Protective Effect of Selenium on Aflatoxin B1-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Mice

Bacillus licheniformis ameliorates Aflatoxin B1-induced testicular damage by improving the gut-metabolism-testis axis

Global aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) contamination is inevitable, and it can significantly damage testicular development. However, the current mechanism is confusing. Here, by integrating the transcriptome, microbiome, and serum metabolome, we comprehensively explain the impact of AFB1 on testis from the gut-metabolism-testis axis. Transcriptome analysis suggested that AFB1 exposure directly causes abnormalities in testicular inflammation-related signalling, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) pathway, and proliferation-related signalling pathways, such as phosphatidylinositide 3-kinases-protein kinase B (PI3K-AKT) pathway, which was verified by immunofluorescence. On the other hand, we found that upregulated inflammatory factors in the intestine after AFB1 exposure were associated with intestinal microbial dysbiosis, especially the enrichment of Bacilli, and enrichment analysis showed that this may be related to NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3)-mediated NOD-like receptor signalling. Also, AFB1 exposure caused blood metabolic disturbances, manifested as decreased hormone levels and increased oxidative stress. Significantly, B. licheniformis has remarkable AFB1 degradation efficiency (> 90%). B. licheniformis treatment is effective in attenuating gut-testis axis damage caused by AFB1 exposure through the above-mentioned signalling pathways. In conclusion, our findings indicate that AFB1 exposure disrupts testicular development through the gut-metabolism-testis axis, and B. licheniformis can effectively degrade AFB1.

Protective effect of didymin against 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats

PURPOSE

2, 3, 7, 8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is one of the most potent environmental toxicants, which causes oxidative stress and adversely affects the male reproductive system. The current study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative role of didymin (DDM) against TCDD-induced testicular toxicity.

METHODS

Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four equal groups (n=12). (i) Control group, (ii) TCDD-induced group was provided with 10 μg/kg/day of TCDD, (iii) TCDD + DDM group received 10 μg/kg/day of TCDD and 2 mg/kg/day of DDM, and (iv) DDM-treated group was administered with 2 mg/kg/day of DDM. After 56 days of treatment, biochemical, steroidogenic, hormonal, spermatogenic, apoptotic, and histopathological parameters were estimated.

RESULTS

TCDD affected the biochemical profile by reducing the activities of antioxidant enzymes, while increasing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, it decreased the expressions of steroidogenic enzymes, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD), 17β-HSD, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1), and 17α-hydroxylase/17, 20-lyase (CYP17A1), as well as reduced the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and plasma testosterone. Besides, epididymal sperm count, viability, and motility were decreased, while sperm morphological anomalies were increased. Moreover, TCDD altered the apoptotic profile by up-regulating the expressions of Bax and caspase-3, while downregulated the Bcl-2 expression. Additionally, histopathological damages were prompted due to TCDD administration. However, DDM restored all the TCDD-induced damages owing to its antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and androgenic potential.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggested that DDM might play its role as a therapeutic agent against TCDD-prompted testicular toxicity.

Camel milk or silymarin could improve the negative effects that experimentally produced by aflatoxin B1 on rat's male reproductive system

BACKGROUND

Camel milk and silymarin have many different beneficial effects on several animal species. Meanwhile, Aflatoxins are mycotoxins with extraordinary potency that pose major health risks to several animal species. Additionally, it has been documented that aflatoxins harm the reproductive systems of a variety of domestic animals. The present design aimed to investigate the impact of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on rat body weight and reproductive organs and the ameliorative effects of camel milk and silymarin through measured serum testosterone, testes pathology, and gene expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) in the testes. A total of sixty mature male Wister white rats, each weighing an average of 83.67 ± 0.21 g, were used. There were six groups created from the rats. Each division had ten rats. The groups were the control (without any treatment), CM (1 ml of camel milk/kg body weight orally), S (20 mg silymarin/kg b. wt. suspension, orally), A (1.4 mg aflatoxin/kg diet), ACM (aflatoxin plus camel milk), and AS (aflatoxin plus silymarin).

RESULTS

The results indicated the positive effects of camel milk and silymarin on growth, reproductive organs, and gene expression of TNF-α, LHR, and StAR with normal testicular architecture. Also, the negative effect of AFB1 on the rat's body weight and reproductive organs, as indicated by low body weight and testosterone concentration, was confirmed by the results of histopathology and gene expression. However, these negative effects were ameliorated by the ingestion of camel milk and silymarin.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, camel milk and silymarin could mitigate the negative effect of AFB1 on rat body weight and reproductive organs.

Pharmacotherapeutic potential of ginkgetin against polystyrene microplastics-instigated testicular toxicity in rats: A biochemical, spermatological, and histopathological assessment

Polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs) have emerged as a ubiquitous environmental toxicant that affects different organs including testes. Ginkgetin (GNG) is a biflavonoid that shows antioxidant properties. The current research was undertaken to evaluate the ameliorative potential of GNG against PSMPs-instigated testicular damages. Forty-eight albino rats (male) were randomly divided into 4 equal groups: control, PSMPs-treated group (0.01 mgkg-1), GNG + PSMPs-exposed group (25 mgkg-1 + 0.01 mgkg-1), and only GNG-supplemented group (25 mgkg-1). After 56 days of treatment, it was revealed that PSMPs significantly reduced the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione reductase (GSR), while concurrently augmented the levels of lipid peroxidation marker, i.e., malondialdehyde (MDA) along with reactive oxygen species (ROS). Rats administered with PSMPs showed a significant reduction in the spermatogenic indices (sperm count, viability, and motility), HOS coiled tail sperm along with increased sperm structural deformities, i.e., tail, head, and mid-piece. Additionally, PSMPs exposure decreased the levels of testosterone, luteinizing (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH). Besides, administration of PSMPs reduced the steroidogenic enzymes (13β-HSD, StAR, and 17β-HSD) and Bcl-2 expression, while augmented the caspase-3 and Bax expression. PSMPs also elevated the levels of inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and NF-κB) and activity of COX-2 in the testes. Furthermore, PSMPs treatment induced various histopathological damages in the testes of rats. Therefore, findings of the current study suggested that GNG effectively mitigated the PSMPs-induced testicular toxicity owing to its chemoprotective potential possibly through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and androgenic properties.

SeMet alleviates AFB1-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in rabbit kidney by regulating Nrf2//Keap1/NQO1 and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways

The purpose of this study was to explore the protective effect of SeMet on renal injury induced by AFB1 in rabbits and its molecular mechanism. Forty rabbits of 35 days old were randomly divided into control group, AFB1 group (0.3 mg AFB1/kg b.w), 0.2 mg/kg Se + AFB1 group (0.3 mg AFB1/kg b.w + 0.2 mg SeMet/kg feed) and 0.4 mg/kg Se + AFB1 group (0.3 mg AFB1/kg b.w + 0.4 mg SeMet/kg feed). The SeMet treatment group was fed different doses of SeMet diets every day for 21 days. On the 17-21 day, the AFB1 treatment group, the 0.2 mg/kg Se + AFB1 group and the 0.4 mg/kg Se + AFB1 group were administered 0.3 mg AFB1 /kg b.w by gavage (dissolved in 0.5 ml olive oil) respectively. The results showed that AFB1 poisoning resulted in the changes of renal structure, the increase of renal coefficient and serum biochemical indexes, the ascent of ROS and MDA levels, the descent of antioxidant enzyme activity, and the significant down-regulation of Nrf2, HO-1 and NQO1. Besides, AFB1 poisoning increased the number of renal apoptotic cells, rised the levels of PTEN, Bax, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9, and decreased the levels of PI3K, AKT, p-AKT and Bcl-2. In summary, SeMet was added to alleviate the oxidative stress injury and apoptosis of kidney induced by AFB1, and the effect of 0.2 mg/kg Se + AFB1 is better than 0.4 mg/kg Se + AFB1.

