Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Rats: The Protective Effect of Arjunolic Acid

Role of parthenolide in paclitaxel-induced oxidative stress injury and impaired reproductive function in rat testicular tissue

The chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel (PTX) causes testicular toxicity due to oxidative stress. Parthenolide (PTL), the active ingredient of the Tanacetum parthenium plant, is used to treat inflammation, dizziness, and spasms. In the present study, we evaluated the therapeutic effect of PTL on PTX-induced testicular toxicity in rats and its role in reproductive function. To this end, 6 groups were formed: control, PTX, sham, T1, T2, and T3. After testicular toxicity was induced in rats with 8 mg/kg PTX, the rats were treated with 1 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg, and 4 mg/kg PTL for 14 days. GSH and MDA levels were measured in rat testicular tissue after the last dose of PTL was administered. To determine the damage caused by PTX to testicular tissue by detecting 8-OHdG and iNOS, sections were prepared and examined histopathologically and immunohistochemically. Furthermore, the gene expressions and enzymatic activities of SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, and GR were investigated in all groups. After PTL treatment, MDA, 8-OHdG, and iNOS levels decreased while GSH levels increased in testicular tissue. Increased levels of antioxidant genes and enzymes also reduced oxidative stress. Additionally, the expression levels of the Dazl, Ddx4, and Amh genes, which are involved in gametogenesis and sperm production, decreased in case of toxicity and increased with PTL treatment. The data from this study show that PTL may have a therapeutic effect in the treatment of testicular damage by eliminating the oxidative stress-induced damage caused by PTX in testicular tissue, providing an effective approach to alleviating testicular toxicity, and playing an important role in reproduction/sperm production, especially at a dose of 4 mg/kg.

Pioglitazone ameliorates cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammation via TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (CIS) is a chemotherapeutic agent widely used to cure several cancers. It exerts detrimental cellular effects that restrain its clinical application as an antineoplastic agent, as testicular damage. Pioglitazone (PIO), a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) agonist, is used to treat type-2 diabetes mellitus. PIO has been reported to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in different tissues. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of PIO in a rat model of cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity and address the possible role of the Toll-like receptors (TLR4) / myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) / nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) signal pathway.

METHODS

Rats received a single dose of cisplatin (7 mg/kg, IP) on the first day and PIO (10 mg/kg, P.O.) for 7 days. At the end of the treatment period, rats were killed. Testicular weights, histopathological alterations, and serum testosterone levels were determined. Moreover, tissue samples were collected for the estimation of oxidative stress parameters, inflammatory markers, and the determination of TLR4 /MyD88/NF-kB signaling.

RESULTS

Concurrent PIO administration with CIS markedly improved testicular weights, histopathological alteration, and serum testosterone level changes. Moreover, Concurrent PIO administration abrogated oxidative stress status and inflammatory markers caused by CIS administration. Furthermore, PIO inhibited the expression levels of TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κBp65, proteins that are activated by CIS administration.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that PIO can protect against cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity in rats through inhibition of the TLR4 /MyD88/NF-kB signal pathway.

In Vitro and In Vivo Models for Drug Transport Across the Blood-Testis Barrier

The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is a selectively permeable membrane barrier formed by adjacent Sertoli cells (SCs) in the seminiferous tubules of the testes that develops intercellular junctional complexes to protect developing germ cells from external pressures. However, due to this inherent defense mechanism, the seminiferous tubule lumen can act as a pharmacological sanctuary site for latent viruses (e.g., Ebola, Zika) and cancers (e.g., leukemia). Therefore, it is critical to identify and evaluate BTB carrier-mediated drug delivery pathways to successfully treat these viruses and cancers. Many drugs are unable to effectively cross cell membranes without assistance from carrier proteins like transporters because they are large, polar, and often carry a charge at physiologic pH. SCs express transporters that selectively permit endogenous compounds, such as carnitine or nucleosides, across the BTB to support normal physiologic activity, although reproductive toxicants can also use these pathways, thereby circumventing the BTB. Certain xenobiotics, including select cancer therapeutics, antivirals, contraceptives, and environmental toxicants, are known to accumulate within the male genital tract and cause testicular toxicity; however, the transport pathways by which these compounds circumvent the BTB are largely unknown. Consequently, there is a need to identify the clinically relevant BTB transport pathways in in vitro and in vivo BTB models that recapitulate human pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics for these xenobiotics. This review summarizes the various in vitro and in vivo models of the BTB reported in the literature and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of certain models for drug disposition studies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Drug disposition to the testes is influenced by the physical, physiological, and immunological components of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). But many compounds are known to cross the BTB by transporters, resulting in pharmacological and/or toxicological effects in the testes. Therefore, models that assess drug transport across the human BTB must adequately account for these confounding factors. This review identifies and discusses the benefits and limitations of various in vitro and in vivo BTB models for preclinical drug disposition studies.

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

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

Cisplatin-induced azoospermia and testicular damage ameliorated by adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND

The testes are highly susceptible to the adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiation at all stages of life. Exposure to these threats mainly occurs during cancer treatment and as an occupational hazard in radiation centers. The present study investigated the regenerative ability of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) against the adverse effects of cisplatin on the structure and function of the testes.

METHODS

New Zealand white rabbits (N = 15) were divided into three groups of five: a negative control group (no treatment), a cisplatin group (single dose of cisplatin into each testis followed three days later by a PBS injection), and a cisplatin + ADMSCs group (cisplatin injection followed three days later by an ADMSC injection). On day 45 post-treatment, serum testosterone levels were evaluated, and the testes and epididymis were collected for histology, oxidative stress examination, and epididymal sperm analysis.

RESULTS

Cisplatin caused damage to the testicular tissue and decreased serum testosterone levels, epididymal sperm counts, and oxidants. An antioxidant imbalance was detected due to increasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in testicular tissue. The ADMSC-treated group displayed a moderate epididymal sperm count, adequate antioxidant protection, suitable hormone levels, and enhanced testicular tissue morphology.

CONCLUSIONS

ADMSCs treatment repaired damaged testicular tissue, enhanced biochemical parameters, and modified pathological changes caused by cisplatin.

