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Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV. Cadmium as a male reproductive toxicant and natural and non-natural ways to tackle it: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:18340-18361. [PMID: 38349491 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32210-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a naturally occurring environmental pollutant, a toxic substance that causes oxidative stress. According to epidemiological studies, the data suggested that environmental and occupational Cd exposure may be related to several diseases and severe testicular damage. However, studies are going on to explore the mechanism of Cd-induced male reproductive toxicity and its treatment strategies. Currently, researchers are focusing on naturally occurring bioactive compounds, plant extracts, and biochemical, which have better efficacy, less toxicity, and high bioavailability. This review focuses on the mechanistic effect of Cd on testicular toxicity and different categories of compounds having a beneficial impact on Cd-induced male reproductive toxicity. Some potent bioactive antioxidants are quercetin, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, curcumin, and silymarin. In comparison, plant extracts are Costus afer leaf methanol extract, methanol root extract of Carpolobia lutea, red carrot methanolic extract, Panax ginseng extract, and biochemicals including melatonin, progesterone, glutamine, L-carnitine, and selenium. Advanced and more detailed studies are needed on these compounds to explore their mechanism in attenuating Cd-induced testicular toxicity and can be potential therapeutics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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Phytomedicinal therapeutics for male infertility: critical insights and scientific updates. J Nat Med 2022; 76:546-573. [PMID: 35377028 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-022-01619-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a significant cause of anxiety, depression, and social stigma among couples and families. In such cases, male reproductive factors contribute widely to the extent of 20-70%. Male infertility is a multifactorial disease with several complications contributing to its diagnosis. Although its management encompasses both modern and traditional medicine arenas, the first line of treatment, adopted by most males, focuses on the reasonably successful medicinal plant-based conventional therapies. Phyto-therapeutics, which relies on active ingredients from traditionally known herbs, influences sexual behavior and male fertility factors. The potency of these phyto-actives depends on their preparation methods and forms of consumption, including decoctions, extracts, semi-purified compounds, etc., as inferred from in vitro and in vivo (laboratory animal models and human) studies. The mechanisms of action therein involve the testosterone pathway for stimulation of spermatogenesis, reduction of oxidative stress, inhibition of inflammation, activation of signaling pathways in the testes [extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK)/protein kinase B(PKB)/transformation of growth factor-beta 1(TGF-β1)/nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells NF-kB signaling pathways] and mediation of sexual behavior. This review critically focuses on the medicinal plants and their potent actives, along with the biochemical and molecular mechanisms that modulate vital pathways associated with the successful management of male infertility. Such intrinsic knowledge will significantly further studies on medicinal plants that improve male reproductive health.
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Jazayeri O, Farahmand Araghi S, Aghajanzadeh TA, Mir Moammadrezaei F. Up-regulation of Arl4a gene expression by broccoli aqueous extract is associated with improved spermatogenesis in mouse testes. BIOMEDICA : REVISTA DEL INSTITUTO NACIONAL DE SALUD 2021; 41:706-720. [PMID: 34936255 PMCID: PMC8768486 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.5962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Broccoli (Brassica oleracea) is well known for its properties as an anticancer, antioxidant, and scavenger of free radicals. However, its benefits in enhancing spermatogenesis have not been well established. OBJECTIVE To study broccoli aqueous extract effects on sperm factors and the expression of genes Catsper1, Catsper2, Arl4a, Sox5, and Sox9 in sperm factors in mice. MATERIAL AND METHODS Male mice were divided randomly into six groups: (1) Control; (2) cadmium (3 mg/kg of mouse body weight); (3) orally treated with 200 μl broccoli aqueous extract (1 g ml-1); (4) orally treated with 400 μl of broccoli aqueous extract; (5) orally treated with 200 broccoli aqueous extract plus cadmium, and (6) orally treated with 400 μl of broccoli aqueous extract plus cadmium. We analyzed the sperms factors and Catsper1, Catsper2, Arl4a, Sox5, and Sox9 gene expression. RESULTS An obvious improvement in sperm count and a slight enhancement in sperm motility were observed in mice treated with broccoli extract alone or with cadmium. Sperm viability was reduced by broccoli extract except for the 200 μl dose with cadmium, which significantly increased it. Interestingly, Arl4a gene expression increased in the 400 μl broccoli-treated group. Likewise, the Arl4a mRNA level in mice treated with cadmium and 200 μl of broccoli extract was higher than in the cadmium-treated mice. Furthermore, broccoli extract enhanced the mRNA level of Catsper2 and Sox5 genes in mice treated with 200 μl and 400 μl broccoli extract plus cadmium compared with the group treated solely with cadmium. CONCLUSION The higher sperm count in broccoli-treated mice opens the way for the development of pharmaceutical products for infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omid Jazayeri
