The Modulatory Role of Vitamin C in Boldenone Undecylenate Induced Testicular Oxidative Damage and Androgen Receptor Dysregulation in Adult Male Rats

Mitigating effect of gallic acid on zinc oxide nanoparticles and arsenic trioxide-induced spermatogenesis suppression, testicular injury, hormonal imbalance, and immunohistochemical changes in rats

The current study compared the effects of incorporated exposure to arsenic trioxide (As) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) on male reproductive hormones, oxidative stress, and inflammatory biomarkers in adult rats to each metal alone. A defensive trial with gallic acid (GA) has also been studied. A total of 60 adult male Sprague Dawley rats were categorized into six groups: control, GA (20 mg/kg), ZnONPs (100 mg/kg), As (8 mg/kg), ZnONPs with As, and GA concurrently with ZnONPs and As at the same previous doses. The regimens were applied for 60 days in sequence. Current findings showed significant weight loss in all study groups, with testicular weights significantly decreased in the As and combined groups. Testosterone, follicular stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone serum levels were also considerably reduced, while serum levels of estradiol increased. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immunoexpression was significantly upregulated while proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was downregulated. Moreover, there was a significant elevation of testicular malondialdehyde, reduction of testicular superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase with disruptive testes, prostate glands, and seminal vesicle alterations in all experimental groups with marked changes in the combined group. Additionally, the present results revealed the protective effects of GA on ZnONPs and As adverse alterations in rats. GA enhanced sperm picture, oxidant status, and hormonal profile. Also, it modulates iNOS and PCNA immunoexpression and recovers the histoarchitecture of the testes, prostate glands, and seminal vesicles. Ultimately, GA may be a promising safeguarding agent against ZnONPs and As-induced disturbances to reproductive parameters.

Protective effect of selenium and vitamin C on the fertility of male rats given penconazole

OBJECTIVE

Penconazole is used in agriculture and human and veterinary medicine applications. It has been included in the acute toxicity hazard category by the WHO. This study examines the protective effect of selenium and vitamin C on the fertility of male rats given penconazole.

METHODS

Nine groups of rats were given penconazole at concentrations of 50 and 75 mg/ml and selenium and vitamin C at concentrations of 0.5 and 100 mg/ml, respectively. Serum levels of LH and FSH were measured with ELISA kits; β-actin, GPX4, AQP7, PRM2, and BAX gene expression was evaluated with real-time PCR performed on the left testis of each rat.

RESULTS

LH, FSH, and testosterone levels were lower in the groups given penconazole (50 and 75 mg/kg). Histopathology showed that the groups given penconazole had the lowest number of spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes; these numbers were greater in the groups receiving penconazole together with selenium or vitamin C; and the highest counts were observed in separate groups given Se and vitamin C. GPX4, AQP7, PRM2 and BAX gene expression in the groups receiving penconazole was different from controls and was modulated by treatment with selenium or vitamin C.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that antioxidant compounds have a strengthening effect on the reproductive system and can mitigate the destructive effects of chemical fungicides.

Influence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and/or cadmium chloride oral exposure on testicular morphology, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in rats: Ameliorative role of co-enzyme Q10

Background and objectives

Little is known about the implications of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) and cadmium chloride (Cd) co-exposure on the male reproductive system in mammals. As a result, this study researched the effects of oral TiO2NPs and/or Cd exposure on male reproduction and testicular functions. Additionally, a mitigation trial with co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has also been conducted.

Methods

In a 60-day experiment, seven experimental groups, each containing 10 male Sprague Dawley rats, were orally given distilled water (control), corn oil (vehicle control), CoQ10 (10 mg/kg b.wt), TiO2NPs (50 mg/kg b.wt), Cd (5 mg/kg b.wt), TiO2NPs + Cd, and TiO2NPs + Cd + CoQ10. Then, sperm quality, male sex hormones, oxidative stress indications, Ti and Cd testicular residues, testes and accessory gland architecture, and apoptotic and inflammatory markers in rat testes were assessed.

Results

TiO2NPs and/or Cd exposure negatively impacted body weight, weight gain, testicular weights, semen quality, serum reproductive hormones, oxidative stress parameters, and Caspase-3 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) immunoreactions. Histopathological changes were recorded in testicular, seminal vesicle, and prostatic tissues. Yet, co-administration of CoQ10 with TiO2NPs and Cd substantially mitigated these adverse consequences. The most notable aspect is that it effectively lowered testicular tissue Ti and Cd levels. It also improved oxidant status, hormonal profile, and sperm picture. CoQ10 minimized the testicular damage implied by histological examination. Furthermore, CoQ10 significantly diminished TiO2NPs and Cd-induced Caspase-3 and TNF-α immunoexpression in testicular tissue.

