The protective effect of crocin on cisplatin-induced testicular impairment in rats

Potential ameliorative effects of bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) fruit extract on cisplatin-induced reproductive damage in adult male albino rats

OBJECTIVE

Cisplatin (CP) is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent, but its severe side effects impact testicular function. We investigated the potential protective effects of bilberry extract against CP-induced testicular toxicity.

METHODS

Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups. Control animals received a single oral dose of 0.9% saline. Bilberry-treated rats received oral bilberry extract (200 mg/kg body weight [BW] dissolved in 1 mL of saline) daily for 10 consecutive days. CP-treated animals were administered a single intraperitoneal dose (7.5 mg/kg BW). Finally, a bilberry+CP group received oral bilberry extract (200 mg/kg BW) daily for 10 consecutive days, with one intraperitoneal dose of CP (7.5 mg/kg BW) on day 2. We assessed sperm count, motility, viability, and abnormalities, along with testis weight, testis weight-to-BW ratio, antioxidant activity, levels of oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde [MDA] and hydrogen peroxide [H2O2]), sex hormones (follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH], luteinizing hormone [LH], and testosterone), and apoptotic and anti-apoptotic markers, and DNA damage. Testicular tissue underwent histopathological examination.

RESULTS

Among CP-treated rats, significantly lower values were observed for testis weight; testis weight-to-BW ratio; levels of FSH, LH, testosterone, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione, and B-cell lymphoma 2; and sperm count, motility, and proportion of normal sperm. CP administration was associated with higher MDA, H2O2, p53, Bax, cytochrome c, caspase 9, and caspase 3 levels, along with elevated tail moment. However, bilberry extract administration significantly improved all altered parameters.

CONCLUSION

Bilberry treatment demonstrated protective effects and reduced CP-induced testicular toxicity via antioxidant activity and cytoprotection.

Testicular toxicity in cisplatin-treated Wistar rats is mitigated by Daflon and associated with modulation of Nrf2/HO-1 and TLR4/NF-kB signaling

BACKGROUND

Testicular toxicity is a complication of cisplatin therapy and it limits its use. Since cisplatin-induced testicular damage is mediated by inflammation and oxidative stress, evaluation of the protective role of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory molecules such as micronized purified flavonoid fraction (Daflon®) is pertinent.

AIM

Therefore, this study investigated the mitigating effect of daflon against cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity. Also, the impact of daflon on Nrf2/HO-1 and TLR4/NF-kB pathways, which are key pathways in cisplatin toxicity, was explored.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After 2 weeks of acclimatization, 20 male albino Wistar rats were allotted at random into 4 equal groups; control, daflon-treated, cisplatin-treated, and cisplatin+daflon-treated.

RESULTS

Daflon significantly restored cisplatin-induced reductions in body weight (112.20±9.01 vs. 129.60±5.68, P= 0.0175), body weight gain (-39.80±9.52 vs. -16.80±16.53, P= 0.0154), and testicular weight (1.69±0.08 vs. 1.95±0.13, P= 0.0980) and alterations in testicular histology. In addition, daflon abrogated cisplatin-induced rise in testicular CK (55.53±2.77 vs. 37.40±3.29, P< 0.0001) and LDH (74.52±3.20 vs. 65.89±2.08, P= 0.0009) activities, and lactate content (180.50±4.19 vs. 166.20±2.78, P< 0.0001). Also, daflon alleviated cisplatin-induced suppression of GnRH (5.09±0.60 vs. 10.17±0.51, P< 0.0001), LH (1.33±0.07 vs. 2.77±0.13, P< 0.0001), FSH (0.51±0.10 vs. 1.82±0.09, P< 0.0001), and testosterone (2.39±0.11 vs. 4.70±0.33, P< 0.001) as well as lowered sperm quality. More so, daflon attenuated cisplatin-induced testicular oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis evidenced by daflon-driven suppression of MDA (14.16±0.66 vs. 9.22±0.52, P< 0.0001), TNF-α (79.42±5.66 vs. 54.13±3.56, P< 0.0001), IL-1β (8.63±0.41 vs. 3.37±0.43, P< 0.0001), IL-6 (6.87±0.48 vs. 3.67±0.32, P< 0.0001), and caspase 3 activity (4.20±0.26 vs. 0.72±0.23, P< 0.0001) and DNA fragmentation (34.60±3.05 vs. 17.20±3.19, P< 0.0001), and upregulation of GSH level (0.07±0.03 vs. 0.36±0.03, P< 0.0001), and GPx (5.96±0.46 vs. 11.88±1.05, P< 0.0001), GST (5.16±0.71 vs. 11.50±0.81, P< 0.0001), SOD (1.29±0.15 vs. 2.81±0.29, P< 0.0001), and catalase activities (6.18±0.69 vs. 10.71±0.74, P< 0.0001). Furthermore, daflon upregulated testicular Nrf2 expression (40.25±2.65 vs. 66.62±4.01, P< 0.0001) and HO-1 (4.18±0.56 vs. 8.79±0.55, P< 0.0001) activity but downregulated TLR4 (11.63±0.89 vs. 7.23±0.43, P< 0.0001) and NF-kB levels (113.20±3.36 vs. 78.22±3.90, P< 0.0001) in cisplatin-treated rats.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, the ameliorative effect of daflon on cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity is associated with inhibition of oxidative stress and TLR4/NF-kB-mediated inflammatory pathways and activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling.

