Protective effects of estrogens and caloric restriction during aging on various rat testis parameters

Male reproductive ageing: a radical road to ruin

In modern post-transition societies, we are reproducing later and living longer. While the impact of age on female reproductive function has been well studied, much less is known about the intersection of age and male reproduction. Our current understanding is that advancing age brings forth a progressive decline in male fertility accompanied by a reduction in circulating testosterone levels and the appearance of age-dependent reproductive pathologies including benign prostatic hypertrophy and erectile dysfunction. Paternal ageing is also associated with a profound increase in sperm DNA damage, the appearance of multiple epigenetic changes in the germ line and an elevated mutational load in the offspring. The net result of such changes is an increase in the disease burden carried by the progeny of ageing males, including dominant genetic diseases such as Apert syndrome and achondroplasia, as well as neuropsychiatric conditions including autism and spontaneous schizophrenia. The genetic basis of these age-related effects appears to involve two fundamental mechanisms. The first is a positive selection mechanism whereby stem cells containing mutations in a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway gain a selective advantage over their non-mutant counterparts and exhibit significant clonal expansion with the passage of time. The second is dependent on an age-dependent increase in oxidative stress which impairs the steroidogenic capacity of the Leydig cells, disrupts the ability of Sertoli cells to support the normal differentiation of germ cells, and disrupts the functional and genetic integrity of spermatozoa. Given the central importance of oxidative stress in defining the impact of chronological age on male reproduction, there may be a role for antioxidants in the clinical management of this process. While animal studies are supportive of this strategy, carefully designed clinical trials are now needed if we are to realize the therapeutic potential of this approach in a clinical context.

Iranian traditional medicinal plants for management of chronic heart failure: A review

Chronic heart failure is a public health problem with a high prevalence worldwide and an important topic in clinical cardiology. Despite of advances in the drug treatment strategy for heart failure, the number of deaths from this condition continues to rise. It will be a renewed focus on preventing heart failure using proven and perhaps novel drugs. Management will also focus on comorbid conditions that may influence the progression of the disease. Traditional medicine has a potential to introduce different approaches for treatment of some disorders. We here reviewed top medicinal plants, according to traditional medicine to experimental studies, and their potency for the treatment of chronic heart failure based on the evidence of their functions.

The association between serum estradiol levels and sperm DNA integrity

In men from the general population, BMI has been associated with a lower sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI). We wondered whether this could be due to estradiol, which is associated with BMI and reported important for sperm function. Our objective was to investigate the association between estradiol and DFI. In 2008-2010, we recruited 284 young men from the general population to deliver samples of semen and blood and answer questionnaires. Serum concentrations of reproductive hormones and DFI were analyzed, the latter using the Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay. Associations were studied using general linear models. The first model utilized metric values of estradiol, whereas the second model compared men with high and low levels, dichotomized by the median value. A possible interaction between estradiol and testosterone was also examined. When investigating metric estradiol levels and DFI, an inverse association was seen without adjustments (p = .02), but the statistical significance was lost at adjustments for potential confounders (p = .08). Men with lower estradiol levels (<88 pmol/L, mean 71 pmol/L) had a statistically significantly higher DFI than men with higher levels of estradiol (≥88 pmol/L, mean 110 pmol/L). Mean ratio difference was 1.21 (p = .002) without adjustments and 1.18 (p = .01) with adjustments. A statistically significant difference in DFI was observed in men with testosterone levels below median when comparing high and low estradiol (p < .001). This study supports the idea that serum estradiol levels are protective for sperm DNA integrity, at least at lower testosterone levels.

