Effect of 5alpha reduced androgens on sex accessory organs, initiation and maintenance of spermatogenesis in the rat

Role of Bioactive Compounds, Novel Drug Delivery Systems, and Polyherbal Formulations in the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that generally causes joint synovial inflammation as well as gradual cartilage and degenerative changes, resulting in progressive immobility. Cartilage destruction induces synovial inflammation, including synovial cell hyperplasia, increased synovial fluid, and synovial pane development. This phenomenon causes articular cartilage damage and joint alkalosis. Traditional medicinal system exerts their effect through several cellular mechanisms, including inhibition of inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress suppression, cartilage degradation inhibition, increasing antioxidants and decreasing rheumatic biomarkers. The medicinal plants have yielded a variety of active constituents from various chemical categories, including alkaloids, triterpenoids, steroids, glycosides, volatile oils, flavonoids, lignans, coumarins, terpenes, sesquiterpene lactones, anthocyanins, and anthraquinones. This review sheds light on the utilization of medicinal plants in the treatment of RA. It explains various phytoconstituents present in medicinal plants and their mechanism of action against RA. It also briefs about the uses of polyherbal formulations (PHF), which are currently in the market and the toxicity associated with the use of medicinal plants and PHF, along with the limitations and research gaps in the field of PHF. This review paper is an attempt to understand various mechanistic approaches employed by several medicinal plants, their possible drug delivery systems and synergistic effects for curing RA with minimum side effects.

Hexavalent chromium affects sperm motility by influencing protein tyrosine phosphorylation in the midpiece of boar spermatozoa

Hexavalent chromium reportedly induces reproductive toxicity and further inhibits male fertility in mammals. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism by which hexavalent chromium affects motility signaling in boar spermatozoa in vitro. The results indicated that Cr(VI) decreased sperm motility, protein phosphorylation, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and metabolic enzyme activity starting at 4μmol/mL following incubation for 1.5h. Notably, all parameters were potently inhibited by 10μmol/mL Cr, while supplementation with the dibutyryl-cAMP (dbcAMP) and the 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) prevented the inhibition of protein phosphorylation. Interestingly, high concentrations of Cr (>10μmol/mL) increased the tyrosine phosphorylation of some high-molecular-weight proteins in the principle piece but decreased that in the middle piece associated with an extreme reduction of sperm motility. These results suggest that chromium affects boar sperm motility by impairing tyrosine phosphorylation in the midpiece of sperm by blocking the cAMP/PKA pathway in boar sperm in vitro.

Medicinal plants with potential anti-arthritic activity

ETHNO PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicinal plants are practiced worldwide for treatment of arthritis especially in developing countries where resources are meager. This review presents the plants profiles inhabiting throughout the world regarding their traditional usage by various tribes/ethnic groups for treatment of arthritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bibliographic investigation was carried out by analyzing classical text books and peer reviewed papers, consulting worldwide accepted scientific databases from the last six decades. Plants/their parts/extracts/polyherbal formulations, toxicity studies for arthritis have been included in the review article. The profiles presented also include information about the scientific name, family, dose, methodology along with mechanism of action and toxicity profile. Research status of 20 potential plant species has been discussed. Further, geographical distribution of research, plants distribution according to families has been given in graphical form.

RESULTS

485 plant species belonging to 100 families, traditionally used in arthritis are used. Among 100 plant families, malvaceae constitute 16, leguminasae 7, fabaceae 13, euphorbiaceae 7, compositae 20, araceae 7, solanaceae 12, liliaceae 9, apocynaceae, lauraceae, and rubiaceae 10, and remaining in lesser proportion. It was observed in our study that majority of researches are carried mainly in developing countries like India, China, Korea and Nigeria.

CONCLUSION

This review clearly indicates that list of medicinal plants presented in this review might be useful to researchers as well as practioners. This review can be useful for preliminary screening of potential anti-arthritis plants. Further toxicity profile given in the review can be useful for the researchers for finding the safe dose.

Effect of noise stress on count, progressive and non-progressive sperm motility, body and genital organ weights of adult male rats

AIMS:

It was decided to investigate the effect of noise pollution on the body weight, genital organ weights, and also on sperm parameters.

SETTING AND DESIGN:

It is a prospective study designed in vitro.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A total 20 adult male wistar rats were used in this study. All rats were divided into 2 equal groups (n = 10): (1) control group and (2) experimental group. Animals of the experimental group were exposed to noise for 50 days with an intensity of 90-120 db and frequency of 300 - 350 Hz for 12 hours daily. After 50 days, at first, body weights of all animals were recorded, and then they were killed. The right epididymides were removed and also, sperm concentration and motility were determined. Each organ was weighed separately on an electronic balance.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:

Data are reported as mean ± SD and percentage. The statistical significance of difference between the control and experimental groups was determined by the unpaired t-test.