Conclusion

As a result, CoQ10 could be utilized as a safe remedy to protect male reproductive physiology from TiO2NPs and Cd damage.

Utility of vitamin C in ameliorating citalopram-induced testicular toxicity via modulating nitro-oxidative stress and apoptosis in mice

There is a growing concern that antidepressant drugs impair sexual function and adversely impact spermatogenesis and male fertility. Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant that plays a vital role in the male reproductive system. The present study investigated the ameliorating potential of vitamin C against citalopram (CTL)-evoked testicular toxicity and spermatogenesis impairment in mice. Mice were randomly divided into six groups: control, CTL, vitamin C 100, vitamin C 200, CTL plus vitamin C 100, and CTL plus vitamin C 200. Adult male mice were intraperitoneally (ip) injected with 10 mg/kg of CTL for 35 days with or without vitamin C. At the end of the study, body and testes weight, sperm parameters, histopathology of testes, testosterone level, testicular levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and apoptosis (TUNEL assay) were evaluated. Our findings revealed that vitamin C restored spermatogenesis by improving sperm count, motility, viability, morphology, and chromatin integrity. Testosterone levels and testes histopathology were significantly improved in the vitamin C-administrated groups. Furthermore, vitamin C administration markedly alleviated CTL-induced nitro-oxidative damage, enhancing TAC levels, and reducing NO and MDA levels. Whilst CTL therapy induced a significant increase in the number of TUNEL-positive cells compared to the control, the administration of vitamin C significantly prevented the apoptotic effects of CTL. Together, vitamin C therapy protects against CTL-induced testicular damage via mitigating nitro-oxidative stress and apoptosis, which provides evidence for vitamin C as a beneficial therapy against antidepressant drug-associated reproductive toxicity and male sub/infertility.

Oxidative Stress and Male Infertility: The Protective Role of Antioxidants

Oxidative stress is a significant factor in male infertility, compromising sperm function and overall reproductive health. As male infertility garners increasing attention, effective therapeutic interventions become paramount. This review investigates the therapeutic role of antioxidants in addressing male infertility. A detailed examination was conducted on antioxidants such as vitamin C, E, B12, D, coenzyme Q10, zinc, folic acid, selenium, l-carnitine, l-arginine, inositols, and alpha-lipoic acid. This analysis examines the methodologies, outcomes, and constraints of current clinical studies. Antioxidants show notable potential in counteracting the negative effects of oxidative stress on sperm. Based on the evidence, these antioxidants, individually or synergistically, can enhance sperm health and reproductive outcomes. However, certain limitations in the studies call for careful interpretation. Antioxidants are integral in tackling male infertility attributed to oxidative stress. The current findings underscore their therapeutic value, yet there's a pressing need for deeper, comprehensive research. Future studies should focus on refining dosage guidelines, identifying potential side effects, and discerning the most efficacious antioxidant combinations for male infertility solutions.

Impact of anabolic androgenic steroids on male sexual and reproductive function: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) are a complex cluster of synthetic derivatives of testosterone. AAS abuse is considered a major public health issue since it has increased among young/adolescent males. The use of steroids has a prevalence rate of 14% in young athletes and 30-75% in professional athletes or bodybuilders. AASs simulate the testosterone mechanism, binding the intracellular androgen receptor, and dysregulating the normal hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in the same way as exogenous testosterone. Abuse can produce several side effects on organs, such as the genital system. The physio-pathological mechanisms that cause AAS abuse-related, genital system disorders in humans are still not completely known.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

This study focuses on the effect of AASs on the male reproductive organs in humans and animals.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

A systematic review was performed using SCOPUS, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Sciences database up to 31 December 2021 using the keywords: "anabolic-androgenic steroids," "erectile dysfunction," "spermatogenesis" and "infertility;" (anabolic agents) "erectile dysfunction," "spermatogenesis" and "infertility." The review of the literature identified 66 articles published until 2021. Sixty-two articles were included. The use of AASs induces testicular atrophy and azoospermia known as "anabolic steroid-induced hypogonadism." Anabolic steroid induced infertility is characterized by oligo or azoospermia and abnormalities in sperm motility and morphology. Although sperm quality recovers in most cases within 4 months of stopping anabolic steroid abuse, the negative consequences on spermatogenesis can take up to 3 years to disappear. Human studies reported a positive correlation between AAS abuse in athletes and an increase in morphologically abnormal spermatozoa. Animal studies showed the destruction of Leydig cells and testicular atrophy in animals treated with cycles of AASs.

CONCLUSIONS

The present review of the literature highlights how little is known about the action of AASs on the male genital system. However, although their use is prohibited in many countries, the black market for these substances is still very frequent. The scientific landscape still has a lot to invest in the research of AAS on the male genital system to make young people even more aware of the negative aspects of these substances, contributing to the reduction of these products in an inappropriate way.

