Testicular torsion and reperfusion: evidences for biochemical and molecular alterations

The synergistic activity of fisetin on quercetin improves testicular recover in ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats

This study examines a potential treatment for testicular ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury using fisetin (FIS) and quercetin (QUE) in a rat model. Male rats were divided into five groups: a control group, a torsion/detorsion (T/D) group, and three experimental groups treated with FIS, QUE, or a combination of FIS + QUE. Sperm parameters, oxidative stress markers, histopathological features, RT-PCR analysis of apoptotic and antiapoptotic gene expression, and fertility index were evaluated. The results demonstrated that FIS + QUE, FIS, and QUE significantly improved sperm motility and concentration, leading to a higher fertility index, than the reduced metrics in the T/D group. Additionally, levels of MDA and NO were significantly lowered, while CAT, SOD, GPx, and TAC levels increased in the FIS + QUE, FIS, and QUE groups. Histopathological, RT-PCR and fertility analyses also revealed evidence of apoptosis and testicular damage in the T/D group, shown by significant increases in P53, Bax, and caspase-3, along with marked decreases in AKT, PI3K, and Bcl-2. Treatment with FIS and QUE, particularly in combination, significantly improved outcomes, indicating a strong synergistic effect that helps repair damage and enhance reproductive function after T/D injury.

Protective effects of Euphorbia heterophylla against testicular degeneration in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats in relation to phytochemical profile

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) poses a major risk to human health due to an array of implications, one of which is a detrimental effect on the testicular and reproductive functions. Euphorbia heterophylla is widely recognized for its medicinal properties worldwide.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

The objective of this study was to profile E. heterophylla ethanol extract (EH-EtOH) and elucidate its protective role in oxidative stress, relieving inflammatory action of hyperglycemia-induced testicular degeneration and restoring the normal histological structure with physiological properties of testicular tissue in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DM. High-resolution ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-Orbitrap-MS) analysis was employed to analyze the compounds present in EH-EtOH. The protective effect of EH-EtOH against testicular degeneration in the rat model of DM was evaluated by measuring improvements in blood glucose levels, body weight, testicular inflammation, oxidative damage, testicular microcirculation impairment, and apoptosis of testicular cells induced by STZ. The chemical profiling of EH-EtOH revealed the presence of 52 compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, phloroglucinols, and triterpenes. Notably, this study identified isovitexin-C-hexoside, isorhamnetin-O-hexoside, diosmetin, and halfordin for the first time in Euphorbia species. Treatment with EH-EtOH effectively mitigated the damage caused by STZ, as evidenced by restored testosterone (T4) levels and antioxidant capacity, reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, improved testicular microcirculation, and inhibition of apoptosis in the testes.

CONCLUSIONS

These results emphasize the potential therapeutic effect of E. heterophylla on DM related to male infertility and reproductive dysfunctions via its antioxidant/angiogenetic /anti-apoptotic effect.

Usnic acid alleviates testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats by modulating endoplasmic reticulum stress

Testicular torsion (TT) is a urological condition that can result in infertility in men. The etiopathogenesis of TT includes ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) characterized by oxidative stress (OS), inflammation and apoptosis resulting from increased levels of free radicals. Usnic acid (UA), a dibenzofuran, is one of the most common metabolites found in lichens and is known to possess powerful antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective activity of UA in an experimental testicular IRI model for the first time. A total of 18 rats were randomly assigned to three groups (n=6): sham control, IRI and IRI+UA. The IRI groups underwent a four-hour period of ischemia and a two-hour period of reperfusion. The OS, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and apoptosis markers in testicular tissue were evaluated using colorimetric methods. Furthermore, tissue samples were subjected to histological examination, with staining using hematoxylin and eosin. Histopathological findings supported by increased OS, inflammation, ERS and apoptosis levels were obtained in IRI group compared with sham control group. However, UA treatment restored these pathological and biochemical changes. Although this study provides the first preliminary evidence that UA may be used as a useful molecule against testicular IRI, further extensive molecular preclinical studies should be performed before clinical use is considered.