Co-treatment of testosterone and estrogen mitigates heat-induced testicular dysfunctions in a rat model

The two gonadal steroid hormones, testosterone and estrogen, regulate spermatogenesis by proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis of testicular cells. It has been reported that heat stress or increased scrotal temperature impairs spermatogenesis in many mammals. Moreover, testicular heat stress has also been shown to suppress testosterone and estrogen biosynthesis. Furthermore, it is well known that testosterone and estrogen are important for testicular activity. Therefore, we hypothesised that exogenous testosterone and estrogen, alone or in combination, might alleviate the testicular activity in a heat-stressed rat model. To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first report of the exogenous treatment of both testosterone and estrogen in the heat-stressed rat. Our results showed that a combined testosterone and estrogen treatment significantly increased sperm concentration. The histopathological analysis also exhibited a normal histoarchitecture in the combined treatment group along with decreased oxidative stress. The improved spermatogenesis in the combined treatment group was also supported by the increase in PCNA, GCNA, tubule diameter, germinal epithelium height, and Johnsen score in the combined treatment group. Furthermore, the combined treatment also increased the expression of Bcl2, pStat3, and active caspase-3 and decreased expression of Bax. Thus, increased proliferation, apoptotic and anti-apoptotic markers, along with improved histology in the combined treatment group suggest that estrogen and testosterone synergistically act to stimulate spermatogenesis by increasing proliferation and differentiation of germ cells and may also remove the heat-induced damaged germ cells by apoptosis. Overall, the final mechanism of testosterone- and estrogen-mediated improvement of testicular activity could be attributed to amelioration of oxidative stress.

Caloric restriction alters the hormonal profile and testicular metabolome, resulting in alterations of sperm head morphology

Energy homeostasis is crucial for all physiological processes. Thus, when there is low energy intake, negative health effects may arise, including in reproductive function. We propose to study whether caloric restriction (CR) changes testicular metabolic profile and ultimately sperm quality. Male Wistar rats (n = 12) were randomized into a CR group fed with 30% fewer calories than weight-matched, ad libitum-fed animals (control group). Circulating hormonal profile, testicular glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), ghrelin and leptin receptors expression, and sperm parameters were analyzed. Testicular metabolite abundance and glycolysis-related enzymes were studied by NMR and Western blot, respectively. Oxidative stress markers were analyzed in testicular tissue and spermatozoa. Expressions of mitochondrial complexes and mitochondrial biogenesis in testes were determined. CR induced changes in body weight along with altered GLP-1, ghrelin, and leptin circulating levels. In testes, CR led to changes in receptor expression that followed those of the hormone levels; modified testicular metabolome, particularly amino acid content; and decreased oxidative stress-induced damage in testis and spermatozoa, although sperm head defects increased. In sum, CR induced changes in body weight, altering circulating hormonal profile and testicular metabolome and increasing sperm head defects. Ultimately, our data highlight that conditions of CR may compromise male fertility.

Interactions between oestrogen and 1α,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 signalling and their roles in spermatogenesis and spermatozoa functions

Oestrogens and 1α,25(OH)₂-vitamin D₃ (1,25-D₃) are steroids that can provide effects by binding to their receptors localised in the cytoplasm and in the nucleus or the plasma membrane respectively inducing genomic and non-genomic effects. As confirmed notably by invalidation of the genes, coding for their receptors as tested with mice with in vivo and in vitro treatments, oestrogens and 1,25-D₃ are regulators of spermatogenesis. Moreover, some functions of ejaculated spermatozoa as viability, DNA integrity, motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction and fertilizing ability are targets for these hormones. The studies conducted on their mechanisms of action, even though not completely elicited, have allowed the demonstration of putative interactions between their signalling pathways that are worth examining more closely. The present review focuses on the elements regulated by oestrogens and 1,25-D₃ in the testis and spermatozoa as well as the interactions between the signalling pathways of both hormones.

Of Oestrogens and Sperm: A Review of the Roles of Oestrogens and Oestrogen Receptors in Male Reproduction

The crucial role that oestrogens play in male reproduction has been generally accepted; however, the exact mechanism of their action is not entirely clear and there is still much more to be clarified. The oestrogen response is mediated through oestrogen receptors, as well as classical oestrogen receptors’ variants, and their specific co-expression plays a critical role. The importance of oestrogen signalling in male fertility is indicated by the adverse effects of selected oestrogen-like compounds, and their interaction with oestrogen receptors was proven to cause pathologies. The aims of this review are to summarise the current knowledge on oestrogen signalling during spermatogenesis and sperm maturation and discuss the available information on oestrogen receptors and their splice variants. An overview is given of species-specific differences including in humans, along with a detailed summary of the methodology outcome, including all the genetically manipulated models available to date. This review provides coherent information on the recently discovered mechanisms of oestrogens’ and oestrogen receptors’ effects and action in both testicular somatic and germ cells, as well as in mature sperm, available for mammals, including humans.