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
| | - Setareh Farahmand Araghi
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
| | - Tahereh A Aghajanzadeh
- Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Basic Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
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Lee HW, Kil KJ, Lee MS. Ginseng for Improving Semen Quality Parameters: A Systematic Review. World J Mens Health 2020; 38:377-384. [PMID: 32009310 PMCID: PMC7308228 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.190125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Ginseng has been used as a tonic to improve overall health, restore balance in the body, help the body to heal itself, reduce stress, boost energy, and enhance the immune system. The aim of this review was to assess current evidence that ginseng improves sperm quality. Materials and Methods We searched twelve databases (PubMed, EMBASE, AMED, the Cochrane Library, five Korean medical databases, and three Chinese medical databases), using a cut-off date of 1st December 2019. We included clinical studies in which healthy men or men with fertility issues were treated with ginseng. We used Cochrane's risk of bias (ROB) tool to assess the ROB in the studies examined. Results From two-hundred and nineteen potentially eligible studies, just five relevant studies were selected (two randomized clinical trials [RCTs], one controlled clinical trial [CCT], and two observational studies). Of these studies, one RCT reported some positive results when using Korean red ginseng to improve sperm quality in infertile men. In addition, the other RCT reported that the effects of ginseng on sperm quality were equivalent to those found when valerian tablets are taken by healthy people. One CCT and two uncontrolled observational studies, however, did not demonstrate the clear effectiveness of ginseng in improving sperm quality in infertile men. Conclusions Currently, there are few trials investigating the efficacy of ginseng for improving sperm quality. The available studies demonstrate a high ROB. It can be suggested that overall, the evidence regarding ginseng improving sperm quality is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Won Lee
- Herbal Medicine Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Ki Jung Kil
- College of Oriental Medicine, Joongbu University, Geumsan, Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Korea.
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Ku JY, Park MJ, Park HJ, Park NC, Joo BS. Combination of Korean Red Ginseng Extract and Hydrogen-Rich Water Improves Spermatogenesis and Sperm Motility in Male Mice. Chin J Integr Med 2020; 26:361-369. [PMID: 31919748 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-019-3047-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of hydrogen-rich Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) water (HRGW) mixture on the spermatogenesis and sperm motility of mice of different ages. METHODS Eighty young (3 month-old) and aged (12 month-old) male mice were randomly assigned to 4 groups (n =10 per group) including control group, hydrogen-rich water (HRW) group (10 mL/kg daily), KRG group (50 mg/kg daily) and HRGW group (10 mL/kg and 50 mg/kg daily) by an oral zoned needle for 4 weeks. Sperm count and motility were measured using sperm suspension released from cauda epididymis. Serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in serum have also been estimated. Tubular changes were examined through histological hematoxylin and eosin staining. Expression of antioxidation (PPx3, PPx4, GSTm5 and GPx4), spermatogenesis (inhibin-a, neptin-2 and CREM), antiaging (SIRT1 and SIRT2), and angiogenesis [visfatin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)] related genes were examined through real-time polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS HRW and KRG treatment stimulated spermatogenesis followed by increasing sperm production and sperm motility (P <0.05). These effects were strengthened synergistically by a HRGW mixture (P <0.05 or P <0.01). HRGW greatly increased the expressions of antioxidation, antiaging, spermatogenesis related genes and VEGF especially in aged mice (P <0.05). Serum testosterone and FSH levels also increased, while serum ROS level decreased (all P <0.05). CONCLUSION HRGW increases sperm production and motility by enhancing antioxidation and stimulating spermatogenesis and sex hormone production, particularly in aged mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ja Yoon Ku
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea.,Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jung Park
- The Korea Institute for Public Sperm Bank, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Cheol Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University Hospital, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea.,The Korea Institute for Public Sperm Bank, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Sun Joo
- The Korea Institute for Public Sperm Bank, Busan, 49241, Republic of Korea.