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

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

Investigation of the effect of hesperidin on some reproductive parameters in testicular toxicity induced by Bisphenol A

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the chemicals that cause dysfunction and infertility in testicles. Therefore, it is crucial to develop effective treatments against this damage. In this study, the effects of Hesperidin (HESP), a flavonoid in testicular toxicity induced by BPA in rats, on oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, histological damage, spermatogenesis, steroidogenic enzymes and reproductive hormones were investigated. Our study used 52 Sprague Dawley male rats weighing 250-300 g, and four experimental groups were formed. From the experimental groups, 1 ml of olive oil was administered to the control group, HESP at a dose of 50 mg/kg to the HESP group, BPA at a dose of 100 mg/kg to the BPA group, HESP at a dose of 50 mg/kg to the BPA + HESP group and 100 mg/kg BPA was administered intragastrically (ig) for 14 days. We determined that BPA administration causes apoptosis, histological damage, inflammation, oxidative stress and toxic effects on spermatogenesis and steroidogenic enzymes in testicles. We observed that the administration of HESP with BPA attenuated oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis resulting in therapeutic effects on both steroidogenic enzymes and spermatogenesis and reproductive hormones (FSH, LH and testosterone). Our findings from this study clearly showed that while HESP treatment alleviates oxidative damage, inflammation and apoptosis in testicles of rats treated with BPA, it has regulatory effects on steroidogenic enzymes, spermatogenesis and serum reproductive hormones.

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

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

Effect of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) nut-supplemented diet on steroidogenic enzymes, hormonal and oxidative imbalances, and sperm parameters in cisplatin-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats

Cisplatin (CP) is a chemotherapeutic/anticancer drug culpable in sperm and testicular damage, but the use of dietary patterns has been reported to averse this effect. To date, no report on the use of roasted cashew nut-supplemented diets (RCNSD) against chemotherapy-induced testicular damage has been presented. In this study, the effect of 10% and 20% RCNSD on reproductive hormones, sperm parameters, testicular and epididymal antioxidant status, and steroidogenic enzymes activities in CP-induced rats were determined. Interestingly, these parameters were boosted, but with a decrement in radical species level in the testes/epididymis of CP-induced rats fed with RCNSD as against the untreated CP-induced rats. The modulatory effect of RCNSD on the tested reproductive parameters in studied tissues could be among the mechanism of action, by which RCNSD mitigates andrological toxicity. Hence, RCNSD could be harnessed as a functional food/nutraceutical agent for alleviating the andrological toxicity of CP-induced male reproduction. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Consumption of cashew nuts has been a great benefit to human health, as a result of its richness in nutritional constituents including biologically active amino acids, tocopherols, fatty acids, polyphenols, and selenium, among others. Cashew nuts are mostly consumed fried/roasted, with yoghurt, as a paste, or used as an ingredient in confectionery products. The folkloric use of cashew nuts in the management of cardiovascular diseases, male reproductive disorders, and diabetes has been reported. In this study, the ability of roasted cashew nut-supplemented diets to modulate reproductive hormones, sperm parameters, testicular and epididymal antioxidant status, and steroidogenic enzymes activities in CP-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats was revealed, thus, indicating its possible use, clinically, in the management of reproductive toxicity induced by cancer drugs.

Natural products against cisplatin-induced male reproductive toxicity: A comprehensive review

Cisplatin is widely used as one of the most effective anticancer agents in the treatment of some neoplasms. Reproductive toxicity is the most common outcome associated with cisplatin testicular damage. Alternative natural medicines for treating male testicular disorders and infertility have received extensive attention in research. Natural products, medicinal herbs, and their secondary metabolites have been shown as promising agents in the management of testicular damage induced by chemotherapy drugs. This study aimed to review the research related to natural substances that are promising in mitigation of the cisplatin-induced toxicity in the reproductive system. PubMed and Scopus were searched for studies on various natural products for their potential protective property against reproductive toxicity induced by cisplatin from 2000 to 2020. Eligibility was checked based on selection criteria. Fifty-nine articles were included in this review. Mainly in animal studies, several natural agents have positively affected cisplatin-reproductive-toxicity factors, including reactive oxygen species, inflammatory mediators, DNA damage, and activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Most of the natural agents were investigated in short-term duration and high doses of cisplatin exposure, considering their antioxidant activity against oxidative stress. Considering antioxidant properties, various natural products might be effective for the management of cisplatin reproductive toxicity. However, long-term recovery of spermatogenesis and management of low-dose-cisplatin toxicity should be considered as well as the bioavailability of these agents before and after treatment with cisplatin without affecting its anticancer activity.

The Role of Stem Cells and Their Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Restoring Female and Male Fertility

Infertility is a globally recognized issue caused by different reproductive disorders. To date, various therapeutic approaches to restore fertility have been attempted including etiology-specific medication, hormonal therapies, surgical excisions, and assisted reproductive technologies. Although these approaches produce results, however, fertility restoration is not achieved in all cases. Advances in using stem cell (SC) therapy hold a great promise for treating infertile patients due to their abilities to self-renew, differentiate, and produce different paracrine factors to regenerate the damaged or injured cells and replenish the affected germ cells. Furthermore, SCs secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing biologically active molecules including nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. EVs are involved in various physiological and pathological processes and show promising non-cellular therapeutic uses to combat infertility. Several studies have indicated that SCs and/or their derived EVs transplantation plays a crucial role in the regeneration of different segments of the reproductive system, oocyte production, and initiation of sperm production. However, available evidence triggers the need to testify the efficacy of SC transplantation or EVs injection in resolving the infertility issues of the human population. In this review, we highlight the recent literature covering the issues of infertility in females and males, with a special focus on the possible treatments by stem cells or their derived EVs.

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

BACKGROUND

Side effects of cisplatin (CIS) such as testicular toxicity restrict its clinical use. Instead, evidence indicates that crocin (CR) has synergistic anti-cancer potential with CIS and exhibited beneficial effects on CIS-induced hepatorenal damage. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective potential of CR against CIS-induced testicular toxicity in rats.

