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Li Z, Li J, Li Y, Guo L, Xu P, Du H, Lin N, Xu Y. The role of Cistanches Herba and its ingredients in improving reproductive outcomes: A comprehensive review. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 129:155681. [PMID: 38718638 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility patients account for an astonishing proportion of individuals worldwide. Due to its complex etiology and challenging treatment, infertility has imposed significant psychological and economic burdens on many patients. C. Herba (Cistanche tubulosa (Schenk) Wight and Cistanche deserticola Ma), renowned as one of the most prominent Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs), is abundant in diverse bioactive compounds that exhibit therapeutic effects on many diseases related to oxidative stress (OS) and disorders of sex hormone levels. OBJECTIVE Due to the limited drugs currently used in clinical practice to improve reproductive outcomes and their inevitable side effects, developing safe and effective new medications for infertility is of significance. This article comprehensively reviewed the phytochemicals of C. Herba, focusing on their efficacy and mechanisms on infertility and their safety for the first time, aiming to offer valuable insights for the development and application of C. Herba, and for developing novel strategies for treating infertility. METHODS We used "Cistanche" and its known bioactive components in combination with "sperm", "testicles", "epididymis", "ovaries", "uterus", and "infertility" as keywords to search in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and CNKI up to November 2023. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guideline was followed. RESULTS The therapeutic effects of C. Herba on infertility are mainly attributed to echinacoside (ECH), verbascoside (VB), salidroside (SAL), polysaccharides, and betaine. They can effectively improve spermatogenic dysfunction, gonadal dysfunction and erectile dysfunction (ED) by exerting anti-oxidation, sex hormones regulation and anti-hypoxia. Moreover, they can also improve premature ovarian failure (POF), ovarian and uterine cancer, oocyte maturation by exerting anti-oxidation, anti-apoptosis, and anti-cancer. C. Herba and its active ingredients also exhibit pleasing safety. CONCLUSION C. Herba is a promising source of natural medicine for infertility. Additionally, compared to current therapeutic drugs, its favorable safety also supports its development as a nutritional supplement. However, high-quality clinical studies are required to validate its effectiveness for the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehui Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Jiashan Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Li Guo
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Panyu Xu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Hanqian Du
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Na Lin
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
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Mobasher MA, Alsirhani AM, Alwaili MA, Baakdah F, Eid TM, Alshanbari FA, Alzahri RY, Alkhodair SA, El-Said KS. Annona squamosa Fruit Extract Ameliorates Lead Acetate-Induced Testicular Injury by Modulating JAK-1/STAT-3/SOCS-1 Signaling in Male Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5562. [PMID: 38791600 PMCID: PMC11122399 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a common pollutant that is not biodegradable and gravely endangers the environment and human health. Annona squamosa fruit has a wide range of medicinal uses owing to its phytochemical constituents. This study evaluated the effect of treatment with A. squamosa fruit extract (ASFE) on testicular toxicity induced in male rats by lead acetate. The metal-chelating capacity and phytochemical composition of ASFE were determined. The LD50 of ASFE was evaluated by probit analysis. Molecular docking simulations were performed using Auto Dock Vina. Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were equally divided into the following groups: Gp1, a negative control group; Gp2, given ASFE (350 mg/kg body weight (b. wt.)) (1/10 of LD50); Gp3, given lead acetate (PbAc) solution (100 mg/kg b. wt.); and Gp4, given PbAc as in Gp3 and ASFE as in Gp2. All treatments were given by oro-gastric intubation daily for 30 days. Body weight changes, spermatological parameters, reproductive hormone levels, oxidative stress parameters, and inflammatory biomarkers were evaluated, and molecular and histopathological investigations were performed. The results showed that ASFE had promising metal-chelating activity and phytochemical composition. The LD50 of ASFE was 3500 mg/kg b. wt. The docking analysis showed that quercetin demonstrated a high binding affinity for JAK-1 and STAT-3 proteins, and this could make it a more promising candidate for targeting the JAK-1/STAT-3 pathway than others. The rats given lead acetate had defective testicular tissues, with altered molecular, biochemical, and histological features, as well as impaired spermatological characteristics. Treatment with ASFE led to a significant mitigation of these dysfunctions and modulated the JAK-1/STAT-3/SOCS-1 axis in the rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maysa A. Mobasher
- Department of Pathology, Biochemistry Division, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Alaa Muqbil Alsirhani
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Jouf University, Sakaka 2014, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Maha Abdullah Alwaili
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Fadi Baakdah
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamir M Eid
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (T.M.E.); (S.A.A.)