Azilsartan as a preventive agent against cyclophosphamide-induced testicular injury in male rats

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a popular cancer treatment; however, despite its efficacy, it is known to cause harm to the testicles. To mitigate the reproductive damage caused by CP in male rats, we examined the protective effect of azilsartan (AZ) on CP-induced testicular damage. Thirty Sprague-Dawley male rats were equally divided into three groups: normal control group: received 0.5% CMC suspension for 13 days; induction group: received a single dose of 200 mg/kg of CP on day 6 by intraperitoneal (IP) injection, azilsartan group: received azilsartan (4 mg/kg) orally for 5 days followed by a single dose of 200 mg/kg of (CP) on day 6 by IP injection, then azilsartan administered again for 7 days. Animals were sacrificed on day 14, and sperm characteristics, testosterone levels, and testicular histopathology were evaluated. Induction with CP caused a significant reduction in median value compared to normal control in sperm count (12.0 vs. 22.0 × 106/mm3), sperm motility (30 vs. 90%), abnormal sperm (30.32 vs. 14.43%), dead sperm count (32.43 vs. 10.49 × 106/mm3), DNA fragmentation (21.57 vs. 5.49%); meanwhile, azilsartan prevent these effects on median sperm count (17.0 × 106/mm3), sperm motility (70.0%), abnormal sperm (23.19%), dead sperm count (26.17 × 106/mm3), DNA fragmentation (13.81%), and improved plasmatic testosterone levels compared to the CP group and prevented histopathological alterations of the testes. Azilsartan's mitigation of CP's effects suggests it can prevent male rats' reproductive damage caused by CP. One possible explanation for AZ's protective effects is that it inhibits lipid peroxidation and has antioxidant properties.

The Effect of Thymoquinone on the TNF-α/OTULIN/NF-κB Axis Against Cisplatin-İnduced Testicular Tissue Damage

One of the adverse effects of the antineoplastic drug cisplatin (CS) is damage to testicular tissue. This study aimed to examine the potential therapeutic effect of thymoquinone (TQ), a strong antioxidant, against testicular damage caused by CS. In the experiment, 28 rats were used, and the rats were randomly divided into four groups: control (n = 7), CS (n = 7), CS + TQ (n = 7), and TQ (n = 7). The experiment was called off after all treatments were finished on day 15. Blood serum and testicular tissues were utilized for biochemical, histological, immunohistochemical, mRNA expression, and gene protein investigations. The testosterone level decreased and oxidative stress, histopathological damage, dysregulation in mitochondrial dynamics, inflammation and apoptotic cells increased in testicular tissue due to CS administration. TQ supplementation showed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects in response to CS-induced testicular damage. In addition, TQ contributed to the reduction of CS-induced toxic effects by regulating the TNF-α/OTULIN/NF-κB pathway. TQ supplementation may be a potential therapeutic strategy against CS-induced testicular damage by regulating the TNF-α/OTULIN/NF-κB axis, inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.