RESULTS:

The weights of the testes, epididymes, seminal vesicle, ventral prostate were found to be significantly decreased in rats exposed to noise pollution when compared with the weights of the same organs obtained from control group (P < 0.05). There was a statistical difference of P < 0.05 between the 2 groups in terms of sperm concentration.

CONCLUSIONS:

It is concluded that noise pollution has the bad effects on sperm concentration and motility; therefore, it is supposed that homes and places of working must be build far away of noisy of factories and other places with noise.

Androgens and spermatogenesis: lessons from transgenic mouse models

Transgenic mouse models have contributed considerably to our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which androgens control spermatogenesis. Cell-selective ablation of the androgen receptor (AR) in Sertoli cells (SC) results in a complete block in meiosis and unambiguously identifies the SC as the main cellular mediator of the effects of androgens on spermatogenesis. This conclusion is corroborated by similar knockouts in other potential testicular target cells. Mutations resulting in diminished expression of the AR or in alleles with increased length of the CAG repeat mimick specific human forms of disturbed fertility that are not accompanied by defects in male sexual development. Transcriptional profiling studies in mice with cell-selective and general knockouts of the AR, searching for androgen-regulated genes relevant to the control of spermatogenesis, have identified many candidate target genes. However, with the exception of Rhox5, the identified subsets of genes show little overlap. Genes related to tubular restructuring, cell junction dynamics, the cytoskeleton, solute transportation and vitamin A metabolism are prominently present. Further research will be needed to decide which of these genes are physiologically relevant and to identify genes that can be used as diagnostic tools or targets to modulate the effects of androgens in spermatogenesis.

Reproductive toxic effects of Artemisia herba alba ingestion in female Spague-Dawley rats

The objectives of this study is to investigate the toxic effects of Artemisia herba Alba (300 mg/kg/ body wight) on the reproductive system after administration to female Sprague-Dawley rats weighting 250-300 g for two time periods 4 and 12 weeks. Twenty adult female rats were divided into two groups and exposed to Topiramate diet at a concentration of 300 mg/kg/body weight for two periods of time. First group containing 10 rats received treatment for 4 weeks and a second group of 10 rats received the same dose of treatment for a period of 12 weeks and compared with twenty non-exposed female rats received vehicle treatment. Female rats were allowed mating with males after 10 days prior to the last administration dose. Animals were autopsied under light anesthesia after mating and several parameters were determined including: Number of pregnant rats, body and reproductive organ weight, number of implantation sites, viable fetuses and resorption sites. Assessment of pregnancies in females was measured and the significance of these results was calculated using student's t and Chi-square tests. The effect of Artemisia herba alba exposure on fertility was assessed in terms of pregnant rats number, implantation sites, viable fetuses and resorption sites. Exposure to Artemisia herba alba for 4 weeks did not have much effect on fertility. Significant decrease in the relative ovarian weights and embryo weights in rats exposed to Artemisia herba alba were observed. Exposure to Artemisia herba alba for a 12 weeks resulted in a reduction in the percentage of pregnancies and in the number of implantation sites when compared with controls in both treatment periods. Rats receiving 12 weeks treatment showed an increase in ovarian weights and a decrease in viable fetus's number. These results indicate that long-term exposure of female rats to Artemisia herba Alba causes adverse effects on the reproductive system and fertility. The results of the current study suggest that ingestion of Artemisia herba alba by adult female rats causes adverse effects on fertility and reproduction.

Effects of short and long term treatment of Ballota undulata on female albino rats fertility and pregnancy

The objectives of this study is to investigate the toxic effects of Ballota undulata (300 mg kg(-1) b.wt.) on the reproductive system after administration to female Sprague-Dawley rats for two time periods 4 and 12 weeks. Forty adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into two treatment and two control groups of 10 rats each. The two treated groups received 15 mg kg(-1) b.wt. of Ballota undulata for two periods of 4 and 12 weeks. Female rats were allowed mating with males after treatment. Several pregnancy parameters were investigated including: total number of pregnant rats, body weight and reproductive organ weight, number of implantation sites, number of resorption sites and number of viable fetuses. The significance of these results was calculated using student's t and Chi-square tests. Exposure to Ballota undulata for 4 weeks did not have significant effects on most parameters investigated. However, a slight decrease in the relative ovarian and embryo weights was observed. Administration of Ballota undulata for 12 weeks significantly reduced the percentage of pregnancies and the number of implantation sites when compared with controls. In addition, a decrease in ovarian weights and in viable fetuses' number was also observed. Histological sections of ovaries of female treated with Ballota undulata were found to have congested blood vessels in cortical and medullary regions. We also noted the arrestment of developing follicles at primary and secondary stages in addition to presence of degenerative areas and hypercellullarity in medulla. Long term treatment with Ballota undulata might lead to diversified negative effects on fertility and pregnancy in female rats.

