Recovery of lead-induced suppressed reproduction in male rats by testosterone

Testosterone restores TM3 and TM4 cell viability, reduces reactive oxygen species generation, and protects against atrazine-induced stereological changes in rat testes

In this study, we performed the stereological examination of rat testes and evaluated the protective effect of testosterone against atrazine (ATZ) toxicity in TM3 Leydig and TM4 Sertoli cells. Testosterone intake in rats increased the volumetric density of the seminiferous tubules; tubular diameter; germinal epithelial height; number of spermatogonia, primary and secondary spermatocytes, round spermatids, Sertoli cells, and Leydig cells; and Johnsen scores compared with the values after ATZ treatment (p < 0.05). Furthermore, testosterone increased the viability of TM3 cells and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in TM4 cells compared to the ATZ-treated group. In conclusion, exogenous testosterone intake maintains testicular morphometry and spermatogenesis in rats, and minimizes cell death and ROS generation in testicular cell lines exposed to ATZ. However, TM4 cells are more responsive to testosterone-mediated regulation of ROS generation induced by ATZ than TM3 cells.

The Palliative and Antioxidant Effects of Hesperidin against Lead-Acetate-Induced Testicular Injury in Male Wistar Rats

Lead (Pb)-induced reprotoxicity is a detrimental consequence of Pb exposure, which results in abnormal spermatogenesis, testicular degeneration, and pathogenic sperm changes. The association between impaired male reproductive function and Pb-induced oxidative stress (OS) has been demonstrated, with consequent testicular antioxidant deficiency. The current study investigated the protective role of the natural antioxidant hesperidin (HSD) against lead-acetate (PbAc)-induced testicular toxicity. Male Wistar rats (n = 40) were randomly divided into four experimental groups: Group I (negative control) received 2.0 mL/kg BW 0.9% saline; Group II received 100 mg/kg BW PbAc; Group III received 100 mg/kg BW HSD; and Group IV received HSD two hours before PbAc using the abovementioned doses. The treatments were administered daily for 30 consecutive days. The results showed that HSD treatment significantly restored PbAc-induced decrease in body, epididymal, and testicular weights as well as in semen parameters, reproductive hormones, and testicular markers of OS. Reduced MDA levels and improved testicular histopathological findings were also observed. Collectively, this study sheds light on the preventive role of HSD against PbAc-induced testicular injury, which is mediated via the suppression of OS and the modulation of reproductive hormones as well as the plausibility of HSD being used as a supplementary therapeutic option for recovery.

Ginkgo biloba supplement abates lead-induced endothelial and testicular dysfunction in Wistar rats via up-regulation of Bcl-2 protein expression, pituitary-testicular hormones and down-regulation of oxido-inflammatory reactions

BACKGROUND

Apoptotic and oxido-inflammatory pathways have been found to be up-regulated in lead acetate poisoning which has been associated to endothelial and testicular dysfunctions. It is yet uncertain, nevertheless, if treatment with Ginkgo biloba supplements (GBS), a flavonoid-rich natural product can lessen the adverse effects of lead on endothelial and testicular functions. This study investigated the impact of Ginkgo biloba supplementation on lead-induced endothelial and testicular dysfunctions.

METHODS

The animals were treated with GBS (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg orally) for 14 days following oral exposure to lead acetate (25 mg/kg) for 14 days. After euthanasia, blood samples, epididymal sperm, testes, and aorta were collected. The quantities of the hormones (testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), as well as the anti-apoptotic, oxidative, nitrergic, inflammatory markers, were then determined using immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and conventional biochemical methods.

RESULTS

GBS reduced lead-induced oxidative stress by increasing the levels of the antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), while lowering malondialdehyde (MDA) in endothelium and testicular cells. Normal testicular weight was restored by GBS which also decreased endothelial endothelin-I and increased nitrite levels. TNF-α and IL-6 were decreased while Bcl-2 protein expression was enhanced. Lead-induced alterations in reproductive hormones (FSH, LH, and testosterone) were also restored to normal.

CONCLUSION

According to our result, using Ginkgo biloba supplement prevented lead from causing endothelial and testicular dysfunction by raising pituitary-testicular hormone levels, boosting Bcl-2 protein expression and lowering oxidative and inflammatory stress in the endothelium and testes.

Antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic abilities of L-Arginine ameliorate the testicular dysfunction in diabetic rats

Testicular dysfunction and infertility are serious complications of diabetes mellitus (DM). L-Arginine (L-Arg) is a semi essential amino acid with various biological and metabolic functions. The molecular mechanisms of L-Arg on testicular dysfunction caused by DM remain elusive. This study aimed to assess the potential protective effect of L-Arg in diabetic testis and its possible mechanisms. 24 adult male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups: CON, L-Arg that received 1 g/kg body weight of L-Arg orally for 4 weeks, DM that fed a high fat diet followed by an injection of 30 mg/kg streptozotocin intraperitoneally, and L-Arg-treated DM that were diabetic and administered L-Arg. DM decreased relative testicular weight, reduced serum testosterone, and impaired semen parameters. Reduced total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), in addition to increased transforming growth factor B1 (TGF-β1) and nitric oxide (NO) levels, were found in the testicular tissue. This was associated with severe degenerative changes in the seminiferous tubules and interstitial cells of Leydig, reduction of Johnsen's score, significantly increased expression of both inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and caspase-3, and reduced zonula occludens (ZO)- 1 expression. Ultrastructurally, disrupted intercellular junctions and degeneration of interstitial cells of Leydig were observed. In contrast, treatment of diabetic animals with L-Arg increased TAC, SOD and GSH-Px, decreased TGF-β1 and NO levels, downregulated iNOS and caspase-3 expression, upregulated ZO-1 expression, and maintained the integrity of the Sertoli cell junctions. Hence, L-Arg restored the normal testicular structure and function via its antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic effects.

Quercetin Abates Aluminum Trioxide Nanoparticles and Lead Acetate Induced Altered Sperm Quality, Testicular Oxidative Damage, and Sexual Hormones Disruption in Male Rats

This study examined the effects of exposure to lead acetate (PbAc) and/or aluminum trioxide nanoparticles (Al2O3NPs) on testicular function. Additionally, the probable reproprotective effects of quercetin (QTN) against Al2O3NPs and PbAc co-exposure in male Sprague Dawely rats were assessed. Al2O3NPs (100 mg/kg b.wt.), PbAc (50 mg/kg b.wt.), and QTN (20 mg/kg b.wt.) were orally administered for 60 days. Then, spermiogram, histopathological examinations of the testis and accessory glands, and immunohistochemical detection of androgen receptors (AR) and tumor necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α) were achieved. Moreover, serum levels of male sex hormones and testicular levels of antioxidant indices were estimated. The results showed that Al2O3NPs and/or PbAc caused significant sperm abnormalities, testicular oxidative stress, and histopathological changes. Furthermore, serum testosterone, LH, and FSH levels significantly decreased, while estradiol levels significantly increased. The Al2O3NPs and/or PbAc co-exposed group had more obvious disturbances. Furthermore, QTN co-administration significantly reversed the Al2O3NPs and PbAc-induced testicular histopathological alterations, reduced antioxidant defenses, and altered AR and TNF-α immune expression in testicular tissues. Conclusively, Al2O3NPs and/or PbAc evoked testicular dysfunction by inducing oxidative injury and inflammation. However, QTN oral dosing effectively mitigated the negative effects of Al2O3NPs and PbAc by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation and improving the antioxidant defense system.

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) mitigates lead (II) acetate-induced testicular dysfunction in Wistar rats via up-regulation of Bcl-2 protein expression, pituitary-testicular hormonal axis and down-regulation of oxido-inflammatory reactions