The navel nanoethosomal formulation of gamma-oryzanol attenuates testicular ischemia/reperfusion damages

Testicular torsion reduces blood flow to testes and induces tissue ischemia. Antioxidant can have pivotal roles in alleviation of the effects of torsion/reperfusion. Gamma-oryzanol (γ-Oryzanol) has several pharmacological properties such as antioxidant and anti-apoptosis that can be used in this way. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of nanoethosomal formulation of gamma-oryzanol (γ-Oryzanol-NEs) on testicular damages in a mouse model of ischemia/reperfusion damage. Following induction of ischemia/reperfusion, the mice were treated with γ-Oryzanol and γ-Oryzanol-NEs (6 mg/kg) in times of 3 h and 6 h. The expression of positive cells of TUNEL, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), heat shock protein-70 (HSP70) and caspase 3 and histopathological parameters were assessed. The results showed higher expression of positive cells of TUNEL, HSP70 and caspase 3 and lower expressions of SOD and GPx in control mice compared with those treated with γ-Oryzanol-NEs (P = 0.001). The treatment with γ-Oryzanol-NEs could decrease pathological damages and the expression of positive cells of TUNEL, HSP70 and caspase 3 and increase the expressions of SOD and GPx. In conclusion, γ-Oryzanol-NEs could have the protective effects on torsion/reperfusion by decreasing apoptosis and increasing antioxidant status in a mouse model.

Protective effect of ligustrazine on oxidative stress and apoptosis following testicular torsion in rats

Testicular torsion is a common urologic emergency and one of the causes of infertility in males. It has been reported that ligustrazine may decrease oxidative stress and reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury. This study aims to investigate the protective effect of ligustrazine in ischemia-reperfusion injury after testicular torsion-detorsion. First, 40 rats were randomly and equally divided into TMP (Ligustrazine) group, the Testicular torsion (T/D) group, the Sham (Sham operation) group, and Control group. The left testis of rats in the TMP and T/D group was rotated for 2 h. The TMP group was intraperitoneally injected with ligustrazine solution and the T/D and the Sham groups were injected with normal saline. The left testes of four groups were obtained for assay on the 4th day after the operation. Average level of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and catalase (CAT) were higher in Sham and Control groups than T/D group and TMP group. Conversely, average level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) was lower in Sham and Control groups than T/D group and TMP group. In contrast with the T/D group, SOD, GPX, and CAT enzymatic activities increased, whereas MDA and ROS content decreased in the TMP group (P < 0.05). Microscopic observation showed that the testicular tissue of the Sham and Control groups were basically normal. The TMP and T/D groups had significant testicular tissue damage, whereas the TMP group had less damage and apoptosis than the T/D group. The apoptotic index of germ cells in the TMP group (13.05 ± 4.41) was lower than the T/D group (30.23 ± 11.31) (P < 0.05) and higher (P < 0.05) than the Sham group (0.56 ± 0.29). So we found that Ligustrazine lowered ischemia-reperfusion injury after testicular torsion-detorsion by decreasing the reactive oxygen species and suppressing apoptosis.

Testicular torsion in vivo models: Mechanisms and treatments

BACKGROUND

Testicular torsion is a condition in which a testis rotates around its longitudinal axis and twists the spermatic cord. This in turn results in a significant decrease in blood flow and perfusion of testicular tissue. During Testicular torsion, the testicular tissue is affected by ischemia, heat stress, hypoxia, and oxidative and nitrosative stress. The testicular torsion should be considered an emergency condition and surgical intervention (testicular detorsion ) as the sole treatment option in viable cases involves counter-rotation on twisted testes associated, when possible, to orchipexy, in order to avoid recurrence. Possible testicular detorsion side-effects occur due to reperfusion and endothelial cells injury, microcirculation disturbances, and intense germ cells loss.

OBJECTIVES

To discuss testicular torsion surgery-based methods, different time frames for testicular torsion induction, and the associated pathophysiology by emphasizing cellular and molecular events as well as different therapeutic agent applications for testicular torsion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We reviewed all original research and epidemiological papers related to testicular torsion condition.