Mitigative potential of kaempferide against polyethylene microplastics induced testicular damage by activating Nrf-2/Keap-1 pathway

Polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) are one of the environmental contaminants that instigate oxidative stress (OS) in various organs of the body, including testes. Kaempferide (KFD) is a plant-derived natural flavonol with potential neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate the alleviative effects of KFD against PE-MPs-prompted testicular toxicity in rats. Fourty eight adult male albino rats were randomly distributed into 4 groups: control, PE-MPs-administered (1.5 mgkg-1), PE-MPs (1.5 mgkg-1) + KFD (20 mgkg-1) co-treated and KFD (20 mgkg-1) only treated group. PE-MPs intoxication significantly (P < 0.05) lowered the expression of Nrf-2 and anti-oxidant enzymes, while increasing the expression of Keap-1. The activities of anti-oxidants i.e., catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GSR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), hemeoxygene-1 (HO-1) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were reduced, besides malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents were increased significantly (P < 0.05) following the PE-MPs exposure. Moreover, PE-MPs exposure significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the sperm motility, viability and count, whereas considerably (P < 0.05) increased the dead sperm number and sperm structural anomalies. Furthermore, PE-MPs remarkably (P < 0.05) decreased steroidogenic enzymes and Bcl-2 expression, while increasing the expression of Caspase-3 and Bax. PE-MPs exposure significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone, whereas inflammatory indices were increased. PE-MPs exposure also induced significant histopathological damages in the testes. Nevertheless, KFD supplementation significantly (P < 0.05) abrogated all the damages induced by PE-MPs. The findings of our study demonstrated that KFD could significantly attenuate PE-MPs-instigated OS and testicular toxicity, due to its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, androgenic and anti-apoptotic potential.

Effects of aflatoxin B1 exposure on sperm in rodents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Exposure to aflatoxin B1 can be associated with reproductive toxicity, accompanied by decreased sperm concentration in animal models. The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the correlation between aflatoxin B1 exposure and sperm concentrations of male rodents (both mice and rats). According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, 8 articles were selected to assess in the current meta-analysis. The random effects and pooled analysis indicated that sperm concentration was decreased in mice [MD sperm = -20.79×106/sperm/g testis (95%CI =-1.3 to -50.5)] and in rats [-24.34×106/sperm/g testis (95%CI: -7.60 to -44.35)] after exposure to aflatoxin B1 compared with control groups. A significant heterogeneity was found among studies (for mice I2=99.7%, %, P<0.000 and rats =I2=98.8, P<0.000). The findings of present meta-analysis showed the association between aflatoxin B1 exposure and a decrease in sperm concentration in rodents.

Hyperhomocysteinemia lowers serum testosterone concentration via impairing testosterone production in Leydig cells

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) plays a salient role in male infertility. However, whether HHcy interferes with testosterone production remains inconclusive. Here, we reported a lower serum testosterone level in HHcy mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that genes related to testosterone biosynthesis, together with nuclear receptor subfamily 5 group A member 1 (Nr5a1), a key transcription factor for steroidogenic genes, were downregulated in the Leydig cells (LCs) of HHcy mice. Mechanistically, Hcy lowered trimethylation of histone H3 on lysine 4 (H3K4me3), which was bound on the promoter region of Nr5a1, resulting in downregulation of Nr5a1. Intriguingly, we identified an unknown cell cluster annotated as Macrophage-like Leydig cells (McLCs), expressing both LCs and macrophages markers. In HHcy mice, McLCs were shifted toward pro-inflammatory phenotype and thus promoted inflammatory response in LC. Betaine supplementation rescued the downregulation of NR5A1 and restored the serum testosterone level in HHcy mice. Overall, our study highlights an etiological role of HHcy in LCs dysfunction.

Evaluation of possible attenuative role of chrysoeriol against polyethylene microplastics instigated testicular damage: A biochemical, spermatogenic and histological study

The current study was designed to evaluate the protective role of chrysoeriol against polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP) induced testicular damage. Forty eight male rats were distributed into 4 equal groups: vehicle control, PE-MP administrated, PE-MP + chrysoeriol co-administrated and only chrysoeriol supplemented group. The administration of PE-MP significantly reduced the activities of anti-oxidant enzymes, i.e., glutathione peroxidase, catalase, glutathione reductase and superoxide dismutase, whereas the levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde were increased. PE-MP exposure increased the levels of inflammatory markers (TNF-α, 1L-1β, NF-κβ, IL-6 & COX-2). Additionally, a considerable increase was observed in dead sperms number, abnormality of sperms (tail, midpiece and head), while a potential decrease was noticed in sperm motility in PE-MP treated rats. The expressions of steroidogenic enzymes were also decreased in PE-MP administrated group. The levels of plasma testosterone, luteinizing & follicle stimulating hormone were decreased in PE-MP treated group. Moreover, Bax and Caspase-3 expressions were increased, whereas Bcl-2 expressions were reduced. Furthermore, histopathological analysis showed that PE-MP exposure considerably damaged the testicular tissues. However, chrysoeriol supplementation potentially decreased all the adverse effects induced by PE-MP. Taken together, our findings indicate that chrysoeriol holds significant potential to avert PE-MP-induced testicular damage due to its androgenic, anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory nature.

Aflatoxin B1-induced dysfunction in male rats' reproductive indices were abated by Sorghum bicolor (L.Moench) hydrophobic fraction

The burden of infertility distresses millions of families worldwide. The harmful effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on the reproductive system involve oxidative stress, culminating in inflammation and cellular apoptosis. The phytochemical in Sorghum bicolor is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory activities. The effect of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench (SBE-HP) extract -hydrophobic fraction- enriched in Apigenin (API) was investigated in rats chronically dosed with AFB1 and the likely mechanism (s) of SBE-HP to protect against AFB1-induced reproductive toxicity. Adult Wistar male rats (twenty-four) were selected randomly and allocated into four groups. Cohort 1 was administered 0.05 % carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC); cohort 2 received AFB1 (50 µg/kg) alone; while cohorts 3 and 4 received 5 & 10 mg/kg of (SBE-HP) respectively, along with 50 µg/kg of AFB1. After 28 days, AFB1 induced remarkable reproductive toxicity as evidenced by increased sperm abnormalities, lowered sperm quality and motility, altered serum hormonal levels and testicular enzyme activities, decreased anti-oxidants, increased pro-oxidants, apoptotic and inflammatory biomarkers, as well as altered histoarchitectural structure of the testis, epididymis, and hypothalamus of rats. API-enriched extract of S. bicolor reduced AFB1-induced oxidative, inflammatory, apoptotic, and histological derangement by improving sperm function parameters, testicular enzymes, and reproductive hormones. Anti-oxidant levels and anti-inflammatory mediators were increased while decreases in the activities and levels of pro-oxidants, pro-inflammatory molecules and caspase-9 occurred in the rats' testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus. API-enriched S. bicolor protected the testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus of male rats exposed to AFB1 by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Aflatoxin B1 disrupts testicular development via the cell cycle-related Ras/PI3K/Akt signaling in mice and pig