| | - Fahad A. Alshanbari
- Department of Medical Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Reem Yahya Alzahri
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sahar Abdulrahman Alkhodair
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (T.M.E.); (S.A.A.)
| | - Karim Samy El-Said
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
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Owumi S, Agbarogi H, Oluwawibe BJ, Otunla MT, Anifowose MM, Arunsi UO. Modulation of the Nrf-2 and HO-1 signalling axis is associated with Betaine's abatement of fluoride-induced hepatorenal toxicities in rats. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03133-4. [PMID: 38713257 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03133-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Sodium fluoride (NaF) ingestion has several detrimental effects in humans and rodents. NaF mechanisms of toxicity include perturbation of intracellular redox homeostasis and apoptosis. Betaine (BET) is a modified amino acid with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. This study investigates BET's effect on NaF-induced hepatorenal toxicities in rats. Experimental rats (n = 30) were randomly assigned to groups (n = 6) and treated by gavage for 28 days. Group I (2 mL of distilled water), Group II (NaF: 9 mg/kg) alone, Group III: (BET: 100 mg/kg), Group IV: (NaF: 9 mg/kg and BET 1: 50 mg/kg), and Group V: (NaF: 9 mg/kg and BET 2: 100 mg/kg). Our findings revealed significantly (p < 0.05) increased hepatic transaminase activities alongside creatinine and urea levels following NaF-alone treatment in addition to increased oxidative status, lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, decreased superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-s-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and total sulfhydryl groups. The reduced levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 and the activities of heme oxygenase-1, thioredoxin, and thioredoxin reductase in NaF-alone treated rats equally compromised cellular molecular responses to oxidative stress. Also, NaF increased (p < 0.05) hepatorenal inflammatory biomarkers-nitric oxide, interleukin-10, myeloperoxidase, and xanthine oxidase. Furthermore, caspase-3 and caspase-9 were increased (p < 0.05) in rats treated with NaF alone. Contrastingly, BET was observed to alleviate the harmful effects of NaF. Treatment with BET mitigated NaF-induced oxido-inflammatory responses and apoptosis in the experimental rat's hepatorenal system. The study demonstrates the potential of BET to abate NaF-induced hepatorenal toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Owumi
- ChangeLab-changing lives; Room New Building 302, Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Oyo State, Nigeria.
