Impact of oxidative stress and supplementation with vitamins E and C on testes morphology in rats

Effect on physiological parameters and semen quality upon oral administration of fresh onion juice to V-line rabbit buck during severe heat stress

Severe heat stress is recognized as a factor that severely influences the semen quality and antioxidant status of rabbits. In this context, fresh onion juice (FOJ) may be a safe and useful option to improve reproductive performance. This research was designed to evaluate the anti-stress effects of FOJ on physiological and semen parameters in heat-stressed bucks. Thirty-six V-line rabbit bucks were randomly distributed into three groups. The bucks received FOJ orally at different doses [0 (water), 1.5, and 3 ml/kg live body weight] every 2 days over a period of 2 months, with 3 weeks as an adaptation period. FOJ treatments significantly improved semen characteristics, such as libido, mass and individual sperm motility, semen concentration, sperm viability, and acrosome reaction with increased initial seminal fructose, via the oral administration of 1.5 and 3 mL FOJ/kg body weight, compared with the findings in control bucks. Seminal plasma antioxidant status was significantly enhanced by FOJ treatments. It was concluded that the oral administration of FOJ under severe heat stress can improve bucks' semen characteristics and sex hormone concentrations except for testosterone, and it is considered a good strategy for improving the heat resistance of rabbit bucks, possibly due to its antioxidant activity.

Stereological study of testes following experimentally-induced unilateral cryptorchidism in rats

OBJECTIVE

Cryptorchidism is one of the main causes of infertility and can result in testicular cancer. This study aimed to present quantitative data on the damage caused by cryptorchidism using stereological analysis.

METHODS

Thirty newborn rats were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group underwent surgery to induce unilateral cryptorchidism in the left testis, whereas the control group underwent a sham surgical procedure 18 days after birth. The testes were removed at designated time points (40, 63, and 90 days after birth) for stereological evaluation and sperm analysis. Total testicular volume, interstitial tissue volume, seminiferous tubule volume and length, and seminiferous epithelium volume and surface area were measured. Other parameters, such as sperm count, sperm morphology, and sperm tail length, were also examined.

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences (p<0.05) were observed between the experimental and the control groups at different ages regarding the volumes of various parameters, including the surface area of the germinal layer, the length of the seminiferous tubules, sperm count, and sperm morphology. However, no significant differences were observed in the epithelial volume and the sperm tail length of the groups.

CONCLUSION

Given the substantial effect of cryptorchidism on different testicular parameters, as well as the irreversible damage it causes in the testes, it is important to take this abnormality seriously to prevent these consequences.

The Effect of Antioxidant Added to Preservation Solution on the Protection of Kidneys before Transplantation

Ischemia–reperfusion injury is a key clinical problem of transplantology. Current achievements in optimizing organ rinse solutions and storage techniques have significantly influenced the degree of graft damage and its survival after transplantation. In recent years, intensive research has been carried out to maintain the viability of tissues and organs outside the integral environment of the body. Innovative solutions for improving the biochemical functions of the stored organ have been developed. The article discusses directions for modifying preservation solutions with antioxidants. Clinical and experimental studies aimed at optimizing these fluids, as well as perfusion and organ preservation techniques, are presented.

The Potential Role of Circulating MicroRNAs in Male Rat Infertility Treated with Kaempferia parviflora

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic strategies based on herbal plants and diets containing sufficient amounts of antioxidants and essential vitamins are very important factors in treating reproduction and male infertility worldwide. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential effects of Kaempferia parviflora (KP) on the role of some microRNAs in treated and nontreated infertile rats. In addition, the correlation of expressed microRNAs with sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm viability was identified. The probable use of these microRNAs as a diagnostic marker for predicting the clinical response of infertility to the treatment with KP was also achieved.

METHODS

In the present study, the potential effects of Kaempferia parviflora (KP) at different doses (140, 280, and 420 mg/kg) for six weeks on male rats with subinfertility were explored. In addition, the effect of KP on the expression of circulating microRNAs and its correlation with the parameters of sexual infertility was identified by performing both in vitro and in vivo assays. In vitro antioxidant activity, sperm functional analysis, serum testosterone, and expression of circulating microRNAs were conducted using colorimetric, ELISA, and real-time RT-PCR analysis, respectively.

RESULTS

Kaempferia parviflora (KP) at nontoxic doses of 140-420 mg/kg/day for six weeks significantly improved serum testosterone and epididymal sperm parameters (sperm count, motility, and sperm viability), increased testicular weight, and provided a reduction in the percentage of abnormal spermatozoon in infertile male rats. The expression of miR-328 and miR-19b significantly decreased, and miR-34 significantly increased in infertile rats treated with KP compared to infertile nontreated rats. After six weeks of KP therapy, the change in the expression levels of miRNAs was correlated positively with higher levels of serum testosterone and the measures of epididymal sperm parameters. The respective area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) was applied to predict the potential use of miR-328, miR-19b, and miR-34 in the diagnosis of male infertility in treated and nontreated infertile male rats. The data showed that AUC cutoff values of 0.91 for miR-328, 0.89 for miR-19b, and 0.86 for miR34 were the best estimated values for the clinical diagnosis of male rats with infertility. In rats treated with KP for six weeks, AUC cutoff values of 0.76 for miR-328, 0.79 for miR-19b, and 0.81 for miR-34 were the best cutoff values reported for the clinical response of infertility to KP therapy after six weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the improvement of male infertility might proceed via antioxidant and antiapoptotic pathways, which significantly improve spermatogenesis and aphrodisiac properties of males. In addition, the expression of miRNAs, miR-328, miR-34, and miR-19b, in KP-treated and nontreated infertile rats significantly correlated with increased serum testosterone levels and epididymal sperm parameters as well. MicroRNAs, miR-328, miR-34, and miR-19b, might be related to oxidative and apoptotic pathways that proceeded in spermatogenesis. Thus, the use of miRNAs could have a role as diagnostic, therapeutic, and predictive markers for assessing the clinical response of Kaempferia parviflora treatment for six weeks. This may have potential applications in the therapeutic strategies based on herbal plants for male infertility. However, in subsequent studies, the genetic regulatory mechanisms of the expressed miRNAs should be fully characterized.