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Chaudhary SK, Mandal AB, Bhar R, Gopi M, Kannan A, Jadhav SE, Rokade JJ. Effect of graded levels of soapnut (Sapindus mukorossi) shell powder on reproductive performance in broiler breeders. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2018; 32:118-125. [PMID: 30056680 PMCID: PMC6325405 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.18.0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study investigated the effects of soapnut (Sapindus mukorossi) shell powder (SSP) on serum hormone level, egg quality, semen characteristics and reproductive performance of broiler breeders fed with a maize-soybean meal based diet. Methods Ninety six female and twenty four male CARIBRO-VISHAL broiler breeders, 38-week old, were individually caged and randomly allocated to four treatment groups (24 female breeders/treatment and 6 male breeders/treatment): an un-supplemented control (T1) and three groups with 0.0176% SSP (group T2), 0.026% SSP (group T3) and 0.0528% SSP (group T4), to have supplementary saponin at 0, 50, 75, and 150 ppm, respectively, for 42 days. Results The results indicated that serum (p<0.001) and seminal plasma (p<0.05) testosterone level, semen volume (p<0.001), mass motility (p<0.001), and live spermatozoa count (p<0.001) was increased in groups T3 and T4 compared to T2 and control groups. Compared with control group, total sperm count was increased (p<0.001) and dead spermatozoa count was decreased (p<0.001) in SSP supplemented groups. Supplementation of SSP did not affected the quality of egg lay. Compared with control group, fertility (p<0.01) and hatchability (total eggs set and fertile eggs set) (p<0.001) were significantly improved in SSP supplemented groups with the highest improvement in T3 treatment group. Embryonic death was decreased (p< 0.001) in SSP supplemented groups compared to control; lowest embryonic death was recorded in T3 treatment group. Conclusion Thus, it was concluded that dietary supplementation of 0.026% SSP (saponin equivalent 75 ppm) improved the reproductive performance of broiler breeders.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Chaudhary
- Animal Nutrition Division, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - A B Mandal
- Acting Director, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - R Bhar
- Animal Nutrition Lab, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Eastern Regional Station, Kolkata, West Bengal 700037, India
| | - M Gopi
- Avian Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - A Kannan
- Animal Nutrition Lab, ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Rajendra Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500030, India
| | - S E Jadhav
- Animal Nutrition Division, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
| | - J J Rokade
- Avian Genetics and Breeding Division, ICAR-Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243122, India
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Lee HW, Kil KJ, Lee Y, Lee MS. Ginseng for improving semen quality parameters: A protocol of systematic review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e9732. [PMID: 29369214 PMCID: PMC5794398 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000009732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this systematic review is to determine whether ginseng is effective in improving sperm quality. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Twelve databases will be searched from their inception to the present date: PubMed, EMBASE, AMED, the Cochrane Library, 5 Korean medical databases (KoreaMed, DBpia, OASIS, the Research Information Service System [RISS], and the Korean Studies Information Service System [KISS]), and 3 Chinese medical databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure [CNKI], the Wanfang Database, and the Chinese Scientific Journals Database [VIP]). We will include all prospective clinical trials including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled trials, and uncontrolled observational studies. We will exclude case study and case series, and retrospective studies in which healthy men or men with subfertility are treated with any type of ginseng. We will exclude studies comparing the 2 different forms of ginseng. The selection of the studies, data abstraction, and validations will be performed independently by 2 researchers. The risk of bias of the RCTs will be evaluated using the Cochrane's risk of bias assessment tool. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The findings will be disseminated to appropriate audiences via peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. Our review will provide readers the opportunity to access studies originally published in East Asian languages that they would otherwise be unable to read. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO 2017 CRD42017078797.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Won Lee
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon
| | - Ki-Jung Kil
- College of Oriental Medicine, Joongbu University, ChungNam
| | - YoungJoo Lee
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Sejong University, Seoul
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Eskandari M, Jani S, Kazemi M, Zeighami H, Yazdinezhad A, Mazloomi S, Shokri S. Ameliorating Effect of Ginseng on Epididymo-Orchitis Inducing Alterations in Sperm Quality and Spermatogenic Cells Apoptosis following Infection by Uropathogenic Escherichia coli in Rats. CELL JOURNAL 2016; 18:446-57. [PMID: 27602327 PMCID: PMC5011333 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2016.4573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective Epididymo-orchitis (EO) potentially results in reduced fertility in up to 60%
of affected patients. The anti-inflammatory effects of Korean red ginseng (KRG) and its
ability to act as an immunoenhancer in parallel with the beneficial effects of this ancient
herbal medicine on the reproductive systems of animals and humans led us to evaluate its
protective effects against acute EO.