METHODS

Fifty adult male Wistar rats randomly assigned to five equal groups including control, CIS, and CIS plus CR at doses of 6.25 mg/kg (CIS + CR6.25), 25 mg/kg (CIS + CR25), and 100 mg/kg (CIS + CR100). CIS and CIS + CR groups received a single intraperitoneally (i.p.) injection of CIS (7 mg/kg). CR (6.25-100 mg/kg i.p.) injections were started three days before the CIS injection and continued once a day for up to 13 days. On the 14th day, all animals were sacrificed and their blood samples and testes were removed for biochemical and histological analyses.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, CIS significantly decreased relative testis weight (0.28 vs. 0.39, p < 0.001), testosterone level (0.3 vs. 2.31 ng/mL, p < 0.001), germinal layer area (25,886 vs. 35,320 µm2, p < 0.001), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (0.9 vs.1.73 U/mg, p < 0.001) and increased testicular lipid peroxidation (3.05 vs. 15.35 nmol/mg, p < 0.001). CR at 25 mg/kg ameliorated testicular lipid peroxidation and enhanced SOD activity compared to CIS group (p < 0.05). Besides, CR treatment at the maximum dose (100 mg/kg) resulted in reversing CIS effects on testis weight, testosterone level, SOD, lipid peroxidation, and germinal layer area.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrated that CR co-treatment could prevent CIS-induced testicular toxicity in rats.

Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract ameliorates cisplatin-induced testicular apoptosis via PI3K/Akt/mTOR and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways in rats

Testicular toxicity is an adverse reaction of the effective chemotherapy drug cisplatin (CIS). Our previous study found that grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) had a protective effect on CIS-induced testicular toxicity. However, the protective mechanism of GSPE against CIS-induced testicular toxicity remains unknown. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether GSPE can reduce CIS-induced testicular toxicity and its potential mechanism in rats. The results showed that GSPE ameliorated CIS-induced the apoptosis of testicular cells and inhibited the protein levels of Bad, Cyt c, caspase-9, caspase-3, caspase-12, GRP78, CHOP, IRE1α, p-IRE1α, XBP-1S, PERK, p-PERK, eIF2α, and p-eIF2α. Besides, GSPE reversed the downregulation of PI3K, p-PI3K, Akt, p-Akt, mTOR, and p-mTOR protein expression induced by CIS. These results indicated that GSPE can improve CIS-induced testicular cells apoptosis via activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR and inhibiting Bad/Cyt c/caspase-9/caspase-3 pathways. And GSPE relieved endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis via inhibiting PREK/eIF2α and IRE1α/XBP-1S/caspase-12 pathways. In conclusion, the evidence suggested that GSPE can act as a protective agent against testicular toxicity induced by CIS. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Testicular toxicity was a well-known adverse effect of cisplatin (CIS) in cancer treatment. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) has been reported to serve as one of the most therapeutic potentials agents. In present study, we explored the regulatory effects of GSPE on the apoptosis induced by CIS, which involved testicular apoptosis mechanisms in rats. Our results indicated that CIS caused testicular toxicity via PI3K/AKT/mTOR and ERS mediated apoptosis pathway in rats. This toxicity was attenuated by GSPE treatment via activated PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, and inhibiting Bad/CytC/caspase-9/caspase-3 as well as PREK/eIF2α, IRE1α/XBP-1S/caspase-12 pathways. Our findings suggest that GSPE may be a novel protective agent against testicular toxicity induced by CIS.

Tranilast abrogates cisplatin-induced testicular and epididymal injuries: An insight into its modulatory impact on apoptosis/proliferation

Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent whose therapeutic use is greatly limited by the associated organs' toxicity and particularly, testicular toxicity. Cisplatin-induced testicular damage reported being mediated through mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Evidence showed that tranilast (TRN) has the ability to restore the oxidative status and modulate TRAIL/caspase-8 signaling. This led us to hypothesize that TRN could abrogate cisplatin-induced testicular and epididymal injuries via inhibiting oxidative stress and modulating proliferation and TRAIL/caspase-8/cJNK signaling. Cisplatin injection induced oligospermia and abnormalities in testicular and epididymal structure along with impaired oxidative status. TRN administration (100 or 300 mg/kg) for 7 days post-cisplatin injection preserved spermatogenesis and restored testicular and epididymal architecture, but restoration was more so in TRN300 than TRN100. This was in line with the restoration of balanced oxidative status as indicated by the increased total antioxidant capacity, glutathione and superoxide dismutase activity, and the decreased malondialdehyde content in testes (p < 0.05 vs. cisplatin). TRN increased the cell proliferation revealed by the increased expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05 vs. cisplatin) whereas only TRN300 decreased testicular cJNK, TRAIL, and caspase-8 expression (p < 0.05 vs. cisplatin). Moreover, TRN dose-dependently inhibited the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-kB and the cytokine TNF-α expressions in testes. In conclusion, TRN300 was more effective than TRN100 in alleviating cisplatin-induced testicular and epididymal injuries and in enhancing spermatogenesis. This curative effect of TRN might be mediated through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory impacts along with its modulatory impact on cJNK/TRAIL/caspase-8 signaling favoring proliferation rather than apoptosis.

Molecular, Immunomodulatory, and Histopathological Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Beetroot Extract on Cisplatin Induced Testicular Damage in Albino Rats

Simple Summary

The chemotherapeutic agent Cisplatin (Cis) has testicular damage as a side effect. Therefore, efforts are being done by scientists to get over this effect. The current experiment was done to utilize bone marrow-derived stem cells (BM-MSCs) and beetroot extract (BRE) in reducing the Cis testicular damage in rats. In the current study, Cis reduced the sperm count, plasma testosterone level, the testicular activity of alkaline phosphatase beside a marked inhabitation of succinate dehydrogenase activity. Also, it significantly increased malondialdehyde and along with a marked decrease in testis reduced glutathione content and total antioxidant capacity. At the same time, Cis administration resulted in a marked elevation in interleukine-6 and the iNOS and caspase-3 genes, however it decreased the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Stem cell therapy (BM-MSCs) was accompanied with the use of herbal therapy (BRE) resulted in great improvement of all previous parameters. These results were confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. In conclusion the current study recommends the use of beetroot as natural food in combination with stem cell therapy for the patient suffering from the testicular side effect of cisplatin chemotherapy.