Melatonin-Caffeine Combination Modulates Gamma Radiation-induced Sperm Malformations in C57BL/6 Male Mice at Sublethal Dose of Gamma Radiation

Aims:

The aim of this study was to assess the protective effect of the melatonin–caffeine combination against γ radiation-induced alterations in the morphological characteristics of sperms.

Settings and Design:

C57BL/6 male mice (n = 30) were randomly divided into five groups: control, radiation (2 Gy), melatonin (100 mg/kg body wt.) + radiation (2 Gy), caffeine (30 mg/kg body wt.) + radiation (2 Gy), melatonin–caffeine (100–30 mg/kg body wt.) + radiation (2 Gy).

Materials and Methods:

All the mice were sacrificed 24 h postirradiation, and cauda epididymis was collected. In this study, sperm concentration along with any abnormality in their morphology (amorphous heads, pinheads, hookless, coiled tails, midpiece defect, and tail-less) was observed in the control and treatment group of animals.

Results:

Radiation exposure (2 Gy) considerably decreases the sperm count when compared with the control group. However, pretreatment with melatonin and melatonin–caffeine combination before gamma irradiation increased the sperm count (P < 0.05), but with caffeine alone could not produce a significant difference. The higher rate of abnormal sperms was observed in the γ-irradiated mice when compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Besides, the numbers of sperm that are hookless and coiled tails were significantly increased after irradiation. Melatonin significantly reduced the number of sperm with amorphous heads and coiled tails. Melatonin–caffeine combination further reduced sperm malformations when compared with the melatonin + 2 Gy radiation and caffeine + 2 Gy radiation group.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that caffeine exerts a protective effect when given in combination with melatonin against gamma irradiation in sperms of C57BL/6 mice and could be a potent combination for the development of radioprotector.

Sperm mtDNA copy number, telomere length, and seminal spermatogenic cells in relation to ambient air pollution: Results of a cross-sectional study in Jing-Jin-Ji region of China

Evidences on the association of air pollutants and semen quality were limited and mechanism-based biomarkers were sparse. We enrolled 423 men at a fertility clinic in Shijiazhuang, China to evaluate associations between air pollutants and semen quality parameters including the conventional ones, sperm mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn), sperm telomere length (STL) and seminal spermatogenic cells. PM_2.5, PM₁₀, CO, SO₂, NO₂ and O₃ exposure during lag0-90, lag0-9, lag10-14 and lag70-90 days were evaluated with ordinary Kringing model. The exposure-response correlations were analyzed with multiple linear regression models. CO, PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ were adversely associated with conventional semen parameters including sperm count, motility and morphology. Besides, CO was positively associated with seminal primary spermatocyte (lag70-90, 0.49; 0.14, 0.85) and mtDNAcn (lag0-90, 0.37; 0.12, 0.62, lag10-14, 0.31; 0.12, 0.49), negatively associated with STL (lag0-9, -0.30; -0.57, -0.03). PM_2.5 was positively associated with mtDNAcn (0.50; 0.24, 0.75 and 0.38; 0.02, 0.75 for lag0-90 and lag70-90) while negatively associated with STL (lag70-90, -0.49; -0.96, -0.01). PM₁₀ and NO₂ were positively associated with mtDNAcn. Our findings indicate CO and PM might impair semen quality testicularly and post-testicularly while seminal spermatogenic cell, STL and mtDNAcn change indicate necessity for more attention on these mechanisms.

Aqueous extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit peels influence copulatory behavior and maintain testicular integrity in sexually mature male Sprague-Dawley rats: Pro-fertility evaluation and histomorphometry evidence

Tetrapleura tetraptera (TT) has been used as a spice, dietary supplement and medicine for various ailments. This study evaluate influence of Tetrapleura tetraptera extract on testis and copulatory behavior in sexually mature male rats. Thirty-two male and sixty-four virgin female rats weighing 150-200 g were used for this study. Male rats randomly divided into four groups of eight (n = 8) rats each. Group A: Control given 2 ml distilled water, group B, C and D received 50, 300 and 700 mg/kg bwt TT for 56 days through oral gavage. The female rats were used for fertility test. Testicular histology, histomorphology, copulatory behavior, sperm parameters, testosterone (TET), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and fertility test were investigated. Tetrapleura tetraptera significantly increase sperm count, motility, normal morphology, daily sperm production, efficiency of sperm production, sperm (average path velocity, straight line velocity and curvilinear velocity), TET, LH, FHS, SOD, GPx, CAT, number of pregnant females, number of fetuses, seminiferous diameter, epithelium thickness and decrease abnormal morphology, seminiferous height, tubule lumen and MDA across the group as compared with control group. Improved testicular histological integrity, sexual behaviour and libido by increased frequencies of mount, intromission, ejaculation and ejaculatory latency. Latencies of mount, intromission and post-ejaculation were significantly reduced. Also, observed increase spermatocytes and spermatids showed no significant difference in spermatogonia cell counts. Tetrapleura tetraptera therefore, enhance steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and improved testicular histological integrity and boost sexual competence in male rats.

Histomorphological study of the effects of aqueous extract of Curcuma longa on highly active antiretroviral therapy-induced testicular toxicity

This study evaluates the effects of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and Curcuma longa on testicular histology, stereological parameters, body weight and relative organ weights, seminal fluid, testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, the antioxidant marker malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in adult male Wistar rat. Thirty-six adult male Wistar rats were grouped into A: distilled water (control); B: 100 mg/kg C. longa; C: 200 mg/kg C. longa; D: HAART only; E: HAART + 100 mg/kg C. longa; and F: HAART + 200 mg/kg C. longa. The rats were sacrificed after 8 weeks. Results showed a significant increase in abnormal morphology in group D when compared with group A. In group D, progressive sperm motility was significantly decreased compared with group F. The GSH level was significantly increased in group D compared with control group A, group E and group F. Histomorphological studies showed that HAART caused loss of germ cells and widening tubule lumen which were improved and partially restored by C. longa. This study suggests that C. longa improves testicular morphology and ameliorates HAART-induced toxicity. Further studies confirming putative mechanisms are required.

