The effect of methoxychlor on the epididymal antioxidant system of adult rats

Evaluation of Spermatogenic Activity of Polyherbal Compound Musalyadi Churna and its Protective Effect Against Nicotine-Induced Testicular Degeneration in Sprague-Dawley Rats

Background

The ancient science of life known as Ayurveda uses a variety of formulations or herbal compounds to treat a wide range of illnesses. Male infertility accounts for half of all infertility worldwide, and numerous etiological variables play a role. A pharmacologically active tobacco component called nicotine has a negative impact on male fertility and the reproductive system. Musalyadi Churna (MSC) is one of the polyherbal compound formulations mentioned in Ayurveda Classics for aphrodisiac therapy and recommended for the treatment of male infertility.

Objective

The current study aims to evaluate the spermatogenic potential of MSC along with its protective effect against testicular degeneration induced by nicotine in rat models.

Materials and Methods

Sixty adult Sprague-Dawley male rats were used in the experiment, which were divided into ten groups of six rats each. Nicotine was administered orally as disease control. The standard and vehicle control were also included along with study drug groups in which MSC was administered orally to the rats. The study was conducted for 70 days for each group with assessment of body weight and food consumption. After treatment, rats were weighed and sacrificed for evaluation of parameters like organ weight, epididymal sperm count, and sperm morphology along with histological assessment. The data were statistically evaluated using analysis of variance test and Bonferroni multiple-comparison range test to compare different treatment groups.

Results and Conclusion

In the present study, MSC possesses substantial spermatogenic efficacy, and the result indicates that the study drug possesses a protective effect against nicotine-induced impaired testicular functions in rats, but further research to elucidate its exact mechanism of action is essential.

Methoxychlor induces oxidative stress and impairs early embryonic development in pigs

Introduction: Methoxychlor (MXC) is an organochlorine pesticide (OCP) that was formerly used worldwide as an insecticide against pests and mosquitoes. However, MXC is not biodegradable and has lipophilic characteristics; thus, it accumulates in organisms and affects reproductive function. MXC, as an estrogenic compound, promotes oxidative stress, induces oxidative stress damage to ovarian follicles, and causes miscarriages and stillbirths in females. In this research endeavor, our primary objective was to explore the ramifications of MXC regarding the developmental processes occurring during the initial stages of embryogenesis in pigs. Methods: In this study, we counted the blastocyst rate of early embryos cultured in vitro. We also examined the reactive oxygen species level, glutathione level, mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial copy number and ATP level in four-cell stage embryos. Finally, apoptosis and DNA damage in blastocyst cells, as well as pluripotency-related and apoptosis-related genes in blastocyst cells were detected. The above experiments were used to evaluate the changes of MXC damage on early parthenogenetic embryo development. Results and Discussion: The results showed that early embryos exposed to MXC had a significantly lower cleavage rate, blastocyst rate, hatching rate, and total cell count compared with the control group. It was also of note that MXC not only increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), but also decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and mitochondrial copy number during the development of early embryos. In addition, after MXC treatment, blastocyst apoptosis and DNA damage were increased, decreased cell proliferation, and the expression of pluripotency-related genes SOX2, NANOG, and OCT4 was down-regulated, while the expression of apoptosis-related genes BAX/BCL-2 and Caspase9 was up-regulated. Our results clearly show that MXC can have deleterious effects on the developmental processes of early porcine embryos, establishing the toxicity of MXC to the reproductive system. In addition, the study of this toxic effect may lead to greater concern about pesticide residues in humans and the use of safer pesticides, thus potentially preventing physiological diseases caused by chemical exposure.

Malathion or diazinon exposure and male reproductive toxicity: a systematic review of studies performed with rodents

Malathion and diazinon are pesticides commonly used in agriculture to avoid insects that damage crops; however, they may cause impairment to the male genital system of exposed humans. The present work carried out a systematic review of the literature concerning the primary studies that assessed the reproductive effects resulting from male rats and mice exposed to malathion or diazinon. The search for articles was performed on the databases PubMed, LILACS, Scopus, and SciELO, using different combinations of the search terms "malathion," "diazinon," "mice," "rats," "male reproduction," "fertility," and "sperm," followed by the Boolean operators AND or OR. The results obtained indicate that both pesticides act as reproductive toxicants by reducing sperm quality, diminishing hormonal concentrations, inducing increased oxidative stress, and provoking histopathological damage in reproductive organs. Then, the exposure to malathion and diazinon may provoke diminished levels of testosterone by increasing acetylcholine stimulation in the testis through muscarinic receptors, thus, providing a reduction in steroidogenic activity in Leydig cells, whose effect is related to lower levels of testosterone in rodents, and consequently, it is associated with decreased fertility. Considering the toxic effects on the male genital system of rodents and the possible male reproductive toxicity in humans, it is recommended the decreased use of these pesticides and their replacement for others that show no or few toxic effects for non-target animals.

Maternal exposure to environmentally relevant doses of bisphenol A causes reproductive dysfunction in F1 adult male rats: protective role of melatonin

This study investigated the protective effects of melatonin (MLT), a potent antioxidant, in male Wistar rats exposed to environmentally relevant doses of bisphenol A (BPA) in utero. Pregnant Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups. Group 1 (control) received 0.2 mL 1% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)/99% canola oil as vehicle; group 2 received BPA at 25 μg/kg/day; group 3 received BPA at 250 μg/kg/day; group 4 received BPA at 25 μg/kg/day with concurrent MLT 1 mg/kg/day while group 5 received BPA at 250 μg/kg/day with concurrent MLT 1 mg/kg/day. Treatments were by gavage from gestational day (GD) 10-21. The BPA-treated rats showed dose-dependent significant reduction in body weight, gonosomatic index, sperm motility, livability and count. Also, BPA caused significant reduction in the levels of serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone while it caused significant increases in the levels of follicle stimulating hormone as well as estradiol. Furthermore, BPA induced testicular oxidative stress including significant decreases in the activities of testicular SOD, GSH and GPx as well as GST, increasing the levels of testicular MDA and H2O2. It further induced interstitial necrosis and germinal cell degeneration in the testis with a subsequent diminution of the tubular and luminal diameter. However, co-treatment with MLT offered protection against testicular damage induced by BPA. Melatonin is likely to protect against alterations of the male reproductive system caused by BPA through a direct action on the mechanism of anti-oxidants as well as through the inhibition of necrosis.