RESULTS

Testicular torsion causes germ cell necrosis, arrested spermatogenesis, and diminished testosterone levels, with consequent infertility. Among different involved pathophysiological impacts, testicular torsion/detorsion-induced ischemia seems to play the key role by leading the tissue toward other series of events in testis. Numerous studies have used adjuvant antioxidants, calcium channel blockers, anti-inflammatory agents, or vasodilating agents in order to decrease these effects.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, no previously conducted study examined therapeutical agents' beneficial effects post clinical I/R condition in humans. Different agents targeting different pathophysiological conditions were used to ameliorate the ischemia/reperfusion-induced condition in animal models, however, none of the administrated agents were tested in human cases. Although considering testicular detorsion surgery is still the golden method to reverse the testicular torsion condition and the surgical approach is undeniable, the evaluated agents with beneficial effects, need to be investigated furthermore in clinical conditions. Thus, furthermore clinical studies and case reports are required to approve the animal models proposed agents' beneficial impacts.

Emodin alleviates testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury through the inhibition of NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is a major cause of injury after testicular torsion and can lead to permanent impairment of spermatogenesis. Emodin (6-methyl-1,3,8-trihydroxyanthraquinone) has potent anti-inflammatory effects and may be protective against IRI in various organs. Herein, we evaluated the effects of emodin on pyroptosis in spermatogenic cells and its role in the process of testicular IRI. A testicular torsion/detorsion (TTD) mouse model and an oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) germ cell model were established. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to evaluate the testicular ischemic injury. The expression of pyroptosis-related proteins and reactive oxygen species production in testis tissues were detected using Western blotting, quantitative real-time PCR, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase assay kits and immunohistochemistry. Cell viability and cytotoxicity were evaluated using Cell Counting Kit-8 and lactate dehydrogenase assay kit. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence and immunoblotting were performed to assess inflammatory protein levels. The results revealed that pyroptosis and inflammation levels were upregulated after testicular IRI, and emodin inhibited inflammation and pyroptosis by acting on NOD-like receptor thermal protein domain-associated protein 3 (NLRP3). Emodin exerts protective effects on testicular IRI by acting on the NLRP3 signaling pathway and inhibiting IRI-mediated pyroptosis. Emodin treatment attenuated testicular IRI and inhibited pyroptosis. Inhibitory effects of emodin on pyroptosis were attributed to the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasomes. Thus, emodin could be an alternative treatment for testicular IRI.

L-Theanine Improves Locomotor Function in a Model of Multiple Sclerosis Mice

This study designed to investigate the protective effects of L-theanine on experimental Multiple sclerosis in mice. Frothy Male C57BL/6 mice were allocated into 4 experimental groups: control no treatment received a regular chew pellet, and the cuprizone (CPZ) group received a standard chew pellet containing 0.2% (w/w) CPZ. In group 3, mice were fed a regular diet and administered p.o. with L-theanine (50mg/kg). In group 4, mice received a diet containing CPZ and were administered p.o. with L-theanine (50mg/kg). Finally, reflexive motor behavior and serum antioxidant levels were determined. Based on findings, CPZ significantly decreased ambulation score, hind-limb suspension, front limb suspension, and grip strength (P<0.05). The CPZ + L-theanine reduced the adverse effect of the CPZ on ambulation score, hind-limb foot angle, surface righting, and negative geotaxis (P<0.05). The CPZ + L-theanine increased front and hind-limb suspension, grip strength, number of the cross, and duration of a stay on the rotarod compared to the control animal (P<0.05). CPZ administration significantly elevated serum malondialdehyde (MDA) while superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels decreased compared to control mice (P<0.05). The CPZ + L-theanine leads to the cessation of MDA production while increasing SOD, GPx, and TAS levels (P<0.05). These results suggested L-theanine has a protective effect against CPZ-induced MS in mice.