Vitamin C ameliorates tetrahydrocannabinol-induced spermatotoxicity in-vitro

BACKGROUND

We investigated the in-vitro effects of vitamin C on delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) -induced reduction in spermatozoa motility and kinematics.

METHODS

Six rats were used for the study. Semen from each of the 6 rats was randomly divided into 6 groups such that each rat's semen was in all of the groups. Groups I-III received placebo, THC (1 mM), and vitamin C (5 mM) respectively. Group IV was pre-treated with cannabinoid receptors' blockers (CBs-) 1 and 2, followed by THC. Groups V and VI received THC and vitamin C, but group VI was additionally pre-treated with CBs-.

RESULTS

The spermatozoa progressive motility, average path velocity (VAP), curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight-line velocity (VSL), amplitude of lateral head (ALH) and beat cross frequency (BCF) were reduced by THC (6.08 ± 1.16%; 5.64 ± 0.82 μm/s; 6.96 ± 0.74 μm/s; 2.75 ± 0.23 μm/s; 0.31 ± 0.02 μm; and 0.78 ± 0.08 Hz respectively) but increased by vitamin C (51.20 ± 1.32%; 17.90 ± 0.21 μm/s; 25.11 ± 0.96 μm/s; 8.80 ± 0.27 μm/s; 0.75 ± 0.01 μm; and 3.15 ± 0.03 Hz respectively) when compared to control (39.72 ± 0.38%; 13.70 ± 0.29 μm/s; 18.04 ± 0.58 μm/s; 7.54 ± 0.34 μm/s; 0.65 ± 0.02 μm; and 2.79 ± 0.01 Hz respectively). Vitamin C inhibited the THC-induced reduction in these parameters (37.36 ± 0.73%; 10.98 ± 0.45 μm/s; 13.58 ± 0.30 μm/s; 7.11 ± 0.22 μm/s; 0.58 ± 0.01 μm; and 2.60 ± 0.01 Hz respectively) in the absence of CBs- 1 and 2, and even caused additional increases in progressive motility (49.54 ± 1.01%), VAP (15.70 ± 0.38 μm/s) and VCL (22.53 ± 0.29 μm/s) above the control levels with CBs-.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin C ameliorates the THC-induced reduction in spermatozoa motility in-vitro by modulation of their kinematics.

L-Carnitine reduces the negative effects of formalin on sperm parameters, chromatin condensation and apoptosis in mice: An experimental study

Background

Formalin is commonly applied as an antiseptic and tissue fixative. It has reactive molecules that lead to its cytotoxic effects. According to recent studies, formalin causes a change in the testicular and sperm structure and L-carnitine (LC) acts as an antioxidant to counteract its effects.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of LC on the parameters, chromatin condensation and apoptosis of mice sperm exposed to formalin.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, 24 balb/c mice (25-40 gr,10-12 wk) were divided into three groups (n = 8/each): group I without any injections or gavage; group II, received 10 mg/ kg formalin intraperitoneally (I.P); and group III was exposed to formalin and LC, where a dose of 10 mg/kg formalin was injected I.P daily and LC the dose of 100 mg/kg was kept in a solvent solution. After 31 days, the sperm examination was performed as follows: to evaluate chromatin and DNA quality of the sperm, we applied aniline blue (AB), toluidine blue (TB), chromomycin A3 (CMA3), and terminal transferase-mediated deoxy uridine triphosphate biotin end labeling (TUNEL) tests.

Results

Sperm parameters such as count, motility, morphology, and viability displayed a significant decrease in the formalin group. While the data exhibited a considerable augment in sperm parameters in the formalin + LC than the formalin and control groups (p < 0.001), significant differences were detected between groups with respect to TB staining, TUNEL test, CMA3 test and AB staining in the formalin and formalin + LC groups.

Conclusion

LC can reduce the negative effects of formalin on sperm parameters, chromatin stability, and percentage of apoptosis in an animal model.

Effect of hydroalcoholic Allium atroviolaceum L. on the pathology of testicular tissue in cyclophosphamide-treated mice

Background

The most important side effects of Cyclophosphamide, as an anticancer broad-spectrum drug, are the negative effects on the reproduction and fertility because of oxidative stress. Considering the antioxidant properties of medicinal plants, especially those of the Allium genus, this paper studied the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Allium atroviolaceum L. on the pathology of testicular tissue in CP-treated mice.

Methods

Groups of this experimental study consisted of normal saline recipients; three groups receiving A. atroviolaceum extract at 50, 100, 200 mg/kg; three groups receiving A. atroviolaceum extract at 50, 100, and 200 mg/g and 6.6 mg/kg of Cyclophosphamide; and a group given Cyclophosphamide at 1.6 mg/kg. All injections were performed intra-peritoneally. After 30 days, the testicular histological profile as well as the number of spermatozoa, the number of primary and round spermatocytes, and the number of spermatogonia were investigated.

Results

Cyclophosphamide treatment significantly reduced the lumen diameter, the seminiferous tubule diameter, the epithelial thickness, as well as decreased the quantity of spermatozoa and round and primary spermatocytes compared to the control group. Cyclophosphamide groups treated with A. atroviolaceum extract at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg in a significant manner improved these variables (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

A. atroviolaceum extract can significantly improve Cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity and pathological process on testicular tissue. It seems that this plant, with high antioxidant capacity, can be considered a complementary therapy for Cyclophosphamide to prevent undesirable effects on the reproductive system.