Testicular toxicity of gentamicin in adult rats: Ameliorative effect of lycopene

The current study was aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of lycopene against gentamicin-induced testicular toxicity in adult rat testes. Pretreatment with lycopene (4 mg/kg/day) significantly prevented the decrease in the absolute testes weight and relative testes weight and the reduction in sperm count, motility, viability, and daily sperm production in gentamicin (100 mg/kg/day)-treated rats. Gentamicin significantly decreased the level of serum testosterone and testicular lactate dehydrogenase-X and G6PDH activities but a marked increase was observed upon pretreatment with lycopene. Testicular caspase-3 and -9 activities were significantly increased but lycopene showed significant protection from gentamicin-induced apoptosis. Oxidative stress was induced by gentamicin treatment as evidenced by increased hydrogen peroxide level and lipid peroxidation and decreased the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase activities and glutathione content. These alterations were effectively prevented by lycopene pretreatment. Histopathological examination showed loss of spermatogenesis and morphological abnormalities of the testis after treatment with gentamycin. These abnormalities were effectively normalized by pretreatment with lycopene. In conclusion, gentamicin decreases rat testes weight and inhibits spermatogenesis. It induces oxidative stress and apoptosis by possible mitochondrial dysfunction. These data provide insight into the mode of action of gentamicin-induced testicular toxicity and the beneficial role provided by lycopene to restore the suppressed spermatogenesis.

Antioxidant enzyme expression of mRNA and protein in the epididymis of finasteride-treated male rat offspring during postnatal development

INTRODUCTION

We verify whether finasteride had a transgenerational effect on the epididymal expression of antioxidant enzymes, and the correlation between these enzymes and blood androgen concentrations in male offspring (F1:Fin) of females fertilized by finasteride-treated male rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The expression of CAT, SOD1, GPX5, GR on the mRNA and protein levels was evaluated in the epididymis at postnatal day (PND) 7, 14, 21, 28 and 90. Levels of T and DHT were correlated with mRNA levels of enzymes by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

A change in the levels of transcripts was noted in F1:Fin rats: CAT decreased at PND 28 (p < 0.01) and increased at PND 90 (p < 0.01); SOD1 increased at PND 7 (p < 0.0001), 21 (p < 0.001), 90 (p < 0.0001) and decreased at 14 PND (p < 0.01); GPX5 increased at PND 14 and 21 (p < 0.0001); GR decreased at PND 21 and 28 (p < 0.0001). Altered immunolocalization of enzymes within the epididymal epithelium was observed. Negative correlations between GPX5 mRNA with androgens (T, p = 0.0002; DHT, p = 0.0009) were visible in the control rats, and positive correlation between DHT and CAT mRNA (p = 0.03), in opposite to F1:Fin group were was negative for both androgens (T, p = 0.044 and DHT, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Finasteride treatment of adult male rats may cause changes in antioxidant defense system in the epididymis of their offspring, leading to improper ROS concentrations that can affect post-testicular sperm maturation.

Protective effect of Lespedeza cuneata ethanol extract on Bisphenol A-induced testicular dysfunction in vivo and in vitro

PURPOSE

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been regarded as a possible risk factor for reproductive health. We examined potential reproductive health benefits of Lespedeza cuneata ethanol extract (LCE). Previously, Lespedeza cuneata showed many therapeutic effects. However, the protective effect of LCE on BPA-induced testicular dysfunction and its mechanisms have not been precisely studied.

METHODS

Mice were randomly divided into six groups (n = 7). Sperm counts and motility were measured by light microscope. Testosterone, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL-cholesterol, glucose, free fatty acids, hs-CRP, Angiotensinogen, Angiotensin II, GOT, GPT, TBARS, GSH, CAT, and SOD1 were measured in mouse serum. The potential protective effects of the LCE on mouse sertoli cells were evaluated.

RESULTS

Oral administration of LCE in BPA-exposed male mice restored testis weight, sperm count, motility, and testosterone levels by inhibiting markers in serum. In addition, treatment with LCE in BPA-treated TM4 sertoli cells recovered cell viability by attenuating Bax expression and activating caspase 3 and PARP.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that LCE prevented BPA-induced testicular dysfunction and cell viability in BPA-treated TM4 sertoli cells. Our study also suggests that LCE has the potential to protect male reproductive health.

Is immunosuppression, induced by neonatal thymectomy, compatible with poor reproductive performance in adult male rats?

With increasing knowledge that the immune system has a major impact on reproductive ‎health, the potential for cells arising in organs such as the thymus to alleviate oxidative stress ‎has been revealed. This study addresses the impact of neonatal thymectomy on male ‎reproductive function in pubertal and adult animals. Neonatal Sprague Dawley rats were allotted to four treatments consisting of fully thymectomized, partially thymectomized, intact, and sham-operated rats. Half of the rats in each treatment were sacrificed at 40 and the other half at 80 days of age. Testicular volume, ventral prostate and spleen weight, several sperm attributes (concentration, motility, livability, membrane integrity, sperm penetration into mucus, total antioxidant capacity, mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity), plasma superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and testosterone level as well as fertility decreased in thymectomized rats. Adrenal gland weight, sperm malondialdehyde level, indices of oxidative stress, sperm abnormality, testicular and sperm lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, and sperm reactive oxygen species generation increased in thymectomized rats. In thymectomized rats, the testes contained high levels of malondialdehyde but low levels of glutathione and ferric-reducing antioxidant power. Epididymal sperm reactive oxygen species, blood lipid peroxidation, and oxidative stress indices ‎‎in blood and spermatozoa were highest in fully thymectomized, intermediate ‎in partially thymectomized, and lowest in both pubertal and mature control rats. Blood levels of superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxidation indices, and ‎testosterone, and mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate and ‎dehydrogenase activities in epididymal spermatozoa were lowest in fully thymectomized, ‎intermediate in partially thymectomized, and highest in both pubertal and mature control rats.‎ The data indicated that increased oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction might play a role in the mechanism of immunosuppression-induced testicular and sperm abnormalities.