Protective effects of curcumin on ischemia/reperfusion injury

Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a term used to describe phenomena connected to the dysfunction of various tissue damage due to reperfusion after ischemic injury. While I/R may result in systemic inflammatory response syndrome or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, there is still a long way to improve therapeutic outcomes. A number of cellular metabolic and ultrastructural alterations occur by prolonged ischemia. Ischemia increases the expression of proinflammatory gene products and bioactive substances within the endothelium, such as cytokines, leukocytes, and adhesion molecules, even as suppressing the expression of other "protective" gene products and substances, such as thrombomodulin and constitutive nitric oxide synthase (e.g., prostacyclin, nitric oxide [NO]). Curcumin is the primary phenolic pigment derived from turmeric, the powdered rhizome of Curcuma longa. Numerous studies have shown that curcumin has strong antiinflammatory and antioxidant characteristics. It also prevents lipid peroxidation and scavenges free radicals like superoxide anion, singlet oxygen, NO, and hydroxyl. In our study, we highlight the mechanisms of protective effects of curcumin against I/R injury in various organs.

Intraoperative evaluation of testicular vascularization and perfusion in rat testicles with indocyanine green (ICG)/near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent imaging after torsion-detorsion and reperfusion

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate testicular perfusion and vascularization with intraoperative ICG/NIR imaging in a testicular ischemia-reperfusion model and to investigate the effects of ICG on testicular tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

24 male rats were divided into four groups. In the ICG group, only ICG was given and images of the testicles were recorded with NIR camera. In the torsion group, the testicles were left in torsion for 4 h. ICG/NIR images were obtained after torsion and detorsion. In the reperfusion group, ICG/NIR images of the testicles were obtained at the 4^th hour of reperfusion. After the procedures, testicles were collected and evaluated with histological, immunohistochemical examination and qRT-PCR.

RESULTS

There was no histologically negative effect of ICG on testicular tissue. There was no testicular perfusion in the torsion group, but perfusion started after detorsion. At the 4th hour of reperfusion, testicular perfusion continued. TNF-a, IL-6, MCP-1 and caspase-3 immunoreactivity were found to be at low levels in the control and ICG groups, while high in the torsion and reperfusion groups (p < 0.05). In qRT-PCR, TNF-a, IL-6, MCP-1 and caspase-3 expressions were lower in the control and ICG groups, but higher in the torsion and reperfusion groups.

CONCLUSION

There was no histologically negative effect of ICG on testicles. The ICG/NIR imaging technique seems to be a feasible method in testicular torsion and may contribute to the surgeon in the intraoperative management of testicular torsion. In testicles that started to be perfused after detorsion, perfusion still continued at the 4th hour of reperfusion. Our next goal is to test whether testicles showing ICG fluorescence in during reperfusion maintain their viability for long term.

Chloroquine attenuates chronic hypoxia-induced testicular damage via suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis in experimental rat model

Chronic hypoxia negatively affects male fertility by causing pathological changes in male reproductive system. However, underlying mechanisms of this damage are unknown. Chloroquine (CLQ) is an anti-inflammatory agent which is widely used in the treatment of inflammation-related diseases such as malaria and rheumatoid arthritis. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of CLQ in the hypoxia-induced testicular damage via assessment of hypoxic response, endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis. For this purpose, 32 Wistar albino rats were divided into 4 groups as Control (given %20-21 O₂ , no treatment), CLQ (given 50 mg/kg and %20-21 O₂ for 28 days), HX (given %10 O₂ for 28 days) and HX + CLQ (given 50 mg/kg and %10 O₂ for 28 days). After experiment, blood samples and testicular tissues were taken. Histopathological evaluation was performed on testicular tissues and HIF1-α, HSP70, HSP90 and GADD153 expression levels were detected via immunohistochemistry. Moreover, apoptotic cells were detected via TUNEL staining and serum testosterone levels were determined by ELISA assay. Histopathological changes, apoptotic cell numbers and HIF1-α, HSP70, HSP90 and GADD153 expressions significantly increased in HX group (p < 0.05). Moreover, serum testosterone levels decreased in this group (p > 0.05). However, CLQ exerted a strong ameliorative effect on all parameters in HX + CLQ group. According to our results, we suggested that CLQ can be considered as an alternative protective agent for eliminating the negative effects of hypoxic conditions on male fertility. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of Some Male and Female Rats’ Reproductive Hormones Following Administration of Aspartame With or Without Vitamin C or E