Thymoquinone effects on autophagy, apoptosis, and oxidative stress in cisplatin-induced testicular damage in mice

PURPOSE

In this study, the effect of thymoquinone (TQ) on CP-induced spermatogenesis defects in mice has been investigated.

METHODS

Sperm parameters, serum testosterone concentration, histology, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and expression of autophagy-related biomarkers have been assessed. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) in testicular tissue were examined for the evaluation of oxidative stress levels.

RESULTS

CP has induced histological changes and significantly increased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, decreased testosterone concentration, testicular weight, and sperm quality. CP induced oxidative stress by elevating OSI in the testicular tissue (p < 0.05). Expression of the autophagy-inducer genes (ATG7, ATG5, and Beclin-1) and ratio of LC3B/LC3A proteins were significantly decreased, while mTOR expression was increased in the CP group. TQ pretreatment dose-dependently decreased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and mTOR gene expression while increasing the expression of ATG5 and ATG7 genes, LC3B/LC3A ratio, and Beclin-1 proteins. TQ could also dose-dependently reverse the histology, testosterone level, and sperm quality of the CP-intoxicated mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings show that TQ pretreatment can enhance sperm production by inducing autophagy and reducing apoptosis and oxidative stress in the CP-intoxicated mouse testicles.

Mitigative Effects of l-Arginine and N-Acetyl Cysteine against Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Dysfunction and Toxicity through the Regulation of Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Antiapoptotic Markers: Role of miR-155 and miR-34c Expression

Testicular dysfunction is a common adverse effect of cisplatin (CIS) administration as a chemotherapeutic drug. The current study has outlined the role of micro-RNAs (miR-155 and 34c) in CIS-induced testicular dysfunction and evaluated the protective effect of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and/or l-arginine (LA). Seven groups of Albino rats were used for this study. The control (C) group received physiological saline; the CIS group was injected CIS (7 mg/kg IP, once) on day 21 of the experiment; the NAC group was administered NAC (150 mg/kg intragastric, for 28 days); and the LA group was injected LA (50 mg/kg IP, for 28 days). NAC+CIS, LA+CIS, and NAC+LA+CIS groups received the above regime. CIS significantly reduced serum testosterone, LH, and FSH concentrations with decline of testicular enzyme activities. CIS caused significant elevation in testicular oxidative-stress biomarkers, inflammation-associated cytokines, and apoptosis markers, along with overexpression of miR-155 and low miR-34c expression. Additionally, marked testicular degenerative changes were observed in the examined histological section; a significant decrease in the expression of PCNA with significant increase in expressions of F4/80 and BAX was confirmed. The administration of NAC or LA upregulated testicular functions and improved histopathological and immunohistochemical changes as well as miRNA expression compared with the CIS-administered group. Rats receiving both NAC and LA showed a more significant ameliorative effect compared with groups receiving NAC or LA alone. In conclusion, NAC or LA showed an ameliorative effect against CIS-induced testicular toxicity and dysfunction through the regulation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic markers and via modulating miR-155 and miR-34c expression.

Arbutin abrogates cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity via upregulating Nrf2/HO-1 and suppressing genotoxicity, NF-κB/iNOS/TNF-α and caspase-3/Bax/Bcl2 signaling pathways in rats

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin is a potent anticancer agent widely employed in chemotherapy. However, cisplatin leads to toxicity on non-targeted healthy organs, including the liver. We investigated the hepatoprotective mechanism of arbutin (ARB), a glycosylated hydroquinone, against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity.

METHODS

Rats were orally administered with ARB (ARB1 = 50 mg/kg; ARB2 = 100 mg/kg) for 14 consecutive days against hepatotoxicity induced by a single dose of cisplatin (10 mg/kg) on day 15. Three days after the intraperitoneal cisplatin injection, serum and liver tissue were collected for subsequent analyses.