Lipoic acid and Calligonum comosumon attenuate aroclor 1260-induced testicular toxicity in adult rats

Aroclor 1260 is one of the more representative polychlorinated biphenyls found in biota. This study was designed to delineate the testicular toxicity of Aroclor 1260 and to elucidate the potential protective role of Calligonum comosum (C. comosum) and lipoic acid in adult rats. Aroclor 1260 was dissolved in corn oil and given to rats by gavage at doses 0, 20, 40, or 60 mg/kg/day for 15 consecutive days (Groups I, II, III, and IV, respectively). Groups V and VI were pretreated with C. comosum (200 mg/kg/day) and lipoic acid (35 mg/kg/day) respectively 24 h before Aroclor 1260 (40 mg/kg/day) treatment for 15 consecutive days. Aroclor 1260 (20, 40 or 60 mg/kg/day) treatment significantly decreased testes weight, sperm count and motility and daily sperm production. Serum testosterone was significantly decreased in response to treatment with 40 and 60 mg/kg/day of Aroclor 1260. LDH-X activity was significantly decreased at the three dose levels. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂ O₂ ) production (in a dose-related manner) and lipid peroxidation were significantly increased in response to Aroclor 1260 (20, 40, or 60 mg/kg/day) treatment. Aroclor 1260 at the three dose levels decreased the activities of the antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, GPx, and GR and the non-enzymatic antioxidant GSH level. CAT, GPx and GSH showed a dose-response effect. These abnormalities were effectively attenuated by pretreatment with C. comosum (200 mg/kg/day) or lipoic acid (35 mg/kg/day). Histopathological examination showed a dose-related increase in morphological abnormalities of the testis in response to Aroclor 1260 treatment. In conclusion, Aroclor 1260 induced testicular toxicity at least, in part, by induction of oxidative stress. By reversal of biochemical and morphological changes towards normalcy, the cytoprotective role of C. comosum and lipoic acid is illuminated. In comparison, lipoic acid was more protective than C. comosum extract against testicular toxicity induced by Aroclor 1260. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1147-1157, 2017.

The single and synergistic effects of the major tea components caffeine, epigallocatechin-3-gallate and L-theanine on rat sperm viability

Caffeine, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and L-theanine are the major components of tea (Camellia sinensis L.) and the main representatives of the classes of methylxanthines, catechins and free amino acids present in this beverage. There are many studies reporting tea's health benefits, however it is not clear if those effects are mediated by a single component or a synergistic action. This study aimed to evaluate the individual and synergistic effects of tea's major components on rat epididymal spermatozoa survival and oxidative profile during 3-day storage at room temperature (RT). For that, spermatozoa were incubated with caffeine (71 μg mL(-1)), EGCG (82 μg mL(-1)), or L-theanine (19 μg mL(-1)), alone or in combination. Spermatozoa viability was assessed by the eosin-nigrosin staining technique. The oxidative profile was established by evaluating the levels of carbonyl groups, protein nitration and lipid peroxidation. Supplementation of sperm storage medium with the three compounds together improved sperm viability, after 24, 48 and 72 h of incubation, relative to the control and the groups incubated with each component individually. However, at the end of the 72 h of incubation, there was an increase in protein oxidation in the group exposed to the three compounds, illustrating that the combined treatment triggers different alterations in sperm proteins during their maturational process in the epididymis. This study highlights the importance of the synergism between tea components for the beneficial effects usually attributed to this beverage, particularly in sperm storage at RT.

Wuzi Yanzong pill, a Chinese polyherbal formula, alleviates testicular damage in mice induced by ionizing radiation

BACKGROUND

Chinese medicine Wuzi Yanzong pill (WZYZP) was firstly documented in ancient Chinese medical works "She Sheng Zhong Miao Fang" by Shi-Che Zhang in 1550 AD. The traditional herbal formula is widely used in treating nephrasthenia lumbago, prospermia, erectile dysfunction and male sterility. The present study was to explore the effects of WZYZP on ionizing irradiation-induced testicular damage in mice.

METHODS

The pelvic region of male mice was exposed to X-rays for inducing testicular damage. The effects of WZYZP on testicular damage were evaluated in terms of testes weight, sperm quantity and motility, testes oxidative status and serum hormone levels. The alterations in testicular structure were examined by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Additionally, changes in proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression of testes were explored by western blot.

RESULTS

Pelvic exposure to x-ray induced reduction in testes weight and sperm quality, along with oxidative stress and abnormal testicular architecture in testes. Oral administration of WZYZP for 3 weeks markedly increased testes weight, sperm quantity and motility, and attenuated testicular architecture damage. Meanwhile, WZYZP treatment significantly reversed the reduction of serum testosterone, and decreased testes malondialdehyde (MDA) and Oxidative stress index (OSI) relative to the radiated mice. Additionally, WZYZP effectively prevented the downregulation of PCNA expression in testes induced by x-ray irradiation.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest WZYZP exhibits ameliorating effects against ionizing irradiation-induced testicular damage in mice, which may be related to its antioxidation.

Determination of endocrine disruptors and endogenic androgens and estrogens in rat serum by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

To simultaneously measure some targeted endocrine disruptors and several forms of sex hormones in rat serum, an accurate analytical procedure was developed. First, a comparison between a polymeric-based solid-phase extraction (SPE) and a micro-extraction by packed sorbent was performed to choose the optimal method to extract and concentrate the analytes: bisphenol A, atrazine, vinclozolin metabolite, testosterone, androstenedione, estrone, estradiol, estrone-sulfate and glucuronide and estradiol-sulfate and glucuronide. The analyses were then performed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with electrospray ionisation in positive and negative modes. The protocol based on SPE was validated using the ICH/2005 guidelines. The validation demonstrated good performance in terms of linearity (R(2)>0.99), recovery (71-90%) and repeatability (relative standard deviation: 1-18%). The method was sensitive with LOQ comprised between 0.1 and 0.4 ng/ml for androgens and between 0.098 and 10.2 ng/ml for estrogens. The results obtained on the serum of rats exposed to the targeted endocrine disruptors showed the suitability of this analytical strategy.