Short and long effects of Citrullus colocynthis L. on reproductive system and fertility in female Spague-Dawley rats

Aim of this study is to investigate the toxic effects of Citrullus colocynthis L. (400 mg/kg/body wight) on the reproductive system after administration to female Sprague-Dawley rats weighting 250-300 g for two time periods 4 and 12 weeks. Twenty adult female rats were divided into two groups and Citrullus colocynthis L. were intraperitoneally injected to experimental animals in dose of 400 mg/kg/body wight. First group containing 10 rats received treatment for 4 weeks and a second group of 10 rats received the same dose of treatment for a period of 12 weeks and compared with twenty non-exposed female rats received vehicle treatment. Female rats were allowed mating with males after 10 days prior to the last administration dose. Animals were autopsied under light anesthesia after mating and several parameters were determined including: number of pregnant rats, body and reproductive organ weight, number of implantation sites, viable fetuses and resorption sites. Assessment of pregnancies in females was measured and the significance of these results was calculated using students t and Chi-square tests. The effect of Citrullus colocynthis L. exposure on fertility was assessed in terms of pregnant rats number, implantation sites, viable fetuses and resorption sites. Exposure to Citrullus colocynthis L. for 4 weeks did not have much effect on fertility. Significant decrease in the relative ovarian weights and embryo weights in rats exposed to Citrullus colocynthis L. were observed. Exposure to Citrullus colocynthis L. for a 12 weeks resulted in a reduction in the percentage of pregnancies and in the number of implantation sites when compared with controls in both treatment periods. Rats receiving 12 weeks treatment showed a decrease in ovarian weights and a decrease in viable fetus's number. These results indicate that long-term exposure of female rats to Citrullus colocynthis L. causes adverse effects on the reproductive system and fertility.

Adverse effects of propranolol on reproductive function in adult male mice

Ingestion of propranolol at 10 and 15 mg kg(-1) body weight for 35 days by adult male mice was investigated for its effects on fertility. Body weight and absolute and relative testes weights were reduced and the average weights of epididymis, ventral prostate and seminal vesicle decreased significantly. A significant decline of spermatogenesis in testes due to a decrease in the number of primary, secondary spermatocytes and spermatids in the treatment group 2 (15 mg kg(-1)) is attributed to a significant decrease in testosterone, LH and FSH. Sperm motility and density were also significantly decreased in the cauda epididymis and in the testes of group 2 treated male mice. In addition, the treatment markedly increased the number of fetal resorptions in female mice impregnated by the group 2 males, thereby reducing their fertility.

Effects of orchids (Orchis anatolica) on reproductive function and fertility in adult male mice

Aims:  The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of orchid bulbs on the reproductive system of male albino mice. Methods:  Orchid bulb extract was fed to 20 male albino mice (5 g/mouse/day) for 35 days and compared with a similar number of mice as controls. Total testicular germ cell population, histometrical parameters, serum blood biochemistry and hormonal assay were determined. Results:  The ingestion of orchid bulb by mice induced a significant increase in the following parameters: (i) testes and seminal vesicle weights; (ii) number of different testicular germ cell population including interstitial Leydig cells and fibroblasts; and (iii) testicular cell linage dynamics obtained from testes and cauda epidydimides. An important finding was that the ingestion of the orchid diet by male mice increased their fertility. This was indicated by an elevation in the number of impregnated females when allowed to mate with treated mice, an increase in the impregnation sites, and an increase in the number of viable fetuses and the offspring's male/female ratio. A slight significant increase in the testosterone and follicular stimulating hormone titers in the treated mice were found in their blood serum. In contrast, a decrease in the number of degenerating cells was observed. Conclusions:  Orchid bulb treatment might play an important role in improving male reproductive potential and fertility. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 269-276).

Estradiol affects androgen-binding protein expression and fertilizing ability of spermatozoa in adult male rats

The estrogenicity of certain environmental pollutants is being increasingly correlated to decline in sperm counts and fertility of the males. Qualitative effects, if any, of estrogen(s) on terminal differentiation of spermatids have been less reported. The present study suggests that exposure to estrogen(s) can also alter the status of condensed chromatin in testicular spermatozoa and reduce their fertilizing potential. A significant reduction was evident in the serum gonadotropins, testosterone, weights of reproductive organs, sperm counts and litters sired by male rats after 10 days of estradiol exposure to a dose of 0.1mg/kg/day. Estradiol treatment led to retardation of in vitro decondensation rates of sperm chromatin, reduction in the uptake of acridine orange dye by chromatin, reduction in susceptibility of chromatin to acid denaturation in vitro, reduced uptake of thiol reactive monobromobimane dye and reduced levels of immunoreactive protamine 1 in caput epididymal sperms. Concomitantly, testicular levels of immunoreactive protamine 1, transition proteins 1/2 and cyclic adenosyl response element modulator-tau (CREMtau) were significantly reduced whilst their mRNA levels were unaffected after estradiol treatment. A significant increase was observed in the testicular mRNA levels of androgen-binding protein (ABP) in estradiol treated sires. An inverse correlation was observed between ABP mRNA levels and uptake of acridine orange by estradiol treated caput sperm chromatin. The results suggest that estradiol-induced increase in ABP mRNA underlies the mechanism(s) involved in the reduction in levels of certain proteins involved in nuclear chromatin condensation during spermiogenesis.