Is the use of plants in Jordanian folk medicine for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction scientifically based? Review of in vitro and in vivo human and animal studies

Male sexual dysfunction is a serious problem which has an impact on the quality of life. In Jordanian folk medicine, 56 plant species were reported to be used by males to improve sexual potency and as aphrodisiacs. The aim of this study was to search for scientific evidence justifying their folk use. Of the 15 studied plants, only five were found to enhance spermatogenesis. The other 10 were reported to decrease spermatogenesis at least by one study. The majority of the studied plants possessed a protective effect on testis in different in vivo models as well as antioxidant activities. The effect of these plants on steroidogenesis and the hypothalamic-gonadal axis was also reviewed. The effect of only five plants was studied on sexual behaviour enhancement and three of them were active. Three of the four studied plants enhanced erection. The mechanism of action of active constituents isolated from the studied plants was also investigated. In conclusion, many plants used in Jordanian folk medicine decreased or had no effect on spermatogenesis in animal models. These plants have antioxidant and/or adaptogenic effects, and this may result in a beneficial action on male reproductive system.

Effect of estrogen receptor-subtype-specific ligands on fertility in adult male rats

Maintenance of normal male fertility relies on the process of spermatogenesis which is under complex endocrine control by mechanisms involving gonadotropin and steroid hormones. Although testosterone is the primary sex steroid in males, estrogen is locally produced in the testis and plays a very crucial role in male fertility. This is evident from presence of both the estrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ) in the testis and their absence, as in the case of knockout mice models, leads to sterility. The present study was undertaken to understand individual roles of the two ERs in spermatogenesis and their direct contribution towards the maintenance of male fertility using receptor-subtype-specific ligands. Administration of ERα and β agonists to adult male rats for 60 days results in a significant decrease in fertility, mainly due to an increase in pre- and post-implantation loss and a concomitant decrease in litter size and sperm counts. Our results indicate that ERα is mainly involved in negative feedback regulation of gonadotropin hormones, whereas both ERs are involved in regulation of prolactin and testosterone production. Histological examinations of the testis reveal that ERβ could be involved in the process of spermiation since many failed spermatids were observed in stages IX-XI following ERβ agonist treatment. Our results indicate that overactivation of estrogen signaling through either of its receptors can have detrimental effects on the fertility parameters and that the two ERs have both overlapping and distinct roles in maintenance of male fertility.

Polymorphisms in estrogen receptors predict the risk of male infertility: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Estrogen receptors play an important role in mediating estrogen action on target tissues, and the estrogen is relevant to male infertility. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in estrogen receptors may be associated with the risk of male infertility. A variety of case control studies have been published evaluating this association. However, the accumulated studies have shown inconsistent conclusions.

METHODS

To further determine the potential association between the four common SNPs (rs2234693, rs9340799, rs1256049 and rs4986938) in estrogen receptors gene and male infertility, this meta-analysis was performed according to the 10 published case control studies. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to evaluate the strength of the associations.

RESULTS

It was revealed that the sub-group analysis by the ethnicity, for the rs2234693, a significant association in the comparison of CC vs. TT (OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.40-0.93), CT vs. TT (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.49-0.93) and CC + CT vs. TT (OR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.49-0.89) in the Asian population with male infertility. For rs9340799 polymorphism, increased risks were observed for the comparison of AA vs. GG (OR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.15-2.68) and AA vs. GA + GG (OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.02-1.88). For rs1256049 polymorphism, the comparison of the GA vs. GG (OR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.00-2.31) and AA + GA vs. GG (OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.03-2.94), also increased risks present in Asian and Caucasian population, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The rs2234693C allele was associated with the decreased risk for male infertility; however, the rs9340799AA genotype and the rs1256049GA genotype were associated with an increased risk for male infertility.