Quercetin mitigates fenitrothion-induced testicular toxicity in rats

Fenitrothion (FNT) is a widely used organophosphorus pesticide in agriculture. Quercetin (QR), a plant-derived flavonoid, has a free radical scavenging property. This study investigated the protective effect of QR on FNT-induced testicular toxicity in rats. Twenty-four male rats were divided into four groups. Group I (control) received normal saline. Group II was administered QR at the dose of 50 mg kg(-1) b.wt. Group III was orally administered FNT (20 mg kg(-1) b.wt). Group IV was gavaged FNT and QR together at the same doses. All administrations were performed daily by gavage and maintained for 70 days. Sperm parameters and histopathological changes in testes were investigated. Serum testosterone and luteinising hormone were estimated using radioimmunoassay kits. In testes, expressions of steroidogenic genes (3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 6, 17 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 and steroidogenic factor-1) and oxidative stress genes (catalase and superoxide dismutase) were determined using real-time PCR. FNT administration caused significant decreases in sperm count, motility and hormonal levels, a significant increase in abnormal sperm morphology and a significant down-regulation of steroidogenic and antioxidant genes in the testis. However, QR administration ameliorated FNT-induced toxic effects. Our results concluded that QR effectively mitigated testicular damage induced by FNT in rats.

The ameliorative effect of propolis against methoxychlor induced ovarian toxicity in rat

A study was designed to evaluate ameliorative effect of propolis against methoxychlor (MXC) induced ovarian toxicity in rat. The organochlorine pesticide (MXC) is a known endocrine disruptor with estrogenic, anti-estrogenic, and anti-androgenic properties. To investigate whether chronic exposure to MXC could cause ovarian dysfunction, two groups of Sprague-Dawley adult female rats were exposed to MXC alone in a dose of 200mg/kg, twice/weekly, orally or MXC dose as previous plus propolis in a dose of 200mg/l/day, in drinking water for 10 months. Another two groups of rat were given corn oil (control) or propolis. Multiple reproductive parameters, ovarian weight, serum hormone levels, ovarian oxidative status and ovarian morphology were examined. In MXC-exposed group, there is a significant decrease in body and ovarian weight vs. control. MXC decreases serum estradiol and progesterone levels. A significant increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation was obtained while a significant decrease of the total antioxidant was recorded. Ovarian histopathology showed primary, secondary and vesicular follicles displaying an atretic morphology. Increase in the ovarian surface epithelium height accompanied with vacuolated, pyknotic oocytes were obtained. The previous toxic effects were neutralized by the administration of propolis in MXC+propolis group. The present results suggest that propolis may be effective in decreasing of MXC-induced ovarian toxicity in rat.

Exposure to bisphenol A disrupts meiotic progression during spermatogenesis in adult rats through estrogen-like activity

The effect of bisphenol A (BPA) on the reproductive system is highly debated but has been associated with meiotic abnormalities. However, evidence is lacking with regard to the mechanisms involved. In order to explore the underlying mechanisms of BPA-induced meiotic abnormalities in adult male rats, we exposed 9-week-old male Wistar rats to BPA by gavage at 0, 2, 20 or 200 μg/kg body weight (bw)/day for 60 consecutive days. 17β-Estradiol (E2) was administered at 10 μg/kg bw/day as the estrogenic positive control. Treatments with 200 μg/kg bw/day of BPA and E2 significantly decreased sperm counts and inhibited spermiation, characterized by an increase in stage VII and decrease in stage VIII in the seminiferous epithelium. This was concomitant with a disruption in the progression of meiosis I and the persistence of meiotic DNA strand breaks in pachytene spermatocytes,and the ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated and checkpoint kinase 2 signal pathway was also activated; Eventually, germ cell apoptosis was triggered as evaluated by terminal dUTP nick-end labeling assay and western blot for caspase 3. Using the estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist ICI 182780, we determined that ER signaling mediated BPA-induced meiotic disruption and reproductive impairment. Our results suggest that ER signaling-mediated meiotic disruption may be a major contributor to the molecular events leading to BPA-related male reproductive disorders. These rodent data support the growing association between BPA exposure and the rapid increase in the incidence of male reproductive disorders.

Methoxychlor induced biochemical alterations and disruption of spermatogenesis in adult rats

Adult male albino rats were treated orally with methoxychlor at doses of 0, 50, 100 or 200 mg/kg/day for 15 consecutive days. Testicular weight, sperm count and motility were significantly decreased. Methoxychlor at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly inhibited α-glucosidase activity, while plasma testosterone was significantly decrease by the three dose levels in a dose-related pattern. Testicular activities of 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, SDH were significantly decreased, while ACP, ALP (except for 50 mg/kg), and LDH were significantly increased. H2O2 production and LPO were significantly increased while the enzymic (SOD, CAT and GPx) and non-enzymic antioxidants (thiol content) were significantly decreased. Caspase-3 activity was significantly increased in a dose related manner. The findings of this study indicate that methoxychlor induces oxidative stress associated with impairment of spermatogenesis, in addition to apoptosis. These data provide insight into the mode of action of methoxychlor-induced toxicity in the rat testis.