RESULTS

Cisplatin triggered marked increases in serum AST, ALT, and ALP activities, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) coupled with a considerable diminution in hepatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and the concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH). The gene expressions of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and IL-6 were notably increased. The pre-administration of ARB1 and ARB2 reduced AST, ALT and ALP in serum and restored SOD, CAT, GSH, ROS, MDA and cytokine levels which was also evidenced by alleviated hepatic lesions. Further, cisplatin-induced prominent alterations in the gene expressions of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), iNOS, NF-κB, Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3 and 8-OHdG in the liver. Interestingly, ARB protected the liver and mitigated the cisplatin-induced alterations in serum AST, ALT, ALP, and reduced hepatic redox markers, 8-OdG, inflammatory markers and gene expressions.

CONCLUSION

The findings demonstrate that ARB is a potential protective adjuvant against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity via inhibition of hepatic oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Activation of SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 and Beclin-1/AMPK/mTOR autophagy pathways by eprosartan ameliorates testicular dysfunction induced by testicular torsion in rats

Testicular torsion carries the ominous prospect of inducing acute scrotal distress and the perilous consequence of testicular atrophy, necessitating immediate surgical intervention to reinstate vital testicular perfusion, notwithstanding the paradoxical detrimental impact of reperfusion. Although no drugs have secured approval for this urgent circumstance, antioxidants emerge as promising candidates. This study aspires to illustrate the influence of eprosartan, an AT1R antagonist, on testicular torsion in rats. Wistar albino rats were meticulously separated into five groups, (n = 6): sham group, eprosartan group, testicular torsion-detorsion (T/D) group, and two groups of T/D treated with two oral doses of eprosartan (30 or 60 mg/kg). Serum testosterone, sperm analysis and histopathological examination were done to evaluate spermatogenesis. Oxidative stress markers were assessed. Bax, BCL-2, SIRT1, Nrf2, HO-1 besides cleaved caspase-3 testicular contents were estimated using ELISA or qRT-PCR. As autophagy markers, SQSTM-1/p62, Beclin-1, mTOR and AMPK were investigated. Our findings highlight that eprosartan effectively improved serum testosterone levels, testicular weight, and sperm count/motility/viability, while mitigating histological irregularities and sperm abnormalities induced by T/D. This recovery in testicular function was underpinned by the activation of the cytoprotective SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 axis, which curtailed testicular oxidative stress, indicated by lowering the MDA content and increasing GSH content. In terms of apoptosis, eprosartan effectively countered apoptotic processes by decreasing cleaved caspase-3 content, suppressing Bax and stimulating Bcl-2 gene expression. Simultaneously, it reactivated impaired autophagy by increasing Beclin-1 expression, decreasing the expression of SQSTM-1/p62 and modulate the phosphorylation of AMPK and mTOR proteins. Eprosartan hold promise for managing testicular dysfunction arising from testicular torsion exerting antioxidant, pro-autophagic and anti-apoptotic effect via the activation of SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 as well as Beclin-1/AMPK/mTOR pathways.

Assessment of melatonin's therapeutic effectiveness against hepatic steatosis induced by a high-carbohydrate high-fat diet in rats

Several studies have demonstrated the protective effects of melatonin against metabolic diseases, such as liver steatosis. However, its therapeutic effects have received less scrutiny. The present study aimed to explore melatonin's therapeutic effectiveness in treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) induced by a high-carbohydrate high-fat (HCHF) diet in rats. The NAFLD was developed in male Wistar rats using an HCHF diet for 8 weeks. Afterward, they were given melatonin orally for four weeks at doses of 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg, along with the HCHF diet. In addition, six age-matched healthy rats received the highest dose of melatonin (30 mg/kg) for the same duration. Rats on the HCHF diet exhibited obesity, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, inflammation, oxidative stress, and liver injury (steatosis). Melatonin treatment at 10 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg reduced body weight, adiposity index, oxidative damage, and inflammation but did not affect impaired glucose metabolism induced by the HCHF diet. Meanwhile, the highest dose of melatonin (30 mg/kg) reduced the liver steatosis index in HCHF rats but caused mild liver damage in healthy rats. In conclusion, using melatonin demonstrated positive outcomes in treating NAFLD induced by the HCHF diet in rats, with no noteworthy effects observed in healthy rats. A moderate dosage of 10 mg/kg of melatonin proved to be a safer and more efficient method for reducing HCHF diet-induced NAFLD in rats. Higher melatonin doses should be cautiously administered due to potential disruptions in lipid metabolism and the risk of liver complications.