Pharmacological and therapeutic effects of Peganum harmala and its main alkaloids

Wild Syrian rue (Peganum harmala L. family Zygophyllaceae) is well-known in Iran and various parts of this plant including, its seeds, bark, and root have been used as folk medicine. Recent years of research has demonstrated different pharmacological and therapeutic effects of P. harmala and its active alkaloids, especially harmine and harmaline. Analytical studies on the chemical composition of the plant show that the most important constituents of this plant are beta-carboline alkaloids such as harmalol, harmaline, and harmine. Harmine is the most studied among these naturally occurring alkaloids. In addition to P. harmala (Syrian rue), these beta-carbolines are present in many other plants such as Banisteria caapi and are used for the treatment of different diseases. This article reviews the traditional uses and pharmacological effects of total extract and individual active alkaloids of P. harmala (Syrian rue).

COMT polymorphism influences decrease of ovarian follicles and emerges as a predictive factor for premature ovarian insufficiency

Background

Estrogens are important factors in the female reproductive functions and are processed by a number of enzymes along their metabolic pathway. The COMT gene constitutes a crucial element in estrogen metabolism and is assumed to be involved in the development of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). This study aimed to determine whether the presence of the COMT Val/Met polymorphism (rs4680) is associated to the risk of developing POI.

Findings

In this case–control study, we evaluated 96 infertile women with POI and 120 fertile women as controls, after obtaining a detailed history of the disease and follicle-stimulating hormone measurements, besides karyotype determination and fragile-X premutation syndrome investigation. COMT (Val/Met) genotypes were identified by real time PCR (genotyping TaqMan assay), and the results were statistically analyzed. A statistically significant difference was found in the distribution of COMT genotypes (p = 0.003) and alleles (p = 0.015) between the POI patients and the control group.

Conclusion

We were able to demonstrate a strong association between the COMT Val/Met polymorphism and the risk of premature ovarian insufficiency in the Brazilian women evaluated. However, further studies in larger populations are necessary to confirm these findings.

Protective effect of Basella alba and Carpolobia alba extracts against maneb-induced male infertility

CONTEXT

Male infertility is one of the leading causes of social frustration and marginalization, mainly in the developing world. It is attributed to many factors including exposure to agropesticides such as manganese ethylenebis (dithiocarbamate) (maneb), which is one of the most frequently used fungicides in Cameroon. Previous reports support efficiency of some medicinal plants commonly used in Cameroonian folk medicine for the treatment of this disorder.

OBJECTIVE

The present study was aimed at assessing the protective effect of extracts from selected plant species, namely Basella alba L. (Basellaceae) (MEBa) and Carpolobia alba G. Don (Polygalaceae) (AECa), in alleviating the maneb-induced impairment of male reproductive function in Wistar albino rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The rats were treated with vehicle, plant extract (MEBa or AECa), maneb and maneb plus plant extract, respectively, and their fertility was assessed. Animals were thereafter sacrificed and organs (liver, kidneys and reproductive organs) were dissected out and weighed. Serum androgens together with alanine aminotransferase, liver glutathione and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) were also measured.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

From this study, both plant extracts stimulated testosterone and improved fertility. Administration of MEBa plus maneb prevented fertility reduction by maneb and minimized the inhibitory effect of maneb on testosterone levels. AECa also improved fertility of the maneb-exposed rats, though without restoring testosterone levels, and other investigated parameters remained unaffected by different treatments.

CONCLUSION

These findings emphasized the beneficial effects of B. alba and C. alba extracts on male fertility, and suggest their protective effect against maneb-induced toxicity in male reproductive function.

Estrogens and spermiogenesis: new insights from type 1 cannabinoid receptor knockout mice

Spermatogenesis is a complex mechanism which allows the production of male gametes; it consists of mitotic, meiotic, and differentiation phases. Spermiogenesis is the terminal differentiation process during which haploid round spermatids undergo several biochemical and morphological changes, including extensive remodelling of chromatin and nuclear shape. Spermiogenesis is under control of endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine factors, like gonadotropins and testosterone. More recently, emerging pieces of evidence are suggesting that, among these factors, estrogens may have a role. To date, this is a matter of debate and concern because of the agonistic and antagonistic estrogenic effects that environmental chemicals may have on animal and human with damaging outcome on fertility. In this review, we summarize data which fuel this debate, with a particular attention to our recent results, obtained using type 1 cannabinoid receptor knockout male mice as animal model.