Immunolocalisation of 11β-HSD-1 and -2, glucocorticoid receptor, mineralocorticoid receptor and Na+ K+-ATPase during the postnatal development of the rat epididymis

Glucocorticoids have been implicated in male reproductive function and 11β-HSD-1 and -2, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), all of which are known to modulate glucocorticoid action, have been localised in the adult rat epididymis, but their developmental expression has not been investigated. Na(+)K(+)-ATPase activity, responsible for sodium transport, is induced by both mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids in the kidney and colon, and has been localised in epididymal epithelium. This study examined the immunolocalisation of 11β-HSD-1 and -2, GR, MR and Na(+)K(+)-ATPase in rat epididymal epithelium (n = 5) at postnatal days (pnd) 1, 7, 15, 28, 40, 60, 75 and 104, and relative mRNA expression of 11β-HSD-1 and -2, and GR at pre-puberty (pnd 28) and post-puberty (pnd 75). 11β-HSD-1, GR and MR were localised in the epididymal epithelium from pnd 1, and 11β-HSD-2 and Na(+)K(+)-ATPase reactivity from pnd 15. At pnd 28 there was maximal immunoreactivity for both the GR and MR and 11β-HSD-1 and -2. 11β-HSD-1 mRNA expression in the caput increased from pre- to post-puberty, whereas 11β-HSD-2 mRNA expression fell over the same period (P < 0.01). GR mRNA expression was similar at pre- and post-puberty in both caput and cauda. Developmental changes in expression of 11β-HSD-1 and -2 suggest that overall exposure of the epididymis to glucocorticoids increases post-puberty, but cell-specific expression of the 11β-HSD enzymes still provides a capacity for intricate local control of glucocorticoid exposure.

The role of Allium cepa on aluminum-induced reproductive dysfunction in experimental male rat models

AIM

Reproductive toxicity is a major challenge associated with aluminum (Al) exposure. Studies that associated Al with reproductive dysfunction did not account for the possible influence of Allium cepa extract. This study, therefore, investigates the influence of A. cepa on aluminum-induced reproductive dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SIX MALE RATS PER GROUP WERE ASSIGNED TO ONE OF THE FOLLOWING FOUR TREATMENT GROUPS: The control animals were on control diet. A. cepa-treated rats received 1 ml of the extract/100 g body weight (BW), Al-treated rats received 100 mg AlCl(3) /kg BW, and A.cepa+Al received 1 ml of the extract/100 g BW plus 100 mg AlCl(3) /kg BW. Rats were orally administered their respective doses. A. cepa treatment was for 8 weeks, while Al treatment was for the last 3 days of the experimental period.

RESULTS

Results obtained showed that Al significantly decreased (P < 0.05) plasma testosterone, follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), sperm count, motility, morphology and viability, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, while lipid peroxidation index [malondialdehyde (MDA)] was significantly (P < 0.05) increased. Reproductive hormones (except testosterone), sperm qualities, and enzymatic antioxidants were significantly (P < 0.05) increased in A. cepa-treated rats and A. cepa plus Al-treated rats, while MDA was significantly (P < 0.05) improved. Weights of testes were comparable in all groups.

CONCLUSION

It is thus suggested that Al exerts reproductive dysfunction by oxidative damage. A. cepa antagonizes the toxic effects of AlCl(3) and improves the antioxidant status and sperm quality of male rat. However, testosterone level did not increase with A. cepa treatment.

Role of ginger against the reproductive toxicity of aluminium chloride in albino male rats

The aim of the current study was to evaluate reproductive disorders concomitant with aluminium chloride (AlCl(3) ) toxicity in Albino male rats. Attention was also directed to study the protective influence of ginger against this toxicity. Forty-five mature Albino Wistar male rats were equally divided into three groups; the first group was served as control group while those of the second group (AlCl(3) ) were daily treated with 34 mg/kg bw. AlCl(3) orally. The third group (AlCl(3)  + ginger) was treated daily with AlCl(3) as in group 2 in combination with ginger (40 mg/kg bw), which started 2 weeks prior to AlCl(3) . Five animals from each group were sacrificed on days 30, 45 and 60 of treatment. AlCl(3) administration significantly decreased serum testosterone levels, increased testicular homogenate malondialdehyde and deteriorated semen picture with increased testicular DNA fragmentation. Histopathological examination revealed degenerative changes of the seminiferous tubules with focal areas of necrosed spermatogenic cells, marked degeneration and desquamation of the lining epithelial cells of epididymis as well as multiple calcified material in prostate gland following 60 days of aluminium treatment. Ginger treatment started to improve significantly all studied parameters after 60 days as compared with AlCl(3) -treated group. In the current study, it was concluded that AlCl(3) had a destructive effect on all the studied reproductive parameters. Treatment with ginger has an ameliorating effect against AlCl(3) toxicity after 60 days post-treatment.

Disturbances of energetic metabolism in rat epididymal epithelial cells as a consequence of chronic lead intoxication

Adult male Wistar rats were intoxicated with 1% lead acetate (PbAc) administered in drinking water for nine months, which amounts to a period five times longer than the duration of one spermatogenesis. There were mitochondrial ultrastructure disorders of epididymal epithelial cells observed in PbAc-treated rats; also a significant lead-induced decrease in ATP concentration in epididymal epithelial cells (by 32%, P < 0.05), Adenylate Energy Charge value (AEC) (by 8%, P < 0.05) and an increase in ADP (28.5%, P < 0.05), AMP (27%, P < 0.05) and adenosine (by 56%, P < 0.05). The results were measured using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and detected even at low lead concentrations in whole blood (M:7.03 μg/dL; Q1-Q3: 2.99-7.65). The function of mitochondria in cultured epididymal epithelial cells of control and PbAc-treated animals were evaluated using fluorophores: Mitotracker Green FM and JC-1. After incubation with Mitotracker Green FM, we observed active mitochondria producing bright green fluorescence in the cytoplasm of cultured epididymal epithelial cells, both in the control group and the Pb-treated animals. Incubation of cultured epididymal epithelial cells of animals from both groups produced red-orange fluorescence with the mitochondrial JC-1 probe indicating mitochondria with high membrane potential (ΔΨm > 80-100 mV) and green fluorescence in the mitochondria with low membrane potential (ΔΨm < 80 mV). The results showed that a chronic low-level exposure to lead, even without severe clinical symptoms of contamination, disrupted the ultrastructure and energy metabolism of mitochondria in epididymal epithelial cells.