Modulating effects of crocin on lipids and lipoproteins: Mechanisms and potential benefits

Dyslipidemia poses a significant risk to cardiovascular health in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. Therefore, it is crucial to normalize lipid homeostasis in order to prevent or minimize complications associated with dyslipidemia. However, pharmacological interventions for controlling lipid metabolism often come with adverse effects. As an alternative, utilizing herbal-based agents, which typically have fewer side effects, holds promise. Crocin, a naturally occurring nutraceutical, has been shown to impact various intracellular pathways, reduce oxidative stress, and alleviate inflammatory processes. Recent evidence suggests that crocin may also confer lipid-related benefits and potentially contribute to the normalization of lipid homeostasis. However, the specific advantages and the cellular pathways involved are not yet well understood. In this review, we present the latest findings regarding the lipid benefits of crocin, which could be instrumental in preventing or reducing disorders associated with dyslipidemia. Additionally, we explore the potential cellular mechanisms and pathways that mediate these lipid benefits.

The protective effect of crocin against testicular toxicity induced by ionizing radiation via AKT/FOXO pathway

Crocin, a pharmacologically active component of Crocus sativus L. (saffron), has been informed to be beneficial in the treatment of stress-related oxidative impairment. In the present study, we examined the protective role of crocin against testicular damage induced by radiation (acute and fractionated) and the alteration of the AKT/FOXO signaling pathway. Male Wister albino rats were exposed to acute dose of 6 Gy and a fractionated dose of gamma radiation (2 Gy every 2 days up to 6 Gy total doses). Rats were pretreated intraperitoneally with crocin in a dose of 50 mg/kg for seven consecutive days prior to exposure to irradiation at a level of 6 Gy and during the fractionated irradiation of rats. Control groups were run concurrently. Ionizing radiation caused changes in the level of oxidative stress biomarkers manifested as elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, total nitrate/nitrite and reactive oxygen species (ROS) associated with a decrease in catalase as well as in the level of inflammatory parameters (decrease in expression of Nrf2 which was related to a significant increase in expression of NF-κB p65). Irradiation produced cellular damage characterized by an increase in serum lactate dehydrogenase. These findings were aligned with increased expression of the forkhead box O-1 (FOXO-1) and activation of protein kinase B (AKT) pathway. Irradiation of rats led to reduction in serum testosterone level and testicular weights. Pretreatment with the indicated dose of crocin shielded against the changes in all the evaluated parameters. Administration of crocin can be introduced as a novel preclinical approach for regulation of testicular damage induced by radiation; via controlling the ongoing oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction as well as activation FOXO/AKT signaling pathway.

Mitigative potential of rhoifolin against cisplatin prompted testicular toxicity: biochemical, spermatogenic and histological based analysis

Rhoifolin (ROF) is a naturally occurring flavonoid compound with diverse pharmacological and therapeutic benefits. The current investigation was designed to evaluate the curative potential of Rhoifolin (ROF) against Cisplatin (CP) induced testicular damage. Mature male albino rats (n = 48) were randomly distributed into 4 equal groups: control, CP (10 mg/kg), CP + ROF (10 mg/kg + 20 mg/kg) and ROF (20 mg/kg) supplemented group. Following 56 days of the trial, biochemical, inflammatory markers, spermatogenic, steroidogenic, hormonal, apoptotic, anti-apoptotic, and histopathological parameters were evaluated. The exposure to CP markedly (p < 0.05) lowered the activities of anti-oxidant enzymes, glutathione reductase (GSR), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) in testicular tissues of male albino rats. Besides the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were considerably augmented in CP exposed rats. The administration of CP also increased the level of inflammatory cytokines i.e. IL-6, TNF-α, 1L-1β and NF-κβ as well as COX-2 activity. Additionally, a notable (p < 0.05) upsurge was observed in dead sperms count, abnormality in the tail, midpiece as well as head of sperms along with a notable decline in sperm motility in CP treated rats. Moreover, the expressions of steroidogenic enzymes were also lowered in CP administered group. The levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and plasma testosterone as well as luteinizing hormone (LH) were decreased in CP treated group. Moreover, the expression of Bax as well as Caspase-3 (apoptotic markers) were increased. On the other hand, Bcl-2 expression (anti-apoptotic marker) was reduced. Furthermore, the histopathological analysis showed that CP considerably (p < 0.05) damaged the testicular tissues. However, the administration of ROF significantly reduced the damaging effects of CP in testicular tissues. The results of our study suggested that ROF can potentially alleviate CP-induced testicular damages due to its androgenic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory as well as anti-apoptotic nature.