The effect of vitamin E & vitamin B on sperm function in rat varicocele model

We assessed the effect of vitamin E and vitamin B (Vit E & Vit B) and their combination on sperm functional parameters in the rat varicocele model. Male rats (n = 120) were divided into control (n = 30), sham (n = 30) and varicocele induction (n = 60) groups. After 2 months, 10 rats from each group were sacrificed to verify varicocele model. This part of results showed that sperm parameters, DNA damage, lipid peroxidation and residual histone were adversely effected in the varicocele group. From the 50 remaining rats in varicocele group, 10 rats received Vit B complex (6, 9.6, 30.4, 9.6 and 0.006 mg/kg for B6, B2, B9, B1 and B12 respectively), 10 rats received Vit E (40 mg/kg), 10 rats received Vit B & E, 10 rats only received water and 10 rats were only received sesame oil as a solvent for Vit E, for 2 months. From 40 remaining rats in control and sham groups, 20 rats only received water and other 20 rats only received sesame oil for 2 months. Then, all the aforementioned parameters were assessed. These results showed that Vit B antioxidant was more efficient in improvement of sperm parameters, chromatin integrity and lipid peroxidation in varicocelized rats compared with Vit E.

Attenuating effects of Mangifera indica leaves ethanolic extract against acetamiprid induced reproductive toxicity in male guinea pigs

Acetamiprid (ACP) belonging to the neonicotinoid family used against wide array of pests in agriculture and domestic purposes. In this study, we evaluated the attenuating effects of ethanolic extract of Mangifera indica leaves (EEMI) in averting reproductive toxicity caused by ACP in male guinea pigs. Thirty male guinea pigs were randomly assigned to five treatment groups (n = 6). Group 1 (T0) received distilled water orally; group 2 (T0-) was given 80 mg kg-1 of ACP and groups 3, 4 and 5 were treated, respectively, with EEMI at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg kg-1 plus ACP. After 90 days, the reaction time, sexual organ weights, sperm count, motility and anomalies, spermatozoa with entire plasma membrane, testicular histology, serum testosterone concentration, testicular malondialdehyde (MDA) level, reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration, testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were assessed. Co-administration of EEMI significantly reduced the reaction time, sperm anomalies and testicular MDA, SOD and CAT levels compared to the T0- group. Co-treatment of EEMI significantly alleviated sperm count and motility, percentage of spermatozoa with the normal plasma membrane, serum testosterone concentration, accessory sex gland weights, and testicular GSH concentrations. The ACP treatment induced cell membrane degradation in the testis and this effect was prevented with the addition of EEMI. In conclusion, ACP negatively affected the animal reproductive function and induced oxidative stress. The addition of EEMI alleviated the toxic effects of ACP on the reproductive function of male guinea pigs.

Evaluation of Male Fertility-Enhancing Activities of Water Seed Extract of Hunteria umbellata in Wistar Rats

BACKGROUND

In this study, the male fertility-enhancing activity of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day of Hunteria umbellata water seed extract (HU) in Wistar rats was studied for 60 days. In doing this, effect of repeated doses of HU was studied on the weight gain pattern, gonadosomatic index (GSI), serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (TS), prolactin (PRL), and estradiol (ES)} as well as testicular antioxidant status of the treated rats as a way of elucidating the mechanism(s) of action of HU.

METHOD

Thirty-six (36) male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (I-VI) of six rats per group. Group I rats were gavaged with 10 ml/kg/day of distilled water and served as an untreated control; Group II rats were gavaged with 0.3 mg/kg/day of clomiphene in distilled water; Groups III-V rats received 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of HU, respectively, and Group VI rats received 20 mg/kg/day of Vitamin C all in distilled water. All treatments were for 60 days after which the treated rats were humanely sacrificed. Sera of blood samples were processed for the above stated hormonal profile. Similarly, testicular tissues obtained were processed for semen analysis and complete antioxidant profile of the HU-treated testicles by assaying for superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and Thiobarbituric Reactive Species (TBARS).

RESULTS

Prolonged treatments with 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of HU for 60 days induced dose dependent reductions in weight gain pattern with the most significant (p<0.001) effect recorded with the highest dose of HU. Conversely, significant (p<0.001) increase was recorded for GSI at the same HU dose. Clomiphene and HU also induced significant (p<0.01, p<0.001) dose dependent increases in the total sperm count, %live sperm, but reverse effects on %dead sperm and %abnormal sperm. On the hormonal profile, oral treatment with 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of the extract induced profound (p<0.05, p<0.01, and p<0.001) dose related increases in the sera TS, LH, and FSH while it caused reverse effect on serum PRL but caused no significant alterations in the serum ES levels. Similarly, oral treatment with vitamin C and 100-400 mg/kg/day of HU induced profound (p<0.05, p<0.01, and p<0.001) increases in the antioxidant enzyme activities.

CONCLUSION

Overall, prolonged oral treatment with 100-400 mg/kg body weight of HU for 60 days significantly improved sperm function which was mediated via enhanced spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, and antioxidant mechanisms.

Senecio biafrae defeated Tetracycline-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Adult Male Sprague Dawley Rats

Objective

The current study focused on the pro-fertility potential of Senecio biafrae (Sb) extract and vitamin C in Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats with tetracycline-induced infertility.

Methods

A total of 36 male and 36 female adult SD rats were used for this investigation. The male rats randomly assigned to Group A (controls) were given normal saline 2ml/kg. Rats in Groups B, C, D, E, and F were respectively administered [30 mg/kg of body weight (bwt) of tetracycline], [30 mg/kg bwt of tetracycline + 50 mg/kg of vitamin C], [30 mg/kg bwt of tetracycline + 500 mg/kg bwt of Sb], [30 mg/kg bwt of tetracycline + 50 mg/kg of vitamin C + 500 mg/kg bwt of Sb], and [30 mg/kg bwt of tetracycline reversal] daily for 28 days via gastric gavage. Tested parameters included sperm parameters, hormonal profile, histology, and fertility test.

Results

Significant (p<0.05) increases were seen in sperm quality, hormone profile, organ and body weights of the groups treated with vitamin C, Sb, and tetracycline. There was derangement in sperm quality, hormone profile, and organ and body weight of the animals in group B. Histoarchtecture of the testes showed normal cellular composition in the germinal epithelium with sperm cells in the lumen and normal interstitium in groups A, C, D, and E. Group F showed abnormal spermatogenesis and poor association of spermatogenic cells, however there was depletion in the seminiferous epithelium in the group treated with tetracycline.

Conclusion

Senecio biafrae defeated the deleterious effects of tetracycline on the male reproductive system of rats treated with the drug.