Experimental studies on androgen administration in animal models: current and future perspectives

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to report the most recent (2020-2022) experimental scientific studies conducted on animal models, in order to highlight the relevant findings on the adverse effects related to androgen administration.

RECENT FINDINGS

Forty-one studies published between January 2020 and July 2022 were selected. The majority of studies investigated the effects of one androgen, whereas only four studies analyzed the effects of two drugs. Nandrolone decanoate was the most investigated drug (20 articles), boldenone was tested in 8 articles, testosterone and stanozolol were used in 7 articles each, 17b-trenbolone, metandienone, and oxandrolone were tested in 1 article each. The articles clarify the adverse effects of androgen administration on the heart, brain, kidney, liver, reproductive and musculoskeletal systems.

SUMMARY

The main findings of this review highlight that androgen administration increases inflammatory mediators, altering different biochemical parameters. The results concerning the reversibility of the adverse effects are controversial: on the one hand, several studies suggested that by stopping the androgen administration, the organs return to their initial state; on the other hand, the alteration of different biochemical parameters could generate irreversible organ damage. Moreover, this review highlights the importance of animal studies that should be better organized in order to clarify several important aspects related to androgen abuse to fill the gap in our knowledge in this research field.

Quercetin improves pancreatic cancer chemo-sensitivity by regulating oxidative-inflammatory networks

Chemotherapy is the main method for controlling pancreatic cancer metastasis but the prevalent chemotherapy resistance limits its utilization. The response of oxidation and inflammation often promotes pancreatic cancer progression and chemo-resistance. It is critical to explore the potential natural products with few side effects to control inflammatory responses and understand the related mechanisms. Quercetin is a flavonoid widely found in numerous vegetables, fruits, and foods and is thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may be associated with improvement of chemotherapy sensitivity during pancreatic cancer treatment. Quercetin may sensitize pancreatic cancer cells to the chemotherapeutic agents, including bromodomain and extraterminal domain inhibitors (BETI), daunorubicin, gemcitabine, sulforaphane, doxorubicin, and tumor necrosis factor-related signaling apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). Meanwhile, during the chemo-resistance therapy, many signaling molecules are involved with toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated oxidative and inflammatory pathway. The effects of quercetin on other oxidative and inflammatory pathways were also explored. Quercetin may exert antitumor activity during the prevention of pancreatic cancer progression by regulating oxidative and inflammatory networks, which can promote immune escape of cancer cells by inducing immunosuppressive cytokines. Studying these patterns will help us to better understand the functional role of quercetin in the improvement of pancreatic cancer chemo-sensitivity. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Chemotherapy is the major way for treating pancreatic cancer metastasis but the prevalent chemotherapy resistance caused by oxidative and inflammatory responses limits its utilization. It is necessary to explore the potential natural products with few side effects to prevent the oxidative and inflammatory responses. Quercetin is a flavonoid widely found in numerous vegetables, fruits, and foods and is thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may be associated with improvement of chemotherapy sensitivity of pancreatic cancer treatment by sensitizing pancreatic cancer cells to various chemotherapeutic agents via the regulation of oxidative and inflammatory networks. Studying these patterns will help us to better understand the functional role of quercetin in the improvement of pancreatic cancer chemo-sensitivity.

The Behavioral and Neurochemical Changes Induced by Boldenone and/or Tramadol in Adult Male Rats

Boldenone and tramadol are abused among large sectors of adolescents. Therefore, the behavioral changes concerned with memory and cognitive functions and neurochemical variations were investigated in the cortex of rats treated with boldenone and/or tramadol. Rats were divided into control and rats treated with boldenone, tramadol, or both drugs. At the end of the treatment period, the memory and cognitive functions were evaluated by the Y-maze test (YMT) and elevated plus maze test (EPMT) and the motor activity was determined by the open field test (OFT). The cortex was dissected to carry out the neurochemical analyses. Rats treated with boldenone and/or tramadol showed impaired memory and cognitive functions and reduced motor activity. A significant increase in lipid peroxidation (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and a significant decrease in reduced glutathione (GSH) were observed in the cortex of rats treated with boldenone and/or tramadol. The levels of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) decreased significantly. Western blot data showed a significant decrease in Bcl2 and a significant increase in caspase-3 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in rats treated with boldenone and/or tramadol. These changes were associated with neuronal death as indicated from the histopathological examination.

The present findings indicate that boldenone and/or tramadol induced impairment in memory and cognitive functions. These changes could be mediated by the increase in oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, reduced AChE level, and reduced number of survived neurons in the cortex as indicated from the decreased Bcl2 level and the histological examination.