Materials and Methods This animal experimental study was conducted in the Department of Anatomical Sciences,
Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences
(ZUMS), Zanjan, Iran during 2013-2015. We divided 50 Wistar rats into five following
groups (n=10 per group): i. Control-intact animals, ii. Vehicle-phosphate buffered saline
(PBS) injection into the vas deferens, iii. KRG-an intraperitoneal (IP) injection of KRG, iv.
EO-an injection of uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strain M39 into the vas defer-
ens, and v. EO/ KRG-injections of both UPEC strain M39 and KRG. The treatment lasted
seven days. We then evaluated sperm parameters, number of germ cell layers, Johnson’s
criteria, germ cell apoptosis, body weight and relative sex organs weight.
Results Acute EO increased the relative weight of prostate and seminal vesicles (P≤0.05).
It also reduced sperm quality such as total motility, sperm concentration (P≤0.01), and the
percentage of normal sperm (P≤0.001). Moreover, acute EO decreased Miller’s (P≤0.05)
and Johnsen’s scores and increased apoptotic indexes of spermatogenic cells (P≤0.001).
KRG treatment decreased prostate weight gain (P≤0.05) and improved the percentage of
sperm with normal morphology, total motility (P≤0.01), and progressive motility (P≤0.05).
The apoptotic indexes of spermatogenic cells reduced (P≤0.001), whereas both Johnsen’s (P≤0.01) and Miller’s criteria increased in the KRG-treated EO testis (P≤0.05).
Conclusion Consequently, KRG ameliorated the devastating effects of EO on the sperm
retrieved from either epididymis or testicle in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Eskandari
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Soghra Jani
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mahsa Kazemi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habib Zeighami
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Alireza Yazdinezhad
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Sahar Mazloomi
- Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Saeed Shokri
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
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Eskandari M, Ghalyanchi Langeroudi A, Zeighami H, Rostami A, Kazemi M, Eyni H, Shokri S. Co-administration of ginseng and ciprofloxacin ameliorates epididymo-orchitis induced alterations in sperm quality and spermatogenic cells apoptosis following infection in rats. Andrologia 2016; 49. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M. Eskandari
- Department of Physiology; Faculty of Medicine; Zanjan University of Medical Sciences; Zanjan Iran
| | - A. Ghalyanchi Langeroudi
- Department of Physiology; Faculty of Medicine; Zanjan University of Medical Sciences; Zanjan Iran
| | - H. Zeighami
- Department of Microbiology; Faculty of Medicine; Zanjan University of Medical Sciences; Zanjan Iran
| | - A. Rostami
- Department of Physiology; Faculty of Medicine; Zanjan University of Medical Sciences; Zanjan Iran
| | - M. Kazemi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - H. Eyni
- Department of Anatomical Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; Tarbiat Modares University; Tehran Iran
| | - S. Shokri
- Department of Anatomical Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; Zanjan University of Medical Sciences; Zanjan Iran
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Astragalus membranaceus augment sperm parameters in male mice associated with cAMP-responsive element modulator and activator of CREM in testis. J Tradit Complement Med 2015; 6:294-8. [PMID: 27419096 PMCID: PMC4936768 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Astragalus membranaceus BUNGE (AM; huáng qí) has been widely used as a medicinal herb for different kinds of diseases. AM treatment in vitro enhance sperm motility and ameliorates testicular toxicity, it has demonstrated the ability as a potential treatment for male infertility. In order to gain further insights on the molecular understanding of how AM enhances spermatogenesis, this study investigated whether AM has an affect on sperm parameters associated with cAMP response element modulator (CREM) and activator of CREM in testis (ACT) expression. Five-week-old male ICR mice were divided into four groups; control group and three different concentrations of AM treated groups. Each group was treated for 5 days a week for 5 weeks. Testis samples were collected for real time quantitative PCR and western blot analysis. Epididymis was taken out and used for sperm analysis using the computer assisted semen analysis (CASA) system. To facilitate expression of genes required for spermatogenesis, it is controlled by fine-tuning of CREM and its coactivator, ACT. AM treatment promotes CREM and ACT mRNA expression and also protein expression compared to control. AM enhances sperm values such as sperm count and motility compared to control. Overall, the study highlights, the ability of AM to increases CREM and ACT expression to facilitate sperm development and semen quality.