Estrogens: new players in spermatogenesis

Aromatase that irreversibly transforms androgens into estrogens is present in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum of nearly all cell types in the mammalian testis. In rodents, all testicular cells except for myoid cells express aromatase activity. We have demonstrated the presence of the functional aromatase (transcript or protein, and biological activity) in adult rat germ cells including pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. We have also demonstrated estrogen output from these cells equivalent to that of Leydig cells. Unlike androgen receptors, which are localized mainly in testicular somatic cells, estrogen receptors are present in both somatic and germ cells in the testis. Moreover, we have recently described the rapid membrane effects of estrogens (via G protein-coupled receptor [GPER]) in purified rat germ cells. On the basis of various experimental models, in vitro studies and clinical data, it can be concluded that estrogens play an essential role in male reproduction, specifically in the development of spermatozoa.

The blood-testis barrier and its implications for male contraception

The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is one of the tightest blood-tissue barriers in the mammalian body. It divides the seminiferous epithelium into the basal and the apical (adluminal) compartments. Meiosis I and II, spermiogenesis, and spermiation all take place in a specialized microenvironment behind the BTB in the apical compartment, but spermatogonial renewal and differentiation and cell cycle progression up to the preleptotene spermatocyte stage take place outside of the BTB in the basal compartment of the epithelium. However, the BTB is not a static ultrastructure. Instead, it undergoes extensive restructuring during the seminiferous epithelial cycle of spermatogenesis at stage VIII to allow the transit of preleptotene spermatocytes at the BTB. Yet the immunological barrier conferred by the BTB cannot be compromised, even transiently, during the epithelial cycle to avoid the production of antibodies against meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells. Studies have demonstrated that some unlikely partners, namely adhesion protein complexes (e.g., occludin-ZO-1, N-cadherin-β-catenin, claudin-5-ZO-1), steroids (e.g., testosterone, estradiol-17β), nonreceptor protein kinases (e.g., focal adhesion kinase, c-Src, c-Yes), polarity proteins (e.g., PAR6, Cdc42, 14-3-3), endocytic vesicle proteins (e.g., clathrin, caveolin, dynamin 2), and actin regulatory proteins (e.g., Eps8, Arp2/3 complex), are working together, apparently under the overall influence of cytokines (e.g., transforming growth factor-β3, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1α). In short, a "new" BTB is created behind spermatocytes in transit while the "old" BTB above transiting cells undergoes timely degeneration, so that the immunological barrier can be maintained while spermatocytes are traversing the BTB. We also discuss recent findings regarding the molecular mechanisms by which environmental toxicants (e.g., cadmium, bisphenol A) induce testicular injury via their initial actions at the BTB to elicit subsequent damage to germ-cell adhesion, thereby leading to germ-cell loss, reduced sperm count, and male infertility or subfertility. Moreover, we also critically evaluate findings in the field regarding studies on drug transporters in the testis and discuss how these influx and efflux pumps regulate the entry of potential nonhormonal male contraceptives to the apical compartment to exert their effects. Collectively, these findings illustrate multiple potential targets are present at the BTB for innovative contraceptive development and for better delivery of drugs to alleviate toxicant-induced reproductive dysfunction in men.