Oxido-inflammatory stress has been involved in lead-induced testicular dysfunction and plants rich in anti-oxidants has been reported to be beneficial in combating heavy metal poisonings in animal studies. However, cabbage juice protective effect on lead-induced testicular dysfunction was investigated in this study. Twenty male Wistar rats were selected into four (n = 5) groups and given distilled water (1 ml/100 g body weight), lead acetate (25 mg/kg body weight), cabbage juice (1 ml/100 g body weight), and lead acetate with cabbage juice, respectively. All treatments were administered orally for 28 days. Sperm count, motility, viability, testosterone, luteinising hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, testicular Bcl-2 expression, and enzymatic anti-oxidant capabilities were considerably (p < 0.05) decrease in lead-treated animals. However, cabbage juice significantly (p < 0.05) elevated these parameters. Testicular malondialdehyde, tumour necrosis factor-α, nitric oxide and interleukin-6 was elevated by lead acetate. When comparing cabbage juice-treated animals to lead-treated animals, all of these parameters were considerably (p < 0.05) downregulated in cabbage juice-treated animals. Following lead administration, the testes' histomorphological alterations were not totally recovered despite therapy with cabbage juice. Conclusively, this study suggest that cabbage juice mitigates testicular dysfunction associated with lead exposure via its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and androgenic properties.

Selenium nanoparticles alleviate lead acetate-induced toxicological and morphological changes in rat testes through modulation of calmodulin-related genes expression

Lead (Pb) is one of the most common toxic heavy metals. It is a well-known testicular toxicant. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are a more effective form of elemental selenium that reduces drug-induced toxicities. This study aimed to study the possible ameliorating effect of SeNPs on the toxicological and morphological changes in testes of lead acetate intoxicated rats. The study was conducted on 40 adult male albino rats divided into four groups; control, SeNPs-treated, lead acetate-treated, lead acetate and SeNPS treated groups. The concurrent treatment of lead acetate-exposed rats with SeNPs (0.1 mg/kg/day) for 12 weeks significantly lowered the blood and testicular lead levels, increased serum testosterone, and decreased luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone to approach control values. In addition, it improved the histopathological, and ultrastructural alterations of the testes and improved the immunohistochemical expression of the c-kit. This was accompanied by maintenance of the testicular oxidant/antioxidant balance and reversing the lead-induced disrupted calmodulin-related genes expression in testicular tissue in the form of downregulation of CAMMK2 and MAP2K6 and upregulation of CXCR4 genes. There was a strong positive correlation between testicular malondialdehyde and MAP2K6 expression level as well as a strong positive correlation between CXCR4 gene expression and the C-kit area %. In conclusion, SeNPs can be considered as a potential therapy for a lead-induced testicular injury.

Selenium-Alleviated Testicular Toxicity by Modulating Inflammation, Heat Shock Response, and Autophagy Under Oxidative Stress in Lead-Treated Chickens

Lead (Pb), a toxic pollutant, is toxic to the testis. However, biological events during testicular Pb poisoning were not well understood. Selenium (Se) has the ability to antagonize Pb toxicity. The purpose of this research was to clarify the relief mechanism of Se on testicular toxicity of Pb from the perspective of oxidative stress, inflammation, heat shock response, and autophagy in a chicken model. Sixty male Hyline chickens (7-day-old) were randomly assigned into four groups. The feeding program consisted of a commercial diet, a Se-supplemented diet (1 mg kg^-1 Se), a Pb-supplemented diet (350 mg L^-1 Pb), and a Se- and Pb-supplemented diet, respectively. On the 12th week, serums were collected to measure testosterone level and testes were removed to determine testis weight, histological structure, Pb and Se concentrations, oxidative stress indicators, and mRNA and protein expression of inflammatory cytokines, heat shock proteins, and autophagy-related genes. The results showed that Pb poisoning changed the histological structure of testes; decreased serum testosterone level, testis weight, catalase, glutathione-s-transferase, and total antioxidative capacity activities; increased hydrogen peroxide content; inhibited interleukin (IL)-2 and mammalian target of rapamycin expression; and promoted IL-4, IL-12β, heat shock proteins, Beclin 1, Dynein, autophagy-related proteins 5, light chain 3 (LC3)-I, and LC3-II expression in the testes of chickens. Se intervention mitigated the aforementioned alterations induced by Pb. In conclusion, Pb led to oxidative stress, which triggered inflammation, heat shock response, and autophagy. Se administration mitigated testicular toxicity of Pb mainly by mitigating oxidative stress in male chickens.