Antifertility effects of estradiol in adult male rats

The dose-related effects of estradiol 17-beta at the doses 0.1 pg, 10 microg, 100 microg, 200 microg, 300 microg, 400 microg, 1,000 microg/kg/day were determined on sperm motility, potency, fertility parameters, serum levels of LH, FSH, PRL and testosterone, weights of testes and accessory sex organs, weights of pituitary and adrenal glands. The drug was administered daily via sc route for a period of 60 days. Dose-related effects on fertility parameters of the estradiol-treated male rats were ascertained by allowing them to mate with normal cycling female rats. Estradiol at 0.1 microg/kg/day dose significantly reduced sperm motility with no effects seen on potency or fecundity, serum LH, FSH, PRL or testosterone, weights of testes and accessory sex organs while pituitary weight increased. Estradiol at 10 microg/kg/day dose significantly reduced motility, serum LH, FSH, weights of testes and accessory sex organs, while pituitary weight increased with no effects seen on potency, fecundity, PRL or testosterone. Estradiol at 100-1,000 microg/kg/day dose significantly reduced motility, potency and fecundity, serum LH, FSH and testosterone, weights of testes and accessory sex organs while serum PRL and the weights of pituitary and adrenal glands increased significantly. Histology of the testes revealed disorganization of the cytoarchitecture in the seminiferous tubules, vacuolation, absence of lumen and compartmentalization of spermatogenesis. Estradiol withdrawal, testosterone propionate at 100 pg/kg/day or antiestrogen (tamoxifen citrate) at 400 microg/kg/day prevented the histological changes. It is conduded that estradiol reduces sperm motility even at a low dose. Low doses (<10 microg/kg/ day) appear to maintain whilst high doses (>10 microg/kg/day) reversibly disrupt spermatogenesis. Prevention of disruption by testosterone or antiestrogen indicates crosstalk between androgen and estrogen receptors in Sertoli cells. Loss of potency and fecundity also suggests effects on crosstalk between these receptors in other male reproductive organs.

Studies of the hormonal control of postnatal testicular descent in the rat

Dihydrotestosterone is believed to control the transinguinal phase of testicular descent based on hormonal manipulation studies performed in postnatal rats. In the present study, these hormonal manipulation experiments were repeated, and the results were compared with those obtained using the antiandrogens flutamide and cyproterone acetate. 17 beta-estradiol completely blocked testicular descent, but testosterone and dihydrotestosterone were equally effective in reversing this inhibition. Neither flutamide nor cyproterone acetate prevented testicular descent in postnatal rats despite marked peripheral antiandrogenic action. Further analysis of the data revealed a correlation between testicular size and descent. Androgen receptor blockade did not produce a marked reduction in testicular size and consequently did not prevent testicular descent, whereas estradiol alone caused marked testicular atrophy and testicular maldescent. Reduction of the estradiol dosage or concomitant administration of androgens or human chorionic gonadotropin resulted in both increased testicular size and degree of descent. These data suggest that growth of the neonatal rat testis may contribute to its passage into the scrotum.

The influence of LH and/or FSH on Leydig and Sertoli cell morphology after testicular involution in the Djungarian hamster, Phodopus sungorus, induced by hypophysectomy or short photoperiods

In the Djungarian hamster, Phodopus sungorus, the morphological alterations of Sertoli and Leydig cells were investigated under the influence of gonadotropins (LH and/or FSH) after testicular regression induced either by hypophysectomy or photoinhibition. Stimulation with LH or LH/FSH lead to a redifferentiation of morphological features of Leydig cells such as nuclear structure, smooth endoplasmic reticulum and size of cell and nucleus area within 7 days of hormone treatment. Similarly, stimulation with FSH or LH/FSH caused redifferentiation of Sertoli cell nuclear structure, rough endoplasmic reticulum and nuclear size within 7 days. Incomplete restoration of Leydig and Sertoli cell morphology was observed under FSH and LH treatment respectively. In both Leydig and Sertoli cells combined LH and FSH application resulted in an increased response in respect to morphological redifferentiation, possibly indicating paracrine regulatory mechanisms. In all groups treated an intact blood-testis barrier (BTB) was reestablished after a minimum of 7 days, indicating that the existence of the blood-testis barrier is not dependent on specific gonadotropin supply but on the developmental stage of the seminiferous epithelium. Sham-operated animals showed increased cell and nucleus area of Leydig cells in comparison to photostimulated animals. After testicular involution as well as after LH or FSH treatment there were no significant morphological differences between hypophysectomized and photoinhibited animals in respect to the documented ultrastructural and morphometrical characteristics.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Morphometric study of the prepubertal rabbit testis: germ cell numbers and seminiferous tubule dimensions