Aflatoxins B1 (AFB1), a type I carcinogen widely present in the environment, not only poses a danger to animal husbandry, but also poses a potential threat to human reproductive health, but its mechanism is still unclear. To address this question, multi-omics were performed on porcine Sertoli cells and mice testis. The data suggest that AFB1 induced testicular damage manifested as decreased expression of GJA1, ZO1 and OCCLUDIN in mice (p < 0.01) and inhibition of porcine Sertoli cell proliferation. Transcriptomic analysis suggested changes in noncoding RNA expression profiles that affect the cell cycle-related Ras/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway after AFB1 exposure both in mice and pigs. Specifically, AFB1 caused abnormal cell cycle of testis with the characterization of decreased expressions of CCNA1, CCNB1 and CDK1 (p < 0.01). Flow cytometry revealed that the G2/M phase was significantly increased after AFB1 exposure. Meanwhile, AFB1 downregulated the expressions of Ras, PI3K and AKT both in porcine Sertoli cell (p < 0.01) and mice testis (p < 0.01). Metabolome analysis verified the alterations in the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway (p < 0.05). Moreover, the joint analysis of metabolome and microbiome found that the changes of metabolites were correlated with the expression of flora. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that AFB1 impairs testicular development via the cell cycle-related Ras/PI3K/Akt signaling.

Eriodictyol attenuates Furan induced testicular toxicity in Rats: Role of oxidative stress, steroidogenic enzymes and apoptosis

Furan (C₄H₄O) is a naturally occurring organic compound. It develops as a result of the thermal processing of food and stimulates critical impairments in male reproductive tract. Eriodictyol (Etyol) is a natural dietary flavonoid possessing diverse pharmacological potentials. The recent investigation was proposed to ascertain the ameliorative potential of eriodictyol against furan-instigated reproductive dysfunctions. Male rats (n = 48) were classified into 4 groups: untreated/control, furan (10 mg/kg), furan+ eriodictyol (10 mg/kg + 20 mg/kg) and eriodictyol (20 mg/kg). At the 56th day of the trial, the protective effects of eriodictyol were evaluated by assessing various parameters. Results of the study revealed that eriodictyol attenuated furan-induced testicular toxicity in the biochemical profile by increasing catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) along with glutathione reductase (GSR) activities, whereas reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) along with malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. It also restored the normal state of sperm motility, viability, the count of hypo-osmotic tail swelled sperm as well as epididymal sperm number along with reduced sperm anomalies (morphological) tail, mid-piece and head. Furthermore, it elevated the decreased levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), plasma testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) as well steroidogenic enzymes (17β-HSD, StAR protein & 3β-HSD) and testicular anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2) expression, whereas, down-regulating apoptotic markers (Bax & Caspase-3) expression. Eriodictyol treatment also effectively mitigated the histopathological damages. The outcomes of the current study provide fundamental insights into the ameliorative potential of eriodictyol against furan-instigated testicular toxicity.

Therapeutic effect of gossypetin against paraquat-induced testicular damage in male rats: a histological and biochemical study

Paraquat (PQ) is an organic compound, which is commonly used as a herbicide in the agriculture sector, and it is also known to stimulate critical damages in the male reproductive system. Gossypetin (GPTN) is one of important members of the flavonoid family, which is an essential compound in flowers and calyx of Hibiscus sabdariffa with potential pharmacological properties. The current investigation was aimed to examine the ameliorative potential of GPTN against PQ-instigated testicular damages. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 48) were distributed into four groups: control, PQ (5 mg/kg), PQ + GPTN (5 mg/kg + 30 mg/kg respectively), and GPTN (30 mg/kg). After 56 days of treatment, biochemical, spermatogenic indices, hormonal, steroidogenic, pro-or-anti-apoptotic, and histopathological parameters were estimated. PQ exposure disturbed the biochemical profile by reducing the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GSR), while it increased the concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Furthermore, PQ exposure decreased the sperm motility, viability, number of hypo-osmotic tail swelled spermatozoa, and epididymal sperm count; additionally, it increased sperm morphological (head mid-piece and tail) abnormalities. Moreover, PQ lessened the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and plasma testosterone levels. Besides, PQ-intoxication downregulated the gene expression of steroidogenic enzymes (StAR, 3β-HSD, and 17β-HSD) and anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2), whereas upregulated the gene expression of apoptotic markers (Bax and Caspase-3). PQ exposure led to histopathological damages in testicular tissues as well. Nonetheless, GPTN inverted all the illustrated impairments in testes. Taken together, GPTN could potently ameliorate PQ-induced reproductive dysfunctions due to its antioxidant, androgenic, and anti-apoptotic potential.

Pinostrobin alleviates testicular and spermatological damage induced by polystyrene microplastics in adult albino rats

BACKGROUND

Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) have become major environmental pollutants that adversely effects multiple organs specifically testicles. Pinostrobin (PN) is an important flavonoid which, shows several pharmacological potentials.

PURPOSE

The current study was designed to elucidate the mitigative effects of PN against PS-MPs induced testicular toxicities in rats.

METHODS

48 male albino rats were randomly distributed into 4 groups, control, PS-MPs group (0.01 mg/kg), PS-MPs + PN group (0.01 mg/kg of PS-MPs; 40 mg/kg of PN) and PN group (40 mg/kg).

RESULTS

PS-MPs intoxication substantially lessened the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GSR), superoxide dismutase (SOD) along with catalase (CAT) while, raised the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additionally, PS-MPs reduced luteinizing hormone (LH), plasma testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration, sperm motility, sperm count, expression of steroidogenic enzymes and Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic protein) along with the count of spermatogenic cells. While, dead sperm count, sperm abnormalities (tail, neck and head), Bax and caspase-3 (apoptotic proteins) expression along with histopathological anomalies were elevated. Moreover, PS-MPs exposure increased the level of inflammatory markers. However, PN treatment considerably decreased oxidative stress (OS) by reducing ROS as well as increased sperm motility and alleviated all the damages induced by the PS-MPs.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, it is concluded that PN may prove a potential therapeutic candidate to restore all the PS-MPs-induced testicular toxicities.