The effect of environmental contaminants on testicular function

Male reproductive health has deteriorated considerably in the last few decades. Nutritional, socioeconomic, lifestyle and environmental factors (among others) have been attributed to compromising male reproductive health. In recent years, a large volume of evidence has accumulated that suggests that the trend of decreasing male fertility (in terms of sperm count, quality and other changes in male reproductive health) might be due to exposure to environmental toxicants. These environmental contaminants can mimic natural oestrogens and target testicular spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, and the function of both Sertoli and Leydig cells. Most environmental toxicants have been shown to induce reactive oxygen species, thereby causing a state of oxidative stress in various compartments of the testes. However, the molecular mechanism(s) of action of the environmental toxicants on the testis have yet to be elucidated. This review discusses the effects of some of the more commonly used environmental contaminants on testicular function through the induction of oxidative stress and apoptosis.

Enhanced role of elaidic acid on acrylamide-induced oxidative stress in epididymis and epididymal sperm that contributed to the impairment of spermatogenesis in mice

Acrylamide (ACR) and trans fatty acids (TFA) could be found co-existent in many foods processed by high temperature. Our study investigated effect of elaidic acid (ELA), the predominant TFA, on deficits of spermatogenesis induced by ACR. Results showed that ELA enhanced the decreases of spermatogonia along with mature sperms after treatment of ACR, and that spermatozoa quality was significantly reduced by addition of ELA to mice treated with ACR. Moreover, ELA play an enhancing role in ACR-induced up-regulating of malondialdehyde (MDA) level in epididymal sperm and cauda epididymides, also up-regulating of protein carbonyls (PCOs) level in cauda epididymides. Meanwhile, ELA play an enhancing role in ACR-induced reducing of activity of superoxide dismutases (SOD) in epididymal sperm, corpus and cauda epididymides, also the reducing of activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in cauda epididymides. These data suggest that ELA enhances ACR-induced oxidative stress in the epididymis and epididymal sperm of mice and has subsequent effect on spermatogenesis in mice testis.

A characterization of the antioxidant enzyme activity and reproductive toxicity in male rats following sub-chronic exposure to areca nut extracts

In the present study, areca nut extracts (ANE) administered to male rats by gavage at a dose of 100mg/kg/day for a period of 15, 30, or 45 days resulted in signs of reproductive toxicity. ANE administration resulted in a significant decline (30-57% in epididymal sperm count and 27-61% in sperm motility) as well as substantial abnormalities in sperm morphology. Significant variances in activities of antioxidant enzymes were also observed. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, which represent the level of lipid peroxidation, increased by 16-188% and levels of sialic acid decreased by 2-46% compared with that in controls. These results indicate that ANE induced spermatogenic damage, as indicated by a decrease in sperm counts and sperm motility as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes, an increase in sperm abnormalities, and alterations in sialic acid and MDA levels. Such effects reflect that ANE administration resulted in reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced oxidative stress in the testis, cauda epididymis, and sperm of male rats.

Methoxychlor inhibits growth of antral follicles by altering cell cycle regulators

Methoxychlor (MXC) reduces fertility in female rodents, decreases antral follicle numbers, and increases atresia through oxidative stress pathways. MXC also inhibits antral follicle growth in vitro. The mechanism by which MXC inhibits growth of follicles is unknown. The growth of follicles is controlled, in part, by cell cycle regulators. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that MXC inhibits follicle growth by reducing the levels of selected cell cycle regulators. Further, we tested whether co-treatment with an antioxidant, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), prevents the MXC-induced reduction in cell cycle regulators. For in vivo studies, adult cycling CD-1 mice were dosed with MXC or vehicle for 20 days. Treated ovaries were subjected to immunohistochemistry for proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) staining. For in vitro studies, antral follicles isolated from adult cycling CD-1 mouse ovaries were cultured with vehicle, MXC, and/or NAC for 48, 72 and 96 h. Levels of cyclin D2 (Ccnd2) and cyclin dependent kinase 4 (Cdk4) were measured using in vivo and in vitro samples. The results indicate that MXC decreased PCNA staining, and Ccnd2 and Cdk4 levels compared to controls. NAC co-treatment restored follicle growth and expression of Ccnd2 and Cdk4. Collectively, these data indicate that MXC exposure reduces the levels of Ccnd2 and Cdk4 in follicles, and that protection from oxidative stress restores Ccnd2 and Cdk4 levels. Therefore, MXC-induced oxidative stress may decrease the levels of cell cycle regulators, which in turn, results in inhibition of the growth of antral follicles.

Methoxychlor-induced alteration in the levels of HSP70 and clusterin is accompanied with oxidative stress in adult rat testis

Methoxychlor, an organochlorine pesticide, has been reported to induce abnormalities in male reproductive tract. However, the insight into the mechanisms of gonadal toxicity induced by methoxychlor is not well known. We investigated whether treatment with methoxychlor would alter the levels of stress proteins, heat shock proteins (HSP), and clusterin (CLU), and oxidative stress-related parameters in the testis of adult male rats. Animals were exposed to a single dose of methoxychlor (50 mg/kg body weight) orally and were terminated at various time points (0, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 72 h) using anesthetic ether. The levels of HSP70, CLU, and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and lipid peroxidation levels were evaluated in a 10% testis homogenate. A sequential reduction in the activities of catalase and SOD with concomitant increase in the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) was observed. These changes elicited by methoxychlor were very significant between 6-12 h of posttreatment. Immunoblot analysis of HSP revealed the expression of HSP72, an inducible form of HSP, at certain time points (3-24 h) following exposure to methoxychlor. Similarly, the levels of secretory CLU (sCLU) were also found to be elevated between 3-24 h of treatment. The present data demonstrate methoxychlor-elicited increase in the levels of inducible HSP72 and sCLU, which could be a part of protective mechanism mounted to reduce cellular oxidative damage.