Reproductive and embryological toxicity of lead acetate in male mice and their offspring and mitigation effects of quercetin

Exposure to heavy metals not only impacts on fertility in males, it may also affect the offspring. The aim of the present study was to examine the toxic effects of lead acetate on fertility in male mice and their offspring, and the potential effect of quercetin on mitigating the likely effects. Experimental mice were randomly divided into three groups and administered with (i) distilled water (control); (ii) lead acetate (150 mg/kg BW/day); (iii) lead acetate (150 mg/kg BW/day) with quercetin (75 mg/kg BW/day). Lead acetate administration in male mice adversely affected their fertility through changes in sperm motility, viability, morphology, maturity, membrane integrity, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (P <  0.05). Similar findings were observed in the offspring of the lead-treated male mice. Early embryonic development and implantation rate were also adversely influenced in both the sires and offspring when male mice were treated with lead acetate (P <  0.05). The data demonstrated that down-regulation of Cks2 (CDC28 protein kinase regulatory subunit-2) in sperm had an association with early embryonic development in lead acetate treated group. In conclusion, lead acetate administration adversely impacted on the fertility of the male mice and their male offspring fertility; on the other hand, paternal quercetin co-administration somewhat ameliorated the adverse effects of lead on male mice and their offspring.

Chlorella vulgaris or Spirulina platensis mitigate lead acetate-induced testicular oxidative stress and apoptosis with regard to androgen receptor expression in rats

The current research was constructed to throw the light on the protective possibility of Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) and Spirulina platensis (S. platensis) against lead acetate-promoted testicular dysfunction in male rats. Forty rats were classified into four groups: (i) control, (ii) rats received lead acetate (30 mg/kg bw), (iii) rats concomitantly received lead acetate and C. vulgaris (300 mg/kg bw), (vi) rats were simultaneously treated with lead acetate and S. platensis (300 mg/kg bw) via oral gavage for 8 weeks. Lead acetate promoted testicular injury as expressed with fall in reproductive organ weights and gonadosomatic index (GSI). Lead acetate disrupted spermatogenesis as indicated by sperm cell count reduction and increased sperm malformation percentage. Lead acetate-deteriorated steroidogenesis is evoked by minimized serum testosterone along with maximized follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Testicular oxidative, inflammatory, and apoptotic cascades are revealed by elevated acid phosphatase (ACP) and sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) serum leakage, declined testicular total antioxidative capacity (TAC) with elevated total oxidative capacity (TOC), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), caspase-3 levels, lessened androgen receptor (AR) expression, and histopathological lesions against control. Our research highlights that C. vulgaris or S. platensis therapy can modulate lead acetate-promoted testicular dysfunction via their antioxidant activity as expressed by elevated TAC and reduced TOC, immunomodulatory effect as indicated by lessened TNF-α level, and anti-apoptotic potential that was revealed by minimized caspase-3 levels. As well as restoration of testicular histoarchitecture, androgen receptor, steroidogenesis, and spermatogenesis were detected with better impacts to S. platensis comparing with C. vulgaris. Therefore, further clinical trials are needed to test S. platensis and C. vulgaris as a promising candidate in treating male infertility.

A potential mechanism associated with lead-induced spermatogonia and Leydig cell toxicity and mitigative effect of selenium in chicken

Lead (Pb) is a toxic heavy metal pollutants and can damage male reproductive function. Selenium (Se) possesses an ability of antagonizing Pb toxicity. However, biological events in the process of Pb toxicity and mitigative effect of Se are not well understood. The aim of present research was to investigate potential mechanism of Se against Pb toxicity from the perspective of oxidative stress, heat shock response and autophagy in the spermatogonia and Leydig cell of chicken. The cells from one-day-old male Hyline chickens were treated with Se (0.5 μmol/L) and/or Pb (20 μmol/L) for 24 h, respectively. Cell viability, cell ultrastucture, Pb and Se concentrations, testosterone level, oxidative stress indicators and relative expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and autophagy-related genes were measured. The results showed that spermatogonia was more tolerant to Pb than Leydig cell; cell injury was confirmed via histological assessment, cell viability and testosterone level; oxidative stress was further indicated by the decrease of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-s-transferase and superoxide dismutase activities and the increase of malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species contents. Pb increased expression of HSPs (27, 40, 60, 70 and 90). Meanwhile Pb induced autophagy through up-regulation of autophagy-related proteins 5, Beclin 1, Dynein, light chain 3 (LC3)-I and LC3-II and down-regulation of mammalian target of rapamycin in two type cells of chicken. However, Se intervention mitigated the aforementioned alterations caused by Pb. In conclusion, Pb led to oxidative stress, which triggered heat shock response and autophagy; Se administration mitigated reproductive toxicity of Pb through strengthening antioxidant defense in the spermatogonia and Leydig cell of chicken.