Abstract

Cisplatin (Cis) a drug commonly used as a chemotherapeutic agent to treat various types of cancer, inducing testicular damage. The present study aimed to investigate the inhibitory potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and beetroot extract (BRE) in albino rats after testicular toxicity induced by cisplatin. Thirty adult male albino rats were grouped into: the control group, Cis group receiving a single dose of 7 mg/kg i.p. (intraperitoneal) to induce testicular toxicity, Cis plus BM-MSCs injected Cis followed by 2 × 10⁶ of BM-MSCs; Cis plus BRE group receiving Cis followed by 300 mg/kg body weight/day of BRE, and Cis plus BM-MSCs and BRE group. In the current study, Cis reduced sperm count, serum testosterone level, and testicular activity of alkaline phosphatase (AKP), besides a marked inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity. In addition, it significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and along with a marked decrease in testis reduced glutathione content and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). At the same time, Cis administration resulted in a marked elevation in interleukine-6 and the iNOS and caspase-3 genes; however, it decreased the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Combined treatment with BM-MSCs and BRE resulted in great improvement of all previous parameters. These results were also confirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. In conclusion, both MSCs and BRE were found to have potent potentials to inhibit testicular damage induced by cisplatin.

Roflumilast protects from cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity in male rats and enhances its cytotoxicity in prostate cancer cell line. Role of NF-κB-p65, cAMP/PKA and Nrf2/HO-1, NQO1 signaling

Cisplatin (CIS)-induced testicular injury is a major obstacle in its application as antineoplastic agent. In this study, we investigated the protective effect and mechanism of roflumilast (ROF), a PDE4 inhibitor, against CIS-induced testicular toxicity in rats. Besides, the cytotoxic effect of CIS, with and without ROF, was evaluated on PC3 cell line. ROF reversed CIS-induced abnormalities in sperm characteristics, normalized serum testosterone level, and ameliorated CIS-induced alterations in testicular and epidydimal weights and restored normal testicular structure. Moreover, ROF increased intracellular cAMP level, PKA and HO-1 activities and Nrf2, NQO-1 and HO-1 gene expression, improved testicular oxidative stress parameters (TBARS, NO, GSH levels, and CAT activity) and inflammatory mediators (IL-1β and TNF-α, and NF-κβ p65gene expression) and reduced the proapoptotic proteins, caspase-3, Bax and increased Bcl-2. Lastly, in vitro analyses showed that ROF augmented the anticancer efficacy of CIS and enhanced the increase in gene expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO-1 and the inhibition of gene expression of NF-κβ p65 induced by CIS and enhanced its apoptotic effect in PC3 cells. Conclusively, PDE4 inhibition with induction of Nrf2/HO-1, NQO-1 is a potential therapeutic approach to protect male reproductive system from the detrimental effects with augmenting, the antineoplastic effect of CIS.

Protective effects of ginseng stem-leaf saponins on D-galactose-induced reproductive injury in male mice

Panax ginseng is a perennial plant in the Araliaceae family. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of ginseng stem-leaf saponins (GSLS) isolated from P. ginseng against D-galactose-induced reproductive function decline, oxidative stress, and inflammatory response. Reproductive injuries were induced in mice via the subcutaneous injection of D-galactose (300 mg/kg) for six weeks. The mice were then treated with GSLS by intragastric administration. GSLS inhibited markers of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines induced by D-galactose in serum, liver and kidney, whereas GSLS increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Compared to the mice treated only with D-galactose, GSLS treatment significantly increased the average path velocity, straight line velocity, curvilinear velocity, and amplitude of the lateral head displacement of mouse sperm. Meanwhile, GSLS significantly increased the testosterone level and reduced the cortisol, FSH, and LH levels. Histopathological examination revealed alterations in the number and the arrangement of spermatogenic cells in the seminiferous tubules of the mice in the GSLS group. GSLS treatment suppressed MAPKs pathway activation in testes. These results suggest that GSLS can attenuate D-galactose-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory response in serum, liver and kidney, and ameliorate reproductive damage by inhibiting MAPKs signaling pathway.

Achillea millefolium alleviates testicular damage in paclitaxel-intoxicated rats via attenuation of testicular oxido-inflammatory stress and apoptotic responses

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Achillea millefolium extract in paclitaxel-induced testicular toxicity in rats. The groups were designed as (1) control, (2) paclitaxel (8 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), (3) paclitaxel (8 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) + Achillea millefolium (200 mg/kg, orally for 14 consecutive days) and (4) paclitaxel (8 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) + Achillea millefolium (400 mg/kg, orally for 14 consecutive days). Serum levels of testosterone, luteinising hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, as well as total antioxidant capacity and total oxidant status were measured one day after receiving the last dose of Achillea millefolium extract. Testicular superoxide dismutase activity, malondialdehyde, tumour necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-1β levels, the expressions of nuclear factor kappa B and caspase-3 were evaluated. In addition, testicular sections were evaluated histopathologically and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine was detected immunohistochemically. Achillea millefolium improved the levels of luteinising hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and testosterone, upregulated testicular antioxidant enzymes and downregulated inflammation. Furthermore, we observed that Achillea millefolium restored testicular histopathological structure and significantly suppressed oxidative DNA damage and apoptosis by reducing the expression of caspase-3. Taken together, our results suggest that Achillea millefolium has protective effects against paclitaxel-induced testicular toxicity and is a promising natural product with the potential to improve male fertility.