The protective effect of ascorbic acid and thiamine supplementation against damage caused by lead in the testes of mice

Lead is a ubiquitous environmental and industrial pollutant that may have toxic effects on the male. Vitamins may protect against toxic effects of lead in the liver and reproductive system, which is confirmed by our initial research. The aim of this study was to further investigate the protective effects of vitamins (ascorbic acid combined with thiamine) on lead acetate (Pb)-induced reproductive toxicities in mice and study the possible mechanisms underlying these effects. Forty-five male mice were randomly divided into 3 groups, 15 mice in each and received daily intragastric administration with control, Pb (20 mg/kg), and Pb+vitamins (ascorbic acid of 420 mg/kg+thiamine of 30 mg/kg) for 6 weeks, respectively. The Pb-treated animals showed significant decreases in the epididymal sperm count and motility compared to the control group, while the Pb+vitamins group had significant increases for these variables. Moreover, an increasing apoptosis of germinal cells induced by Pb was reduced by vitamin treatment. Pb induced the activation of Caspase-3, Fas/Fas-L and Bcl-2 with elevated levels, and the adaptor protein primarily regulated signaling through Fas and required for Fas-induced apoptosis. In conclusion, ascorbic acid combined with thiamine exhibited protective effect on reproductive system by inhibiting Pb-induced excessive cell apoptosis.

Oxidative stress as a mechanism of teratogenesis

Emerging evidence shows that redox-sensitive signal transduction pathways are critical for developmental processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. As a consequence, teratogens that induce oxidative stress (OS) may induce teratogenesis via the misregulation of these same pathways. Many of these pathways are regulated by cellular thiol redox couples, namely glutathione/glutathione disulfide, thioredoxinred/thioredoinox, and cysteine/cystine. This review outlines oxidative stress as a mechanism of teratogenesis through the disruption of thiol-mediated redox signaling. Due to the ability of many known and suspected teratogens to induce oxidative stress and the many signaling pathways that have redox-sensitive components, further research is warranted to fully understand these mechanisms.

A broad-spectrum organophosphate pesticide O,O-dimethyl O-4-nitrophenyl phosphorothioate (methyl parathion) adversely affects the structure and function of male accessory reproductive organs in the rat

Methyl parathion (MP) is an organophosphate pesticide used in agriculture, but also illegally used to spray homes and businesses to control insects. The present study was designed to investigate adverse effects of MP on accessory reproductive organs. Male Wistar rats aged 13-14 weeks were treated and sacrificed as follows. Experiment 1: 0.0 (water vehicle), 1.75, 3.5 or 7mg/kg (i.p.) for 5 days and sacrificed on day 14; experiment 2: 0.0, 0.5 or 1mg/kg (i.p.) for 12 days and sacrificed on day 130; experiment 3: 0.0, 0.5 or 1mg/kg (i.p.) for 12 days and sacrificed on day 77; experiment 4: 0.0, 0.75 or 1.5mg/kg (i.p.) for 25 days and sacrificed on day 17 and experiment 5: 0.0 or 3.5mg/kg (p.o.) for 25 days and sacrificed on day 17, after the last exposure. The accessory reproductive organs were removed, weighed and processed for histopathological analysis. Structural qualitative changes such as epithelial cell morphology and luminal observations were carried out for each organ in all experiments. Epididymis of one side was homogenized and biochemical estimations of acid phosphatase (ACP), cholesterol, total protein, uric acid, and Vitamin C were conducted by calorimetric methods in experiments 4 and 5. In experiment 1 the organ weights did not change; in experiment 2, the epididymal weight increased (P<0.001); in experiment 3, the weights of ductus deferens decreased at 1mg/kg and that of seminal vesicle decreased at both dose-levels (P<0.001). In experiments 4 and 5, weights of epididymis and prostate decreased, whereas in experiment 5, weights of ductus deferens and seminal vesicle increased (P<0.05-0.001). The sperm density was normal in control, moderately decreased in experiment 1 at 3.5 and 7mg/kg; in experiment 2 at 1mg/kg, and in experiment 5 at 3.5mg/kg, and severely decreased in experiment 3 at 1mg/kg and in experiment 4 at both dose-levels. The epithelial necrosis and nuclear pyknosis were seen in experiments 1, 3, 4 and 5, whereas nuclear degeneration was seen in experiment 1 and 4 and germ cells in the lumina of epididymis were seen in experiment 4. The nuclear pyknosis in the ductus deferens was seen in all experiments, except at 1.75mg/kg in experiment 1 and at 0.5mg/kg in experiment 3. Brush border disruption in the ductus deferens was seen in experiments 1 and 4; sperms were seen in the lumen in experiment 1 at 7mg/kg, and in experiments 4 and 5. The vacuoles in the epithelium were seen in experiments 1 and 4 and immature germ cells were seen in the lumen in experiment 4. The ACP and Vitamin C levels decreased in experiment 4 at both dose-levels, and in experiment 5 all biochemical parameters tested found decreased (P<0.01-0.001). The present results indicate that MP affects the structure and function of accessory reproductive organs in the rat.

Assessment of the pro-oxidant activity of uranium in kidney and testis of rats

The pro-oxidant activity of uranium (U) was assessed in kidney and testes of male rats, tissues in which toxic effects of this metal are well established. Eight groups of Sprague-Dawley rats received uranyl acetate dihydrate (UAD) in the drinking water at 0, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kgday for 3 months. Rats in four groups were concurrently subjected to restraint during 2 h/day throughout the study. Histopathological examination of the kidneys revealed an angiomatose transformation in U-treated animals. In kidney, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) levels and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) activity were correlated with U exposure. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was significantly enhanced in both kidney and testis. Oral UAD administration induced a decrease of glutathione reductase (GR) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in the male reproductive tract. The results of this study suggest that graded doses of U elicit depletion of the antioxidant defence system of the rat and induce oxidative stress in testes and kidneys. Although at the current U doses, restraint stress scarcely showed additional adverse effects, its potential influence should not be underrated.

Effects of Roselle and Ginger on cisplatin-induced reproductive toxicity in rats

AIM

To evaluate the protective effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle) and Zingiber officinale (Ginger) against cisplatin-induced reproductive toxicity in rats and to study the mechanisms underlying these effects.

