testicular injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Mohamed Ahmed
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Egypt; Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zein Shaban Ibrahim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kaferelsheikh University, Egypt; Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Taif University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Alkafafy
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, Saudi Arabia; Department of Histology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sadat City, Egypt
| | - Samir Ahmed El-Shazly
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kaferelsheikh University, Egypt.
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Albuquerque AV, Almeida FRCL, Weng CC, Shetty G, Meistrich ML, Chiarini-Garcia H. Spermatogonial behavior in rats during radiation-induced arrest and recovery after hormone suppression. Reproduction 2013; 146:363-76. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Ionizing radiation has been shown to arrest spermatogenesis despite the presence of surviving stem spermatogonia, by blocking their differentiation. This block is a result of damage to the somatic environment and is reversed when gonadotropins and testosterone are suppressed, but the mechanisms are still unknown. We examined spermatogonial differentiation and Sertoli cell factors that regulate spermatogonia after irradiation, during hormone suppression, and after hormone suppression combined with Leydig cell elimination with ethane dimethane sulfonate. These results showed that the numbers and cytoplasmic structure of Sertoli cells are unaffected by irradiation, only a few type A undifferentiated (Aund) spermatogonia and even fewer type A1 spermatogonia remained, and immunohistochemical analysis showed that Sertoli cells still produced KIT ligand (KITLG) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Some of these cells expressed KIT receptor, demonstrating that the failure of differentiation was not a result of the absence of the KIT system. Hormone suppression resulted in an increase in Aund spermatogonia within 3 days, a gradual increase in KIT-positive spermatogonia, and differentiation mainly to A3 spermatogonia after 2 weeks. KITL (KITLG) protein expression did not change after hormone suppression, indicating that it is not a factor in the stimulation. However, GDNF increased steadily after hormone suppression, which was unexpected since GDNF is supposed to promote stem spermatogonial self-renewal and not differentiation. We conclude that the primary cause of the block in spermatogonial development is not due to Sertoli cell factors such (KITL\GDNF) or the KIT receptor. As elimination of Leydig cells in addition to hormone suppression resulted in differentiation to the A3 stage within 1 week, Leydig cell factors were not necessary for spermatogonial differentiation.
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Virmani A, Pinto L, Binienda Z, Ali S. Food, nutrigenomics, and neurodegeneration--neuroprotection by what you eat! Mol Neurobiol 2013; 48:353-62. [PMID: 23813102 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-013-8498-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/16/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Diet in human health is no longer simple nutrition, but in light of recent research, especially nutrigenomics, it is linked via evolution and genetics to cell health status capable of modulating apoptosis, detoxification, and appropriate gene response. Nutritional deficiency and disease especially lack of vitamins and minerals is well known, but more recently, epidemiological studies suggest a role of fruits and vegetables, as well as essential fatty acids and even red wine (French paradox), in protection against disease. In the early 1990s, various research groups started considering the use of antioxidants (e.g., melatonin, resveratrol, green tea, lipoic acid) and metabolic compounds (e.g., nicotinamide, acetyl-L-carnitine, creatine, coenzyme Q10) as possible candidates in neuroprotection. They were of course considered on par with snake oil salesman (women) at the time. The positive actions of nutritional supplements, minerals, and plant extracts in disease prevention are now mainstream and commercial health claims being made are subject to regulation in most countries. Apart from efficacy and finding, the right dosages, the safety, and especially the level of purification and lack of contamination are all issues that are important as their use becomes widespread. From the mechanistic point of view, most of the time these substances replenish the body's deficiency and restore normal function. However, they also exert actions that are not sensu stricto nutritive and could be considered pharmacological especially that, at times, higher intake than recommended (RDA) is needed to see these effects. Free radicals and neuroinflammation processes underlie many neurodegenerative conditions, even Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Curcumin, carotenoids, acetyl-L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10, vitamin D, and polyphenols and other nutraceuticals have the potential to target multiple pathways in these conditions. In summary, augmenting neuroprotective pathways using diet and finding new natural substances that can be more efficacious, i.e., induction of health-promoting genes and reduction of the expression of disease-promoting genes, could be incorporated into neuroprotective strategies of the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Virmani
- Research, Innovation and Development, Sigma-tau SpA, Via Pontina km 30,400, 00040, Pomezia, Rome, Italy,
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Coşkun N, Hatipoğlu MT, Ozoğul C, Korkmaz C, Akyol SN, Mıcılı SC, Arık GS, Erdoğan D. The protective effects of acetyl L-carnitine on testis gonadotoxicity induced by Cisplatin in rats. Balkan Med J 2013; 30:235-41. [PMID: 25207106 DOI: 10.5152/balkanmedj.2013.7340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2012] [Accepted: 02/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cisplatin, an effective antineoplastic agent, damages normal cells in a manner related to chemotherapy. Acetyl L-carnitine protects cells against mitochondrial and nuclear damage induced by chemotherapy. AIMS Animal experiment. STUDY DESIGN The aim of this study was to examine the protective effects of acetyl L-carnitine on cisplatin-induced gonadotoxicity in testicular structures. Twenty-four male Wistar albino rats were divided into four Groups (n=6): Group 1 (control) was administered saline; Group 2 was administered acetyl L-carnitine; Group 3 was administered cisplatin; and Group 4 was pre-treated with acetyl L-carnitine before cisplatin administration. METHODS After 72hr of treatment with cisplatin, the rats were sacrificed, and the testicular tissues were removed. Morphometric, histomorphologic and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted. RESULTS At the end of the experiment, Group 3 was characterised by statistically significant weight loss, a degenerative appearance of the seminiferous tubules in the peripheral region, separation of spermatogenic cell series from the tubular wall, cellular debris in the lumen and central interstitial oedema. Sperm morphology appeared to be abnormal. Tubular diameter and wall thickness decreased, and the number of TUNEL- and active caspase-positive cells increased compared with the other Groups. The histological findings in Group 4 were better than those in Group 3. CONCLUSION It was concluded that the prophylactic use of acetyl L-carnitine protects against cisplatin-induced testicular tissue damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neslihan Coşkun