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Effect of a Traditional Herbal Prescription, Kyung-Ok-Ko, on Male Mouse Spermatogenic Ability after Heat-Induced Damage. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:950829. [PMID: 26539239 PMCID: PMC4619954 DOI: 10.1155/2015/950829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Kyung-Ok-Ko (KOK), a well-known traditional Korean medicinal formula, has long been used to invigorate the essential qi. This use of KOK may be associated with reproductive ability as a more modern concept. The protective effect of KOK was evaluated against deterioration of testicular function induced by heat exposure in male mice. Male fertility was disrupted by scrotal heat stress at 43°C for 5 weeks. KOK (0.25, 0.50, and 2.00 g/kg/day) was administered orally at 3 h after the stress. To evaluate the protective effect of KOK, body weight, testicular weight, sperm count, sperm motility, and histopathological changes in the testes were evaluated. KOK-treated mice significantly recovered their general health, as evidenced by body weight. KOK-treated mice also showed significantly higher testes weights, sperm counts, and sperm motility than did the heat stress group. KOK-treated mice significantly recovered the morphological appearance of the seminiferous tubules and seminiferous epithelium. Furthermore, KOK-treated mice significantly increased antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced the protein expressions of apoptosis in the testes. KOK significantly protects against heat-induced damage to testicular function in male mice by inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis, indicating that KOK may be an effective agent for treatment of heat-induced male infertility.
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Park EH, Kim DR, Kim HY, Park SK, Chang MS. Panax ginseng induces the expression of CatSper genes and sperm hyperactivation. Asian J Androl 2015; 16:845-51. [PMID: 24969054 PMCID: PMC4236327 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.129129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The cation channel of sperm (CatSper) protein family plays important roles in male reproduction and infertility. The four members of this family are expressed exclusively in the testis and are localized differently in sperm. To investigate the effects of Panax ginseng treatment on the expression of CatSper genes and sperm hyperactivation in male mice, sperm motility and CatSper gene expression were assessed using a computer-assisted semen analysis system, a Fluoroskan Ascent microplate fluorometer to assess Ca2+ influx, real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting and immunofluorescence. The results suggested that the Ca2+ levels of sperm cells treated with P. ginseng were increased significantly compared with the normal group. The P. ginseng-treated groups showed increased sperm motility parameters, such as the curvilinear velocity and amplitude of lateral head displacement. Taken together, the data suggest that CatSper messenger ribonucleic acid levels were increased significantly in mouse testes in the P. ginseng-treated group, as was the protein level, with the exception of CatSper2. In conclusion, P. ginseng plays an important role in improving sperm hyperactivation via CatSper gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mun Seog Chang
- Department of Prescriptionology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee Unversity, Seoul, Korea
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Pavan V, Mucignat-Caretta C, Redaelli M, Ribaudo G, Zagotto G. The Old Made New: Natural Compounds against Erectile Dysfunction. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2015; 348:607-14. [PMID: 25974223 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.201500075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The interest toward sex-related diseases keeps growing through the years. In this review, we focus our attention on erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition that caught much attention especially after the introduction on the market of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors such as the well-known sildenafil. Here, we briefly describe both the etiology of ED and the available treatments, examining then extensively some natural derivatives that, coming from traditional medicine, could represent promising starting points for the development of alternative remedies. In fact, herbal remedies from several parts of the world have been traditionally known for long, and were recently reconsidered and are now being studied to demonstrate their eventual potential in the treatment of ED. Among the various examples reported in the literature and reviewed here, plants and extracts containing polyphenols—especially a class of compounds called kraussianones—appear to be particularly effective and promising against ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pavan
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Marco Redaelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ribaudo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Zagotto