Epididymal ultrastructural changes associated with chronic cholestasis after bile duct ligation in adult rats

Testicular atrophy and testesterone insufficiency have been commonly reported associated with chronic liver diseases. Though testosterone dependent, the epididymal changes induced by liver disease have never been studied before. Thus, this study aimed to assess the ultrastructural events in the epididymis of rats with chronic obstructive jaundice. Chronic cholestasis induced many epididymal structural alterations manifested by the reduced tubular diameters, thickening of the tubular basement membrane, and regression of the principal cells. This was accompanied with reduction of principal cell organelles, cytoplasmic vacuolations, nuclear alterations, and stereovilli loss. The results establish that chronic cholestasis causes epididymal structural changes due to androgen deficiency.

Protective effect of green tea extract on the deltamethrin-induced toxicity in mice testis: An experimental study

Background

Deltamethrin (DM) is one of the environmental factors that can have destructive effects on the male fertility. Green tea (GT) as a medicinal herb, has antioxidant property.

Objective

The present study investigated the protective role of GT extract in improving the harmful effects of DM on the testis.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, 35 adult male mice (25–30 gr) were divided in to five groups (n = 7/each). The control group received only normal saline. Sham received 0.2 ml corn oil. Green tea group received only GT of 150 mg/kg. bw; deltamethrin group received the DM at a dose of 0.6 mg/kg. bw; GT + DM received both GT and DM. The effect of GT was assessed by measuring oxidative stress markers, sperm parameters, histological and immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

The results showed that the count and motility of spermatozoa, testosterone, and Malondialdehyde significantly decreased (p < 0.001) and the abnormal spermatozoa increased (p < 0.001) in DM group compared to control group. Moreover, enhanced caspase-3expression and apoptosis were observed in DM-treated mice compared to control group. Histologically, DM with a degenerative effect on testicular tissue reduced the spermatogenesis progenitor cells. The epithelial height and the diameter of the seminiferous tubules were also reduced in the DM group. Treatment with GT in the DM-treated mice significantly improved these changes.

Conclusion

With these findings, it was concluded that the GT treatment with antioxidant activity and anti-apoptotic property could protect the testicular injury induced by DM.

Nitric oxide, malondialdheyde and non-enzymatic antioxidants assessed in viable spermatozoa from selected infertile men

There are growing evidences that the semen of infertile male population shows higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels concomitant with lower antioxidant capacity compared to those detected in semen of fertile population. The plasma membrane of the sperm cell, which has high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, renders it particularly sensitive to ROS. The aim of this study was to compare the sperm parameters (concentration, motility, morphology and vitality) and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), as marker of lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide (NO), ascorbic acid (AA), total (GSHt) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in viable sperm in a group of 38 infertile patients and in a group of 55 control subjects with unknown reproductive potential. The comparison between variables in infertile patients and controls revealed that the sperm quality was reduced in the infertile group, whereas the levels of NO, AA and GSH were significantly increased in viable spermatozoa from infertile men; however, the endogenous levels of MDA were similar in infertile and control groups. Based on our results, we could speculate that the rise of GSHt and AA levels in viable sperm of infertile group help partially to counteract the damaging effect of ROS and partly prevent a substantial LPO. The observation of the concomitant increase of NO and antioxidant indices in viable spermatozoa of infertile subjects is a novel finding and we think that these results can be useful since the viable sperm population is conceivably used in assisted reproductive technology.

Effect of vitamin C on tissue damage and oxidative stress following tunica vaginalis flap coverage after testicular torsion

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim was to investigate the protective effect of vitamin C on tissue damage and oxidative stress following tunica albuginea incision with tunica vaginalis flap coverage for testicular torsion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two experimental groups. The first group experienced 5h of testicular torsion followed by treatment with vitamin C alone, with tunica vaginalis flap coverage alone, and with both vitamin C and tunica vaginalis flap coverage along with a control group subjected to a sham procedure. The second group experienced 9h of testicular torsion followed by the same treatment options as described for the 5h group. The oxidative stress and testosterone levels were measured 24h posttreatment. The Johnsen score, diameter of the seminiferous tubules, and thickness of the seminiferous tubule epithelium were recorded 30days following the treatment.

RESULTS

The Johnsen score, diameter of the seminiferous tubules, and thickness of the seminiferous tubule epithelium significantly increased in the 5h testicular torsion group receiving treatment with vitamin C and tunica vaginalis flap coverage compared with the group receiving tunica vaginalis flap alone. The level of testosterone decreased significantly in all groups except for the 5h testicular torsion group receiving treatment with vitamin C and tunica vaginalis flap coverage. The MDA level also decreased in the group receiving treatment with vitamin C and tunica vaginalis flap coverage compared with the group receiving tunica vaginalis flap coverage alone.

CONCLUSIONS

The results showed that the histological parameters and testosterone levels improved with the administration of vitamin C before tunica vaginalis flap coverage in the group experiencing 5h of torsion. This may be a result of the antioxidant effect of vitamin C. No advantage was observed for the 9h group, possibly because the dosage of vitamin C was inadequate.

Coconut Oil Extract Mitigates Testicular Injury Following Adjuvant Treatment with Antiretroviral Drugs

Increased access to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has made the management of drug toxicities an increasingly crucial component of HIV. This study investigated the effects of adjuvant use of coconut oil and HAART on testicular morphology and seminal parameters in Sprague- Dawley rats. Twelve adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 153~169 g were distributed into four groups (A–D) and treated as follows: A served as control (distilled water); B (HAART cocktail- Zidovudine, Lamivudine and Nevirapine); C (HAART + Virgin coconut oil 10 mL/kg) and D (Virgin coconut oil 10 mL/kg). After 56 days of treatment, animals were killed and laparotomy to exercise the epididymis for seminal fluid analyses done whilst testicular tissues were processed for histomorphometric studies. Result showed a significant decline in sperm motility (P < 0.05) and count (P < 0.0001) in HAART-treated animals while there was insignificant changes in other parameters in groups C and D except count that was reduced (P < 0.0001) when compared with controls. Histomorphological studies showed HAART caused disorders in seminiferous tubular architecture with significant (P < 0.01) decline in epithelial height closely mirrored by extensive reticulin framework and positive PAS cells. Adjuvant Virgin coconut oil + HAART resulted in significant decrease in seminiferous tubular diameter (P < 0.05), but other morphometric and histological parameters were similar to control or Virgin coconut oil alone (which showed normal histoarchitecture levels). While derangements in testicular and seminal fluid parameters occurred following HAART, adjuvant treatment with Virgin coconut oil restored the distortions emanating thereof.