Hepatoprotective effect of arjunolic acid against cisplatin-induced hepatotoxicity: Targeting oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis

Minimizing the adverse effects of chemotherapeutic agents remains a therapeutic challenge. Cisplatin (CP) induces hepatotoxicity through activation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis cascades which is considered a significant drawback. Thus, this study aimed to highlight the possible hepatoprotective role of arjunolic acid (Arj) in a rat model of CP-induced hepatotoxicity. Four groups of rats were included; the normal control group, Arj control group, CP group which was injected with 7.5 mg/kg CP intraperitoneally to induce hepatotoxicity, and the treated group (Arj + CP), which was orally administered 20 mg/kg Arj for 10 days with a CP hepatotoxic dose on day 5. Blood and liver tissues were assembled for analysis at the end of the study. Pretreatment with Arj exhibited a marked improvement in liver function as well as histopathology when compared with the CP group. Moreover, Arj suppressed the oxidative stress in hepatic tissue by significantly decreasing malondialdehyde and nitric oxide contents along with markedly elevating the levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and reduced glutathione when compared with CP injected rats. Attenuation of hepatic inflammation and apoptosis was also reported with Arj treatment through the marked reduction in the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor α level as well as the apoptotic marker caspase-3 protein expression in comparison to the CP group. This study explored for the first time the Arj hepatoprotective effect against CP-induced hepatotoxicity through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities.

The ameliorative effects of methylene blue on testicular damage induced by cisplatin in rats

Cisplatin, a common chemotherapeutic drug, can induce testicular toxicity. Methylene blue, a potent antioxidant, can inhibit the generation of free radicals. This research aimed to study the protective effect of methylene blue against the cisplatin-induced toxicity of the reproductive system in rats. 35 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: the control group, the cisplatin group (a single dose of 5 mg/kg cisplatin), the low-dose and high-dose methylene blue + cisplatin (2 and 4 mg/kg of methylene blue, respectively, for 7 days) and the methylene blue group (4 mg/kg of methylene blue, for 7 days). The treatments were applied through intraperitoneal injection. Cisplatin treatment reduced the sperm parameters and serum testosterone levels significantly. Methylene blue treatment increased the sperm count (p < .001), viability (p < .001) and motility (p < .001) compared to the cisplatin group. The methylene blue group showed a significant increase in the levels of testosterone compared to the cisplatin group (p < .001) and reverted histopathological changes in cisplatin-treated groups. Immunohistochemical evaluation of the caspase-3 protein revealed that the treatment with methylene blue has significant anti-apoptotic effects on testicular tissue damage. In conclusion, methylene blue can attenuate the cisplatin-induced histological damages and improve the sperm parameters.

Cisplatin induced testicular damage through mitochondria mediated apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress in rats: impact of resveratrol

The target of this study was to explore the role of mitochondria mediated apoptosis and inflammation in cisplatin-induced testicular damage and to evaluate the ameliorative effect of resveratrol. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to 4 groups. Group I (Control) received normal saline, Group II (Resveratrol) received resveratrol (50 mg/kg/day), Group III (Cisplatin) received cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg/week, i.p.) and Group IV (Resveratrol + Cisplatin) received resveratrol and cisplatin in the same regimen of treatment. Treatment with resveratrol in Groups II and IV started 48h before cisplatin injection and continued for further 4 successive weeks. Cisplatin-treated rats showed reduced body weight, absolute testes weight and sperm count, motility and viability. On the other hand, cisplatin treatment increased the percentage of sperm abnormalities. It also decreased serum testosterone level, mitochondrial membrane potential while, increased cytochrome C liberation from the mitochondria into the cytosol. The activities of caspase-3 & -9 were increased. The level of TNF-α, IL-6 and Bax were increased whereas Bcl-2 was decreased. Oxidative stress markers were found to increase with a concomitant reduction in the antioxidant enzymes and GSH levels. These results were confirmed by immunohistochemical and histopathological analysis. Contrary to all these results, there were improvements in cisplatin induced testicular damage through attenuation of mitochondria mediated apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress owing to resveratrol pretreatment. Thus, resveratrol, as a potential therapeutic agent, may hold promise in preventing mitochondria mediated apoptosis and inflammation in cisplatin-induced testicular damage in rats.

Tadalafil alleviates cisplatin-induced reproductive toxicity through the activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway and the inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis in male rats

Male reproductive toxicity is a well-known adverse effect of cisplatin (CIS), an important antineoplastic agent used to control several types of cancers. Tadalafil (TDF), is a long-acting phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor commonly used as treatment for erectile dysfunction. The aim of this work was to study the possible protective effect of TDF against CIS-induced testicular toxicity in rats and the possible involvement of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which demonstrates antioxidant and inflammatory activities utilizing zinc protoporphyrin-IX (ZnPP) as HO-1 inhibitor. Results revealed that TDF attenuated the CIS-induced disturbances in sperm count and activities, normalized the serum testosterone level, improved the CIS-induced changes in epididymal and testicular weights and restored the normal structure of testicular tissues. In addition, TDF upregulated the gene expression levels of Nrf2 and HO-1 and the activity of HO-1 whereas, it reduced the CIS-induced changes in testicular oxidative stress markers and the levels of inflammatory mediators (TNF-α and iNOS). Furthermore, TDF antagonized the CIS-induced increase in testicular gene expression of apoptotic markers caspase-3 and Bax, and the decrease in Bcl-2. However, ZnPP co-administration significantly attenuated all TDF-mediated improvements in CIS-induced testicular toxicity, biochemical changes, and apoptosis. In conclusion, TDF exerts a protective effect against CIS-induced reproductive toxicity in males, through different mechanisms, besides its inhibitory action to PDE5, possibly mediated by the upregulation of Nrf2/HO-1, along with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. Hence, the use of TDF represents a promising therapeutic approach to protect the male reproductive system from the harmful toxic effects of CIS.

Mechanistic perspective of protective effects of nilotinib against cisplatin-induced testicular injury in rats: Role of JNK/caspase-3 signaling inhibition

Cisplatin is an effective anticancer used widely in treatment of solid and germ cell tumors, however, the immense toxicity on healthy tissues discourages cisplatin use in prolonged treatment protocols. Testicular toxicity is amongst its undesired adverse effects. Nilotinib is a second generation multityrosine kinase inhibitor which is used as an anticancer agent with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In the present study, a single dose of cisplatin (7 mg/kg, I.P) to rats induced a significant testicular injury. Daily administration of nilotinib (20 mg/kg, orally) 24 h post cisplatin injection for 10 days ameliorated testicular damage. Nilotinib significantly increased serum testosterone and sperm concentration outside frame of oligospermia with simultaneous full recovery of sperm viability. Nevertheless, biomarkers of apoptosis such as JNKs and Caspase -3, were significantly reduced. Moreover, improved antioxidant status of the testes was inferred by significant elevation of GSR, SOD and TAC alongside with reduction in lipid peroxidation biomarkers; MDA and 4-HNE. Flow Cytometry analysis of the cell cycle confirmed a significant increase in the percentage of testicular cells present in G2/M phase and a significant decrease in the percentage of apoptotic testicular cells after nilotinib administration. Histopathologically, nilotinib preserved testicular architecture showing significant numbers of sperm and spermatids within lumens of seminiferous tubule. Furthermore, nilotinib enhanced testicular expression of Ki67 significantly, providing evidence of testicular regeneration. In conclusion, nilotinib refinement of cisplatin induced testicular toxicity is attributed to enhancing antioxidant capabilities, decreasing apoptotic signals and restoring regenerative capacity of testes suggesting nilotinib to be used in conjunction with cisplatin in treatment protocols to avoid cisplatin induced long term testicular toxicity.