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Park HJ, Choe S, Park NC. Effects of Korean red ginseng on semen parameters in male infertility patients: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical study. Chin J Integr Med 2015; 22:490-5. [PMID: 25967606 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-015-2139-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of Korean red ginseng (KRG) on semen parameters in male infertility patients in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. METHODS A total of 80 male infertility patients with varicocele were recruited from April 2011 to February 2012. The subjects were then divided into the following four groups: non-varicocelectomy (V)+placebo (P) group, V+P group, non-V+KRG group (1.5-g KRG daily), and V+KGR group (1.5-g KRG daily). Semen analysis was performed and hormonal levels were measured in each treatment arm after 12 weeks. RESULTS All groups but not the non-V+P group, showed significant improvements in sperm concentrations, motility, morphology, and viability at the end of the study. However, there were no significant differences in serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone among groups. The incidence of adverse events was low, and all events were assumed to be unrelated to the treatments administered. CONCLUSIONS Although the exact mechanism by which KRG improves spermatogenesis remains unclear, KRG may be a useful agent for the treatment of male infertility. Nevertheless, additional studies to evaluate the optimal dose and duration of treatment are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, 602-739, Republic of Korea.,Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, 602-739, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangmin Choe
- Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, 602-739, Republic of Korea.,Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Clinical Trial Center, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, 602-739, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Cheol Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, 602-739, Republic of Korea. .,Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, 602-739, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Fernandes NF, Martino-Andrade AJ, Dos Santos Lourenço AC, Muller JC, Spercoski KM, Nihi F, Miguel MD, de Oliveira VB, Dalsenter PR, Morais RN. Supplementation with Pfaffia glomerata (Sprengel) Pedersen does not affect androgenic-anabolic parameters in male rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2015; 161:46-52. [PMID: 25500301 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.11.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/30/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Paffia spp (Amaranthacea) has a widespread use of in Brazil as a possible hormonal supplement and a substitute of Panax ginseng, although information on its reproductive effects is missing. AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluated possible anabolic-androgenic or anti-androgenic effects of Pfaffia glomerata (PG) extract using intact eight-months-old male rats and pre-pubertal castrated rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three different dose levels of PG (8.5, 30 and 85 mg/kg/day) were administered to eight-months-old rats for 28 days or to castrated males for 7 days (Hershberger assay). In the experiment with intact animals, 24h fecal samples were collected for quantification of fecal metabolites of androgens throughout treatment. At the end of the treatment period, animals were euthanized for evaluation of serum testosterone, reproductive organ weights, number of spermatids per testis, diameter of seminiferous tubules and cross-sectional area of soleus muscle fibers. In the Hershberber assay, androgenic or anti-androgenic effects were evaluated by the weights of androgen-dependent tissues: ventral prostate, seminal vesicle, glans penis and levator ani muscle/bulbocavernosus muscle. RESULTS No effects were observed in the concentrations of fecal metabolites of androgens monitored during the treatment of intact eight-months-old rats. Moreover, at the end of treatment, no changes were seen in any of the investigated parameters. In the Hershberger assay, the PG extract did not induce androgenic or anti-androgenic effects at the dose levels tested. Significant effects were only observed in animals treated with testosterone and testosterone plus flutamide, which were used as positive controls for androgenicity and anti-androgenicity, respectively. CONCLUSIONS At the dose levels tested, PG extract does not induce anabolic-androgenic or anti-androgenic effects in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ney Felipe Fernandes
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | - Juliane Centeno Muller
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Katherinne Maria Spercoski
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Fabiola Nihi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Marilis Dallarmi Miguel
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, 632, Avenida Prof. Lothário Meissner, 80210-170, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Bednarczuk de Oliveira
- Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, 632, Avenida Prof. Lothário Meissner, 80210-170, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Paulo Roberto Dalsenter
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Rosana Nogueira Morais
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro Politécnico, 81531-980 Curitiba, PR, Brazil.