Radioprotective potential of melatonin against ⁶⁰Co γ-ray-induced testicular injury in male C57BL/6 mice

Background

Melatonin, the chief secretary product of pineal gland, is a strong free radical scavenger and antioxidant molecule. The radioprotective efficacy and underlying mechanisms refer to its antioxidant role in somatic cells. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to investigate the prophylactic implications of melatonin against γ-ray-induced injury in germinal cells (testes). C57BL/6 male mice were administered melatonin (100 mg/kg) intra-peritoneally 30 min prior to a single dose of whole-body γ-irradiation (5 Gy, 1 Gy/minute) using ⁶⁰Co teletherapy unit. Animals were sacrificed at 2h, 4h and 8h post-irradiation and their testes along with its spermatozoa taken out and used for total antioxidant capacity (TAC), lipid peroxidation, comet assay, western blotting and sperm motility and viability. In another set of experiment, animals were similarly treated were sacrificed on 1^st, 3^rd, 7^th, 15^th and 30^th day post-irradiation and evaluated for sperm abnormalities and histopathological analysis.

Results

Whole-body γ-radiation exposure (5 Gy) drastically depleted the populations of spermatogenic cells in seminiferous tubules on day three, which were significantly protected by melatonin. In addition, radiation-induced sperm abnormalities, motility and viability in cauda-epididymes were significantly reduced by melatonin. Melatonin pre-treatment significantly inhibited radiation-induced DNA strands breaks and lipid peroxidation. At this time, radiation-induces activation of ATM-dependent p53 apoptotic proteins-ATM, p53, p21, Bax, cytochrome C, active caspase-3 and caspases-9 expression, which were significantly reversed in melatonin pre-treated mice. This reduced apoptotic proteins by melatonin pre-treatment was associated with the increase of anti-apoptotic-Bcl-x and DNA repair-PCNA proteins in irradiated mice. Further, radiation-induced decline in the TAC was significantly reversed in melatonin pre-treated mice.

Conclusions

The present results indicated that melatonin as prophylactic agent protected male reproductive system against radiation-induced injury in mice. The detailed study will benefit in understanding the role of melatonin in modulation of radiation-induced ATM-dependent p53-mediated pro-vs.-anti apoptotic proteins in testicular injury. These results can be further exploited for use of melatonin for protection of male reproductive system in radiotherapy applications involving hemibody abdominal exposures.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12929-015-0156-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Protective effect of some selected fruit blends on testicular toxicity in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

The protective effect of a developed drink from blends of selected fruits on the sperm quality of alloxan-induced diabetic rats was investigated.

METHODS

Diabetes was intraperitoneally induced with alloxan; the formulated drink blend was orally administered 2.5 or 5 mL/day. Treatment lasted for 14 days and the rats were humanely sacrificed by cervical dislocation. The antioxidant status via assessment of reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) was carried out on the testis, while sperm cells were analyzed for sperm motility, counts and abnormality.

RESULTS

Induction of diabetes led to a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in GSH level, elevated SOD and CAT activities, significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the sperm quality parameters studied. However, treatment with the formulated drink led to a significant (p < 0.05) reduction of LPO, SOD and CAT activities as well as increase in GSH level.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows an improvement in testicular antioxidant activities and sperm qualities by single and double doses of the formulation, suggesting its protective potential against testicular toxicity in diabetic rats.

Study on the effect of royal jelly on reproductive parameters in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Background

Diabetes mellitus has a variety of structural and functional effects on the male reproductive system. Diabetes results in reduced sperm parameters and libido. The present study aims to investigate the effects of royal jelly (RJ) on reproductive parameters of testosterone and malondialdehyde (MDA) production in diabetic rats.

Materials and Methods

This experimental study was conducted on adult male Wistar rats. The animals were divided into four groups (n=8 per group): control, RJ, diabetic and diabetic treated with RJ. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg body weight (BW) of streptozotocin (STZ). RJ, at a dose of 100 mg/kg BW was given by gavage. The duration of treatment was six weeks. After the treatment period the rats were sacrificed. The testes were weighed and changes in sperm count, motility, viability, deformity, DNA integrity and chromatin quality were analyzed. Serum testosterone and MDA concentrations of testicular tissue were determined. Data were analyzed by oneway ANOVA with p<0.05 as the significant level.

Results

STZ-induced diabetes decreased numerous reproductive parameters in rats. Testicular weight, sperm count, motility, viability and serum testosterone levels increased in the diabetic group treated with RJ. There was a significant decrease observed in sperm deformity, DNA integrity, chromatin quality, and tissue MDA levels in diabetic rats treated with RJ compared to the diabetic group (p<0.05).

Conclusion

RJ improved reproductive parameters such as testicular weight, sperm count, viability, motility, deformity, DNA integrity, chromatin quality, serum testosterone and testicular tissue MDA levels in diabetic rats.

Effect of Cinnamomum zeylanicumon on Spermatogenesis

Background:

In modern countries today, herbal medicines are known to help in the treatment of various diseases, as rich sources of antioxidants and minerals.

Objectives:

To study the effect of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (C. zeylanicum) on spermatogenesis in rats.

Materials and Methods:

In this experimental study, Wistar male rats (n = 20) were divided into two groups, a control group (n = 10) and a Cinnamomum zeylanicum group (n = 10). The subjects in the cinnamon group received 75 mg/kg/day cinnamon by gavage for 28 days, while the controls received an equal volume of distilled water daily. Animals were kept in standardized conditions. On day 28, a 5 mL blood sample from each rat was taken from tail area to measure testosterone, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Testes were collected and were then prepared for sperm analysis by the WHO method.