Palliative Effect of Resveratrol against Nanosized Iron Oxide-Induced Oxidative Stress and Steroidogenesis-Related Genes Dysregulation in Testicular Tissue of Adult Male Rats

The nano-sized iron oxide (Fe₂O₃-NPs) is one of the most used engineered nanomaterials worldwide. This study investigated the efficacy of natural polyphenol resveratrol (RSV) (20 mg/kg b.wt, orally once daily) to alleviate the impaired sperm quality and testicular injury resulting from Fe₂O₃-NPs exposure (3.5 or 7 mg/kg b.wt, intraperitoneally once a week) for eight weeks. Spermiograms, sexual hormonal levels, oxidative stress indicators, and lipid peroxidation biomarker were assessed. Moreover, the steroidogenesis-related genes mRNA expressions were evaluated. The results showed that RSV substantially rescued Fe₂O₃-NPs-mediated sperm defects. Additionally, the Fe₂O₃-NPs-induced depressing effects on sperm motility and viability were markedly counteracted by RSV. Moreover, RSV significantly restored Fe₂O₃-NPs-induced depletion of testosterone, follicle-stimulated hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testicular antioxidant enzymes but reduced malondialdehyde content. Furthermore, the Fe₂O₃-NPs-induced downregulation of steroidogenesis-related genes (3 β-HSD, 17 β-HSD, and Nr5A1) was significantly counteracted in the testicular tissue of RSV-treated rats. These findings concluded that RSV could limit the Fe₂O₃-NPs-induced reduced sperm quality and testicular injury most likely via their antioxidant activity and steroidogenesis-related gene expression modulation.

Cross-talk between down-regulation of steroidogenic genes expression and oxidative and apoptotic biomarkers in testes induced by administration of tramadol and boldenone and their combination in male albino rats

OBJECTIVES

The testis is the male reproductive gland or gonad having two vital functions: to produce both sperm and androgens, primarily testosterone. The study aimed to investigate the effect of tramadol and boldenone injected alone or in combination for 2 months in rats on testicular function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Group 1, normal control; Group 2, tramadol HCl (TRAM) (20 mg/kg bwt.) (IP); Group 3, boldenone undecylenate (BOLD) (5 mg/kg bwt) (i.m); Group 4, combination of TRAM (20 mg/kg bwt.) and BOLD (5 mg/kg); respectively for 2 months.

RESULTS

TRAM and BOLD alone and in combination showed deteriorated testicular functions, lowered serum steroid levels (FSH, LH, and testosterone), elevation in oxidative biomarkers (MDA & NO) and reduction in GSH and SOD, down-regulation of StaR and HSD17B3 as well as histopathological testicular assessment using H&E staining revealing massive degenerative changes in the seminiferous epithelium and vacuolar changes of most of the spermatogenic stages in both TRAM and BOLD groups. PAS stain showed an intensive reaction in the interstitial tissue between the tubules in the TRAM group. Masson trichrome stain showed abundant collagen fiber deposits in the tunica albuginea with congested BV in the TRAM group.

CONCLUSION

The study illuminated the hazard of administration of these drugs for a long period as well as the prominent deleterious effects reported on concurrent use of both drugs.

Chrysin abrogates gibberellic acid-induced testicular oxidative stress and dysfunction via the regulation of antioxidants and steroidogenesis- and apoptosis-associated genes

GA3 is widely used as a growth stimulant in agricultural regions. The long-term use of GA3 can cause organs damage. Chrysin is a flavonoid found in nature that is commonly used to treat organ toxicity. In this study, we examined the effect of chrysin on the testes function of GA3-affected rats. A total of 24 male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups. Saline was given to the control group. The chrysin group was given orally 50 mg/kg/BW of chrysin in saline. The GA3 group received a daily oral gavage of GA3 (55 mg/kg/BW). The protective group (chrysin + GA3) was given chrysin and GA3 as those described in chrysin and GA3 groups. There were an increase in MDA levels in the serum and testicular tissue of GA3-treated group. Catalase, GSH, and SOD levels were all lowered in the GA3-treated rats. Chrysin dramatically reduced the harmful effects of GA3 by restoring reproductive hormone levels, altered sperm parameters, and antioxidant capabilities. Furthermore, GA3 reduced the quantitative expression of steroidogenesis genes StAR and 3-HSD, as well as Bcl2 genes, while it increased the apoptotic marker BAX; all were alleviated by the pre-administration of chrysin. The pre-administration of chrysin protected the GA3 group from spermatogenic vacuolation, interstitial edema, necrosis, and depletion. Chrysin inhibited oxidative stress and modulated antioxidant activity, as well as apoptosis-/anti-apoptosis-related mediators in the testes. Chrysin has the potential to repair GA3-induced testicular dysfunctions. This suggests that chrysin is preferable as a medication to mitigate GA3-induced oxidative damage in the testes. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Chrysin has the potential to repair GA3-induced testicular dysfunctions. This suggests that chrysin is preferable as a medication to mitigate GA3-induced oxidative damage in the testes.