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16
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Leung KW, Wong AS. Ginseng and male reproductive function. SPERMATOGENESIS 2013; 3:e26391. [PMID: 24381805 PMCID: PMC3861174 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.26391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Ginseng is often referred to as the King of all herbs, and is found to be a promising agent to improve general well-being. Ginseng has also been reputed as an aphrodisiac, and is used to treat sexual dysfunction as well as to enhance sexual behavior in traditional Chinese medical practices. Data from animal studies have shown a positive correlation among ginseng, libido, and copulatory performances, and these effects have been confirmed in case-control studies in human. In addition, ginseng is found to improve the sperm quality and count of healthy individuals as well as patients with treatment-related infertility. These actions are mostly attributed to ginsenosides, the major pharmacological active components of ginseng. This review compiles the current knowledge about the multifaceted effects of ginseng on male reproductive function, and also focuses on its mechanisms of action that may represent novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of male reproductive diseases or disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kar Wah Leung
- School of Biological Sciences; University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Alice St Wong
- School of Biological Sciences; University of Hong Kong; Hong Kong, PR China
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17
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Kim IH, Kim SK, Kim EH, Kim SW, Sohn SH, Lee SC, Choi S, Pyo S, Rhee DK. Korean Red Ginseng Up-regulates C21-Steroid Hormone Metabolism via Cyp11a1 Gene in Senescent Rat Testes. J Ginseng Res 2013; 35:272-82. [PMID: 23717070 PMCID: PMC3659540 DOI: 10.5142/jgr.2011.35.3.272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Revised: 03/22/2011] [Accepted: 03/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) has been shown to have anti-aging effects in animal and clinical studies. However, the molecular mechanisms by which ginseng exerts these effects remain unknown. Here, the anti-aging effect of Korean red ginseng (KRG) in rat testes was examined by system biology analysis. KRG water extract prepared in feed pellets was administered orally into 12 month old rats for 4 months, and gene expression in testes was determined by microarray analysis. Microarray analysis identified 33 genes that significantly changed. Compared to the 2 month old young rats, 13 genes (Rps9, Cyp11a1, RT1-A2, LOC365778, Sv2b, RGD1565959, RGD1304748, etc.) were up-regulated and 20 genes (RT1-Db1, Cldn5, Svs5, Degs1, Vdac3, Hbb, LOC684355, Svs5, Tmem97, Orai1, Insl3, LOC497959, etc.) were down-regulated by KRG in the older rats. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis of untreated aged rats versus aged rats treated with KRG showed that the affected most was Cyp11a1, responsible for C21-steroid hormone metabolism, and the top molecular and cellular functions are organ morphology and reproductive system development and function. When genes in young rat were compared with those in the aged rat, sperm capacitation related genes were down-regulated in the old rat. However, when genes in the old rat were compared with those in the old rat treated with KRG, KRG treatment up-regulated C21-steroid hormone metabolism. Taken together, Cyp11a1 expression is decreased in the aged rat, however, it is up-regulated by KRG suggesting that KRG seems enhance testes function via Cyp11a1.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Hye Kim
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, Korea
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Ho CCK, Tan HM. Rise of Herbal and Traditional Medicine in Erectile Dysfunction Management. Curr Urol Rep 2011; 12:470-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s11934-011-0217-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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19
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Yang WM, Park SY, Kim HM, Park EH, Park SK, Chang MS. Effects of Panax ginseng
on glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) expression and spermatogenesis in rats. Phytother Res 2011; 25:308-11. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.3239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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20
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Nantia EA, Moundipa PF, Monsees TK, Carreau S. Medicinal plants as potential male anti-infertility agents: a review. Basic Clin Androl 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s12610-009-0030-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
For millions of couples, the inability to have a child is a personal tragedy and a large proportion of childless people are confronted with social stigmatization (blame) and personal frustration. Formerly assigned to women, infertility of a couple is nowadays equitably distributed between the two sexes. Among the methods used to treat male infertility problems, medicinal plants have been used empirically as extracts, decoctions, fractions or semi-purified compounds. These herbal products are used in the treatment of a dysfunctioning of the libido, sexual asthenia, erection, and sperm disorders. Pharmacological activities of many of these plants have been shown in vitro using cells, in vivo (on laboratory animals) and human studies. For instance, extracts of Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolius and Lepidium meyenii have shown positive effects on sexual desire; while extracts of Astragalus membranaceus, Asparagus racemous, Withania somnifera, Andrographis paniculata and Acanthopanax senticosus improved sperm parameters. Plants provide a treatment option that is affordable and available for infertile couples, and phytotherapy is an essential form of treatment in our health system. However, herbal products are still anarchically used in many regions and countries, and a great proportion of medicinal plants used traditionally to solve male reproductive disorders have not yet been scientifically evaluated. Therefore in this review, we have summarized most of the data dealing with the effects of plant extracts on mammalian reproductive functions.