METHODS

Ethanol extracts of H.sabdariffa or Z.officinale (1g/kg x day) were given p.o. to male albino rats for 26 days, which began 21 days before a single cisplatin i.p. injection (10 mg/kg body weight).

RESULTS

Extracts of H.sabdariffa and Z.officinale reduced the extent of cisplatin-induced sperm abnormality and enhanced sperm motility. Both extracts restored the control level of malondialdehyde (MDA) (lipid peroxidation marker) in the cisplatin-treated testis. The cisplatin injection induced decline in the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT) were significantly reversed to control levels in groups where cisplatin was preceded by the administration of either H.sabdariffa or Z.officinale.

CONCLUSION

Both H.sabdariffa and Z.officinale treatment increased the activities of testicular antioxidant enzymes and restored sperm motility of cisplatin-treated rats. The protective effects of tested plants are, therefore, suggested to be mediated by their potent antioxidant activities.

Induction of oxidative stress by lindane in epididymis of adult male rats

Lindane, an organochlorine pesticide, has been reported to induce reproductive abnormalities in male rats. The mechanism of action of lindane on male reproductive system remains unclear. In the present study we have sought to investigate the effect of lindane on antioxidant parameters and sialic acid levels of caput, corpus and cauda epididymis of adult male rats. Lindane (1, 5, and 50mg/kg per day) was administered orally to adult male rats for 45 days. The animals were killed using anaesthic ether on the day following the last treatment. The body weight of the animals did not show significant change. However, the weights of caput, corpus and cauda epididymis decreased in lindane treated animals. Administration of lindane caused decrease in epididymal sperm count and motility. Sialic acid levels in the epididymis decreased significantly at 5 and 50mg/kg dosage of lindane treatment. Significant decline in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase along with increase in hydrogen peroxide generation and lipid peroxidation were observed in lindane treated animals. In conclusion, lindane induces oxidative stress by decreasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes and sialic acid levels in the epididymis thereby causing impaired sperm function.

Methoxychlor Inhibits Growth and Induces Atresia of Antral Follicles through an Oxidative Stress Pathway

The mammalian ovary contains antral follicles, which are responsible for the synthesis and secretion of hormones that regulate estrous cyclicity and fertility. The organochlorine pesticide methoxychlor (MXC) causes atresia (follicle death via apoptosis) of antral follicles, but little is known about the mechanisms by which MXC does so. Oxidative stress is known to cause apoptosis in nonreproductive and reproductive tissues. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that MXC inhibits growth and induces atresia of antral follicles through an oxidative stress pathway. To test this hypothesis, antral follicles isolated from 39-day-old CD-1 mice were cultured with vehicle control (dimethylsulfoxide [DMSO]), MXC (1-100 microg/ml), or MXC + the antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) (0.1-10 mM). During culture, growth was monitored daily. At the end of culture, follicles were processed for quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and catalase (CAT) mRNA expression or for histological evaluation of atresia. The results indicate that exposure to MXC (1-100 microg/ml) inhibited growth of follicles compared to DMSO controls and that NAC (1-10 mM) blocked the ability of MXC to inhibit growth. MXC induced follicular atresia, whereas NAC (1-10 mM) blocked the ability of MXC to induce atresia. In addition, MXC reduced the expression of SOD1, GPX, and CAT, whereas NAC reduced the effects of MXC on their expression. Collectively, these data indicate MXC causes slow growth and increased atresia by inducing oxidative stress.

Effect of piperine on the epididymis of adult male rats

AIM

To study the effect of piperine on the epididymal antioxidant system of adult male rats.

METHODS

Adult male rats were orally administered piperine at doses of 1 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg body weight each day for 30 consecutive days. Twenty-four hours after the last treatment, the rats were weighed and killed with ether and the epididymis was dissected from the bodies. Sperm collected from the cauda region of the epididymis was used for the assessment of its count, motility and viability. Caput, corpus and cauda regions of the epididymis were separated and homogenized separately to obtain 10 % homogenates. The supernatants were used for the assays of sialic acid, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide generation.

RESULTS

Body weight of the piperine-treated rats remained unchanged. The weights of the caput, corpus and cauda regions of the epididymis significantly decreased at dose of 100 mg/kg. Epididymal sperm count and motility decreased at 10 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, and sperm viability decreased significantly at 100 mg/kg. Sialic acid levels in the epididymis decreased significantly at 100 mg/kg while significant decrease in the cauda region alone was observed at 10 mg/kg. A significant decline in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase, along with an increase in hydrogen peroxide generation and lipid peroxidation were observed at 10 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg.

CONCLUSION

Piperine caused a decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes and sialic acid levels in the epididymis and thereby increased reactive oxygen species levels that could damage the epididymal environment and sperm function.

Protective effect of lipoic acid on adriamycin-induced testicular toxicity

BACKGROUND

Adriamycin (ADR), an anthracycline antibiotic, which is widely used as an antineoplastic drug in the treatment of various solid tumors, has been shown to induce reproductive abnormalities in males. In the present study, the effect of lipoic acid (LA), a universal antioxidant, was investigated on ADR-induced testicular toxicity in rats.

METHODS

Adult male albino rats of Wistar strain were administered ADR (1 mg/kg body weight, i.v.), once a week for 10 weeks. Semen quality was evaluated in terms of sperm count, percentage motility and abnormality. The testicular damage was also assessed by the measurement of marker enzymes activities and histology.

RESULTS

ADR treated rats showed a significant decrease in sperm count and motility while an increase in dead and abnormal sperms. The activities of testicular marker enzymes such as gamma-glutamyl transferase, beta-glucuronidase, acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase were increased whereas the activity of lactate dehydrogenase-X was decreased significantly in the animals treated with ADR. ADR treated rats also showed abnormal histologic findings. Treatment with lipoic acid (35 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) 1 day prior to ADR administration, improved the semen quality and maintained near normal activities of the enzymes.

CONCLUSION

By the reversal of biochemical and morphological changes towards normalcy, the cytoprotective role of LA is illuminated in ADR-induced testicular toxicity.