- Department of Histology and Embriyology, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - M Tahir Hatipoğlu
- Department of Histology and Embriyology, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Candan Ozoğul
- Department of Histology and Embriyology, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cem Korkmaz
- IVF Laboratories, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Seda Nur Akyol
- Department of Histology and Embriyology, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Serap Cilaker Mıcılı
- Department of Histology and Embriyology, Dokuz Eylul University School of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Gülistan Sanem Arık
- Department of Histology and Embriyology, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Deniz Erdoğan
- Department of Histology and Embriyology, Gazi University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Erkanlı Şentürk G, Ersoy Canillioĝlu Y, Umay C, Demiralp-Eksioglu E, Ercan F. Distribution of Zonula Occludens-1 and Occludin and alterations of testicular morphology after in utero radiation and postnatal hyperthermia in rats. Int J Exp Pathol 2013; 93:438-49. [PMID: 23136996 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2613.2012.00844.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In utero irradiation (IR) and postnatal hyperthermia (HT) exposure cause infertility by decreasing spermatogenic colony growth and the number of sperm in rats. Four groups were used: (i) Control group, (ii) HT group (rats exposed to hyperthermia on the 10th postnatal day), (iii) IR group (rats exposed to IR on the 17th gestational day) and (iv) IR + HT group. Three and six months after the procedures testes were examined by light and electron microscopy. Some degenerated tubules in the HT group, many vacuoles in spermatogenic cells and degenerated tight junctions in the IR group, atrophic tubules and severe degeneration of tight junctions in the IR + HT group were observed. ZO-1 and occludin immunoreactivity were decreased and disorganized in the HT and IR groups and absent in the IR + HT group. The increase in the number of apoptotic cells was accompanied by a time-dependent decrease in haploid, diploid and tetraploid cells in all groups. Degenerative findings were severe after 6 months in all groups. The double-hit model may represent a Sertoli cell only model of infertility due to a decrease in spermatogenic cell and alterated blood-testis barrier proteins in rat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gozde Erkanlı Şentürk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Christophersen OA. Radiation protection following nuclear power accidents: a survey of putative mechanisms involved in the radioprotective actions of taurine during and after radiation exposure. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY IN HEALTH AND DISEASE 2012; 23:14787. [PMID: 23990836 PMCID: PMC3747764 DOI: 10.3402/mehd.v23i0.14787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
There are several animal experiments showing that high doses of ionizing radiation lead to strongly enhanced leakage of taurine from damaged cells into the extracellular fluid, followed by enhanced urinary excretion. This radiation-induced taurine depletion can itself have various harmful effects (as will also be the case when taurine depletion is due to other causes, such as alcohol abuse or cancer therapy with cytotoxic drugs), but taurine supplementation has been shown to have radioprotective effects apparently going beyond what might be expected just as a consequence of correcting the harmful consequences of taurine deficiency per se. The mechanisms accounting for the radioprotective effects of taurine are, however, very incompletely understood. In this article an attempt is made to survey various mechanisms that potentially might be involved as parts of the explanation for the overall beneficial effect of high levels of taurine that has been found in experiments with animals or isolated cells exposed to high doses of ionizing radiation. It is proposed that taurine may have radioprotective effects by a combination of several mechanisms: (1) during the exposure to ionizing radiation by functioning as an antioxidant, but perhaps more because it counteracts the prooxidant catalytic effect of iron rather than functioning as an important scavenger of harmful molecules itself, (2) after the ionizing radiation exposure by helping to reduce the intensity of the post-traumatic inflammatory response, and thus reducing the extent of tissue damage that develops because of severe inflammation rather than as a direct effect of the ionizing radiation per se, (3) by functioning as a growth factor helping to enhance the growth rate of leukocytes and leukocyte progenitor cells and perhaps also of other rapidly proliferating cell types, such as enterocyte progenitor cells, which may be important for immunological recovery and perhaps also for rapid repair of various damaged tissues, especially in the intestines, and (4) by functioning as an antifibrogenic agent. A detailed discussion is given of possible mechanisms involved both in the antioxidant effects of taurine, in its anti-inflammatory effects and in its role as a growth factor for leukocytes and nerve cells, which might be closely related to its role as an osmolyte important for cellular volume regulation because of the close connection between cell volume regulation and the regulation of protein synthesis as well as cellular protein degradation. While taurine supplementation alone would be expected to exert a therapeutic effect far better than negligible in patients that have been exposed to high doses of ionizing radiation, it may on theoretical grounds be expected that much better results may be obtained by using taurine as part of a multifactorial treatment strategy, where it may interact synergistically with several other nutrients, hormones or other drugs for optimizing antioxidant protection and minimizing harmful posttraumatic inflammatory reactions, while using other nutrients to optimize DNA and tissue repair processes, and using a combination of good diet, immunostimulatory hormones and perhaps other nontoxic immunostimulants (such as beta-glucans) for optimizing the recovery of antiviral and antibacterial immune functions. Similar multifactorial treatment strategies may presumably be helpful in several other disease situations (including severe infectious diseases and severe asthma) as well as for treatment of acute intoxications or acute injuries (both mechanical ones and severe burns) where severely enhanced oxidative and/or nitrative stress and/or too much secretion of vasodilatory neuropeptides from C-fibres are important parts of the pathogenetic mechanisms that may lead to the death of the patient. Some case histories (with discussion of some of those mechanisms that may have been responsible for the observed therapeutic outcome) are given for illustration of the likely validity of these concepts and their relevance both for treatment of severe infections and non-infectious inflammatory diseases such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.