Assessment of the effect of sodium hydrogen sulfide (hydrogen sulfide donor) on cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity in rats

Cisplatin (CIS) is an antineoplastic drug able to produce free radicals that are capable to induce various side effects in different tissues. Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has notable antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects in different systems but its role in male reproductive system is not fully understood. In the present research, the effect of sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) on cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity in male rats was studied. Thirty-two Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into 4 groups. The control group was treated with normal saline by intraperitoneal injection. The NaHS group received NaHS (200 μg/kg/day) intraperitoneally for 15 days. The CIS group received single dose of cisplatin (5 mg/kg) intraperitoneally, while the combination of CIS and NaHS was given to the CIS+ NaHS group. At the end of the study, body and testicular weights, plasma testosterone level, histological and morphometrical alterations, inflammation via IL-1β protein, lipid peroxidation, and activity of antioxidant enzymes (including glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) of testicular tissue were evaluated. CIS injection revealed a significant decrease (p < 0.01) in body and testis weights, plasma testosterone concentration, diameter of seminiferous tubules, germinal epithelium thickness, the number of Sertoli cells, spermatogonia and spermatocyte, Johnsen's testicular score, and testicular antioxidant enzymes, whereas it caused a significant increase (p < 0.01) in lumen diameter of the seminiferous tubules, level of lipid peroxidation, and IL-1β protein expression when compared with the control group. NaHS administration to CIS-treated rats provided marked improvement (p < 0.05) in all biochemical, histological, and morphometrical changes induced by CIS. The beneficial effects of NaHS were mediated, at least partly, by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Lactobacillus plantarum TW1-1 Alleviates Diethylhexylphthalate-Induced Testicular Damage in Mice by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Decreasing Inflammation

Diethylhexylphthalate (DEHP), acting as an endocrine disruptor, disturbed reproductive health. Here, we evaluated the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum TW1-1 (L. plantarum TW1-1) on DEHP-induced testicular damage in adult male mice. Results showed that oral supplementation of L. plantarum TW1-1 significantly increased the serum testosterone concentration, enhanced the semen quality, and attenuated gonad development defects in DEHP-exposed mice. L. plantarum TW1-1 also alleviated DEHP-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses by decreasing the mRNA expression and serum protein concentration of different inflammatory factors [tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6]. Furthermore, L. plantarum TW1-1 significantly reduced DEHP-induced intestinal hyper-permeability and the increase in the serum lipopolysaccharide level. Gut microbiota diversity analysis revealed that L. plantarum TW1-1 shifted the DEHP-disrupted gut microbiota to that of the control mice. At phylum level, L. plantarum TW1-1 reversed DEHP-induced Bacteroidetes increase and Firmicutes decrease, and restored Deferribacteres in DEHP-exposed mice. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that Bacteroidetes, Deferribacteres, and Firmicutes were associated with DEHP-induced testicular damage. In addition, the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (Firm/Bac ratio) significantly decreased from 0.28 (control group) to 0.13 (DEHP-exposed group), which was restored by L. plantarum TW1-1 treatment. Correlation analysis showed that the Firm/Bac ratio was negatively correlated with testicular damage and inflammation. These findings suggest that L. plantarum TW1-1 prevents DEHP-induced testicular damage via modulating gut microbiota and decreasing inflammation.

Candesartan in a rat model of testicular toxicity: New insight on its protective mechanism

IMPACT STATEMENT

Cisplatin is a commonly used drug in the treatment of solid tumors and its application is associated with testicular toxicity. The effect of candesartan in cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity and its fundamental mechanism of action were investigated. Candesartan had certainly repaired the testicular injury and ameliorated both biochemical and histopathological changes. Candesartan mitigated the gonadotoxicity induced by cisplatin via antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic actions.

Sexual dimorphism of acute doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity in C57Bl/6 mice

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapeutic agent that has been reported to cause nephrotoxicity in rodent models and to a lesser degree in cancer patients. Female rodents have been shown to be protected against several features of DOX-induced nephrotoxicity. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms of this sexual dimorphism are not fully elucidated. Therefore, in the current study, we investigated the sex and time-dependent changes in pathological lesions as well as apoptotic and fibrotic markers in response to acute DOX-induced nephrotoxicity. We also determined the effect of acute DOX treatment on the renal expression of the sexually dimorphic enzyme, soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), since inhibition of sEH has been shown to protect against DOX-induced nephrotoxicity. Acute DOX-induced nephrotoxicity was induced by a single intra-peritoneal injection of 20 mg/kg DOX to male and female adult C57Bl/6 mice. The kidneys were isolated 1, 3 and 6 days after DOX administration. Histopathology assessment, gene expression of the apoptotic marker, BAX, protein expression of the fibrotic marker, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and gene and protein expression of sEH were assessed. DOX administration caused more severe pathological lesions as well as higher induction of the apoptotic and fibrotic markers in kidneys of male than in female mice. Intriguingly, DOX inhibited sEH protein expression in kidneys of male mice sacrificed at 3 and 6 days following administration, suggesting that induction of sEH is not necessary for acute DOX-induced nephrotoxicity. However, DOX-induced inhibition of renal sEH in male mice may protect the kidney from further DOX-induced injury in a negative feedback mechanism. We also observed lower constitutive expressions of TGF-β and sEH in the kidney of female mice which may contribute, at least in part, to sexual dimorphism of DOX-induced nephrotoxicity.