Rhamnetin alleviates polystyrene microplastics-induced testicular damage by restoring biochemical, steroidogenic, hormonal, apoptotic, inflammatory, spermatogenic and histological profile in male albino rats

The current research was performed to evaluate the ameliorative effects of Rhamnetin (RHM) on polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs)-instigated testicular dysfunction in male albino rats. 48 albino rats were distributed in four groups, i.e., control, PS-MPs treated, PS-MPs + RHM co-treated and RHM only supplemented group. PS-MPs exposure considerably reduced anti-oxidant enzymes i.e., catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSR), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione reductase (GPx) activities. Whereas, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level along with malondialdehyde (MDA) was considerably escalated in PS-MPs treated rats as well as a potential decline was observed in sperm progressive motility. Additionally, a substantial upsurge was noticed in the count of dead sperms, deformity in the tail, mid-piece and head of sperms in PS-MPs treated rats. PS-MPs exposure also decreased steroidogenic enzymes, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) expressions. Moreover, the levels of inflammatory indices i.e., Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity were also increased in PS-MPs administrated group. Besides it increased the expression of apoptotic markers (Bax and caspase-3) expression. Whereas, anti-apoptotic marker i.e., Bcl-2 expression was reduced. Moreover, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) as well as plasma testosterone levels were also decreased. PS-MPs exposure also led to a substantial histopathological damage in testicular tissues. However, RHM supplementation potentially reduced the damaging effects of PS-MPs in the reproductive tissues of male albino rats. Thus, the current study revealed, RHM possesses potential to prevent PS-MPs-induced testicular damage due to its anti-oxidant anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory as well as androgenic properties.

Rhamnazin ameliorates 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-evoked testicular toxicity by restoring biochemical, spermatogenic and histological profile in male albino rats

2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a potential environmental toxin that has the ability to affect male reproductive tract. Rhamnazin is a naturally present flavone that displays multiple medicinal properties. Therefore, the current study was designed to determine the mitigative role of rhamnazin against TCDD induced reproductive damage. 48 adult male albino rats were randomly separated into four groups: control, TCDD (10 µgkg-1), TCDD + rhamnazin (10 µgkg-1 + 5 mgkg-1 respectively) and rhamnazin (5 mgkg-1). The trial was conducted for 56 days. TCDD intoxication notably affected superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GSR) and catalase (CAT) activities, besides reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were augmented. TCDD administration also lowered sperm motility, viability, sperm number, while it augmented the sperm morphological (tail, neck/midpiece and head) anomalies. Moreover, it decreased the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and plasma testosterone. Moreover, TCDD reduced steroidogenic enzymes i.e., 17-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) as well as B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expressions, but increased the expressions of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and cysteine-aspartic acid protease (Caspase-3). Furthermore, TCDD exposure also induced histopathological anomalies in testicular tissues. However, the supplementation of rhamnazin recovered all the mentioned damages in the testicles. The outcomes revealed that rhamnazin can ameliorate TCDD induced reproductive toxicity due to its anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic and androgenic nature.

Selenium-chitosan alleviates the toxic effects of Zearalenone on antioxidant and immune function in mice

This study assessed the protective effects of selenium-chitosan (SC) against antioxidant and immune function-related damage induced by zearalenone (ZEN) in mice. In total, 150 female mice were allotted to five groups for a 30-day study. Control mice were fed a basal diet. Mice in the ZEN, ZEN-Se1, ZEN-Se2 and ZEN-Se3 groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with same dose of ZEN (2 mg/kg) and different doses of SC, 0.0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 mg/kg, respectively (calculated by selenium). After 30 days, the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity, total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in plasma and liver, as well as Con A-induced splenocyte proliferation, plasma interleukins concentrations and liver interleukin mRNA expression levels were determined. The plasma and liver GSH-Px activities, liver T-AOC levels, Con A-induced splenocyte proliferation, interleukin (IL) contents and mRNA expression levels in the ZEN group were significantly lower than in the control group (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05), whereas plasma and liver MDA contents in the ZEN group were significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). Additionally, plasma and liver GSH-Px activities, liver T-AOC levels, Con A-induced splenocyte proliferation, IL-1β, IL-17A, IL-2 and IL-6 contents and mRNA expression levels in ZEN+Se2 and ZEN+Se3 groups were significantly higher than in the ZEN group (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05), whereas plasma and liver MDA contents in the ZEN+Se2 and ZEN+Se3 groups were significantly lower than in the ZEN group (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). The plasma and liver GSH-Px activities, Con A-induced splenocyte proliferation, IL-1β and IL-6 contents, IL-2 and IL-17A mRNA expression levels in the ZEN+Se1 group were also significantly higher than in the ZEN group (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05), whereas the plasma MDA content in the ZEN+Se1 group was also significantly lower than in the ZEN group (P < 0.01). Thus, SC may alleviate antioxidant function-related damage and immunosuppression induced by ZEN in mice.

Protective and detoxifying effects conferred by selenium against mycotoxins and livestock viruses: A review

Animal feed can easily be infected with molds during production and storage processes, and this can lead to the production of secondary metabolites, such as mycotoxins, which eventually threaten human and animal health. Furthermore, livestock production is also not free from viral infections. Under these conditions, the essential trace element, selenium (Se), can confer various biological benefits to humans and animals, especially due to its anticancer, antiviral, and antioxidant properties, as well as its ability to regulate immune responses. This article reviews the latest literature on the antagonistic effects of Se on mycotoxin toxicity and viral infections in animals. We outlined the systemic toxicity of mycotoxins and the primary mechanisms of mycotoxin-induced toxicity in this analysis. In addition, we pay close attention to how mycotoxins and viral infections in livestock interact. The use of Se supplementation against mycotoxin-induced toxicity and cattle viral infection was the topic of our final discussion. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which is currently causing a health catastrophe, has altered our perspective on health concerns to one that is more holistic and increasingly embraces the One Health Concept, which acknowledges the interdependence of humans, animals, and the environment. In light of this, we have made an effort to present a thorough and wide-ranging background on the protective functions of selenium in successfully reducing mycotoxin toxicity and livestock viral infection. It concluded that mycotoxins could be systemically harmful and pose a severe risk to human and animal health. On the contrary, animal mycotoxins and viral illnesses have a close connection. Last but not least, these findings show that the interaction between Se status and host response to mycotoxins and cattle virus infection is crucial.

Beneficial Effect of Selenium Doped Carbon Quantum Dots Supplementation on the in vitro Development Competence of Ovine Oocytes

Background

After the synthesis of selenium doped carbon quantum dots (Se/CDs) via a step-by-step hydrothermal synthesis method with diphenyl diselenide (DPDSe) as precursor, the beneficial effects of Se/CDs’ supplementation on the in vitro development competence of ovine oocytes were firstly investigated in this study by the assay of maturation rate, cortical granules’ (CGs) dynamics, mitochondrial activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, epigenetic modification, transcript profile, and embryonic development competence.

Results

The results showed that the Se/CDs’ supplementation during the in vitro maturation (IVM) process not only enhanced the maturation rate, CGs’ dynamics, mitochondrial activity and embryonic developmental competence of ovine oocytes, but remarkably decreased the ROS production level of ovine oocytes. In addition, the expression levels of H3K9me3 and H3K27me3 in the ovine oocytes were significantly up-regulated after the Se/CDs’ supplementation, in consistent with the expression levels of 5mC and 5hmC. Moreover, 2994 up-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 846 repressed DEGs were found in the oocytes after the Se/CDs’ supplementation. According to the analyses of Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), these DEGs induced by the Se/CDs’ supplementation were positively related to the progesterone mediated oocyte maturation and mitochondrial functions. And these remarkably up-regulated expression levels of DEGs related to oocyte maturation, mitochondrial function, and epigenetic modification induced by the Se/CDs’ supplementation further confirmed the beneficial effect of Se/CDs’ supplementation on the in vitro development competence of ovine oocytes.