Mechanistic Protective Effect of Cilostazol in Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Damage via Regulation of Oxidative Stress and TNF-α/NF-κB/Caspase-3 Pathways

Despite being a potent anticancer drug, cisplatin has limited applicability due to its adverse effects, such as testicular damage. Consequently, reducing its toxicity becomes necessary. In this study, a selective phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitor, cilostazol, which is used to treat intermittent claudication, was examined for its ability to abrogate cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity. Its ameliorative effect was compared to that of two phosphodiesterase inhibitors, tadalafil and pentoxifylline. The study also focused on the possible mechanisms involved in the proposed protective effect. Cisplatin-treated rats showed a significant decrease in sperm number and motility, serum testosterone, and testicular glutathione levels, as well as a significant elevation in malondialdehyde, total nitrite levels, and the protein expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, nuclear factor-kappa β, and caspase-3. These outcomes were confirmed by marked testicular architecture deterioration. Contrary to this, cilostazol, in a dose-dependent manner, showed potential protection against testicular toxicity, reversed the disrupted testicular function, and improved histological alterations through rebalancing of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. In addition, cilostazol exerted a more pronounced protective effect in comparison to tadalafil and pentoxifylline. In conclusion, cilostazol ameliorates cisplatin-induced testicular impairment through alteration of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic pathways, offering a promising treatment for cisplatin-induced testicular damage.

Histochemical and histomorphological evidence of the modulating role of 1-isothiocyanate-4-methyl sulfonyl butane on cisplatin-induced testicular-pituitary axis degeneration and cholesterol homeostasis in male Sprague-Dawley rats

BACKGROUND

This study examine the histochemical and histomorphological effect of 1-isothiocyanato-4-methyl sulfonyl butane (SFN) on cisplatin (CP) induced testicular alteration and cholesterol homeostasis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety adult-male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into nine groups of ten (n=10) rats each. Group A (control) received normal saline, group B received a single dose of 10mg/Kg body weight (bwt) CP (i.p.), group C received 50mg/Kg bwt of SFN, group D received 100mg/Kg bwt of SFN, group E received 10mg/Kg bwt CP and 50mg/Kg bwt of SFN, group F received 10mg/Kg bwt CP and 100mg/Kg bwt of SFN, group G received 10mg/Kg bwt CP and 50mg/Kg bwt vitamin C, group H received 50mg/Kg bwt of SFN and 10mg/Kg bwt CP, group I received 100mg/Kg bwt of SFN and 10mg/Kg bwt CP. The procedure lasted for 56 days. Testicular histomorphology and histochemistry, testicular testosterone, sperm parameters, total antioxidant status (TSA), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and serum lipid profile were examined.

RESULTS

Cisplatin decrease intra-testicular testosterone, sperm quality, and expression of glycogen and increases testicular TOS and OSI, serum lipid profile, collagen, and disruption of germinal epithelium. However, the intervention of SFN reversed the effect of CP on testes' weight and volume, DSP, ESP, testosterone production, TAS, TOS, and OSI. Histoarchitectecture showing normal seminiferous tubules and even distribution of glycogen and collagen fibers.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with SFN ameliorate CP-induced testicular toxicity by reversing the cytotoxic mechanisms of CP.