Aspartame (ASP) is a sugar substitute. Its use rose because it has been demonstrated to have deleterious effects after being metabolized. In the presence of antioxidant vitamins C or E, the effects of ASP on reproductive hormones of adult male and female Albino Wister rats were investigated. A total of eighty male and female rats were used in this study. The rats were divided into four groups: group 1, received no treatment; group 2, received ASP at 40 mg/kg BW; group 3, received ASP at 40 mg/kg BW with vitamin C at 150 mg/kg BW; and group 4, received ASP at 40 mg/kg BW and vitamin E at 100 mg/kg BW. All treatments were given orally by gavage needle once daily for consecutive 90 days. The levels of estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone hormone (TH) were measured after 90 days in blood plasma. In comparison with the control group, ASP treatment resulted in lower levels of E2, FSH, and LH in male and female rats. When the antioxidants vitamin C or E was given, the effects of ASP were reversed, and the levels of E2, LH, and FSH were increased. The testosterone hormone was likewise significantly increased by ASP, but testosterone hormone concentrations were decreased by vitamin C or E treatments. Long-term ASP consumption caused interfering with testicular and ovarian hormonal activity, while vitamins C and E on the other hand, overcome longstanding consumption ASP's effects.

Apoptotic balance during testicular detorsion after one hour induced torsion in rats

Testicular torsion (TT) is an emergency complication that leads to oxidative stress and adversely affects spermatogenesis. Although immediate treatment consists of testicular detorsion (TD) to reverse TT-induced ischemia, mechanisms underlying recovery have yet to be fully understood. The current study aimed to investigate TD effects after a one-hour experimental TT by evaluating testicular antioxidant status and apoptosis-related proteins. Forty male Wistar rats were submitted to TT by testicular rotation, for one hour. Following TT, 32 rats were submitted to TD for 1, 2, 4, and 8 h (N = 8/group), the other 8 rats euthanized as TT-only. For controls, 8 rats were sham-operated. Testicular tissues were aseptically dissected for biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemistry analyses. The TD groups, especially after 4 h of TD, exhibited diminished MDA and increased TAC and GPX levels in testicular tissue. Levels of p53 and Caspase-3 were down-regulated in T1D4 and T1D8 groups versus torsion group. Bcl-2 was increased in T1D4 and T1D8 groups compared to the TT group. Moreover, spermatogenesis was recovered in T1D4 and T1D8 groups compared to the TT group. It can be concluded that after 1 h TT in rats, at least 4 h post-TD is needed for testicular tissue to initiate recovery.

Moderate-Intensity Exercise Training in Association with Insulin Promotes Heat Shock Proteins 70 and 90 Expressions in Testicular Tissue of Experimental Type 1 Diabetes

Objective

The current research was designed to analyze the effect of moderate-intensity exercise training (MEXT), solely and simultaneous with insulin, on the network between oxidative stress and Hsp70 and Hsp90 chaperones after experimental type I diabetes (DM) induction in rats.

Materials and Methods

In the experimental study, 36 mature Wistar rats were assigned into control and experimental type I DM-induced groups, and then the diabetic animals were categorized to sedentary type I DM-induced (SDM), exercise training-sole without DM (E), exercise training DM-induced (EDM), insulin-treated sedentary DM-induced (ISDM), and exercise training insulin-treated DM-induced (EIDM) groups. After 6 weeks, Johnson’s score was evaluated to analyze the spermatogenesis ratio.