Conclusion

The Se/CDs prepared in our study significantly promoted the in vitro development competence of ovine oocytes, benefiting the extended research about the potential applications of Se/CDs in mammalian breeding technologies.

Whole-Transcriptome Analysis of Non-Coding RNA Alteration in Porcine Alveolar Macrophage Exposed to Aflatoxin B1

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is a type of mycotoxin produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus and is commonly found in cereals, oils and foodstuffs. In order to understand the toxic effects of AFB1 exposure on Porcine alveolar macrophages (3D4/2 cell), the 3D4/2 cells were exposed to 40 μg/mL AFB1 for 24 h in vitro, and several methods were used for analysis. Edu and TUNEL analysis showed that the proliferation of 3D4/2 cells was significantly inhibited and the apoptosis of 3D4/2 cells was significantly induced after AFB1 exposure compared with that of the control group. Whole-transcriptome analysis was performed to reveal the non-coding RNA alteration in 3D4/2 cells after AFB1 exposure. It was found that the expression of cell-cycle-related and apoptosis-related genes was altered after AFB1 exposure, and lncRNAs and miRNAs were also significantly different among the experimental groups. In particular, AFB1 exposure affected the expression of lncRNAs associated with cellular senescence signaling pathways, such as MSTRG.24315 and MSTRG.80767, as well as related genes, Cxcl8 and Gadd45g. In addition, AFB1 exposure affected the expression of miRNAs associated with immune-related genes, such as miR-181a, miR-331-3p and miR-342, as well as immune-related genes Nfkb1 and Rras2. Moreover, the regulation networks between mRNA-miRNAs and mRNA-lncRNAs were confirmed by the results of RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence. In conclusion, our results here demonstrate that AFB1 exposure impaired proliferation of 3D4/2 cells via the non-coding RNA-mediated pathway.

Pachypodol attenuates Perfluorooctane sulphonate-induced testicular damage by reducing oxidative stress

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is an endocrine disruptor chemical (EDC) with potentially adverse effects on the male reproductive system. Pachypodol (5,4'-dihydroxy-3,7,3'-trimethoxyflavone) is a promising flavonoid isolated from Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth that shows a broad range of pharmacological properties. However, the potential curative effects of pachypodol on testicular toxicity are not available until now. Therefore, this research was proposed to examine the efficiency of pachypodol against PFOS-induced testicular toxicity in adult male rats. The experiments were conducted on Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 48), which were equally distributed into four groups: control, PFOS (20 mg/kg), PFOS + Pachypodol (20 mg/kg + 10 mg/kg respectively), and Pachypodol (10 mg/kg). After 56 days of treatment, testes were excised by slaughtering rats, weighed, and stored till further analysis. The estimated parameters include biochemical markers, spermatogenic indices, hormonal and histopathological profiles. PFOS exposure disturbed the biochemical profile by altering the antioxidant/oxidant balance. For instance, it decreased the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GSR) while increasing the concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). PFOS intoxication also led to a notable decline in viability, motility, epididymal sperm count, and the number of HOS coiled-tail sperms, whereas the higher level of abnormality in the head, mid-piece, and tail of sperms were observed. Besides, it lowered luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and plasma testosterone. In addition, PFOS exposure led to histopathological damages in testicles. However, pachypodol treatment potently alleviated all the illustrated impairments in testes. Conclusively, our results demonstrate the promising free-radical scavenging activity of pachypodol, a novel phytochemical, against the PFOS-instigated testicular dysfunctions.

Aflatoxin B1 causes oxidative stress and apoptosis in sheep testes associated with disrupting rumen microbiota

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is an unavoidable environmental pollutant commonly found in feed and foodstuffs. It is the most toxic one of all the aflatoxins, which can cause severe impairment to testicular development and function. Yet, the underlying mechanisms of reproductive toxicity in rams sheep remain inconclusive. The study was designed to explore the effects of AFB1 on sheep testes through rumen-microbiota, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Six-month-old male Dorper rams (n = 6) were orally administrated with 1.0 mg/kg AFB1 (dissolved in 20 mL 4% ethanol) 24 h before the experiment. At the same time, rams in the control group (n = 6) were intragastrically administrated with 20 mL 4% ethanol. It was observed that acute AFB1 poisoning had significant (p < 0.05) toxin residue in the testis and could cause testicular histopathological damage. AFB1 stimulated the secretion of plasma testosterone level through regulating testosterone synthesis-related genes (StAR, 3β-HSD, CYP11A1, and CYP17A1), which are accompanied by the increase of oxidative stress and testicular apoptosis that had a close relationship with the regulation of testosterone secretion. Interestingly, we observed rumen dysbacteriosis and decreased the abundances of Prevotella, Succiniclasticum, CF231, Ruminococcus, and Pseudobutyrivibrio in AFB1-exposed sheep, which were negatively correlated to the testosterone synthesis-related gene levels. Taken together, our findings indicated that AFB1 induced testicular damage and testicular dysfunction, which is related to testicular oxidative stress and apoptosis involved in rumen dysbacteriosis in sheep.

Biomonitoring aflatoxin B1 exposure of residents from the Amazon region: a pilot study

The present study was a pilot study that aimed to evaluate the occurrence of aflatoxins (AF) in the human diets and its presence in human urine as a metabolite (aflatoxin M1; AFM1). Volunteers from the Amazon region were evaluated before and after the consumption of 2 Brazil nuts/day for thirty days. At the end of 30 days (t=30) without the consumption of Brazil nuts, 9 samples (30%) were positive for AFM1. After 30 days (t=30) consuming 2 Brazil nuts per day, there was a reduction to 2 positive samples (7%). Questionnaires were also applied to volunteers, and the foods most often cited as consumed in their normal diet were cereals and bovine milk. However, there was no statistical relationship between these foods and the levels of AFM1 in the urine or in relation to those who already consumed Brazil nuts in culinary preparations or derived products. Despite the reduction of positive samples for AFM1 after 30 days of Brazil nut consumption, we suggest further studies regarding the clinical condition and genetics of individuals from the Amazon region, as well as the nutrient levels of the diet, e.g. for selenium, and which may protect the human body against aflatoxins.

Selenium attenuates venlafaxine hydrochloride-induced testicular damage in mice via modulating oxidative stress and apoptosis

The present study assessed the effect of selenium (Se) supplementation on Venlafaxine hydrochloride (VH)-induced testicular toxicity. Mice were segregated into Group I (C), Group II (0.5 ppm Se), Group III (VH at a dose 60 mg/kg b.w.) and Group IV (Se was given as per Group II, and VH was given as per Group III). After 10 weeks, sperm parameters, histology, sperm cell counts, antioxidants activities, apoptotic proteins and molecular analysis of testicular tissue were evaluated. Group III had significantly lower sperm concentration (from 2.17 ± 0.28 to 1.04 ± 0.22) and sperm motility (from 68.04 ± 5.5 to 21.47 ± 5.21), and showed an extensive vacuolisation in the germinal epithelium, abnormal basement membrane, and reduced germ cell number as compared to Group I. However, selenium supplementation in Group IV substantially increased sperm concentration (1.47 ± 0.48) and motility (33.27 ± 8.66), improved the histoarchitecture and repopulated the germ cells as observed by raised numbers of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, round spermatids and elongated spermatids contrasted to Group III. Group IV also showed a noteworthy decreased ROS, LPO levels, as well as expressions of Bax, caspase-9, and caspase-3 and increased the SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH activities as well the expression of Bcl-2 as compared to Group III. This effect was further supported by FTIR analysis for nucleic acids. Thus, selenium supplementation showed significant protection against VH-induced testicular toxicity.