Protective Effect of All-Trans Retinoic Acid in Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Damage in Rats

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) in cisplatin (CP)-induced testicular damage in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: Control, ATRA alone, ATRA+CP, and CP alone. Body weight, testicular weight, sperm count, sperm motility, percentage of abnormal sperm, total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI) in testicular tissue, and testicular histopathology were compared among groups.

RESULTS

The sperm count and motility significantly decreased and the percentage of abnormal sperm significantly increased in the CP group compared to the control and ATRA groups. CP+ATRA administration significantly increased the sperm count and motility, but reduced the abnormal sperm count. CP administration significantly increased TOS and OSI compared to the control group and the other groups. Administering CP+ATRA significantly decreased TOS and the OSI in testicular tissue and reduced spermatogenesis, but increased the Johnsen score.

CONCLUSIONS

The destructive effects of CP treatment on testicular tissue and spermatogenesis were reduced by administering ATRA.

Lactobacillus plantarum TW1-1 Alleviates Diethylhexylphthalate-Induced Testicular Damage in Mice by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Decreasing Inflammation

Diethylhexylphthalate (DEHP), acting as an endocrine disruptor, disturbed reproductive health. Here, we evaluated the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum TW1-1 (L. plantarum TW1-1) on DEHP-induced testicular damage in adult male mice. Results showed that oral supplementation of L. plantarum TW1-1 significantly increased the serum testosterone concentration, enhanced the semen quality, and attenuated gonad development defects in DEHP-exposed mice. L. plantarum TW1-1 also alleviated DEHP-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses by decreasing the mRNA expression and serum protein concentration of different inflammatory factors [tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6]. Furthermore, L. plantarum TW1-1 significantly reduced DEHP-induced intestinal hyper-permeability and the increase in the serum lipopolysaccharide level. Gut microbiota diversity analysis revealed that L. plantarum TW1-1 shifted the DEHP-disrupted gut microbiota to that of the control mice. At phylum level, L. plantarum TW1-1 reversed DEHP-induced Bacteroidetes increase and Firmicutes decrease, and restored Deferribacteres in DEHP-exposed mice. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that Bacteroidetes, Deferribacteres, and Firmicutes were associated with DEHP-induced testicular damage. In addition, the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes (Firm/Bac ratio) significantly decreased from 0.28 (control group) to 0.13 (DEHP-exposed group), which was restored by L. plantarum TW1-1 treatment. Correlation analysis showed that the Firm/Bac ratio was negatively correlated with testicular damage and inflammation. These findings suggest that L. plantarum TW1-1 prevents DEHP-induced testicular damage via modulating gut microbiota and decreasing inflammation.

The role of mesenchymal stem cells in chemotherapy-induced gonadotoxicity

Background

The therapeutic potential of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity has been reported, however, its efficacy in gonadotoxicity still has not been addressed. Herein, we investigated the effect of BM-MSCs in cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity and its underlying mechanism of action.

Methods

Thirty male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into a control group: injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) intraperitoneal (ip), a cisplatin group: injected with a single dose of 7 mg/kg cisplatin ip to induce gonadotoxicity and a BM-MSCs group: received cisplatin ip followed by BM-MSCs injection 1 day after cisplatin. In testicular tissues, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were assessed. Additionally, gene expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), caspase-3, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were measured. The testicular tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) protein contents and Bcl-2 associated X protein (BAX) expression were determined. Histopathology of testicular tissues was examined.

Results

Cisplatin injection showed a significant decrease in GSH and SOD testicular levels besides a significant increase of MDA and TNF-α testicular levels and upregulation of testicular gene expressions of iNOS, caspase-3, and p38-MAPK in comparison to the control group. Moreover, a marked increase in BAX protein expression was observed in the cisplatin group when compared with the control one. Histopathological examination exhibited significant seminiferous tubules atrophy in cisplatin-treated rats.

Conclusions

The BM-MSCs injection significantly repaired the testicular injury and improved both biochemical and histopathological changes. The MSCs mitigated the gonadotoxicity induced by cisplatin through antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic mechanisms.

Summer savory (Satureja hortensis L.) extract: Phytochemical profile and modulation of cisplatin-induced liver, renal and testicular toxicity

The aim of our study was to examine the potential ameliorating effect of the methanolic extract of Satureja hortensis L. (summer savory) aerial parts against cisplatin-induced oxidative damage in renal, hepatic, and testicular tissues. S. hortensis methanol extract at the doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of body weight were orally administered to Wistar rats once daily for 10 days. Toxicity was induced by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg of body weight) on the 5th day of the experiment. Applied treatment with S. hortensis extract restored tissue morphology, ameliorated levels of serum parameters for liver, renal and testes function, tissue oxidative stress parameters, and increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio as an indicator of apoptosis in experimental animals caused by application of cisplatin. UHPLC/DAD/HESI-MS/MS analysis revealed that S. hortensis extract was rich in phenolic compounds with rosmarinic acid (24.9 mg/g) as the main compound, followed by caffeic acid (1.28 mg/g) and naringenin (1.06 mg/g). Our findings suggest that S. hortensis may be a valuable source of dietary and pharmacologically important phenolic compounds, especially rosmarinic acid, in pharmaceutical and functional food formulations in order to maintain normal health conditions or as a remedy in various diseases caused by oxidative damage.

Evaluation of the Protective Effect of Olive Leaf Extract on Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Damage in Rats

In the present investigation, the effect of olive leaf extract (OLE) on testicular damage induced in rats by an intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (CDDP)) at a dose of 5 mg/kg was tested. Rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: control, CDDP, OLE, and OLE + CDDP. After 5 days of CDDP treatment, body and testicular weights, histopathological alteration, and serum male sex hormone levels were determined. In addition to the biochemical and immunohistochemical changes in the testes, CDDP caused the disorganization of germinal epithelium and apoptosis by inducing Bax and inhibiting Bcl-2 protein expression. Testicular weights, catalase, serum testosterone, testicular enzymatic (including glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase) along with nonenzymatic (glutathione) antioxidants, and levels of luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones were significantly reduced in addition to a significant increase in testicular malondialdehyde and nitrite/nitrate levels when compared with the control group. OLE treatment markedly attenuated both biochemical and histopathological changes. The reproductive beneficial effects of OLE were mediated, at least partly, by inducing the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) pathway.