Results

The Hsp70 and Hsp90 expression levels, testicular total antioxidant capacity (TAC), protein peroxidation ratio, testicular DNA fragmentation ratio, and mRNA damage were investigated. The animals in EDM and EIDM groups (solely and simultaneously) represented a significant (P<0.05) improvement in Johnson’s score, spermatogenesis, and TAC ratios versus SDM animals. Moreover, the DM-induced DNA and mRNA damage and protein peroxidation ratio were significantly (P<0.05) recovered in EDM and ISDM groups, which was more remarkable in the EIDM group. The EDM and EIDM groups exhibited significant (P<0.05) increment in Hsp70 and Hsp90 expression levels versus the control and SEDT1 animals. However, the EIDM group exhibited no significant changes compared to the control animals.

Conclusion

The EX could ameliorate the EDT1-induced detrimental impact by up-regulating Hsp70 and Hsp90 expressions. Meanwhile, it exerts potentially more effective impact, when it is considered simultaneously with insulin therapy.

Curcumin nano-micelle induced testicular toxicity in healthy rats; evidence for oxidative stress and failed homeostatic response by heat shock proteins 70-2a and 90

This study explores the effect of curcumin nano-micelle (NCMN) on the testicular anti-oxidant status and heat shock proteins (Hsp) 70-2a and Hsp 90 expression. Therefore, 24 male Wistar rats were divided into control, 7.50 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg of NCMN-received groups. Following 48 days, the testicular total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities, immunoreactivity of 8-oxodG, Hsp70-2a and Hsp90 expressions, germ cell's DNA and mRNA damages, the spermatozoa count, motility and DNA integrity were assessed. With no change in the testicular TAC level, the TOS, MDA and GSH contents were increased in the NMC-received groups. However, CAT and GPX activities were decreased. The NCMN suppressed spermatogenesis, increased immunoreactivity of 8-oxodG, stimulated the Hsp70-2a and Hsp90 expressions, and resulted in severe DNA and mRNA damages. Moreover, the NCMN-received animals exhibited remarkable reductions in the spermatozoa count, motility and DNA integrity. In conclusion, chronic and high dose consumption of NCMN initiates OS, and in response to OS, the Hsp70-2a and Hsp90 expression increases. However, considering enhanced DNA and mRNA damages and suppressed spermatogenesis, HSPs over-expression can neither boost the anti-oxidant system nor overcome the NCMN-induced OS-related damages.

Cross-link between mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis and cell cycle checkpoint proteins after experimental torsion and detorsion in rats

The current study assessed the cross-link between mitochondria-related apoptosis and cell cycle machinery systems during ischemia and reperfusion in a rat model of testicular torsion and detorsion. The Wistar male rats were divided into control, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h and 8 h testicular torsion-induced, and 1 h, 2 h, 4 h and 8 h testicular detorsion-induced groups. The Johnson's score was analyzed. The mRNA and protein contents of Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-3, Cyclin D1, Cdk4, P21 and P53 were investigated by sqRT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining, respectively. The apoptosis index was analyzed by TUNEL staining. The mRNA levels of bax, p53, p21 and cyclin D1 were increased, and the mRNA levels of bcl-2 and cdk4 were decreased in torsion and reperfusion-induced groups, time-dependently. The caspase-3 mRNA was increased in torsion-induced and diminished in detorsion-induced groups. A time-dependent reduction in Bcl-2⁺, Caspase-3⁺, Cyclin D1⁺, Cdk4⁺ and P53⁺ and increment in P21⁺ cells distribution per mm² of tissue were revealed after torsion and detorsion. The apoptosis index was increased after torsion and decreased after detorsion. In conclusion, torsion-induced severe DNA damage stimulates the cyclin D1, p53 and p21 mRNA expression while more than 8 h is needed to reveal them as protein content in testicular tissue. About detorsion, decreased Cyclin D1 and Cdk4 proteins and the P53-induced transcriptional effect on p21 expression, stimulates the p21 bind to cdk4 and consequent failure in Cyclin D1/Cdk4 complex formation. This situation in association with apoptotic genes results in spermatogenesis failure.