Testosterone recuperates deteriorated male fertility in cypermethrin intoxicated rats

The present study investigates the protective effects of testosterone against reproductive toxicity induced by cypermethrin (50 mg/kg body weight) in rats. Significant reduction in the testicular and accessory sex organ weights were observed in cypermethrin-treated rats over controls. Cypermethrin intoxication significantly reduced testicular daily sperm count, epididymal sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability and HOS-tail coiled sperm accompanied by significant reduction in the activity levels of testicular steroidogenic enzymes such as 3β- and 17β- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases in rats as compared to controls. Further, qPCR studies indicated that the mRNA expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) significantly decreased in cypermethrin-treated rats over controls. Molecular docking analysis indicated that the binding affinity of cypermethrin (- 11.2 kcal/mol) towards StAR protein was greater as compared to its natural ligand, cholesterol (- 8.2 kcal/mol) suggesting improper cholesterol channeling across the testis. Significant reduction in the circulatory levels of testosterone was also recorded in cypermethrin-exposed rats. An increase in pre- and post-implantation loss was observed in rats cohabited with cypermethrin-treated rats. On the other hand, testosterone (4.16 mg/kg body weight) treatment ameliorated cypermethrin-induced reprotoxic effects in rats. To conclude, cypermethrin-induced deterioration of suppressed reproductive performance in male rats could be linked to its antiandrogenic effects and on the other hand, testosterone-mediated protection of male reproductive health in cypermethrin-treated rats at least in part occurs via restoration of testosterone biosynthesis, spermatogenesis and sperm maturation events.

Anti-inflammatory effect of selenium on lead-induced testicular inflammation by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation in chickens

Lead (Pb) is a deleterious environmental pollutant that is toxic to testes. Selenium (Se) possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich-containing family, pyrin-domain containing-3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is involved in inflammatory response. However, the function of NLRP3 inflammasome in antagonistic effect of Se on inflammation caused by Pb remains unknown. The purpose of this research is to identify anti-inflammatory role of Se on testicular toxicity induced by Pb with an emphasis on oxidative stress, inflammation and NLRP3 signaling pathway in chicken. In present study, sixty seven-day-old Hyline male chickens were assigned into four groups. The feeding program consisted of a commercial diet (0.49 mg/kg Se), a Se-supplemented diet (1 mg/kg Se), a Pb-supplemented diet (0.49 mg/kg Se and 350 mg/kg Pb) and a Se-supplemented and Pb-supplemented diet (1 mg/kg Se and 350 mg/kg Pb), respectively. On the 12th week, blood was collected to measure serum testosterone level and testicular tissues were removed to determine Se and Pb concentrations, testicular function, histological structure, oxidative stress indicators and inflammation-related factors (Nuclear factor-kappaB, tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2, NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain, caspase-1, interluekin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-18 and interferon-γ). The experimental results showed that after Pb administration, testicular injury was confirmed via histological assessment; testicular dysfunction were further indicated by decreased testosterone level and mRNA expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Moreover, NLRP3 signaling pathway activated by Pb-caused oxidative stress was up-regulated accompanied by promotion in reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide, inducible nitric oxide synthase and malondialdehyde and reduction in antioxidants including glutathione peroxidase and glutathione s-transferase. Se administration ameliorated testicular tissue injury, testicular function, oxidative stress and inflammation. In conclusion, Se exhibited antagonistic role in Pb-induced testicular injury via enhancing antioxidant system and inhibiting inflammation in chickens.