COVID-19, Oxidative Stress and Male Reproduction: Possible Role of Antioxidants

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) involves a complex pathogenesis and with the evolving novel variants of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the long-term impacts of the unceasing COVID-19 pandemic are mostly uncertain. Evidence indicates deleterious impact of this disease upon male reproductive health. It is concerning that COVID-19 may contribute to the already global declining trend of male fertility. The adverse impacts of COVID-19 on male reproduction may primarily be attributed to the induction of systemic inflammatory responses and oxidative stress (OS), which operate as a vicious loop. Bringing the systemic inflammation to a halt is critical for ‘putting out’ the ‘cytokine storm’ induced by excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The possibility of OS playing a prime role in COVID-19-mediated male reproductive dysfunctions has led to the advocacy of antioxidant therapy. An array of antioxidant defense medications has shown to be effective in experimental and clinical studies of COVID-19. The present review thus discusses the possibilities as to whether antioxidant drugs would contribute to combating the SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced male reproductive disruptions, thereby aiming at kindling research ideas that are needed for identification and treatment of COVID-19-mediated male reproductive impairments.

Oxidative Stress in Dairy Cows: Insights into the Mechanistic Mode of Actions and Mitigating Strategies

This review examines several molecular mechanisms underpinning oxidative stress in ruminants and their effects on blood and milk oxidative traits. We also investigate strategies to alleviate or repair oxidative damages by improving animal immune functions using novel feed additives. Microbial pathogenic cells, feeding management, and body condition score were some of the studied factors, inducing oxidative stress in ruminants. The predominance of Streptococcus spp. (24.22%), Acinetobacter spp. (21.37%), Romboutsia spp. (4.99%), Turicibacter spp., (2.64%), Stenotrophomonas spp. (2.33%), and Enterococcus spp. (1.86%) was found in the microbiome of mastitis cows with a decrease of d-mannose and increase of xanthine:guanine ratio when Streptococcus increased. Diversity of energy sources favoring the growth of Fusobacterium make it a keystone taxon contributing to metritis. Ruminal volatile fatty acids rose with high-concentrate diets that decreased the ruminal pH, causing a lysis of rumen microbes and release of endotoxins. Moreover, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) concentration, malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities increased in high concentrate cows accompanied by a reduction of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) activity. In addition, albumin and paraoxonase concentrations were inversely related to oxidative stress and contributed to the protection of low-density and high-density lipoproteins against lipid peroxidation, protein carbonyl, and lactoperoxidase. High concentrate diets increased the expression of MAPK pro-inflammatory genes and decreased the expression of antioxidant genes and proteins in mammary epithelial tissues. The expression levels of NrF2, NQO1, MT1E, UGT1A1, MGST3, and MT1A were downregulated, whereas NF-kB was upregulated with a high-grain or high concentrate diet. Amino-acids, vitamins, trace elements, and plant extracts have shown promising results through enhancing immune functions and repairing damaged cells exposed to oxidative stress. Further studies comparing the long-term effect of synthetic feed additives and natural plant additives on animal health and physiology remain to be investigated.

Icariin improves testicular dysfunction via enhancing proliferation and inhibiting mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway in high-fat diet and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM), a chronic metabolic disease, severely impairs male reproductive function. However, the underpinning mechanisms are still incompletely defined, and there are no effective strategies or medicines for these reproductive lesions. Icariin (ICA), the main active component extracted from Herba epimedii, is a flavonoid traditionally used to treat testicular dysfunction. Whether ICA can improve male reproductive dysfunction caused by DM and its underlying mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, by employing metformin as a comparative group, we evaluated the protective effects of ICA on male reproductive damages caused by DM and explored the possible mechanisms.

METHODS

Rats were fed with a high fat diet (HFD) and then intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin (STZ) to induce diabetes. Diabetic rats were randomly divided into T2DM + saline group, T2DM + metformin group and T2DM + ICA group. Rats without the treatment of HFD and STZ were used as control group. The morphology of testicular tissues was examined by histological staining. The mRNA expression levels were determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Immunostaining detected the protein levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in testicular tissues. TUNEL assay was performed to determine cell apoptosis in the testicular tissues. The protein expression levels of HIF-1α and SIRT1 in the testicular tissues were determined by western blot assay.

RESULTS

ICA effectively improved male reproductive dysfunction of diabetic rats. ICA administration significantly decreased fasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin resistance index (IRI). In addition, ICA increased testis weight, epididymis weight, sperm number, sperm motility and the cross-sectional area of seminiferous tubule. ICA recovered the number of spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes and Sertoli cells. Furthermore, ICA upregulated the expression of PCNA, activated SRIT1-HIF-1α signaling pathway, and inhibited intrinsic mitochondria dependent apoptosis pathway by upregulating the expression of Bcl-2 and downregulating the expression of Bax and caspase 3.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that ICA could attenuate male reproductive dysfunction of diabetic rats possibly via increasing cell proliferation and decreasing cell apoptosis of testis. ICA potentially represents a novel therapeutic strategy against DM-induced testicular damages.