Testes from rabbits aged 1-9 weeks were examined by light microscopy. Changes in seminiferous tubule dimensions, testicular volume, and volume fraction of tubules were assessed. Germ cells and Sertoli cells were counted in round tubular cross sections and total germ cell number in each testis was estimated. Mitotic, meiotic, and degenerative activities of germ cells as well as their basal or central positions within tubules were quantified. A marked, steady increase in testis volume and in tubular length and volume occurred over the prepubertal period; but diameter underwent no significant increase and in fact decreased until week 4. Overall, tubules lengthened 40-fold and testis volume increased 25-fold; the percentage volume of the testis occupied by tubules rose from one-third neonatally to three-fifths at the onset of spermatogenesis. The ratio of germ cells to total tubular (germ and Sertoli) cells was lowest at 3 weeks. However, the total number of germ cells increased little until 3 weeks, after which it rose at a sharp rate commensurate with testis volume. Percentage of germ cells in mitosis peaked sharply at 3 weeks, dropped in subsequent weeks, and then rose at 7 weeks at the initiation of spermatogenesis. Importantly, the surge in mitosis at 3 weeks was followed by a redistribution of germ cells to a predominantly basal location from 3 to 7 weeks. Meiotic activity was sparse at 7 weeks and became abundant by 9 weeks. Germ cell degeneration remained relatively constant during weeks 1 through 6, with an increase at 7 weeks.

Are eosinophil leucocytes involved in the oestrogenic response of the postnatal rat epididymis?

The effects of oestrogens and androgens, alone or in combination, on several epididymal parameters have been studied in 15-day-old rats after neonatal treatment. Oestrogens induced several responses, such as increased growth of the fibromuscular stroma and eosinophil leucocyte accumulation, whereas the proliferative activity of the epithelium was decreased significantly. Otherwise, the density of intra-epithelial leucocytes was not modified. Different oestrogen-induced responses, such as the increase in volume of the fibromuscular stroma and eosinophil leucocyte accumulation were inhibited by treatment with testosterone, whereas dihydrotestosterone had no appreciable effect. This study raises the possibility that eosinophils are mediators of some of the oestrogenic responses in the early postnatal rat epididymis.

Germinal epithelium changes in sexually immature rabbits treated with intratesticular testosterone implants

The effect of testosterone (T) on germinal epithelium development and maturation was studied in prepubertal male rabbits. For this purpose, implants of free T (50 mg) or placebo (PL) were placed intratesticularly in 55-60-day-old animals. Each group was divided into sub-groups additionally treated with 0.9% NaCl, FSH/LH (3.0 IU) or cyproterone acetate (CA, 2.5 mg) over a 45-day period. Initial and final evaluations included measurements of testicular volume, testicular biopsy score count (TBSC) and plasma T, FSH and LH concentrations. At the end of the experiment, increment values (final-initial evaluation) of the parameters examined showed the following differences: (1) mean TBSC in T-implanted, irrespective of additional treatment, was higher than that of PL-implanted rabbits (P less than 0.01); (2) mean plasma T, FSH and LH values were significantly different in T- and PL-implanted rabbits, with higher T (P less than 0.05) but lower FSH and LH increments (P less than 0.01 for both) in the former group; (3) marked differences amongst types of additional treatment, irrespective of the implant used, were found for TBSC, T, FSH and LH (P less than 0.01 for all); animals treated with CA had markedly lower increments than other treatment groups. From these findings, it may be concluded, that in the prepubertal rabbit T plays an important role in development and maturation of the testis, but this effect probably requires the synergistic action of endogenous gonadotrophins.

Long-term effects on male reproductive organs of prenatal exposure to ethinyl estradiol

The effects of oral contraceptives on human offspring have not been established. This study shows the long-term effects of prenatal exposure to ethinyl estradiol, a common estrogenic component of oral contraceptives, on the testes and epididymides of aged mice. Five (83%) of the six aged male mice examined showed atrophy of seminiferous tubules, four (67%) had Leydig's cell hyperplasia, and one (17%) had precancerous changes in the epididymis. These phenomena may be results of decreases in testosterone content and its drastic conversion into estradiol-17 beta in the fetal testes at critical periods induced by ethinyl estradiol.

A new non-hormonal antifertility drug DL-204: II. Effect on testicular hyaluronidase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase in male rats

Effects of DL-204, 2-(3-ethoxyphenyl)-5,6-dihydro (5,1-a)-isoquinoline, a non-hormonal antifertility drug on testicular hyaluronidase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase levels, biochemical markers for testicular function, were evaluated in male rats. Treatment of 21-day-old rats with DL-204 for 7 or 15 days produced cryptorchid condition. Testicular hyaluronidase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase levels reveal that DL-204 acts on the testes, possibly in two ways; one, by reducing the gonadotropin levels thereby reducing the levels of androgens as reflected by reduced accessory reproductive organ weights and, secondly, by a direct action on the testes. Thus, we conclude that DL-204 is acting as an antispermatogenic agent, possibly acting in more than one way on the testes.