Aflatoxin B1 disrupts blood-testis barrier integrity by reducing junction protein and promoting apoptosis in mice testes

Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) is an unavoidable food and environmental contaminant, which can lead to disorders in spermatogenesis and its mechanism remains unclear. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is responsible for ensuring normal spermatogenesis in testes. Therefore, we hypothesized that disruption of the BTB was involved in AFB₁-induced spermatogenesis disorders. To confirm our hypothesis, male Kunming mice were orally gavaged AFB₁ (0, 0.375, 0.75, or 1.5 mg/kg) for 30 days. Primarily, we first proved that AFB₁ disrupted the BTB integrity. Then, AFB₁ decreased BTB-related junction protein expression and elevated Sertoli cell apoptosis, which were associated with oxidative stress. Additionally, AFB₁ upregulated the p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK ratio. These results collectively indicated that AFB₁ disrupted the BTB via reducing the expression of BTB-related junction protein and promoting apoptosis in mice testes, which were associated with the oxidative stress-mediated p38 MAPK signaling pathway.

The role of selenium in cell survival and its correlation with protective effects against cardiovascular disease: A literature review

Selenium is a trace element that provides protection against cellular damage and death. Previous research using several types of cells identified anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects for selenium. One of the diseases related to selenium is cardiovascular disease, as low selenium intake has been linked to cardiomyopathy. However, the mechanism of the cardioprotective effects of selenium is not thoroughly understood. Several studies supported the possible effects of selenium on heart cell survival. In this review, we analyzed recent research (2015-2020) on the roles and mechanism of action of selenium in cell survival and its cardioprotective effects. Furthermore, the prevention of apoptosis through both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways is discussed in this review. Signalling pathways that regulate cell survival such as the p-AMPK, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1, nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor-2, AKT/PI3K, and STAT pathways are involved in the protective effects of selenium. In addition, signaling pathways that affect heart cell survival include the AKT and STAT pathways. It also affects autophagy through the PPAR-γ pathway. These findings should facilitate further research on the cardioprotective effects of selenium.

Ameliorative effect of selenium nanoparticles on the structure and function of testis and in vitro embryo development in Aflatoxin B1-exposed male mice

The purpose of the research was to investigate the therapeutic ability of selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) on the aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) toxicity induced in the male reproductive system. For this experiment, the mature male mice were put into four groups. Control (0.5 ml PBS, 60 days; IP, n = 7), Se-NPs (0.5 µg kg^-1  day^-1 for 60 days; IP), AFB1 (4.5 mg kg^-1  day^-1 for 60 days; IP) and AFB1 + Se-NPs (4.5 mg kg^-1  day^-1  + 0.5 µg kg^-1  day^-1 for 60 days; IP). After treatment, the histological structure of testis, serum testosterone level and sperm parameters, including concentration, motility, viability, morphology and DNA fragmentation, were examined. The results demonstrated that the AFB1 destroyed the testicular tissue structure and decreased the sperm concentration, motility, viability and normal morphology significantly. AFB1 also could significantly increase sperm DNA fragmentation and reduce in vitro fertilisation and embryo development compared to the control group (p < .001). Our data show that Se-NPs could inhibit AFB1-induced damage to the testis and improve sperm parameters as well as in vitro fertilisation and embryo production in AFB1 exposed male mice. This study revealed that the administration of Se-NPs could attenuate the testicular injury of AFB1 and improve the male reproductive system function in AFB1 exposed mice.

The Effect of Selenium on CYP450 Isoform Activity and Expression in Pigs

Selenium is an essential nutrient in diets; however, the effects of selenium on enzyme metabolic activation are not currently clear. Cytochromes P450 (CYP450) are major phase I metabolic enzymes involved in the biotransformation of xenobiotics and endogenous compounds to form electrophilic reactive metabolites. To investigate the effect of selenium on CYP450 isoform activity, the Landrace pigs were divided into three groups: the control group (containing Se 0.15 mg/kg), the Se-deficient group (Se 0.03 mg/kg), and the Se-supply group (Se 0.35 mg/kg). After 1 week of administration, a mixed solution (20 mg/kg of dextromethorphan, phenacetin, chlorzoxazone, and 10 mg/kg of testosterone in a CMC-Na solution) was intravenously injected into all pigs. The mixed solution content and pharmacokinetic parameters were assayed by HPLC and DAS, respectively. To investigate the effect of selenium on CYP450 isoform expression, RNA-Seq analysis, Western boltting, and qPCR were used. Results showed that Se-supply group significantly increased the activity and expression of CYP1A2 and CYP2D25, and decreased CYP3A29. Se-deficient group decreased the activity of CYP1A2, CYP2D25, and CYP2E1. These results demonstrated that selenium content affecting the activity or expression of the CYP450 isoform may lead to a food-drug interaction.

Gallic acid enhances reproductive function by modulating oxido-inflammatory and apoptosis mediators in rats exposed to aflatoxin-B1

IMPACT STATEMENT

Infertility resulting from reproductive deficiency can be stressful. Exposure to aflatoxin B1, a dietary mycotoxin prevalent in improperly stored grains, is reported to elicit reproductive insufficiencies and infertility. We, therefore, examined the likely beneficial effect of gallic acid (GA) a phytochemical, recognized to exhibit in vitro and in vivo pharmacological bioactivities against oxidative stress and related inflammatory damages in rats, since AFB1 toxicities are predicated on oxidative epoxide formation, in a bid to proffer new evidence to advance the field of nutriceutical application from plant-derived chemopreventive agents. Our findings will advance the field of chemoprevention by presenting data absent in the literature on GA. Our results demonstrate further evidence for GA conferred protection against AFB1-mediated histological lesions in testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus of treated rats; suppresses oxidative damages, relieved inflammatory and apoptotic responses, restored sperm functional characteristics, and hormonal levels relevant for reproductive integrity and function.

La2O3 Nanoparticles Induce Reproductive Toxicity Mediated by the Nrf-2/ARE Signaling Pathway in Kunming Mice

Purpose

Lanthanum oxide (La₂O₃) nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely used in catalytic and photoelectric applications, but the reproductive toxicity is still unclear. This study evaluated the reproductive toxicity of two different-sized La₂O₃ particles in the testes.

Materials and Methods

Fifty Kunming mice were randomly divided into five groups. Mice were treated with La₂O₃ NPs by repeated intragastric administration for 90 days (control, nano-sized with 5, 10, 50 mg/kg BW and micro-sized with 50 mg/kg BW). Mice in the control group were treated with de-ionised water without La₂O₃ NPs. Sperm parameters, testicular histopathology, TEM assessment, hormone assay and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) pathway were performed and evaluated.