The ameliorative effect of curcumin on hepatic CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 genes dysregulation and hepatorenal damage induced by fenitrothion oral intoxication in male rats

This research aimed to assess curcumin (CUR) effects on fenitrothion (FNT), a broad-spectrum organophosphate insecticide, -induced hepatorenal damage. Thirty adult male Wistar rats were allocated at random to five equal groups orally administered distilled water containing 1% carboxyl methylcellulose, corn oil (1 mL/rat), CUR (100 mg/kg b.wt.), FNT (5 mg/kg b.wt.), or CUR + FNT. CUR and FNT were dosed three times a week for two months. At the end of this trial, blood and tissue samples (liver and kidney) were subjected to molecular, biochemical, and histopathological assessments. The results revealed that CUR significantly diminished the FNT-induced up-regulation of hepatic CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 transcriptional levels. Moreover, CUR significantly suppressed the increment of the serum levels of hepatic alanine aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, and kidney damage indicators (urea and creatinine) in FNT-intoxicated rats. Furthermore, in the hepatic and renal tissues, CUR remarkably restored the FNT-associated depletion of the antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutathione S transferase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase). In addition, CUR notably reduced the FNT-induced increment in malondialdehyde content in the hepatic and renal tissues. Besides, the pathological aberrations in liver and kidney tissues resulting from FNT exposure were significantly abolished in FNT + CUR treated rats. Overall, CUR could be an effective ameliorative agent against negative pesticide impacts like FNT.

Early postmortem biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical alterations in skeletal muscles of rats exposed to boldenone undecylenate: Forensic implication

This study investigated the biochemical and histopathological alterations along with the immunoexpression pattern of heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27) within 6 h postmortem (PM) in skeletal muscle of boldenone (BOL)-treated rats. Forty-eight male rats were divided into two groups; a control group received sesame oil (0.25 mL/kg bwt), and BOL group received 5 mg/kg bwt BOL. Both treatments were intramuscularly injected once a week for eight weeks. Rats were euthanized by cervical dislocation, and the skeletal muscle specimens were collected at zero-time, 2, 4, and 6 h PM for biochemical and histopathological evaluations. The results revealed that BOL treatment significantly increased pH, MDA, ATP, ADP, glycogen, and hydroxyproline values. Still, it decreased the GPX, GST, and lactic acid levels, and Hsp27 immunoexpression compared to the control group. With increasing postmortem interval (PMI), whether control or BOL-treated, a significant reduction in pH value, markers of muscular antioxidant status, ATP, ADP, glycogen, hydroxyproline levels, as well as Hsp27 immunoexpression but a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and lactic acid content were recorded. Of note, the interaction between BOL treatment and PMI had a significant effect on ATP, ADP, lactic acid, hydroxyproline, GST, MDA, and TAC levels. Conclusively, these findings signify BOL exposure's modifying effect on the energy content, oxidative status, and histological architecture of skeletal muscles in the early PMI that reflected in delaying the onset of rigor mortis. For forensic practitioners, these findings should be highly considered at estimating PMI in athletic, AAS-treated patients, and fattening animals.

Boldenone undecylenate disrupts the immune system and induces autoimmune clinical hypothyroidism in rats: Vitamin C ameliorative effects

The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of boldenone undecylenate (BL) abuse alone and in combination with vitamin C (VC) on the immune responses and thyroid structure and function in rats. Thirty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five equal groups and were subjected to various treatment regimens for eight weeks as follows: control group, vehicle control group, VC group orally received VC (120 mg/Kg BW/day), BL-treated group intramuscularly injected with BL (5 mg/kg BW, once/week), and BL+VC group received BL and VC. At the end of this experiment, blood and tissue samples (thyroid, thymus, and spleen) were subjected to hematological evaluation, biochemical analysis, histopathological, and immunohistochemical examinations. In comparison to controls, BL significantly increased the levels of serum proinflammatory interleukins (IL-1 β and IL-6), immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM), and complement 3 but reduced anti-inflammatory interleukin-10, lysosome, and nitric oxide. Besides, altered platelet count and leukogram were evident in BL-injected rats. BL notably disturbed thyroid profile as revealed by a significant increase of thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroid peroxidase antibody. In contrast, both total and free forms of thyroid hormones (tri-iodothyronine and thyroxine), thyroglobulin, and thyroid peroxidase, were significantly decreased. Moreover, BL caused histopathological changes in the thyroid, thymus, and spleen tissues.CD4⁺ immuno-expression was reduced, but CD8⁺ immunolabelling was increased in both spleen and thymus. The daily dosing of VC to BL-exposed rats significantly corrected most of the deviations in immune parameters. It restored most of the thyroid architecture and function, revealing a significant protective effect of this vitamin. This experimental study demonstrates that BL abusing disrupts the immune system by different mechanisms and addresses BL, for the first time, as an autoimmune clinical hypothyroidism inducer drug. Additionally, VC is helpful in the management of BL abuse.