Reproductive, antioxidant and metabolic responses of Ossimi rams to kisspeptin

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential reproductive, antioxidant and metabolic effects of kisspeptin-10 (KP-10) on Ossimi rams. Twelve Ossimi rams (1.5-2 years old) were divided randomly into two groups (six per group). The first one served as a control group, while the second one served as a treated group. Rams of the treated group were injected once weekly with KP-10 (5 μg/kg body weight) for one month. There were no significant differences in all measured parameters between rams of control group at pre-treatment period and those at post-treatment period. However, most examined parameters in the same rams in the treated group were affected by injection of KP-10 when comparing pre-treatment values in treated group with its post-treatment values. At the pre-treatment period, there were no significant differences between the treated and control groups regarding semen pH, mass motility, sperm concentration/mL, live and dead spermatozoa, total sperm abnormality, testosterone and oxidative stress and metabolic parameters. However, all semen characteristics were significantly improved in the treated group compared with the control group at the post-treatment period and in the treated group at the post-treatment period compared with that at the pre-treatment period. In addition, scrotal circumference, ejaculate volume and total sperm concentration/ejaculate showed higher significant improvements when comparing the treated group with the control one at the post-treatment period than when comparing the two groups at the pre-treatment period and also when comparing the treated group at the post-treatment period with that at the pre-treatment period. Serum testosterone, total antioxidant capacity, lipid peroxides, nitric oxide, total protein, albumin, glucose and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels significantly increased when comparing the treated group with the control one at the post-treatment period and also when comparing the treated group at the post-treatment period with that at the pre-treatment period. In conclusion, KP-10 led to potential improvement in the reproductive efficacy and metabolic capacity of Ossimi ram.

Protective effect of diallyl sulfide against lead-mediated oxidative damage, apoptosis and down-regulation of CYP19 gene expression in rat testes

AIMS

The present study aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic effect of diallyl sulfide (DAS), a natural component of garlic (Allium sativum), in the improvement of lead (Pb)-induced testicular toxicity and its underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two male albino rats were randomly divided into control, PbAc (20 mg lead acetate/kg bwt, orally), DAS (200 mg/kg bwt, orally), and PbAc + DAS groups for 49 successive days. The investigation based on the following criteria: Paired testes and epididymides weights, epididymal sperm analysis, level of serum sex hormones (Testosterone and17β-estradiol (E2)), aromatase (CYP19) expression, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric oxide (NO), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme, reduced glutathione (GSH), testicular histopathology, spermatogenesis score and apoptosis detection (Caspase-3 immunoexpression).

KEY FINDINGS

Pb caused significant decline in epididymal sperm count and motility, testes and epididymes weights, spermatogenesis score and serum testosterone and1E2, as well as a significant decrease in SOD and GSH level, and a significant elevation of MDA and NO compared to a control group. In addition, Pb induced significant downregulation of CYP19 gene expression, increase of Caspase-3 immunoreactivity, various testicular degenerative and necrotic changes. Whereas, co-treatment of rats with DAS improved sperm analysis, and testicular histology and antioxidative status. Furthermore, DAS co-administration regulated testicular CYP19 and Caspase-3 expressions.

SIGNIFICANCE

Collectively, DAS seemed to be a promising agent for protection against Pb-induced testicular toxicity through antioxidative properties, beside regulation of testicular apoptosis and aromatase expression.

SF-1 mediates reproductive toxicity induced by Cerium oxide nanoparticles in male mice

Background

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO₂ NPs) have potential application for use in biomedical and in various consumer products. However, it is largely unclear whether CeO₂ NPs have effects on male reproductive function.

Methods

In this study, male mice were examined for toxicity, if any, following chronic oral administration of CeO₂ NPs for 32 days. In each animal, epididymides were examined for sperm motility and DNA integrity. Bloods were tested for testosterone levels. Testicular tissues were collected to determine the element Ce content, the daily sperm production (DSP), marker enzymes such as ACP, G6PD, γ-GT and SDH, mRNA expression levels of steroidogenesis genes Star, P450scc, P450c17, 3β-Hsd, and 17β-Hsd, as well as steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1) gene/protein levels.

Results

The results showed that CeO₂ NPs (20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg) increased the element Ce content in testis, the testis histopathological patterns and sperm DNA damage whereas decreased the testis weight, DSP and sperm motility. There were also remarkable reduction in testosterone levels and marker enzymes activities, down-regulated mRNA expression levels of several steroidogenesis genes such as Star, P450scc, P450c17, 3β-Hsd, and 17β-Hsd, as well as altered gene and protein expressions of SF-1.