Polymorphisms of estrogen receptors alpha and beta in idiopathic, infertile Brazilian men: a case-control study

Estrogen plays an important role in the human reproductive system and its action is mediated mainly by two specific receptors: α (ERα) and β (ERβ). There are polymorphic variants in both ER genes, and studies showed their association with reproductive outcomes. We aimed to determine the distribution of ERα and ERβ gene polymorphisms in idiopathic, infertile Brazilian patients in a case-control study comprising 187 idiopathic, infertile Brazilian men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA, n = 78) or severe oligozoospermia (SO, n = 109) and 216 fertile men. Detection of ERα (PvuII and XbaI) and ERβ (AluI and RsaI) gene polymorphisms were performed using TaqMan PCR. The results were analyzed statically, and a P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Single-marker analysis revealed that neither PvuII nor XbaI polymorphisms of the ERα gene were associated either with NOA group (P = 0.662 and P = 0.527, respectively) or SO group (P = 0.777 and P = 1.0, respectively). Regarding ERβ polymorphisms, no statistical difference was observed between the AluI polymorphism and NOA group compared to controls (P = 1.0) or between SO group and controls (P = 0.423). We found similar results with the RsaI polymorphism. Statistical analysis did not reveal a difference between NOA (P = 0.740) and SO (P = 0.920) groups compared to controls. Combined genotypes of ERα and ERβ polymorphisms did not identify a haplotype associated with idiopathic infertility. Thus, in the Brazilian population, genetic variations in both estrogen receptors alpha (PvuII and XbaI) and beta (AluI and RsaI) were not relevant to idiopathic infertility.

Low-dose testosterone treatment decreases oxidative damage in TM3 Leydig cells

Testosterone replacement therapy has benefits for aging men and those with hypogonadism. However, the effects of exogenous testosterone on Leydig cells are still unclear and need to be clarified. In this report, we demonstrate that testosterone supplementation can reduce oxidative damage in Leydig cells. The TM3 Leydig cell line was used as an in vitro cell model in this study. Cytoprotective effects were identified with 100-nmol l⁻¹ testosterone treatment, but cytotoxic effects were found with ≥ 500-nmol l⁻¹ testosterone supplementation. Significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, lipid peroxide contents and hypoxia induction factor (HIF)-1α stabilization and activation were found with 100-nmol l⁻¹ testosterone treatment. There was a 1.72-fold increase in ROS generation in the 500-nmol l⁻¹ compared to the 100-nmol l⁻¹ testosterone treatment. A 1.58-fold increase in steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression was found in 50-nmol l⁻¹ testosterone-treated cells (P < 0.01). Chemically induced hypoxia was attenuated by testosterone supplementation. Leydig cells treated with low-dose testosterone supplementation showed cytoprotection by decreasing ROS and lipid peroxides, increasing StAR expression and relieving hypoxia stress as demonstrated by HIF-1α stabilization. Increased oxidative damage was found with ≥ 500-nmol l⁻¹ testosterone manipulation. The mechanism governing the differential dose effects of testosterone on Leydig cells needs further investigation in order to shed light on testosterone replacement therapy.

Oestrogens and spermatogenesis

The role of oestrogens in male reproductive tract physiology has for a long time been a subject of debate. The testis produces significant amounts of oestrogenic hormones, via aromatase, and oestrogen receptors (ERs)alpha (ESR1) and ERbeta (ESR2) are selectively expressed in cells of the testis as well as the epididymal epithelium, depending upon species. This review summarizes the current knowledge concerning the presence and activity of aromatase and ERs in testis and sperm and the potential roles that oestrogens may have in mammalian spermatogenesis. Data show that physiology of the male gonad is in part under the control of a balance of androgens and oestrogens, with aromatase serving as a modulator.

Direct and indirect effects of kisspeptin on liver oxidant and antioxidant systems in young male rats

Kisspeptin is a recently discovered hypothalamic peptide which plays an important role in the central control of reproductive functions. We have investigated direct and indirect effects of kisspeptin on the liver oxidative stress in young male rats. Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups (n = 6/group). First group served as control and received saline. Kisspeptin-10 was administered to the animals in the second group (20 nmol/rat/day), for a period of 7 days. Rats were given only one dose gosereline (0.9 mg/rat), a GnRH agonist in the third group. The last group received kisspeptin-10 with gosereline. The activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), xanthine oxidase (XO), adenosine deaminase (AD) and level of malondialdehyde were studied in liver tissue. Serum samples were separated for total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), colesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglyceride. Kisspeptin increased the activities of SOD and catalase (p < 0.05). When compared to the control group, the levels of malondialdehyde, TOS and AST were lower, but levels of BUN, cholesterole, HDL and AD were higher in the other three groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, our findings suggest that kisspeptin may have antioxidant and thus protective effects on the liver tissue.