Results:

Sperm quality parameters, total serum testosterone, SOD, CAT, and GPX levels were significantly increased in the cinnamon group in comparison to controls (P < 0.05). Also, rats in the cinnamon group showed a significant decrease in the level of plasma MDA (P < 0.05) in comparison to controls. There were no significant differences between the groups in testis weight (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

The administration of 75 mg/kg/day cinnamon significantly increased the sperm population, motility and viability, which supports the theory that in mammalians, cinnamon has a beneficial effect on spermatogenesis.

Assessment of protective and anti-oxidant properties of Tribulus terrestris fruits against testicular toxicity in rats

AIMS

This study was carried out to assess the protective and anti-oxidant activities of the methanolic extract of Tribulus terrestris fruits (METT) against sodium valproate (SVP)-induced testicular toxicity in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty mature male rats were randomly divided into five equal groups (n = 10). Group 1 was used normal (negative) control, and the other four groups were intoxicated with SVP (500 mg/kg(-1), orally) during the last week of the experiment. Group 2 was kept intoxicated (positive) control, and Groups 3, 4 and 5 were orally pre-treated with METT in daily doses 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mg/kg(-1) for 60 days, respectively. Weights of sexual organs, serum testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, semen picture, testicular anti-oxidant capacity and histopathology of testes were the parameters used in this study.

RESULTS

Oral pre-treatment with METT significantly increased weights of testes and seminal vesicles; serum testosterone, FSH and LH levels and sperm motility, count and viability in SVP-intoxicated rats. METT enhanced the activity of testicular anti-oxidant enzymes and partially alleviated degenerative changes induced by SVP in testes.

CONCLUSION

The pre-treatment with METT has protective and anti-oxidant effects in SVP-intoxicated rats. Mechanisms of this protective effect against testicular toxicity may be due to the increased release of testosterone, FSH and LH and the enhanced tissue anti-oxidant capacity. These results affirm the traditional use of T. terrestris fruits as an aphrodisiac for treating male sexual impotency and erectile dysfunction in patients. The study recommends that T. terrestris fruits may be beneficial for male patients suffering from infertility.

Antioxidant and androgenic effects of dietary ginger on reproductive function of male diabetic rats

This study evaluated the antioxidant and androgenic properties of ginger roots on the reproductive function of male diabetic rats. Animals were divided into three groups; the control (Control), diabetic (Diab) and diabetic fed with dietary ginger for 30 d (Diab + Z). Thereafter, blood samples were collected and reproductive organs (testis, epididymis, prostate and seminal vesicle) were removed for determination of sperm parameters, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate and lactate aminotransferase (AST and ALT) activities. Dietary ginger decreased blood glucose and MDA level, increased reproductive organ weights and testosterone level, improved semen quantity and motility, and ameliorated the SOD, CAT and GPx activities as well as testis AST, ALT, LDH and ALP activities. Intake of ginger roots improves the antioxidant and androgenic reproductive function of male diabetic rats in addition to its antidiabetic property.

Rat testicular impairment induced by electromagnetic radiation from a conventional cellular telephone and the protective effects of the antioxidants vitamins C and E

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of electromagnetic radiation from conventional cellular phone use on the oxidant and antioxidant status in rat blood and testicular tissue and determine the possible protective role of vitamins C and E in preventing the detrimental effects of electromagnetic radiation on the testes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The treatment groups were exposed to an electromagnetic field, electromagnetic field plus vitamin C (40 mg/kg/day) or electromagnetic field plus vitamin E (2.7 mg/kg/day). All groups were exposed to the same electromagnetic frequency for 15, 30, and 60 min daily for two weeks.

RESULTS

There was a significant increase in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules with a disorganized seminiferous tubule sperm cycle interruption in the electromagnetism-exposed group. The serum and testicular tissue conjugated diene, lipid hydroperoxide, and catalase activities increased 3-fold, whereas the total serum and testicular tissue glutathione and glutathione peroxidase levels decreased 3-5 fold in the electromagnetism-exposed animals.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that the adverse effect of the generated electromagnetic frequency had a negative impact on testicular architecture and enzymatic activity. This finding also indicated the possible role of vitamins C and E in mitigating the oxidative stress imposed on the testes and restoring normality to the testes.

Beneficial effects of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate on ischemia-reperfusion testicular injury in rats

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats.

METHODS

Forty male Wistar rats were assigned to 5 groups. A sham operation was performed on the animals in group 1. In group 2, after 4 hours of unilateral testicular ischemia, 4 hours of testicular reperfusion was performed with EGCG administered 1 hour before reperfusion. In group 3, the same surgical procedure as in group 2 was performed, but without EGCG. Serum superoxide dismutase activity, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase were then measured in blood samples from groups 1 to 3. In group 4, after 4 hours of unilateral testicular ischemia, testicular reperfusion was performed. In group 5, the same procedure as in group 4 was performed, but with EGCG administered 1 hour before reperfusion. For groups 4 and 5, bilateral orchiectomy was performed for histologic examination 4 weeks after reperfusion was started.

RESULTS

Serum superoxide dismutase activity was significantly higher in group 2 than in group 3. The ratios of bilateral testicular weight, mean seminiferous tubule diameter, and germinal epithelial cell thickness were significantly higher in group 5 than in group 4.

CONCLUSIONS

Therapy with EGCG before reperfusion might exert protective effects via antioxidant activities in a rat experimental model of testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Modulating effect of Allium cepa on kidney apoptosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii

PURPOSE

Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread protozoan parasite that infects a broad range of warm blooded animals as well as humans. The present study was investigated to evaluate the effects of allium cepa on renal failur in male rats which experimentally infected by Toxoplasma gondii, RH strain.

METHODS

Wistar male rat (n=40) were allocated into four groups, group one that received tachyzoites of T. gondii (ip) (n=10), group two that received tachyzoites of T. gondii (ip), plus fresh onion juice by gavages method (n=10), group three received just fresh onion juice by gavages method (n=10) and control group (n=10) that received nothing. Animals were kept in standard condition. In 30 day after inducing Toxoplasma infection, 5cc blood was collected for serum protein and TAC levels. Kidney tissues of Rat in whole groups were removed and prepared for apopetosis analysis.