Boldenone Undecylenate-Mediated Hepatorenal Impairment by Oxidative Damage and Dysregulation of Heat Shock Protein 90 and Androgen Receptors Expressions: Vitamin C Preventive Role

Boldenone Undecylenate (BLD) is a synthetic derivative of testosterone and a widely used anabolic androgenic steroid. The health risk of BLD use as a pharmaceutical or dietary supplement is still underestimated and under-reported. Vitamin C (VC) has been recognized as an antioxidant with prominent hepatorenal protective effects. This study investigated the possible preventive activity of VC against BLD-induced hepatorenal damage. Forty adult male Wistar rats were classified into five groups: control, vehicle control, VC (orally given 120 mg/kg b. wt./day), BLD (intramuscularly injected 5 mg/kg b. wt./week), and BLD + VC-treated groups. The experiment continued for eight weeks. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were measured. Serum contents of total protein (TP), albumin (ALB), globulin, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and very-low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C) were also assayed. Urea, creatinine, and uric acid levels were determined together with sodium and potassium electrolytes measuring. Moreover, oxidative stress indicators including reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and glutathione reductase (GSR) as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in both hepatic and renal tissues. Corresponding histological examination of renal and hepatic tissues was conducted. Besides, immunohistochemical evaluations for androgen receptors protein (AR) and heat shock protein 90 (Hsp 90) expressions were performed. BLD caused significant rises in serum ALT, AST, TP, ALB, TC, TG, LDL-C, VLDL-C, urea, creatinine, uric acid, potassium, and MDA levels. Further, BLD-injected rats showed significant declines in the serum levels of HDL-C, sodium, GSH, GPx, GST, and GSR. Besides, distinct histopathological perturbations were detected in renal and hepatic tissues of BLD-injected rats. AR and Hsp 90 immunoexpression were increased in hepatic and renal tissues. In contrast, VC significantly reversed the BLD-induced hepatorenal damage in co-treated rats but not ameliorated AR protein overexpression. VC could be an efficient preventive supplement for mitigating BLD-induced hepatorenal damage, possibly via controlling oxidative stress events.

Effect of prolonged whole-body hyperthermia on adult male rat testes and the protective role of vitamin C and E: A histological and biochemical study

Hyperthermia (HT) is a significant risk factor for male infertility. Most researchers investigated the effect of localized and short-term HT on male fertility. This study aimed to assess the harmful impacts of prolonged and generalized HT on testicular histology and ultrastructure in rats. The possible protective effects of vitamin E (Vit E), Vit C, and their combination were also investigated. Thirty male adult Wister rats were used (5 groups). 1- control, 2- HT, 3- Vit C, 4- Vit E, and 5- Vit C + Vit E. Rats in groups 2-5 were subjected to HT (41°C), 1 hr daily for 2 weeks. HT-induced a significant decrease in body weight gain, food and water intake, and serum testosterone. HT showed a damaging effect on the testicular and coda epididymis tissue. HT significantly (p ≤ .05) produced oxidative stress (decreased serum catalase (145.49 ± 8.98), glutathione peroxidase (20.27 ± 4.46), superoxide dismutase (2.68 ± 0.54), and reduced glutathione (5.18 ± 0.33), and increased malondialdehyde (9.46 ± 1.55). Vit E alone and combined with Vit C, significantly protected the gonads against the deleterious effects of HT. The results recommended that prolonged HT of the whole body is harmful to male fertility. Prophylactic therapy with Vit E could help decrease the HT-induced male gonadal harm.

Impacts of n-acetyl cysteine on gibberellic acid-induced testicular dysfunction through regulation of inflammatory cytokines, steroid and antioxidant activity