Molecular mechanisms of tributyltin-induced alterations in cholesterol homeostasis and steroidogenesis in hamster testis: In vivo and in vitro studies

Tributyltins (TBT) are ubiquitous and persistent environmental contaminants that disturb normal endocrine function including gonadal function in humans and marine organisms. TBT was administered through oral route to male Syrian hamsters at daily doses of 50, 100, and 150 ppm/kg for 65 days. Changes in testis morphology, immunohistochemistry of iNOS, 3β-HSD, and 17β-HSD, cholesterol transport receptor, nuclear receptors, and transcription factors were analyzed. TBT treatment affected each of these parameters to significant levels in a dose-dependent manner compared to vehicle treated control. Real-time PCR and protein analyses revealed that expression levels of ApoE and LDL-R mRNA were up-regulated in the testis of TBT-treated animals while the expression levels of SR-B1, LXR, PPARs α, β, and γ, SCAP, SREBP 1 and 2, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, CYP17A1, and P450_SCC were down-regulated. Leydig cells were isolated and separated adopting percoll gradient centrifugation under aseptic condition. The viability of Leydig cell was affected by TBT treatment in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Further, the mechanism of action of TBT was ascertained by siRNA transfection of ApoE, which was upregulated, and SREBP, which was down-regulated. These observations led us to infer that exposure to TBT hinders intracellular cholesterol transport resulting in abnormal sex steroid biosynthesis and alteration of steroidogenic enzyme activities. Finally, we could recognize ApoE and SREBP as the major factors regulating genes that control cholesterol biosynthesis and steroidogenesis that ultimately inhibit the synthesis of testosterone. Therefore, ApoE is one of the important molecular targets that can be intercepted in context of male infertility/male contraception.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate counters cisplatin toxicity of rat testes

CONTEXT

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EG), the main active flavonoid in green tea, has well-known anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic activities.

OBJECTIVE

The EG protection against testicular injury induced by cisplatin was studied in Sprague-Dawley rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cisplatin (10 mg/kg, i.p) was given as a single injection to rats. EG was given at 40 and 80 mg/kg/day, i.p., for 5 days, starting the same day of cisplatin insult. Serum testosterone, and testicular malondialdehyde, total antioxidant status, nitric oxide, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, cytochrome C, Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and caspase-3 were measured. In addition, testicular histopathological examination and immunohistochemical expression of testicular tumour necrosis factor-α were evaluated.

RESULTS

Cisplatin, compared to the control, significantly decreased serum testosterone (6.48 ± 0.7 vs. 50.8 ± 4.91 ng/10 mL), and testicular tissue antioxidant status (17.3 ± 1.21 vs. 64.12 ± 5.4 μmol/g), and significantly increased interleukin-6 (85.81 ± 6.11 vs. 38.2 ± 2.79 pg/100 mg), interleukin-1β (98.09 ± 8.31 vs. 32.52 ± 2.08 pg/100 mg), malondialdehyde (74.5 ± 5.88 vs. 23.8 ± 1.91 nmol/g), nitric oxide (104.98 ± 8.5 vs. 52.68 ± 5.12 nmol/100 mg), cytochrome C (5.97 ± 0.33 vs. 1.6 ± 0.99 ng/mg protein), Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (4.01 ± 0.38 vs. 0.71 ± 0.0), and caspase-3 (3.2 ± 0.21 vs. 0.98 ± 0.08 O.D. 405 nm) in rat testes. EG (40 and 80 mg/kg, respectively) caused significant increases of serum testosterone (33.9 ± 2.89 and 47.88 ± 4.4 ng/10 mL), and testicular antioxidant status (47.1 ± 3.92 and 58.22 ± 3.58 μmol/g), and significant decreases of interleukin-6 (57.39 ± 4.2 and 48.18 ± 3.98 pg/100 mg), interleukin-1β (65.12 ± 5.88 and 41.96 ± 3.51 pg/100 mg), malondialdehyde (42.3 ± 3.9 and 28.67 ± 2.49 nmol/g), nitric oxide (70.6 ± 6.79 and 61.31 ± 5.18 nmol/100 mg), cytochrome C (3.4 ± 0.27 and 2.21 ± 0.18 ng/mg protein), Bax/Bcl-2 ratio (1.49 ± 0.14 and 1.1 ± 0.09), and caspase-3 (2.1 ± 0.17 and 1.48 ± 0.13 O.D. 405 nm) in testes of cisplatin-treated rats. Additionally, both doses of EG significantly ameliorated the histopathological injury and reduced tumour necrosis factor-α expression in rat testes.

CONCLUSION

EG can afford testicular protection in cisplatin-challenged rats by its antioxidant, antinitrative, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects.

Nutlin-3 treatment spares cisplatin-induced inhibition of bone healing while maintaining osteosarcoma toxicity

The majority of Osteosarcoma (OS) patients are treated with a combination of chemotherapy, resection, and limb salvage protocols. These protocols include distraction osteogenesis (DO), which is characterized by direct new bone formation. Cisplatin (CDP) is extensively used for OS chemotherapy and recent studies, using a mouse DO model, have demonstrated that CDP has profound negative effects on bone repair. Recent oncological therapeutic strategies are based on the use of standard cytotoxic drugs plus an assortment of biologic agents. Here we demonstrate that the previously reported CDP-associated inhibition of bone repair can be modulated by the administration of a small molecule p53 inducer (nutlin-3). The effects of nutlin-3 on CDP osteotoxicity were studied using both pre- and post-operative treatment models. In both cases the addition of nutlin-3, bracketing CDP exposure, demonstrated robust and significant bone sparing activity (p < 0.01-0.001). In addition the combination of nutlin-3 and CDP induced equivalent OS tumor killing in a xenograft model. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the induction of p53 peri-operatively protects bone healing from the toxic effects of CDP, while maintaining OS toxicity. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1716-1724, 2016.