Inhibitory effect of estrogens, phytoestrogens, and caloric restriction on oxidative stress and hepato-toxicity in aged rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effect of 17beta-estradiol (E2), peganum harmala extract (PHE) administration and calorie restriction (CR) treatment (60%) on oxidative stress and hepato-toxicity in aged rats.

METHODS

Eighteen months old animals that were treated at the age of 12 months were divided into 4 groups: normal control group with free access to food, E2 treatment group, PHE treatment group and CR treatment group of the food given to control group. Six male rats at the age of 4 months were used as a reference group.

RESULTS

Aging significantly decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and increased lactate deshydrogenase (LDH), gamma-glytamyl transferase (GGT), phosphatase alkalines (PAL), aspartate and lactate transaminase (AST and ALT) activities in the liver. Aging also induced an increased lipid peroxidation level, histological changes and a decreased E2 level. However, treatment with E2, PHE, and CR increased 17beta-estradiol, and decreased hepatic dysfunction parameters and lipid peroxidation as well as histological changes in the liver of aged rats.

CONCLUSION

The antioxidant and hepatoprotective activity of PHE and CR is possibly attributed to its ability to increase E2 level, which as an antioxidant, acts as a scavenger of ROS. Further studies on the pharmaceutical functions of E2 in males may contribute to its clinical application.

Medicinal plants as potential male anti-infertility agents: a review

For millions of couples, the inability to have a child is a personal tragedy and a large proportion of childless people are confronted with social stigmatization (blame) and personal frustration. Formerly assigned to women, infertility of a couple is nowadays equitably distributed between the two sexes. Among the methods used to treat male infertility problems, medicinal plants have been used empirically as extracts, decoctions, fractions or semi-purified compounds. These herbal products are used in the treatment of a dysfunctioning of the libido, sexual asthenia, erection, and sperm disorders. Pharmacological activities of many of these plants have been shown in vitro using cells, in vivo (on laboratory animals) and human studies. For instance, extracts of Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolius and Lepidium meyenii have shown positive effects on sexual desire; while extracts of Astragalus membranaceus, Asparagus racemous, Withania somnifera, Andrographis paniculata and Acanthopanax senticosus improved sperm parameters. Plants provide a treatment option that is affordable and available for infertile couples, and phytotherapy is an essential form of treatment in our health system. However, herbal products are still anarchically used in many regions and countries, and a great proportion of medicinal plants used traditionally to solve male reproductive disorders have not yet been scientifically evaluated. Therefore in this review, we have summarized most of the data dealing with the effects of plant extracts on mammalian reproductive functions.

Lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities in infertile men: correlation with semen parameter

The aim of this study was to investigate the oxidative stress status and antioxidant enzyme activities in infertile men's semen and to determine their relationship with spermatozoa characteristics. Four groups of infertile men, normozoospermic (n=9), azoospermic (n=13), oligoasthenozoospermic (n=38), and asthenozoospermic (n=42), were tested for malonaldialdehyde (MDA) concentration and catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in semen using spectrophotometric methods. We found that MDA levels in semen and SOD activity in seminal plasma (SP) were significantly higher in oligoasthenozoospermic and asthenozoospermic groups compared with normozoospermic group. In contrast, the mean values of CAT activity were not significantly different in all groups. We found positive correlations between semen MDA concentration and SOD activity (P<0.01). MDA levels in sperm pellet and in SP were also positively correlated with mobility grade b (P<0.01), acrosome anomalies (P<0.01), and residual cytoplasmic droplets (P<0.05). In contrast, SOD activity in SP was negatively correlated with sperm concentration and normal morphology (P<0.05). Similarly, CAT activity in SP was negatively correlated with sperm and leukocyte concentrations (P<0.05). In conclusion, our results suggest that the evaluation of oxidative status and antioxidant defenses may be taken as an important tool for diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.