| | - Harieme Agbarogi
- ChangeLab-changing lives; Room New Building 302, Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Bayode J Oluwawibe
- ChangeLab-changing lives; Room New Building 302, Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Moses T Otunla
- ChangeLab-changing lives; Room New Building 302, Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, 200005, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Mayowa M Anifowose
- School of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0400, USA
| | - Uche O Arunsi
- School of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Parker H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332-0400, USA
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Ahmad R, Yu YH, Hsiao FSH, Liu HW, Su CH, Cheng YH. Impact of Bacillus licheniformis-Fermented Products on Growth and Productivity in Heat-Stressed Laying Ducks. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1164. [PMID: 38672313 PMCID: PMC11047302 DOI: 10.3390/ani14081164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of various concentrations of Bacillus licheniformis-fermented products (BLFP) on the growth and productivity of laying ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) subjected to heat stress during eight weeks of a feeding trial. A total of 150 one-day-old Brown Tsaiya ducks of both sexes were divided into five groups, with each group having three replicates and 10 ducks each for evaluation of growth performance. The treatment groups received dietary supplements of BLFP at levels of 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3%, along with a group receiving flavomycin (F) at 5 ppm, all over a 24-week period. The fermentation process in this study utilized a B. licheniformis strain (ATCC 12713) for the production of the spores through solid-state fermentation. The control group was given a basal diet consisting of yellow corn and soybean meal. The results showed that as compared to the flavomycin group, ducks in the 0.3% BLFP group had significantly higher body weights and better feed conversion rates. In addition, during the three weeks, the BLFP group showed higher feed consumption as compared to the control group. The jejunum villi length was significantly increased in the 0.2% BLPF group as compared to the control and flavomycin groups. This study also found that the flavomycin group had a significantly higher egg conversion rate, while the 0.1-0.3% BLFP groups had improved feed intake and the 0.3% group had significantly enhanced egg yolk color. Additionally, the 0.2% BLFP group showed substantial decreases in IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 levels in the liver as well as an uptick in the tight junction protein Occludin gene expression in the colon when compared to the control group. Furthermore, the expression of the heat shock protein 70 in the gut upregulated in the 0.1% and 0.2% BLFP groups. In conclusion, these observations demonstrate that dietary supplementation of 0.2% BLFP is an ideal concentration to increase gut morphology, alleviate inflammatory response, and promote gut integrity in heat-stressed laying ducks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafiq Ahmad
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Sciences, National Ilan University, Yilan 26047, Taiwan; (R.A.); (Y.-H.Y.); (F.S.-H.H.); (H.-W.L.)
| | - Yu-Hsiang Yu
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Sciences, National Ilan University, Yilan 26047, Taiwan; (R.A.); (Y.-H.Y.); (F.S.-H.H.); (H.-W.L.)
| | - Felix Shih-Hsiang Hsiao
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Sciences, National Ilan University, Yilan 26047, Taiwan; (R.A.); (Y.-H.Y.); (F.S.-H.H.); (H.-W.L.)
| | - Hsiu-Wei Liu
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Sciences, National Ilan University, Yilan 26047, Taiwan; (R.A.); (Y.-H.Y.); (F.S.-H.H.); (H.-W.L.)
| | - Chin-Hui Su
- Eastern Region Branch, Taiwan Livestock Research Institute, Yilan 268020, Taiwan;
| | - Yeong-Hsiang Cheng
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Sciences, National Ilan University, Yilan 26047, Taiwan; (R.A.); (Y.-H.Y.); (F.S.-H.H.); (H.-W.L.)
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Zhang H, Sun K, Gao M, Xu S. Zinc Inhibits Lead-Induced Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis of ST Cells Through ROS/PTEN/PI3K/AKT Axis. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:980-989. [PMID: 37269454 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03721-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a widely distributed toxic heavy metal element known to have strong male reproductive toxicity, which can result in issues such as abnormal count and morphology of sperm. Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element for the human body that can antagonize the activity of Pb in some physiological environments, and it also possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the specific mechanism of Zn's antagonism against Pb remains largely unclear. In our study, we conducted research using swine testis cells (ST cells) and confirmed that the half maximal inhibitory concentration of Pb on ST cells was 994.4 μM, and the optimal antagonistic concentration of Zn was 10 μM. Based on this information, we treated ST cells with Pb and Zn and detected related indices such as apoptosis, oxidative stress, and the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway using flow cytometry, DCFH-DA staining, RT-PCR, and Western blot. Our results demonstrated that Pb exposure can generate excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), disrupt the antioxidant system, upregulate PTEN expression, and inhibit the PI3K/AKT pathway in ST cells. In contrast, Zn significantly inhibited the overproduction of ROS, improved oxidative stress, and decreased PTEN expression, thus protecting the PI3K/AKT pathway compared to Pb-exposed ST cells. Furthermore, we found that Pb exposure exacerbated the expression of genes related to the apoptosis pathway and reduced the expression of anti-apoptotic genes. Furthermore, this situation was significantly improved when co-cultured with Pb and Zn. In summary, our study demonstrated that Zn alleviated Pb-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis through the ROS/PTEN/PI3K/AKT axis in ST cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoyu Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Kexin Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Meichen Gao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiwen Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, People's Republic of China.