Linagliptin and Vitamin D3 Synergistically Rescue Testicular Steroidogenesis and Spermatogenesis in Cisplatin-Exposed Rats: The Crosstalk of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress with NF-κB/iNOS Activation

This study investigated the therapeutic effect of linagliptin and/or vitamin D3 on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in cisplatin-exposed rats including their impact on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and NF-κB/iNOS crosstalk. Cisplatin (7 mg/kg, IP) was injected into adult male albino rats which then were orally treated with drug vehicle, linagliptin (3 mg/kg/day), vitamin D3 (10 μg/kg/day) or both drugs for four weeks. Age-matched rats were used as the control group. Serum samples and testes were collected for further analyses. Cisplatin induced testicular weight loss, deteriorated testicular architecture, loss of germ cells and declined serum and intra-testicular testosterone levels, compared to the control group. There was down-regulation of steroidogenic markers including StAR, CYP11A1, HSD3b and HSD17b in cisplatin-exposed rats, compared with controls. Cisplatin-exposed rats showed up-regulation of ER stress markers in testicular tissue along with increased expression of NF-κB and iNOS in spermatogenic and Leydig cells. These perturbations were almost reversed by vitamin D3 or linagliptin. The combined therapy exerted a more remarkable effect on testicular dysfunction than either monotherapy. These findings suggest a novel therapeutic application for linagliptin combined with vitamin D3 to restore testicular architecture, aberrant steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis after cisplatin exposure. These effects may be attributed to suppression of ER stress and NF-kB/iNOS.

Zygo-Albuside A: New Saponin from Zygophyllum album L. with Significant Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Antiapoptotic Effects against Methotrexate-Induced Testicular Damage

Chemical investigation of the crude extract of the aerial part of Zygophyllum album L. (Z. album) led to the isolation of a new saponin, Zygo-albuside A (7), together with seven known compounds, one of them (caffeic acid, compound 4) is reported in the genus for the first time. NMR (1D and 2D) and mass spectrometric analysis, including high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), were utilized to set up the chemical structures of these compounds. The present biological study aimed to investigate the protective antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities of the crude extract from the aerial part of Z. album and two of its isolated compounds, rutin and the new saponin zygo-albuside A, against methotrexate (MTX)-induced testicular injury, considering the role of miRNA-29a. In all groups except for the normal control group, which received a mixture of distilled water and DMSO (2:1) as vehicle orally every day for ten days, testicular damage was induced on the fifth day by intraperitoneal administration of MTX at a single dose of 20 mg/kg. Histopathological examination showed that pre-treatment with the crude extract of Z. album, zygo-albuside A, or rutin reversed the testicular damage induced by MTX. In addition, biochemical analysis in the protected groups showed a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-1β, Bcl-2-associated-protein (Bax), and an increase in B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) protein, catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the testis, along with an increase in serum testosterone levels compared with the unprotected (positive control) group. The mRNA expression levels of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), p53, and miRNA-29a were downregulated in the testicular tissues of the protected groups compared with the unprotected group. In conclusion, the study provides sufficient evidence that Z. album extract, and its isolated compounds, zygo-albuside A and rutin, could alleviate testicular damage caused by the chemotherapeutic agent MTX.

Repurposing FDA-approved drugs against the toxicity of platinum-based anticancer drugs

Platinum-based anticancer drugs (PADs), mainly cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin, are widely used efficacious long-standing anticancer agents for treating several cancer types. However, clinicians worry about PAD chemotherapy and its induction of severe non-targeted organ toxicity. Compelling evidence has shown that toxicity of PAD on delicate body organs is associated with free radical generation, DNA impairment, endocrine and mitochondrial dysfunctions, oxidative inflammation, apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and activation of regulator signaling proteins, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and pathways. The emerging trend is the repurposing of FDA-approved non-anticancer drugs (FNDs) for combating the side effects toxicity of PADs. Thus, this review chronicled the mechanistic preventive and therapeutic effects of FNDs against PAD organ toxicity in preclinical studies. FNDs are potential clinical drugs for the modulation of toxicity complications associated with PAD chemotherapy. Therefore, FNDs may be suggested as non-natural agent inhibitors of unpalatable side effects of PADs.