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Lee HC, Vinodhkumar R, Yoon JW, Park SK, Lee CW, Kim HY. Enhanced inhibitory effect of ultra-fine granules of red ginseng on LPS-induced cytokine expression in the monocyte-derived macrophage THP-1 cells. Int J Mol Sci 2008; 9:1379-1392. [PMID: 19325809 PMCID: PMC2635732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms9081379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2008] [Revised: 05/29/2008] [Accepted: 08/05/2008] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Red ginseng is one of the most popular traditional medicines in Korea because its soluble hot-water extract is known to be very effective on enhancing immunity as well as inhibiting inflammation. Recently, we developed a new technique, called the HAC-gearshift system, which can pulverize red ginseng into the ultra-fine granules ranging from 0.2 to 7.0 μm in size. In this study, the soluble hot-water extract of those ultra-fine granules of red ginseng (URG) was investigated and compared to that of the normal-sized granules of red ginseng (RG). The high pressure liquid chromatographic analyses of the soluble hot-water extracts of both URG and RG revealed that URG had about 2-fold higher amounts of the ginsenosides, the biologically active components in red ginseng, than RG did. Using quantitative RT-PCR, cytokine profiling against the Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the monocyte-derived macrophage THP-1 cells demonstrated that the URG-treated cells showed a significant reduction in cytokine expression than the RG-treated ones. Transcription expression of the LPS-induced cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TGF-β was significantly inhibited by URG compared to RG. These results suggest that some biologically active and soluble components in red ginseng can be more effectively extracted from URG than RG by standard hot-water extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyoung-Cheol Lee
- Lab of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, #1 Hoeki-dong, Dongdaemoon-gu, Seoul 130–701, Republic of Korea; E-mails:
(H.C.L.);
(J.W.Y.);
(R.V.)
| | - Radhakrishnan Vinodhkumar
- Lab of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, #1 Hoeki-dong, Dongdaemoon-gu, Seoul 130–701, Republic of Korea; E-mails:
(H.C.L.);
(J.W.Y.);
(R.V.)
| | - Jang W. Yoon
- Lab of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, #1 Hoeki-dong, Dongdaemoon-gu, Seoul 130–701, Republic of Korea; E-mails:
(H.C.L.);
(J.W.Y.);
(R.V.)
- Oriental Medical Science Center, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Kyu Park
- Department of Prescriptionology, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; E-mail:
(S.K.P.)
| | - Chang-Won Lee
- NT&BT Co., Ltd. 92-1, Haengsan-ri, Galsan-myeon, Hongseong-gun, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea; E-mail:
(C.W.L.)
| | - Hong-Yeoul Kim
- Lab of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, College of Oriental Medicine, Kyung Hee University, #1 Hoeki-dong, Dongdaemoon-gu, Seoul 130–701, Republic of Korea; E-mails:
(H.C.L.);
(J.W.Y.);
(R.V.)
- HelixPharms Co., Ltd., Seoul, 130–701, Republic of Korea
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-mail:
; Tel. +82-2-961-9156; Fax: +82-2-961-9195; Mobile: +82-11-720-9156
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Chang MS, Kim WN, Yang WM, Kim HY, Oh JH, Park SK. Cytoprotective effects ofMorinda officinalisagainst hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in Leydig TM3 cells. Asian J Androl 2008; 10:667-74. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7262.2008.00414.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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