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Xiong Y, Li B, Wang K, Li J, He S. Betaine ameliorates heat stress-induced apoptosis by affecting oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress in mouse Leydig cells. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2023; 88:53-62. [PMID: 37863837 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbad151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
In order to explore the potential protective role of betaine in heat stress (HS)-elicited apoptosis in mouse Leydig cells (mLCs). Betaine at 16 mm exerted a greater inhibitory effect on HS-induced viability attenuation of cells, which also significantly suppressed the heat shock protein 70 level in HS-treated cells. Furthermore, betaine ameliorated certain negative effects, including increased cell apoptotic ratio, enhancement of apoptosis-related modulator caspase-3 activity, reduced activity levels of such antioxidant enzymes as SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and MDA upregulation, and inhibited the protein levels of critical endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress indices like CHOP and GRP78 in mLCs exposed to HS. Besides, treatment of cells with betaine significantly restored diminished testosterone production in response to HS. Correspondingly, betaine effectively rescued the reduced serum testosterone concentration in vivo. In summary, betaine ameliorated HS-induced apoptosis by affecting oxidative and ER stress, thereby providing benefits for the treatment of hyperthermia-related impairment in mLCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Xiong
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Regulation and Health, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
| | - Bing Li
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Regulation and Health, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
| | - Kang Wang
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Regulation and Health, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Li
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Regulation and Health, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
| | - Shaojun He
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutritional Regulation and Health, Anhui Science and Technology University, Fengyang, Anhui, China
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Tuncer SÇ, Akarsu SA, Küçükler S, Gür C, Kandemir FM. Effects of sinapic acid on lead acetate-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in testicular tissue. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2023; 38:2656-2667. [PMID: 37471654 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the effect of lead acetate (PbAc) and sinapic acid (SNP) administration on oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, sperm quality and histopathology in testicular tissue of rats was tried to be determined. PbAc was administered at a dose of 30 mg/kg/bw for 7 days to induce testicular toxicity in rats. Oral doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg/bw SNP were administered to rats for 7 days after PbAc administration. According to our findings, while PbAc administration increased MDA content in rats, it decreased GPx, SOD, CAT activity and GSH content. NF-kB, IL-1β, TNF-α, and COX-2, which are among the inflammation parameters that increased due to PbAc, decreased with the administration of SNP. Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 mRNA transcript levels decreased with PbAc, but SNP treatments increased these mRNA levels in a dose-dependent manner. RAGE and NLRP3 gene expression were upregulated in PbAc treated rats. MAPK14, MAPK15, and JNK relative mRNA levels decreased with SNP treatment in PbAc treated rats. While the levels of apoptosis markers Bax, Caspase-3, and Apaf-1 increased in rats treated with PbAc, the level of Bcl-2 decreased, but SNP inhibited this apoptosis markers. PbAc caused histopathological deterioration in testis tissue and negatively affected spermatogenesis. When the sperm quality was examined, the decrease in sperm motility and spermatozoon density caused by PbAc, and the increase in the ratio of dead and abnormal spermatozoa were inhibited by SNP. As a result, while PbAc increased apoptosis and inflammation by inducing oxidative stress in testicles, SNP treatment inhibited these changes and increased sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibel Çiğdem Tuncer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Aksaray University, Aksaray, Turkey
| | - Serkan Ali Akarsu
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Sefa Küçükler
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Cihan Gür
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ataturk University, Erzurum, Turkey
| | - Fatih Mehmet Kandemir
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Aksaray University, Aksaray, Turkey