Conclusion

These results reveal the male reproductive toxicity of chronic exposure of CeO₂ NPs in mice, hinting that the utilization of CeO₂ NPs need to be carefully evaluated about their potential reproductive toxicity on the human health.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12951-019-0474-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Safety assessment of cefuroxime on male reproductive system: Subacute toxicity and potential reversibility after a complete cycle of spermatogenesis and epididymal maturation in Wistar rats

The effects of cefuroxime on reproductive system were investigated in male rats. Doses of 0, 30, 60 or 120 mg/kg of cefuroxime were intraperitoneally injected daily, for 7 days. Half of the rats were euthanized 24 h after the last dose and other half were induced to death 70 days after the last treatment. After 8 days of the experiment, results showed that cefuroxime induced a significant reduction in the weights of testes, epididymis and accessory sex organs. In addition, it decreased sperm quality, plasma testosterone level, and antioxidant enzyme activities while increasing the level of malondialdehyde. After a complete cycle of spermatogenesis and epididymal maturation, the results indicated complete reversibility of the adverse effects previously mentioned. In conclusion, cefuroxime induced reversible dose-dependent adverse effects on testicular and epididymal functions of rats.

Exposure to Pb and Cd alters MCT4/CD147 expression and MCT4/CD147-dependent lactate transport in mice Sertoli cells cultured in vitro

Sertoli cells (SCs) provide lactate as an energy substrate to develop germ cells during spermatogenesis. Lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) can induce SC toxicity. However, the mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which Pb and Cd alter lactate transport and production by SCs. Mouse SC line (15P-1 cells) were cultured in the absence and presence of lead acetate (PbAc, 1, 10, 20 and 30 μM) or cadmium chloride (CdCl₂, 0.5, 5, 10 and 15 μM) for 24 h. The results showed that PbAc exposure significantly decreased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and mRNA level, intracellular and extracellular lactate, and MCT4 and CD147 protein levels but increased MCT4 and CD147 mRNA levels. However, PbAc did not alter the glucose uptake, glucose transporters 1 (GLUT1) and 3 (GLUT3) mRNA expression of SCs. Thus, PbAc mainly decreased lactate production by inhibiting LDH activity. In CdCl₂-treated SCs, intracellular lactate content increased but extracellular lactate content decreased significantly, P < .05. The glucose uptake, LDH activity, and mRNA expression of GLUT1, GLUT3 and LDH, all significantly increased. But the mRNA and protein levels of MCT4 and CD147 significantly decreased. Moreover, the fluorescence intensity of co-localizations of the MCT4-CD147 complex dose-dependently decreased in the cell membrane. Thus, CdCl₂ may reduce lactate export by suppressing MCT4 and CD147 expression. These results suggest that PbAc and CdCl₂ disrupt lactate production and transport in mouse SCs by disturbing glycolysis or inhibiting MCT4-CD147 transporter expression and co-localizations.

Toxic Effect of Cadmium, Lead, and Arsenic on the Sertoli Cell: Mechanisms of Damage Involved

Over the past decades, an increase has been described in exposure to environmental toxins; consequently, a series of studies has been carried out with the aim of identifying problems associated with health. One of the main risk factors is exposure to heavy metals. The adverse effects that these compounds exert on health are quite complex and difficult to elucidate, in that they act at different levels and there are various signaling pathways that are implicated in the mechanisms of damage. The Sertoli cells plays a role of vital importance during the process of spermatogenesis, and it has been identified as one of the principal targets of heavy metals. In the present review, cadmium, lead, and arsenic are broached as altering the physiology of the Sertoli cells, citing mechanisms that have been cited in the literature.