Results

The body weight of mice treated with La₂O₃ NPs or not had no difference; sperm parameters and histological assessment showed that La₂O₃ NPs could induce reproductive toxicity in the testicle. Serum testosterone and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in the NH (nano-sized with 50 mg/kg BW) group were markedly decreased relative to control group, and an increase of luteinizing hormone (LH) in NH group was detected . Additionally, transmission electron microscopy revealed that the ultrastructural abnormalities induced by La₂O₃ NPs were more severe than La₂O₃ MPs in the testes. Furthermore, La₂O₃ NPs treatment inhibited the translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) from the cytoplasm into the nucleus as well as the expression of downstream genes NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase1 (NQO1), hemeoxygenase 1 (HO-1) and (glutathione peroxidase) GSH-Px, thus abrogating Nrf-2-mediated defense mechanisms against oxidative stress.

Conclusions

The results of this study demonstrated that La₂O₃ NPs improved the spermatogenesis defects in mice. La₂O₃ NPs inhibited Nrf-2/ARE signaling pathway that resulted in apoptosis in the mice testes.

Mitochondrial damage are involved in Aflatoxin B1-induced testicular damage and spermatogenesis disorder in mice

Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) is an unavoidable environmental pollutants, which seriously endangers human and animal health. AFB₁ has male reproductive toxicity, yet the underlying mechanisms remain inconclusive. Mitochondra are a kind of crucial organelle for maintaining spermatogenesis in testis. Thus, we hypothesized that AFB₁ can impair mitochondria to aggravate testicular damage and spermatogenesis disorder. To verify this hypothesis, 48 male mice were intragastrically administered with 0, 0.375, 0.75 or 1.5 mg/kg body weight AFB₁ for 30 days, respectively. In this study, we found AFB₁ caused testicular histopathological lesions and spermatogenesis abnormalities, with the elevation of oxidative stress (increased H₂O₂, whereas decreased SOD and GSH). Significant mitochondria structure damage of germ cells and Leydig cells, MMP loss, ATP contents reduction, and inhibited activities of mitochondrial complexes I-IV in mice testis were found in AFB₁ treatment groups. Besides, AFB₁ inhibited mitochondrial biogenesis and mitochondrial dynamics, presenting as the decreased mRNA and protein expressions of PGC-1α, Nrf1, Tfam, Drp1, Fis1, Mfn1 and Opa1. The results revealed that the mitochondrial damage were involved in AFB₁-induced testicular damage and spermatogenesis disorder, providing a considerable direction to clarify potential mechanisms of AFB₁ reproductive toxicity.

Aflatoxin B1 promotes autophagy associated with oxidative stress-related PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in mice testis

Aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) is a hazard environmental pollutants and the most toxic one of all the aflatoxins. AFB₁ can cause a serious impairment to testicular development and spermatogenesis, yet the underlying mechanisms remain inconclusive. Oxidative stress acts as a master mechanism of AFB₁ toxicity, and can promote autophagy. Abnormal autophagy resulted in testicular damage and spermatogenesis disorders. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of AFB₁ on autophagy in mice testis and its potential mechanisms. In this study, male mice were intragastrically administered with 0, 0.375, 0.75 or 1.5 mg/kg body weight AFB₁ for 30 days. We found that AFB₁ induced testicular damage, reduced serum testosterone level and impaired sperm quality accompanied with the elevation of oxidative stress and germ cell apoptosis. Interestingly, we observed increasing numbers of autophagosomes in AFB₁-exposed mice testis. Meanwhile, AFB₁ caused testis abnormal autophagy with the characterization of increased expressions of LC3, Beclin-1, Atg5 and p62. Furthermore, AFB₁ downregulated the expressions of PI3K, p-AKT and p-mTOR in mice testis. Taken together, our data indicated AFB₁ induced testicular damage and promoted autophagy, which were associated with oxidative stress-related PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in mice testis.

T-2 toxin impairs male fertility by disrupting hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis and declining testicular function in mice

T-2 toxin could impair male reproductive function. But, the toxicity mechanism is still unclear. In this study, male Kunming mice were orally administrated with T-2 toxin at the doses of 0, 0.5, 1 or 2 mg/kg body weight for 28 days. The fertility, body weight, reproductive organs volume, daily sperm production (DSP), and sperm malformation rate were detected. The expressions of testosterone (T) biosynthetic enzymes, luteinizing hormone (LH)-receptor, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)-receptor and androgen binding protein (ABP) in testis were detected. The serum hormone level of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), FSH, LH, T and progesterone (P), and the mRNA expression of GnRH, GnRH-receptor, LH and FSH were measured. These results demonstrated that T-2 toxin decreased body weight, reproductive organs volume and DSP, increased sperm malformation rate. T-2 toxin impaired fertility by decreasing the mating index, fertility index, numbers of implantation sites and viable fetuses, and increasing the number of animal with resorptions. Meantime, T-2 suppressed testicular function by inhibiting T biosynthesis and decreasing FSHR, LHR and ABP expression. Furthermore, the serum reproductive hormone contents and key factors expression of hypothalamic-pituitary-testis (HPT) axis were decreased by T-2 toxin. In summary, T-2 toxin impaired the male fertility by disrupting HPT axis and impairing testicular function.

Effects of Selenium-Enriched Yeast Improved Aflatoxin B1-Induced Changes in Growth Performance, Antioxidation Capacity, IL-2 and IFN-γ Contents, and Gene Expression in Mice

Sixty Kunming mice were randomly assigned into three groups. Mice in a control group were fed a basal diet, while mice in AFB1 group and AFB1-Se group were fed the basal diet supplemented with 250 μg/kg AFB1 or the basal diet supplemented with 250 μg/kg AFB1 and 0.2 mg/kg selenium as selenium-enriched yeast, respectively. On day 30 of the experiment, growth performance, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) levels, and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in liver, interleukin-2 (IL-2), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) contents in serum, and cytochrome P3a11 (Cyp3a11), IL-2, IFN-γ, and GSH-Px1 mRNA levels in liver were determined. The results showed that final weights, weight gains, T-AOC levels, GSH-Px1, and IFN-γ mRNA levels in AFB1-Se group and control group were higher or significantly higher than those in AFB1 group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), respectively. Body length gains in AFB1 group were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05), while there was no significant difference between the AFB1-Se and control groups (P > 0.05). IL-2 contents and liver IL-2 mRNA levels in AFB1-Se group were significantly higher than those in the AFB1 group and control group (P < 0.01), and IL-2 contents in the control group were also significantly higher than those in the AFB1 group (P < 0.01). IFN-γ contents in AFB1-Se group and AFB1 group were significantly higher than those in control group (P < 0.01), while IFN-γ contents in AFB1-Se group were significantly lower than those in AFB1 group (P < 0.01). Cyp3a11 mRNA levels in AFB1-Se group and AFB1 group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.01). The results indicated that selenium-enriched yeast could partly reduce the toxicity induced by AFB1 in mice, including improving growth performance, antioxidation capacity, IL-2 and IFN-γ contents, and enhancing IL-2, IFN-γ, and GSH-Px1 mRNA levels.