A new non-hormonal antifertility drug DL 111-IT: II. Effects on testicular hyaluronidase activity in male rats

Effects of DL-111, [3-(2-ethylphenyl)-5-(3-methoxyphenyl-1H-1,2,4-triazole] a non-hormonal antifertility agent, on testicular hyaluronidase activity, an accurate biochemical marker for testicular function, were evaluated in male rats. Treatment of 21-day-old rats with DL-111 sc for 7 or 15 days resulted in a significant fall in testicular weight and complete suppression of hyaluronidase activity. During the 30-day post-treatment the enzyme activity was restored to normal levels. Treatment of 40-day-old rats for 7 or 15 days also produced a significant decrease in testicular weight and hyaluronidase activity. Simultaneous administration of LH, PMSG or T with DL-111 to 21-day-old rats blocked the inhibitory activity of the drug as the enzyme activity was restored to untreated control levels. Administration of FSH along with DL-111 had no effect on suppressive action of the drug. These results suggest that in male rats DL-111 inhibits testicular activity by reducing LH levels, thereby reducing T levels as observed by reduced weights of testes and accessory glands of reproduction and hyaluronidase activity.

Accelerated differentiation in seminiferous tubules of fetal mice prenatally exposed to ethinyl estradiol

Ethinyl estradiol (EE) in olive oil (0.02, 0.2, or 2.0 mg/kg) administered to pregnant mice on days 11 to 17 of pregnancy induced abnormal differentiation of gonocytes and fetal Sertoli cells in male fetuses on day 18 of gestation. Light and electron microscopic examination of the testes showed fewer darkly stained prospermatogonia and more lightly stained prospermatogonia in the experimental than in the control fetuses. Widespread degeneration and lysis of gonocytes were seen only in the experimental mice. No spermatogonia type A could be detected. In spite of comparable mitotic rates in the Sertoli cells of the experimental and control mice and more dark Sertoli cells with well developed smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) in the experimental mice, one of the functions of fetal Sertoli cells was suppressed: there were fewer dark slender Sertoli cells with long processes extending to the centers of tubules and more contact areas with gonocytes, phenomena which may play a role in the migration of gonocytes towards the periphery of the tubules. More Sertoli cells were detected in the undescended than the descended testes exposed to the highest dose of EE. These morphological findings indicate that prenatal exposure to EE induces acceleration of prespermatogenesis and disturbances in the initiation of spermatogenesis and in the mechanical function of Sertoli cells.

The hormonal regulation of premeiotic steps of spermatogenesis in the newborn rat

.he effect of high doses of testosterone propionate (TP) on the development of the first spermatogenic wave was systematically analyzed to determine the period of maximal susceptibility to testosterone. Two mg of TP were administered daily to groups of immature male rats, starting from birth, or days 5, 10, 15, and 20 until day 35 of life. Animals injected from birth or day 5 showed severe testicular atrophy, with reductions of more than 70% of testicular weight, diminished tubular diameters, and spermatogenic arrest during the meiotic prophase. Groups treated from days 10 or 15 showed increasing testicular weights with qualitatively normal spermatogenesis. When treatment started at 20 days, completely normal testicular development was achieved. To test the responsiveness of the neonatal hypothalamo-pituitary axis to TP administration, groups of 5-day-old male rats received daily injections of TP, and plasma FSH was determined at ten, 20, and 35 days. FSH levels were not detectable at ten and 20 days, and extremely depressed at 35. A group of 5-day-old male rats was injected simultaneously with 2 mg of TP and 14 IU of FSH (human menopausal gonadotropin: 71 IU of FSH and 80 IU of LH/ml) until day 35. Testicular weights and tubular diameters were increased compared to controls, and spermatid differentiation had proceeded to more mature steps than those seen in control animals. Inhibition of testicular development by neonatal TP administration was paralleled by a sharp decrease in circulating FSH levels and reversed by FSH replacement.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Metabolism of (3H) 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol by cultures of isolated rat sertoli cells and the effect of LH and FSH

Sertoli cells from immature rats metabolized (3H) 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol to (3H) 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 16 alpha, 17 beta-triol and (3H) 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-17-one. This is the first report of 16 alpha-hydroxylation of 5 alpha-reduced androgens in the testis. FSH significantly stimulated 16 alpha-hydroxylation while LH significantly decreased this activity. 3 alpha-Hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-17-one was the major metabolite formed and its production was significantly increased in the presence of both LH and FSH, although FSH stimulation was significantly more than LH. The possible role of 16 alpha-hydroxylase in androgen metabolism by immature rat Sertoli cells is discussed.