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Ullah S, Ennab W, Wei Q, Wang C, Quddus A, Mustafa S, Hadi T, Mao D, Shi F. Impact of Cadmium and Lead Exposure on Camel Testicular Function: Environmental Contamination and Reproductive Health. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2302. [PMID: 37508079 PMCID: PMC10375966 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The free grazing habits of camels from various sources may cause heavy metals to bioaccumulate in their tissues and organs, possibly resulting in higher amounts of these toxic substances in their bodies over time. The aim of this study was to assess the exposure impact of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) on bull camels of the Lassi breed, aged 7 to 8 years, at a site near the industrial area and another two non-industrial sites, to analyze the presence of heavy metals. Samples from three sites were collected from thirty camels (n = 10/each), soil and water (n = 30), and five different plants (n = 15/each) for analysis. Testes were collected for atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Serum samples were obtained to measure testosterone levels by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Samples were obtained from plants, soil, water, blood, serum and urine for AAS. According to the results, the testes' weight, length, width, and volume significantly decreased at the industrial site compared with the other two sites as a result of exposure to Cd and Pb. Additionally, blood testosterone concentrations were considerably lower at the industrial site, indicating a detrimental impact on testicular steroidogenesis. The histological investigation of the industrial site indicated structural disturbances, including seminiferous tubule degeneration and shedding, cellular debris in seminiferous tubules, lining epithelium depletion, and vacuolation. Elevated amounts of Cd and Pb were found at the industrial site when analyzed using water, soil, plants, testes, serum, and urine. These findings demonstrate the adverse effects of Pb and Cd exposure on camel testicular function, including decreased weight and altered steroidogenesis. These findings are essential for understanding the impact of exposure to Pb and Cd on camel reproductive function and for developing successful prevention and management plans for these exposures in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Ullah
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Wael Ennab
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Quanwei Wei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Changfa Wang
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency, Breeding and Ecological Feeding, College of Agronomy, Liaocheng 252000, China
| | - Abdul Quddus
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture Water and Marine Sciences, Uthal 90150, Pakistan
| | - Sheeraz Mustafa
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Ziaddin University, Karachi 75000, Pakistan
| | - Tavakolikazerooni Hadi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Dagan Mao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Fangxiong Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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Bai G, Zou Y, Zhang W, Jiang X, Qin J, Teng T, Sun H, Shi B. Perinatal exposure to high concentration glyphosate-based herbicides induces intestinal apoptosis by activating endoplasmic reticulum stress in offspring. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 865:161223. [PMID: 36584959 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs), the most widely used pesticide worldwide, have been reported to impair organ function in humans and animals. However, research on the effect of maternal GBHs exposure on the intestinal health of offspring has received little attention. Based on the glyphosate limits defined by Codex Alimentarius Commission and European Food Safety Authority, this study established pregnant sow exposure models to investigate the influence of low (L-GBHs, 20 mg/kg) and high concentration GBHs (H-GBHs, 100 mg/kg) on the intestinal health of offspring and proposed the protective mechanism mediated by betaine. The results showed that the intestinal morphology and barrier function of suckling piglets were damaged in the H-GBHs group. H-GBHs increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and levels of methane dicarboxylic aldehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and inflammatory factors (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10)) in suckling piglets and activated Nrf2-mediated antioxidant signaling pathway. Subsequently, we found that exposure to H-GBHs triggered endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and further induced apoptosis by upregulating the expression of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), Caspase3, Caspase9 and Caspase12. Moreover, H-GBHs exposure perturbed mitochondrial membrane fusion and electron transport in mitochondrial respiratory chains by increasing the mRNA expression of mitofusin-2 (MFN2) and succinate dehydrogenase subunit A (SDHA), causing mitochondrial dysfunction. Dietary supplementation with betaine provided modest protection against GBHs-induced intestinal damage in suckling piglets. These findings reveal the mechanism of GBHs-induced intestinal damage in offspring, improving our understanding of the risk of GBHs exposure in pregnant women and suggesting the potential protective effects of betaine against GBHs poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangdong Bai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Yingbin Zou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Wentao Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Xu Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jianwei Qin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Teng Teng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Haoyang Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Baoming Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