RESULTS

Serum protein and kidneys weights were significantly decreased in groups that were infected with T. gondii, in comparison to control and onions groups. Kidneys Apopetosis in toxoplasma group significantly increased in comparison to control group (P<0.05).level of TAC was significantly increased in groups that received onio juice (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study showed that T. gondii have significantly effect on serum protein and TAC, apopetosis and fresh onion juice returned and treated this harmful effect, so it is suggested that eating of onion is useful in toxoplasma infection.

Radiation-Induced Testicular Injury and Its Amelioration by Tinospora cordifolia (An Indian Medicinal Plant) Extract

The primary objective of this investigation is to determine the deleterious effects of sub lethal gamma radiation on testes and their possible inhibition by Tinospora cordifolia extract (TCE). For this purpose, one group of male Swiss albino mice was exposed to 7.5 Gy gamma radiation to serve as the irradiated control, while the other group received TCE (75 mg/kg b. wt./day) orally for 5 consecutive days half an hr before irradiation to serve as experimental. Exposure of animals to 7.5 Gy gamma radiation resulted into significant decrease in body weight, tissue weight, testes- body weight ratio and tubular diameter up to 15 days of irradiation. Cent percent mortality was recorded by day 17th in irradiated control, whereas all animals survived in experimental group. TCE pretreatment rendered significant increase in body weight, tissue weight, testes- body weight ratio and tubular diameter at various intervals as compared to irradiated group. Radiation induced histological lesions in testicular architecture were observed more severe in irradiated control then the experimental. TCE administration before irradiation significantly ameliorated radiation induced elevation in lipid peroxidation and decline in glutathione concentration in testes. These observations indicate the radio- protective potential of Tinospora cordifolia root extract in testicular constituents against gamma irradiation in mice.

Protective effect of α-tocopherol on damage to rat testes by experimental cryptorchidism

It is thought that the degeneration of germ cells associated with an increase in the temperature due to cryptorchidism involves oxidative stress. α-Tocopherol is a powerful antioxidant that prevents oxidation of polyunsaturated fats found in membranes and stabilizes peroxyl radicals. For this reason we were interested in determining the role of α-Tocopherol using experimental cryptorchidism, followed by orchidopexia in neonatal rats. Eighty-four, 10-day-postpartum (dpp) male rats (Wistar strain) were used and divided into 7 groups: healthy control, sham with α-Tocopherol treated with 30 or 100 mg/kg doses, sham vehicle, cryptorchidism treated with α-Tocopherol at 30 or 100 mg/kg doses and cryptorchidism vehicle. Cryptorchidism was surgically induced at 10 dpp. At 25 dpp the animals were treated with α-Tocopherol and the vitamin vehicle. Lipoperoxidation and testicular morphology was determined in half of the animals at 40 dpp (short term). The remaining animals underwent orchidopexia and fertility was determined at 90 dpp. Testicular morphology was determined at 120 dpp (long term) in these animals. A significant reduction of lipoperoxidation was observed in the cryptorchid group treated with α-Tocopherol compared to the untreated cryptorchid group, in addition to short-term histological alterations. At long term, we observed an increase in the area and maturation of the seminiferous epithelium, a decrease in apoptosis and histological alterations and an increase in fertility from α-Tocopherol treatment. α-Tocopherol treatment decreased lipoperoxidation, possibly stabilizing free radicals produced during cryptorchidism, reducing morphological testicular alterations and favoring fertility.

Safety and efficacy of Zingiber officinale roots on fertility of male diabetic rats

The acute toxicity of methanolic and watery extracts of Zingiber officinale (ZO) roots in mice and their effects on fertility of male diabetic rats were carried out. The fertility experiment was done on six groups of male rats one of them was kept as normal control, while the others were rendered diabetic by subcutaneous injection of alloxan (120 mg kg(-1)). One group was left as diabetic control, while the others were given orally either methanolic (100 and 200 mg kg(-1)) or watery extract (150 and 300 mg kg(-1)) for 65 consecutive days. The results showed that no mortalities occur when both extracts were given orally to mice in doses up to 5 g kg(-1) b.wt. Both extracts increased fertility index, sexual organs weight, serum testosterone level and sperm motility and count. Histopathological examination of the testes of diabetic rats showed mild to moderate degenerative changes of spermatogenic cells, diffuse edema and incomplete arrest of spermatogenesis. Treatment with ZO extracts caused alleviation of the testicular lesions that appeared in non-treated diabetic rats. Conclusively, extracts of ZO have high safety in mice and intake of ZO roots as a drink may be useful for diabetic patients who suffer from sexual impotency.

A single, mild, transient scrotal heat stress causes hypoxia and oxidative stress in mouse testes, which induces germ cell death

Spermatogenesis is a temperature-dependent process, and increases in scrotal temperature can disrupt its progression. We previously showed that heat stress causes DNA damage in germ cells, an increase in germ cell death (as seen on TUNEL staining), and subfertility. The present study evaluated the stress response in mouse testes following a single mild transient scrotal heat exposure (40 degrees C or 42 degrees C for 30 min). We investigated markers of three types of stress response, namely, hypoxia, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Heat stress caused an increase in expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (Hif1a) mRNA expression and translocation of HIF1A protein to the germ cell nucleus, consistent with hypoxic stress. Increased expression of heme oxygenase 1 (Hmox1) and the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) and glutathione S-transferase alpha (GSTA) was consistent with a robust oxidative stress response. Germ cell death was associated with an increase in expression of the effector caspase cleaved caspase 3 and a decrease in expression of the protein inhibitor of caspase-activated DNase (ICAD). Reduced expression of ICAD contributes to increased activity of caspase-activated DNase and is consistent with the increased rates of DNA fragmentation that have been detected previously using TUNEL staining. These studies confirmed that transient mild testicular hyperthermia results in temperature-dependent germ cell death and demonstrated that elevated temperature results in a complex stress response, including induction of genes associated with oxidative stress and hypoxia.