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Khan HA, Alhomida AS. A review of the logistic role of L-carnitine in the management of radiation toxicity and radiotherapy side effects. J Appl Toxicol 2011; 31:707-13. [PMID: 21818761 DOI: 10.1002/jat.1716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2011] [Revised: 06/10/2011] [Accepted: 06/10/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Radiation therapy is a key modality in the treatment of different cancer types. Fatigue is the most common side effect of radiotherapy, while others include nausea, hair loss, skin irritation, anemia, infertility, cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment and even the development of second cancers. Studies in experimental animals have shown protective effects of carnitine against exposure of various organs to ionizing radiation, whereas carnitine deficiency is known to enhance radiation-induced toxicity. This report summarizes the recent literature on the adverse effects of radiotherapy and the impact of radiation on carnitine homeostasis. Although some studies have demonstrated the prophylactic benefits of carnitine against the toxic effects of chemotherapy, the role of carnitine in the prognosis and management of cancer patients receiving radiotherapy is not clear and needs to be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haseeb Ahmad Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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A histological study of ipsilateral testis after experimentally induced varicocele in albino rats and the role of L-carnitine supplementation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1097/01.ehx.0000395191.16543.ea] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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29
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Vardar SA, Gunduz O, Altun GD, Aydogdu N, Karadag H, Torun N, Kaya O. The alteration of asymmetric dimetilarginine (ADMA) levels in cardiac and gastrocnemius muscles following radioactive iodine application in guinea pigs and the effect of L-carnitine on this alteration. Int J Radiat Biol 2010. [DOI: 10.3109/09553002.2011.518209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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30
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Vardar SA, Gunduz O, Altun GD, Aydogdu N, Karadag H, Torun N, Kaya O. The alteration of asymmetric dimetilarginine (ADMA) levels in cardiac and gastrocnemius muscles following radioactive iodine application in guinea pigs and the effect of L-carnitine on this alteration. Int J Radiat Biol 2010; 87:2-7. [DOI: 10.3109/09553002.2010.518209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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31
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Antiapoptotic effect of l-carnitine on testicular irradiation in rats. J Mol Histol 2010; 41:121-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s10735-010-9267-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2010] [Accepted: 04/22/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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32
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Michelin S, Gallegos CE, Dubner D, Favier B, Carosella ED. Ionizing radiation modulates the surface expression of human leukocyte antigen-G in a human melanoma cell line. Hum Immunol 2009; 70:1010-5. [PMID: 19665041 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2009.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2009] [Revised: 07/31/2009] [Accepted: 07/31/2009] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Human leukocyte antigen G (HLA-G) is a nonclassical HLA class I molecule involved in fetus protection from the maternal immune system, transplant tolerance, and viral and tumoral immune escape. Tumor-specific HLA-G expression has been described for a wide variety of malignancies, including melanomas. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether ionizing radiation (IR) could modulate the surface expression of HLA-G1 in a human melanoma cell line that expresses endogenously membrane-bound HLA-G1. For this purpose, cells were exposed to increasing doses of gamma-irradiation (0-20 Gy) and HLA-G1 levels at the plasma membrane were analyzed at different times postirradiation by flow cytometry. HLA-G total expression and the presence of the soluble form of HLA-G1 (sHLA-G1) in the culture medium of irradiated cells were also evaluated. IR was capable of downregulating cell surface and total HLA-G levels, with a concomitant increase of sHLA-G1 in the medium. These results could indicate that gamma-irradiation decreases HLA-G1 surface levels by enhancing the proteolytic cleavage of this molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Severino Michelin
- Radiopathology Laboratory, Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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