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Bai G, Jiang X, Qin J, Zou Y, Zhang W, Teng T, Shi B, Sun H. Perinatal exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides impairs progeny health and placental angiogenesis by disturbing mitochondrial function. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 170:107579. [PMID: 36265358 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) are the most widely used pesticide worldwide and can provoke placental injury. However, whether and how GBHs damage angiogenesis in the placenta is not yet known. This work evaluated the safety of glyphosate on pregnant sows based on the limit level by governments and investigated the effects and mechanism of Low-GBHs (20 mg/kg) and High-GBHs (100 mg/kg) exposure on placental angiogenesis. Results showed that gestational exposure to GBHs decreased placental vessel density and cell multiplication by interfering with the expression of VEGFA, PLGF, VEGFr2 and Hand2 (indicators of angiogenesis), which may be in relation to oxidative stress-induced disorders of mitochondrial fission and fusion as well as the impaired function of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Additionally, GBHs destroyed barrier function and nutrient transport in the placenta, and was accompanied by jejunum oxidative stress in newborn piglets. However, GBHs exposure had no significant differences on sow reproductive performance. As a natural antioxidant, betaine treatment protected placenta and newborn piglets against GBHs-induced damage. In conclusion, GBHs impaired placental angiogenesis and function and further damaged the health of postnatal progeny, these effects may be linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. Betaine treatment following glyphosate exposure provided modest relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangdong Bai
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Xu Jiang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jianwei Qin
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Yingbin Zou
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Wentao Zhang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Teng Teng
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Baoming Shi
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
| | - Haoyang Sun
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
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11
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Zhou Y, Chen L, Han H, Xiong B, Zhong R, Jiang Y, Liu L, Sun H, Tan J, Cheng X, Schroyen M, Gao Y, Zhao Y, Zhang H. Taxifolin increased semen quality of Duroc boars by improving gut microbes and blood metabolites. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1020628. [PMCID: PMC9614168 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1020628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Taxifolin (TAX), as a natural flavonoid, has been widely focused on due to its strong anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-virus, and even anti-tumor activity. However, the effect of TAX on semen quality was unknown. The purpose of this study was to analyze the beneficial influences of adding feed additive TAX to boar semen in terms of its quality and potential mechanisms. We discovered that TAX increased sperm motility significantly in Duroc boars by the elevation of the protein levels such as ZAG, PKA, CatSper, and p-ERK for sperm quality. TAX increased the blood concentration of testosterone derivatives, antioxidants such as melatonin and betaine, unsaturated fatty acids such as DHA, and beneficial amino acids such as proline. Conversely, TAX decreased 10 different kinds of bile acids in the plasma. Moreover, TAX increased “beneficial” microbes such as Intestinimonas, Coprococcus, Butyrivibrio, and Clostridium_XlVa at the Genus level. However, TAX reduced the “harmful” intestinal bacteria such as Prevotella, Howardella, Mogibacterium, and Enterococcus. There was a very close correlation between fecal microbes, plasma metabolites, and semen parameters by the spearman correlation analysis. Therefore, the data suggest that TAX increases the semen quality of Duroc boars by benefiting the gut microbes and blood metabolites. It is supposed that TAX could be used as a kind of feed additive to increase the semen quality of boars to enhance production performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yexun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Liang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Han
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Bohui Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ruqing Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haiqing Sun
- YangXiang Joint Stock Company, Guigang, China
| | - Jiajian Tan
- YangXiang Joint Stock Company, Guigang, China
| | | | - Martine Schroyen
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Yang Gao
- College of Life Science, Baicheng Normal University, Baicheng, Jilin, China
- Yang Gao,
| | - Yong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Yong Zhao, ;
| | - Hongfu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hongfu Zhang,
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12
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Karabulut S, Korkmaz S, Güneş E, Kabil E, Keskin İ, Usta M, Omurtag GZ. Seminal trace elements and their relationship with sperm parameters. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14610. [PMID: 36175375 DOI: 10.1111/and.14610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Male reproductive problems may derive from many reasons including the environmental toxicants which may either intaken by occupational exposure, nutrition or bad air quality. The increased exposure to these substances due to rapid industrial development and technology has raised the questions: Is there a relationship between sperm parameters and these substances, and if so, in what extent? Results of studies on the subject reported conflicting results, many of which were not investigated in the seminal plasma. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the relationship between 23 metals and trace elements in human seminal plasma and semen parameters many of which were not investigated before. Levels of 23 metals in human seminal plasma were assessed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). We examined the differences between subjects with normal ejaculate (normozoospermia) and pathologic ejaculate (with at least one abnormal semen parameter) according to the WHO criteria. The only significant difference was detected for Se while the other element's difference was not statistically significant. Se was statistically significantly increased in normal semen group suggesting the positive effect of this element on semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Serol Korkmaz