Differentiation of the rat testis between 20 and 120 days of age

The differentiation of the seminiferous epithelium was studied in 20-120-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats. Body weights and the weights of the testes, seminal vesicles, and kidneys were determined. The best way of defining the development of the testis was to denote the most differentiated germ cell present. Spermatogenesis is complete at 56 days of age, but the testis continues to grow up to 108 days of age. The development of certain parameters has been calculated, and it is very important to define the age of the animals in experimental studies and to include sufficient numbers of controls.

Effect of postnatal exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls on adult male reproductive function

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been found widely distributed in the ecosystem, including human milk, yet there is limited information concerning the effect that PCB exposure during the postnatal period might have on subsequent reproductive capacity of adult male offspring. In this study, fertility and condition of reproductive organs were examined in male offspring of rats that received Aroclor 1254 orally (8, 32, or 64 mg/kg) on Days 1-3, 5, 7, and 9 of lactation. It was found that the experimental male offspring as adults were less successful in mating and reproducing when compared with control offspring. Virgin females mated with males exposed through suckling to the two higher doses of PCBs had a significantly lower proportion of ovulated eggs that implanted, a significantly lower number of live fetuses, and a significantly higher rate of resorption. At autopsy, although body weights were not significantly different, ventral prostate weights were significantly less in all treated male offspring; there were fewer alveoli and flattened epithelial cells in these glands as compared to controls. Seminal vesicle weights were significantly less in males exposed to the two higher doses of PCBs, while the testes were significantly larger. PCB-derived material remained in adipose tissue and liver at the time of autopsy. These data support the hypothesis that exposure of male offspring to PCBs during early postnatal development results in an hypoandrogenic condition that is detrimental to normal reproductive functioning in the adult.

Testosterone metabolism by testicular tissue

Teased testicular tissue with defined cell populations from experimental rats, as well as testicular tissue from normal rats, was incubated in an environment that insured the morphologic integrity of the tissue at the conclusion of the experiment. In cryptorchid animals, conversion of available substrate to various metabolites by testicular tissue comprised of Leydig and Sertoli cells was comparable to that of intact controls. Using hypophysectomized and hypophysectomized-cryptorchid rats, reliably measurable androgen metabolites were produced by testicular tissue that had specific populations of intact cell types. The reported methodology shows that defined cell populations, capable of testosterone metabolism, can be obtained in vivo by surgical procedures. Histologic monitoring of the tissue at the conclusion of the incubation has helped define the best environment for the maintenance of morphologic integrity throughout the incubation period. These techniques will allow future work on quantitative assessment of testosterone metabolism by defined cell populations of the testis.

Dihydrotestosterone causes reversible infertility in male rats

Dihydrotestosterone released continuously from a subcutaneously implanted Silastic elastomer was more potent than testosterone in reducing circulating gonadotropin and androgen concentrations and in inducing testicular atrophy and infertility despite normal ejaculatory function as judged by the presence of vaginal plugs in cage mates. All effects were reversible. Thus quantities of dihydrotestosterone which reduce circulating gonadotropin concentrations suffice to maintain the weights of accessory sex organs but not spermatogenesis. That the latter is possible with higher doses even in the complete absence of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone (state after hypophysectomy) has been shown by others.

Effects of various doses of testosterone propionate on intratesticular and plasma testosterone levels and maintenance of spermatogenesis in adult hypophysectomized rats

Adult hypophysectomized rats were maintained on different regimens of testosterone propionate (TP) treatment for 27 days (0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 1 mg/day) and autopsied 16 hours after the last injection. Blood samples were taken, sex organs were weighed and one testis from each animal was fixed in Bouins fluid for histologic analysis. The other testis and blood were used for testosterone (T) determinations. Both testicular and plasma T were below detectable levels in hypophysectomized control rats. The plasma T level showed a dose response relationship with increasing dose of TP but such was not the case for intratesticular T concentrations. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of testis sections showed that spermatogenesis was incomplete in rats receiving 0.2 mg TP/day characterized by the absence of step 15 to 19 spermatids, degeneration of some pachytene spermatocytes and a significantly lower yield of B type spermatogonia. Analysis of testis sections from animals treated with 0.4 to 1 mg TP/day showed complete maintenance and maturation of pachytene spermatocytes, meiosis and spermiogenesis. However, even with the highest dose of TP (1 mg/day) the total yield of B type spermatogonia was only about 58% of the intact controls. It is concluded that at least 0.4 mg/day of exogenous TP is essential for qualitative maintenance of spermatogenesis in hypophysectomized rats with an intratesticular T concentration of 17 to 18 ng/gm testis.