High-fat diet-induced obesity amplifies HSP70-2a and HSP90 expression in testicular tissue; correlation with proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)

AIMS

Current study was conducted to uncover the effect of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity on heat shock proteins 70-2a and 90 expression levels and to investigate the network between these proteins with PCNA expression, endocrine status of testicular tissue and nucleotide backbone damages.

MAIN METHODS

For this purpose, 20 mature male Wistar rats were divided into two groups of control and HFD-received obese animals (n = 10/group). After 8 weeks from obesity approval, the animals were euthanized. The expression levels of Hsp70-2a, Hsp90 and PCNA were analyzed by qRT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining techniques. The Leydig cell distribution/mm² of interstitial tissue, serum level of testosterone, testicular total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and mRNA and DNA damage were investigated.

KEY FINDINGS

The obese (HFD-received) animals represented a remarkable (p < 0.05) increment in the mRNA levels of hsp70-2a and Hsp90, and the percentages of Hsp70-2a⁺ and Hsp90⁺ cells/seminiferous tubules with the same criteria. The PCNA mRNA level and the percentage of PCNA⁺ cells were decreased in the obese (HFD-received) group. The obesity, significantly decreased testicular TAC and with no effect on the Leydig cell distribution, but by reducing their steroidogenic activity resulted in a remarkable (p < 0.05) reduction in serum testosterone level. Finally, severe mRNA and DNA damage were revealed in the obese (HFD-received) group.

SIGNIFICANCE

Therefore, considering massive testicular DNA damage in the obese (HFD-received) animals, we can conclude that an increased expression of Hsp70-2a and Hsp90 with no harmony with PCNA could not properly maintain the cellular DNA integrity and/or appropriately finalize the DNA repair process.

The effects of pirfenidone on ischaemia-reperfusion injury in testicular torsion-induced rat model

The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of pirfenidone against ischaemia-reperfusion injury occurring after detorsion in rats with induced testicular torsion model. Group 1 was assigned as the control group. Group 2 first had testis torsion performed, and then, testicular detorsion was performed. Group 3 had similar procedures to the rats in Group 2. Rats in Group 3 additionally had 325 mg/kg pirfenidone administered immediately after ischaemia. The blood samples were analysed spectrophotometrically. To determine the intensity of tissue injury, haemorrhage, oedema and congestion levels were evaluated with direct microscopic investigation of testis. Seminiferous tubule architecture, spermatogenesis processes and germ cell maturation were graded by Johnsen and Cosentino scoring systems. In Group 3, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities increased compared with Group 2 (p:.03 and p:.049 respectively). Additionally, the mean malondialdehyde (MDA) value was higher in Group 2 compared with the other groups (p:.001). Histopathological investigation of rats in Group 3 identified positive changes in haemorrhage, oedema and congestion levels compared with Group 2 (p:.031, p:.048, p:.044 respectively). Similarly, Johnsen and Cosentino scores were positively affected in Group 3 (p:.033, p:.032 respectively). Pirfenidone is protective against testicular oxidative damage.

Long-Term Effect of Aspartame on Male Reproductive System: Evidence for Testicular Histomorphometrics, Hsp70-2 Protein Expression and Biochemical Status

Background

Aspartame is one of the most commonly consumed artificial sweeteners that is widely used in foodstuffs. There are many debatable reports about aspartame toxicity in different tissues; however, on the subject of its effects on the reproductive system, few literatures are available. The present study was carried out for evaluating effects of aspartame on the reproductive system in male mice.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, a total of 36 adult male mice were randomly divided into four groups of nine animals each. Three groups received aspartame at doses of 40, 80 and 160 mg/kg (gavage) for 90 days; also, a control group was considered. Twenty-four hours after the last treatment, animals were sacrificed. Then, body and testis weights, sperm parameters, serum testosterone concentration, total antioxidant capacity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px)] activities in blood, histomorphometrical indices and histochemical changes in testis were evaluated; also, mRNA and immunohistochemical expression of Hsp70-2 was measured in testis tissue.