Vitamin D alleviates lead induced renal and testicular injuries by immunomodulatory and antioxidant mechanisms in rats

This study measured the effects of vitamin D (VD) supplementation on the underlying molecular pathways involved in renal and testicular damage induced by lead (Pb) toxicity. Thirty two adult male Wistar rats were divided equally into four groups that were treated individually or simultaneously, except the negative control, for four weeks with lead acetate in drinking water (1,000 mg/L) and/or intramuscular VD (1,000 IU/kg; 3 days/week). Pb toxicity markedly reduced serum VD and Ca²⁺, induced substantial renal and testicular injuries with concomitant significant alterations in the expression of VD metabolising enzymes, its receptor and binding protein, and the calcium sensing receptor. Pb also significantly promoted lipid peroxidation and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and TNF-α) in the organs of interest concomitantly with declines in several anti-oxidative markers (glutathione, glutathione peroxidase and catalase) and the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10. The co-administration of VD with Pb markedly mitigated renal and testicular injuries compared with positive controls. This was associated with restoration of the expression of VD related molecules, promotion of anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory markers, but tissue Pb concentrations were unaffected. In conclusion, this report is the first to reveal potential protective effects for VD against Pb-induced renal and testicular injuries via anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative mechanisms.

Testosterone up-regulates vacuolar ATPase expression and functional activities in vas deferens of orchidectomized rats

Precise regulation of vas deferens fluid pH is essential for sperm. However, the mechanisms underlying effect of testosterone on vas deferens fluid pH have never been identified, which could involve changes in expression and functional activity of vacoular (V)-ATPase.

METHODS

Orchidectomized, adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated subcutaneously with 125 μg/kg/day and 250 μg/kg/day testosterone with or without flutamide (androgen receptor blocker) and finasteride (5α-reductase inhibitor) for seven (7) days. Following treatment completion, in vivo perfusion of vas deferens lumen was performed and changes in fluid secretion rate, pH and HCO₃^- content were measured with and without bafilomycin, a V-ATPase inhibitor. Rats were then sacrificed and vas deferens were harvested and subjected for V-ATPase A1 and B1/2 protein expression and distribution analysis by western blotting and immunohistochemistry, respectively.

RESULTS

In sham-operated and testosterone-treated orchidectomized rats, higher fluid secretion rate, which was not antagonized by bafilomycin but lower HCO₃^- content and pH which were antagonized by bafilomycin were observed when compared to orchidectomized-only and orchidectomized, testosterone-treated rats receiving flutamide or finasteride, respectively. Bafilomycin had no effect on fluid secretion rate, HCO₃^- content and pH in orchidectomized and testosterone-treated orchidectomized rats receiving flutamide and finasteride. V-ATPase A1 and B1/2 proteins were expressed at high levels in vas deferens and were highly distributed at the apical membrane of luminal epithelium and in muscle layer of this organ, mainly in sham and testosterone-treated orchidectomized rats.

CONCLUSIONS

V-ATPase is involved in acidification of vas deferens fluid under testosterone influence.

Testosterone regulates levels of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator, adenylate cyclase, and cAMP in the seminal vesicles of orchidectomized rats

Secretions of chloride (Cl(-))- and bicarbonate (HCO3(-))-rich fluid by the seminal vesicles could involve cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR), which activity can be stimulated by cAMP generated from the reaction involving adenylate cyclase (AC). In this study, we investigated levels of CFTR, AC, and cAMP in the seminal vesicles under testosterone influence. Orchidectomized adult male rats received 7-day treatment with 125 or 250 μg/kg/day of testosterone with or without flutamide or finasteride. At the end of the treatment, animals were sacrificed and seminal vesicles were harvested for analyses of CFTR and AC protein expression level by Western blotting. Distribution of CFTR and AC in seminal vesicles was observed by immunohistochemistry. Levels of cAMP and dihydrotestosterone in seminal vesicle homogenates were measured by ELISA. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator, AC, and cAMP levels increased with increasing doses of testosterone (P < 0.05 compared to nontreated orchidectomized rats). Cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator and AC were expressed at the apical membrane of the epithelium lining the seminal vesicle lumen with higher expression levels observed in testosterone-treated rats than in non-treated orchidectomized rats (P < 0.05). The inhibitory effects of flutamide or finasteride on these parameters were greater in 250 μg/kg/day testosterone-treated rats than their effects in 125 μg/kg/day testosterone-treated rats. Higher dihydrotestosterone levels were observed in seminal vesicle homogenates after treatment with 250 μg/kg/day than with 125 μg/kg/day of testosterone (P < 0.05). Increased levels of CFTR, AC, and cAMP in seminal vesicles might contribute toward an increase in Cl(-) and HCO3(-) concentrations in the seminal fluid as reported under testosterone influence.