The effects of 5alpha-reduced androgens on maintenance and regeneration of prostate glands and seminal vesicles in castrated and hypophysectomized rats

The effects of 5alpha-androstane-3alpha, 17beta-diol (3alpha-diol) and 5alpha-androstane-3beta, 17beta-diol (3beta-diol) were studied in rats hypophysectomized and treated daily for 30 days with the steroids, starting on the day of surgery (hypophysectomized, H) or 30 days following the removal of pituitary (hypophysectomized regressed, HR). The ability of 3beta-diol to maintain and restimulate the prostate glands and seminal vesicles of castrated (C) and castrated regressed (CR) rats, respectively, was also studied. This androgen (3beta-diol) was able to maintain as well as rejuvenate to some degree the sexual accessory glands of all treatment groups. The prostate glands and seminal vesicles in both castrated experimental groups showed increased stimulation with progressively higher dosages of 3beta-diol. At all dose levels, stimulation of seminal vesicles of CR rats was comparable to that of non-regressed castrates. The prostate glands, on the other hand, showed better maintenance in the higher dosage group. In H rats, the stimulation of sexual accessory glands by both androgens was not significantly different than normal controls. The seminal vesicles and prostate glands of HR rats treated with 3alpha-diol were well stimulated and comparable to those of H rats treated with 3alpha-diol. The seminal vesicles of HR rats treated with 3beta-diol were also well stimulated, though not to the extent as those with 3alpha-diol treatment. The prostate glands of the 3beta-diol treated HR rats were significantly smaller than those of the 3alpha-diol treatment group. However, these miniature glands were morphologically stimulated as evidenced by mitosis of parenchymal cells and accumulation of secretory products in the alveoli. This study clearly indicates that 3beta-diol is biologically active and the degree of stimulation varies with the animal preparation in which the androgens were tested.

Effects of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone on spermatogenesis, rete testis fluid, and peripheral androgen levels in hypophysectomized rats

To compare the effects of testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on the maintenance and the restoration of spermatogenesis, hypophysectomized (APX) rats were treated daily for 35 days with 0.5 mg of T propionate (TP) or DHT propionate (DHTP) beginning 5 or 33 days after hypophysectomy. In the maintenance experiment, the weights of the testes and the number of early spermatids were significantly lower in DHTP-than in TP-treated animals, while late spermatids were present only in rats treated with TP. In the restoration experiment, TP increased testicular weight and the number of germinal cells, whereas DHTP had very little effect on the testis. In an attempt to explain these findings, we measured androgen levels in the rete testis fluid (RTF) and peripheral plasma of APX rats treated with TP or DHTP. The concentration of T in the RTF of TP-treated rats was nearly 3-fold higher than the level of DHT in the RTF of animals given DHTP. Plasma T levels measured 1/2, 2, 4, and 24 hours after the last of three daily injections of TP were considerably higher than were the corresponding plasma DHT levels in animals given DHTP. In animals treated with free steroids, peripheral androgen levels between 1/2 and 4 hours after the last injection were much higher in rats given T than in those given DHT, but thereafter this difference disappeared. We conclude that the difference in the ability of subcutaneously injected TP and DHTP to maintain and to restore spermatogenesis in APX rats was due to a difference in androgen levels in the testes of these animals.

Production and effects of 7 alpha-hydroxytestosterone on testosterone and dihydrotestosterone metabolism in rat testis

1. Testicular 7 alpha-hydroxylation of testerone was assayed in cell extracts of rats between 12 and 79 days of age. Maximal 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity was observed about 60 days, while insignificant activity was obtained prior to 42 days of age. 2. 7 alpha-Hydroxytestosterone, a major metabolite of testosterone in mature rat testis, inhibited 5 alpha-reduction of testosterone in cell extracts of mature but not of immature rat testis. 3. Maximal testicular activity of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase using dihydrotestosterone as substrate was obtained in the presence of NAD, while maximal 3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity was observed with NADP. Both enzyme activites were reversible. 4. Sensitivity toward testosterone inhibition of 3-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase varied greatly with stage of testis development being highest at 25-27 days of age. In contrast to testosterone, 7 alpha-hydroxytestosterone was an inhibitor of 3 alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase only. In the mature rat testis 7 alpha-hydroxytestosterone may be a naturally occurring inhibitor of dihydrotestosterone and 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol formation.

Postnatal differentiation of Leydig cells in the rabbit testis

After the gradual disappearance of fetal Leydig cells in the first week after birth, the interstitial tissue of the rabbit testis is composed principally of undifferentiated mesenchymal cells between one and five weeks of age. Also present during this time are scattered partially differentiated cells with oval-shaped nuclei, prominent nucleoli and abundant cytoplasm. These cells exhibit some of the cytoplasmic features of steroid-secreting cells, but extensive development of smooth endoplasmic reticulum and the grouped perivascular arrangement of characteristic of fully differentiated Leydig cells are not present. The latter features appear at five weeks of age, indicating the formation of mature Leydig cells at that time. By seven weeks, the bulk of the interstitial tissue consists of Leydig cell aggregates, typical of the appearance in adult testis. Since spermatogonial mitoses first appear at seven to eight weeks of age, the findings indicate that Leydig cell differentiation precedes the onset of spermatogenesis.