- Doping Control Laboratory, Pendik Veterinary Control Institute, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ertuğrul Güneş
- Doping Control Laboratory, Pendik Veterinary Control Institute, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Erol Kabil
- Doping Control Laboratory, Pendik Veterinary Control Institute, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - İlknur Keskin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Melek Usta
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gülden Zehra Omurtag
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
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13
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Sarlak M, Roumiani E, Kheradmand A, Dezfoulian O, Alirezaei M, Raisi A, Davoodi F. Evaluating the effects of betaine on testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury induced by torsion/detorsion in the rat. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14559. [DOI: 10.1111/and.14559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sarlak
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Lorestan University Khorramabad Iran
| | - Elham Roumiani
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Lorestan University Khorramabad Iran
| | - Arash Kheradmand
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Lorestan University Khorramabad Iran
| | - Omid Dezfoulian
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Lorestan University Khorramabad Iran
| | - Masoud Alirezaei
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Lorestan University Khorramabad Iran
| | - Abbas Raisi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Lorestan University Khorramabad Iran
| | - Farshid Davoodi
- Department of Surgery and Diagnostic Imaging, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Urmia University Urmia Iran
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14
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El-Fakharany YM, Mohamed EM, Etewa RL, Abdel Hamid OI. Selenium nanoparticles alleviate lead acetate-induced toxicological and morphological changes in rat testes through modulation of calmodulin-related genes expression. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2022; 36:e23017. [PMID: 35194871 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara M El-Fakharany
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Human Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Eman M Mohamed
- Department of Medical Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Human Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Rasha L Etewa
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omaima I Abdel Hamid
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Human Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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15
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Changes in heavy metal levels, reproductive characteristics, oxidative stress markers and testicular apoptosis in rams raised around thermal power plant. Theriogenology 2021; 179:211-222. [PMID: 34894490 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Male reproductive dysfunction is one of the damages in the organism caused by heavy metals. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the changes in heavy metal levels in serum and testicular tissue, and serum hormone levels, epididymal spermatozoa characteristics, tissue oxidative stress levels, testicular histology and testicular apoptosis level in rams raised in remote and near regions of a thermal power plant. A total of 75 rams were divided into 3 groups according to the regions, where they were born and raised, being far [250 km distance, group 1 (control), n = 25], close (20 km distance, group 2, n = 25) and very close (10 km distance, group 3, n = 25) to the thermal power plant. The blood along with testis and epididymis tissues was taken from the animals after slaughtering. In addition, soil and water heavy metal analyzes were also performed. The highest levels of serum Al, Cr, As, Ag, Sn and testicular Al, V, Ni, Ag, Cd, Cr, As, Pb, and the lowest levels of serum Cu, testicular Cu and Zn were determined in group 3 compared to control. Soil and water heavy metal results were similar to those found in serum and testis. The lowest serum testosterone level, tissue glutathione-peroxidase and catalase activities, spermatozoon concentration, and the highest tissue malondialdehyde level, dead spermatozoon rate, Bax apoptotic protein expression level and Bax/Bcl-2 rate alongside some testicular histopathological lesions were found in group 3 in comparison to control. Significant correlations were determined between some heavy metal levels and some parameters measured. As a result, heavy metals accumulate in the soil and water in the region close to the thermal power plant. The endocrine and exocrine reproductive potentials of rams born and grown in these regions were clearly damaged by the increased testicular heavy metals due to water drank and herbs consumed.