Results

The results revealed remarkable differences in sperm parameters, testosterone and oxidative stress biomarkers levels, and histomorphometrical indices, between the control and treatment groups. Also, in 80 and 160 mg/kg aspartametreated groups, expression of Hsp70-2 was decreased. Besides, in the aspartame receiving groups, some histochemical changes in testicular tissue were observed.

Conclusion

The findings of the present study elucidated that long-term consumption of aspartame resulted in reproductive damages in male mice through induction of oxidative stress.

Testosterone amplifies HSP70-2a, HSP90 and PCNA expression in experimental varicocele condition: Implication for DNA fragmentation

The DNA fragmentation and failure in post-meiotic maturation of the spermatozoa because of testosterone withdrawal can affect the fertilization potential in varicocele (VCL) patients. To find out the exact mechanism of VCL-induced failure in histone-protamine replacement process and DNA fragmentation, the correlations between the levels of expression of HSP70-2a, HSP90, PCNA, TP1/2 and PCNA genes and the patterns of DNA methylation were investigated before and after testosterone administration in rats. In total, 40 mature male Wistar rats (10 in each group) were assigned between control (with no intervention), control-sham (undergone a simple laparotomy), VCL-induced (VCL-sole), and testosterone-treated VCL-induced (VCLT) groups. The HSP70-2a, HSP90, PCNA, TP1, and TP2 genes expressions and the patterns of global DNA methylation were determined in all groups. A statistically significant (p < 0.05) reduction were found in the HSP70-2a, HSP90, PCNA, TP1 and TP2 genes expressions in VCL-sole group. In VCLT group, testosterone was shown to significantly (p < 0.05) up-regulate the HSP70-2a, HSP90, PCNA, and TP2expression levels, but TP1 expression has not been changed. Furthermore, the VCLT group exhibited higher DNA methylation rates compared to VCL-sole animals. In conclusion, testosterone, by up-regulating the HSP70-2a and HSP90 expressions and maintaining the pre-existing HSP70-2a and HSP90 proteins levels, may be the reason for the significant increment in TP2 expression during post-meiotic stage and can boost the global methylation rates of DNA via up-regulating the PCNA expression, suggesting that administration of testosterone can mitigate the VCL-impaired histone-protamine replacement and DNA methylation rates and protect the cellular DNA content from VCL-induced oxidative stress.

Ameliorative effects of crocin on paraquat-induced oxidative stress in testis of adult mice: An experimental study

Background

Paraquat (PQ), as a pyridine compound, is widely used worldwide to control annual weeds. The oxidative stress caused by PQ can cause deleterious changes in the testicular tissue.

Objective

An investigation on the protective effects of Crocin (CCN) against PQ-induced oxidative damages and apoptotic indices in testicular tissue.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-eight adult male albino mice (20-25 gr) were divided into four groups (n = 7/each). The control group received 0.1 ml/day of normal saline by intraperitoneal injection (IP); sham-control group received PQ 5 mg/kg/day, IP, and the experimental groups received PQ (CCN+PQ) and CCN-sole (200 mg/kg/day, IP), respectively, for 35 continuous days. At the end of the treatment period, the testes were dissected out and used for biochemical, molecular, and histological analyses. The expressions of tumor suppressor p53, B-cell lymphoma 2 (bcl-2), and caspase-3 were considered as hallmark factors of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis. Moreover, the testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were evaluated as key biomarkers for oxidative stress.

Results

The PQ significantly (p < 0.02, p < 0.01) diminished the spermatogenesis indices and SOD, increased MDA levels, and enhanced the apoptosis-related gene expression. However, the co-administration of CCN and PQ significantly (p < 0.01, p < 0.01, p < 0.02) ameliorated the spermatogenesis ratio, upregulated the SOD level as well as bcl-2 expression, and reduced the MDA content and apoptosis vs the PQ-sole group.

Conclusion

This study showed that the antioxidant properties of CCN enable to ameliorate the PQ-induced destructive effects by upregulating the testicular structure, antioxidant and apoptotic status.