Protective effects of Ginkgo biloba L. against natural toxins, chemical toxicities, and radiation: A comprehensive review

Nowadays in our developing and industrial world, humans' health or even their life is threatened by exposure to poisons. In this situation, detecting a protective compound could be helpful and interesting. In the present article, we collected and reviewed all studies, which have been conducted so far about the protective effects of Ginkgo biloba L. (GB), one of the most ancient medicinal tree species, against toxicities induced by chemical toxic agents, natural toxins, and also radiation. In overall, investigations showed that GB exerts the antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antigenotoxicity effects in different toxicities. There are also some special mechanisms about its protective effects against some specific toxic agents, such as acetylcholine esterase inhibition in the aluminium neurotoxicity or membrane-bond phosphodiesterase activation in the triethyltin toxicity. Ginkgolide A was the most investigated active ingredient of G. biloba leaf extract as a protective compound against toxicities, which had the similar effects of total extract. A few clinical studies have been conducted in this field, which demonstrated the beneficial effects of GB against toxic agents. However, the promising effects of this valuable herbal extract will practically remain useless without carrying out more clinical studies and proving its effects on human beings.

Role of Selenium and Selenoproteins in Male Reproductive Function: A Review of Past and Present Evidences

Selenium (Se) is an important trace mineral having many essential roles at the cellular and organismal levels in animal and human health. The biological effects of Se are mainly carried out by selenoproteins (encoded by 25 genes in humans and 24 in mice). As an essential component of selenoproteins, Se performs structural and enzymic roles; in the latter context it is well known for its catalytic and antioxidative functions. Studies involving different animal models have added great value to our understanding regarding the potential implications of Se and selenoproteins in mammalian fertility and reproduction. In this review, we highlight the implications of selenoproteins in male fertility and reproduction followed by the characteristic biological functions of Se and selenoproteins associated with overall male reproductive function. It is evident from observations of past studies (both animal and human) that Se is essentially required for spermatogenesis and male fertility, presumably because of its vital role in modulation of antioxidant defense mechanisms and other essential biological pathways and redox sensitive transcription factors. However, bearing in mind the evidences from mainstream literature, it is also advisable to perform more studies focusing on the elucidation of additional roles played by the peculiar and canonical selenoproteins i.e., glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and selenoprotein P (SELENOP) in the male reproductive functions. Nevertheless, search for the elucidation of additional putative mechanisms potentially modulated by other biologically relevant selenoproteins should also be included in the scope of future studies. However, as for the implication of Se in fertility and reproduction in men, though a few clinical trials explore the effects of Se supplementation on male fertility, due to inconsistencies in the recruitment of subjects and heterogeneity of designs, the comparison of such studies is still complicated and less clear. Therefore, further research focused on the roles of Se and selenoproteins is awaited for validating the evidences at hand and outlining any therapeutic schemes intended for improving male fertility. As such, new dimensions could be added to the subject of male fertility and Se supplementation.

Spermatogenesis disorder caused by T-2 toxin is associated with germ cell apoptosis mediated by oxidative stress

T-2 toxin is an unavoidable contaminant in human food, animal feeds, and agricultural products. T-2 toxin has been found to impair male reproductive function. But, few data is available that reveals the reproductive toxicity mechanism. In the study, male Kunming mice were orally administrated with T-2 toxin at the doses of 0, 0.5, 1 or 2 mg/kg body weight for 28 days. The body and reproductive organs weight, the concentration, malformation rate and ultrastructure of sperm in cauda epididymis were detected. Oxidative stress biomarkers and apoptosis were also measured in testes. Histological change of testes was performed by H&E and TUNEL staining. T-2 toxin down-regulated body and reproductive organs (testis, epididymis and seminal vesicle) weight, sperm concentration, increased sperm malformation rate and damaged the ultrastructure of sperm and structure of testes. T-2 toxin treatment increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde content, while, decreased the total anti-oxidation capacity (T-AOC) and the superoxide dismutase activity in testes. T-2 toxin exposure increased the TUNEL-positive germ cells, the activities and mRNA expressions of caspase-3, caspase-8 and caspase-9, the mRNA expression of Bax, and inhibited the Bcl-2 mRNA expression. Furthermore, the expressions of caspase-3, caspase-8 caspase-9 and Bax were positively correlated with ROS level, but negatively correlated with T-AOC in testis. In summary, T-2 toxin caused spermatogenesis disorder associated with the germ cell apoptosis medicated by oxidative stress, impairing the male reproductive function.

Selenium (Na2SeO3) Upregulates Expression of Immune Genes and Blood-Testis Barrier Constituent Proteins of Bovine Sertoli Cell In Vitro

Sertoli cells were isolated from newborn calves and cultured in a medium supplemented with 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 mg/L of sodium selenite to study their immune stimulatory effect, influence on cell's viability, and expression of blood-testis barrier proteins (occludin, connexin-43, zonula occluden, E-cadherin) using quantitative PCR and western blot analyses. Results showed that medium supplemented with 0.50 mg/L of selenium significantly (P < 0.05) promoted cell viability, upregulated toll-like receptor gene (TLR4), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, TGFβ1), and expressions of blood-testis barrier proteins, and modulated expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IFN-γ). Sertoli cells grown in culture medium supplemented with 0.25 mg/L of selenium significantly upregulated TLR4, IL-4, IL-10, TGFβ1, and blood-testis barrier proteins compared to the control group. Sodium selenite supplementation at 0.75 and 1.00 mg/L levels was cytotoxic and temporarily downregulated the expression of blood-testis barrier protein within 24 h after culture; however, commencing from 72 h post culture, increased cell viability and upregulation of expression of blood-testis barrier proteins were observed. In conclusion, the results of this study showed that selenium supplementation in the culture medium up to 0.50 mg/L concentration upregulates immune genes and blood-testis barrier constituent proteins of bovine Sertoli cells.

Encapsulation of cinnamon essential oil in whey protein enhances the protective effect against single or combined sub-chronic toxicity of fumonisin B1 and/or aflatoxin B1 in rats

Fumonisin B₁ (FB₁) and aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) are fungal metabolites that frequently co-occur in foodstuffs and are responsible for mycotoxicosis and several primary cancers. Cinnamon essential oil (CEO) has a spacious range of benefit effects but also has some limitations owing to its strong taste or its interaction with some drugs. This study aimed to use the cinnamon oil emulsion droplets (COED) for the protection against oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity in male Sprague-Dawley rats sub-chronically exposed to FB₁ and/or AFB₁. The composition of CEO was identified using GC-MS then was encapsulated using whey protein as wall material. Male rats were divided into eight groups and treated orally for 8 weeks as follows: control group, AFB₁-trreated group (80 μg/kg b.w), FB₁-treated group (100 mg/kg b.w), FB₁ plus AFB₁-treated group, and the groups treated with COED plus FB₁ and/or AFB₁. Blood and samples of the kidney, liver, and testis were collected for different analysis and histopathological examination. The GC-MS analysis revealed that cinnamaldehyde, α-copaene, trans-cinnamaldehyde, caryophyllene, and delta-cadinene were the main compounds in COE. The average size of COED was 235 ± 1.4 nm and the zeta potential was - 6.24 ± 0.56. Treatment with FB₁ and/or AFB₁ induced significant disturbances in the serum biochemical analysis, oxidative stress parameters, DNA fragmentation, gene expression, and testosterone and severe pathological changes in the tested organs. Moreover, treatment with both mycotoxins induced synergistic toxic effects. COED did not induce toxic effects and could normalize the majority of the tested parameters and improve the histological picture in rats treated with FB₁ and/or AFB₁. It could be concluded that COED induce potential protective effects against the single or combined exposure to FB₁ and AFB₁.