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16
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Tirpák F, Greifová H, Lukáč N, Stawarz R, Massányi P. Exogenous Factors Affecting the Functional Integrity of Male Reproduction. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:213. [PMID: 33803103 PMCID: PMC8001766 DOI: 10.3390/life11030213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural processes along with increased industrial production and the irresponsible behavior of mankind have resulted in environmental pollution. Environmental pollutants can be categorized based on their characteristics and appearance into the following groups: physical, biological, and chemical. Every single one of them represents a serious threat to the male reproductive tract despite the different modes of action. Male gonads and gametes are especially vulnerable to the effect of exogenous factors; therefore, they are considered a reliable indicator of environmental pollution. The impact of xenobiotics or radiation leads to an irreversible impairment of fertility displayed by histological changes, modulated androgen production, or compromised spermatozoa (or germ cells) quality. The present article reviews the exogenous threats, male reproductive system, the mode of action, and overall impact on the reproductive health of humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Tirpák
- AgroBioTech Research Centre, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Hana Greifová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (H.G.); (N.L.)
| | - Norbert Lukáč
- Department of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (H.G.); (N.L.)
| | - Robert Stawarz
- Institute of Biology, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Podchorazych 2, 30-084 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Peter Massányi
- Department of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (H.G.); (N.L.)
- Institute of Biology, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Podchorazych 2, 30-084 Krakow, Poland;
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17
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Effects of Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury on the Structure and Function of Reproductive Organs. TOXICS 2020; 8:toxics8040094. [PMID: 33137881 PMCID: PMC7711607 DOI: 10.3390/toxics8040094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive organs are essential not only for the life of an individual but also for the survival and development of the species. The response of reproductive organs to toxic substances differs from that of other target organs, and they may serve as an ideal “barometer” for the deleterious effects of environmental pollution on animal and human health. The incidence of infertility, cancers, and associated maladies has increased in the last fifty years or more, while various anthropogenic activities have released into the environment numerous toxic substances, including cadmium, lead, and mercury. Data from epidemiological studies suggested that environmental exposure to cadmium, lead, and mercury may have produced reproductive and developmental toxicity. The present review focused on experimental studies using rats, mice, avian, and rabbits to demonstrate unambiguously effects of cadmium, lead, or mercury on the structure and function of reproductive organs. In addition, relevant human studies are discussed. The experimental studies reviewed have indicated that the testis and ovary are particularly sensitive to cadmium, lead, and mercury because these organs are distinguished by an intense cellular activity, where vital processes of spermatogenesis, oogenesis, and folliculogenesis occur. In ovaries, manifestation of toxicity induced by cadmium, lead, or mercury included decreased follicular growth, occurrence of follicular atresia, degeneration of the corpus luteum, and alterations in cycle. In testes, toxic effects following exposure to cadmium, lead, or mercury included alterations of seminiferous tubules, testicular stroma, and decrease of spermatozoa count, motility and viability, and aberrant spermatozoa morphology.
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