An evaluation on potential anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin

Crocin, an active ingredient derived from saffron, is one of the herbal components that has recently been considered by researchers. Crocin has been shown to have many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and therefore can be used to treat various diseases. It has been shown that Crocin has a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease. In addition, the role of this substance in COVID-19 pandemic has been identified. In this review article, we tried to have a comprehensive review of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin in different diseases and different tissues. In conclusion, Crocin may be helpful in pathological conditions that are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress.

The Mechanistic Perspective of Bilobetin Protective Effects against Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Toxicity: Role of Nrf-2/Keap-1 Signaling, Inflammation and Apoptosis

Cisplatin (CP) is a productive anti-tumor used to treat numerous tumors. However, multiple toxicities discourage prolonged use, especially toxicity on the reproductive system. This experiment was mapped out to determine the potential therapeutic impact of Bilobetin on CP-induced testicular damage. Herein, Bilobetin was isolated from Cycas thouarsii leaves R. Br ethyl acetate fractions for the first time. A single dose of CP (7 mg/kg, IP) was used to evoke testicular toxicity on the third day. Rats were classified into five groups; Normal control, Bilobetin 12 mg/kg, Untreated CP, and CP treated with Bilobetin (6 and 12 mg/kg, respectively) orally daily for ten days. Bilobetin treatment ameliorated testicular injury. In addition, it boosted serum testosterone levels considerably and restored relative testicular weight. Nevertheless, apoptosis biomarkers such as P53, Cytochrome-C, and caspase-3 decreased significantly. Additionally, it enhanced the testes’ antioxidant status via the activation of Nrf-2, inhibition of Keap-1, and significant elevation of SOD activity in addition to a reduction in lipid peroxidation. Histopathologically, Bilobetin preserved testicular architecture and improved testicular immunostaining of Ki67 substantially, showing evidence of testicular regeneration. Bilobetin’s beneficial effects on CP-induced testicular damage are associated with enhanced antioxidant effects, lowered apoptotic signals, and the restoration of testes’ regenerative capability. In addition, Bilobetin may be used in combination with CP in treatment protocols to mitigate CP-induced testicular injury.

Testicular toxicity of cisplatin in rats: ameliorative effect of lycopene and N-acetylcysteine

Lycopene (LP) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) protective effects were assessed for testicular toxicity mediated by cisplatin (CP) in rats. Forty-nine rats were divided into 7 groups (n = 7); these groups included the control group (saline, PO), LP (10 mg/kg, PO), NAC (150 mg/kg, PO), CP (7.5 mg/kg, IP) on the 27th day of the study, LP + CP, NAC+CP, and LP + NAC + CP. Serum levels of testosterone were decreased following CP injection. Malondialdehyde (MDA) has been increased with considerable glutathione (GSH), and dismutase superoxide (SOD) and catalase (CAT) decline in the testis tissues after CP injection. CP caused severe alterations in testicular tissues and elevated caspase-3 expression. Besides that, LP and/or NAC administration improved CP-induced testicular toxicity and apoptosis, probably via their antioxidant properties.

The effect of Crocin on sperm parameters disorders induced by peripheral administration of nitrosamines in male rats

Nitrosamines are carcinogenic agents which can unfavorably affect some male reproductive parameters. Humans are exposed to nitrosamines through various routes, the most important of which is the diet. Crocin is a carotenoid and is accountable for the red color of saffron. Crocin has numerous pharmacological actions, such as antioxidant roles and radical scavenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Crocin against Nitrosamine - induced damage to the reproductive parameter of male rats. In this experimental study, 48 male rats were randomly assigned to 8 groups: control normal and Nitrosamine control groups (40 mg/kg); Crocin (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg) and Nitrosamine + Crocin (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg). Treatments were administered intraperitoneally and gavaged daily for 28 days. The sperm parameters, total antioxidant capacity, testosterone level, and seminiferous tube diameter were assessed. Nitrosamine significantly decreased sperm parameters (p<0.001). The Crocin and Crocin + Nitrosamine treatments at complete doses significantly improved all parameters (p<0.001). Crocin compensated for the toxic effect of Nitrosamine on reproductive parameters.