In agriculture, gibberellic acid (GA3) is commonly used with extreme dangers for public health. The current research evaluates the improving effects of n-acetyl cysteine (NAC, 150 mg/kg bw) co-administered with GA3 (55 mg/kg bw) mediated testicular injury. Twenty-four male albino rats were split into 4 groups: Negative control (CNT), NAC group, positive GA3 group and protective group, co-administered NAC plus GA3. On day 21, rats were anesthetised then euthanised by decapitation. Blood samples were collected; testicular samples were taken for semen analysis, serum chemistry, RNA extraction, histological and antioxidants markers examination. Our results revealed a significant decline p < .05 of catalase level and total antioxidant capacity. There was a substantial rise of MDA concentration in GA3-treated rats along with a considerable decrease of the antioxidant markers (SOD, GSH) and serum male reproductive hormones. In GA3-treated rats, an overexpression of the inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 with boost mRNA expression of nuclear factor-kappa (NF_k B) were confirmed. There was downregulation of steroidogenesis genes and decrease in sperm quality and concentration with an increase in sperm abnormalities, all were reported in GA3-treated rats. NAC treatment significantly increased the antioxidant state, testicular function beside structural germ cell and seminiferous tubules histology accompanied by upsurge of steroidogenic mRNA expressions (P450scc and 3β-HSD) and downregulated the pro-inflammatory cytokines mRNA expression (TNF-α, IL-1β). These results confirm the antioxidant capability of NAC and afford robust evidence about the ameliorative effect of the NAC to attenuate the testicular injury induced by GA3 through modulation of the antioxidant defence system, steroidogenic and pro-inflammatory cytokines mRNA expression.

Chitosan-Stabilized Selenium Nanoparticles and Metformin Synergistically Rescue Testicular Oxidative Damage and Steroidogenesis-Related Genes Dysregulation in High-Fat Diet/Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

BACKGROUND

this study examined the metformin (MF) and/or chitosan stabilized selenium nanoparticles (CH-SeNPs) efficacy to alleviate the male reproductive function impairment in a high-fat diet feed with low-dose streptozotocin (HFD/STZ) induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) diabetic rat model.

METHODS

control non-diabetic, HFD/STZ diabetic, HFD/STZ+MF, HFD/STZ+CH-SeNPs, and HFD/STZ+MF+CH-SeNPs rat groups were used. After 60 days, semen evaluation, hormonal assay, enzymatic antioxidant, lipid peroxidation, testis histopathology, and the steroidogenesis-related genes mRNA expressions were assessed.

RESULTS

in the HFD/STZ diabetic rats, sperm count and motility, male sexual hormones, and testicular antioxidant enzymes were significantly reduced. However, sperm abnormalities and testicular malondialdehyde were significantly incremented. The steroidogenesis-related genes, including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAr), cytochrome11A1 (CYP11A1), cytochrome17A1 (CYP17A1), and hydroxysteroid 17-beta dehydrogenase 3 (HSD17B3), and the mitochondrial biogenesis related genes, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGCα) and sirtuin (SIRT), were significantly downregulated in the HFD/STZ diabetic rats. However, CYP19A1mRNA expression was significantly upregulated. In contrast, MF and/or CH-SeNPs oral dosing significantly rescued the T2DM-induced sperm abnormalities, reduced sperm motility, diminished sexual hormones level, testicular oxidative damage, and steroidogenesis-related genes dysregulation. In the MF and CH-SeNP co-treated group, many of the estimated parameters differ considerably from single MF or CH-SeNPs treated groups.

CONCLUSIONS

the MF and CH-SeNPs combined treatment could efficiently limit the diabetic complications largely than monotherapeutic approach and they could be considered a hopeful treatment option in the T2DM.

Curcumin mitigates neurotoxic and neurobehavioral changes of gentamicin and sodium salicylate in rats by adjusting oxidative stress and apoptosis

Currently, antibiotics and salicylates are the most highly consumed medications worldwide. The side effects of these pharmaceuticals on the nervous system have been little investigated. Thus, this study aimed to examine the influence of the gentamicin (GM) and sodium salicylates (SS) on neurobehavioral functions, including locomotors function, memory, and sensorimotor functions together with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter levels. Also, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and apoptotic indicators of brain tissue were assessed. Additionally, the histopathological architecture of brain tissues was investigated. This study also evaluated the curcumin (CUR) efficacy to counteract the GM or SS induced neurotoxic impacts in rats. For this purpose, seven groups were administered physiological saline (1 ml/rat; orally), olive oil (1 ml/rat; orally), CUR (50 mg/kg bwt; orally), GM (120 mg/kg bwt; intraperitoneally), SS (300 mg /kg bwt; intraperitoneally), CUR + GM, or CUR + SS for consecutive 15 days. The results revealed that GM and SS exposure evoked impaired memory, sensorimotor deficit functions, and depressive-like behavior together with the depletion of GABA. GM and SS exposure elevated malondialdehyde and Caspase-3 levels, but total antioxidant capacity and Bcl-2 levels were reduced. Besides, GM and SS exposure induced distinct pathological perturbations in cerebral cortices and hippocampus tissues. CUR significantly reversed the GM and SS harmful impacts. In conclusion, these findings verified that CUR could be a biologically efficient protective intervention against GM and SS induced neurotoxic impacts and neurobehavioral aberrations.