Diabetes mellitus- induction: Effect of different streptozotocin doses on male reproductive parameters

Therapeutic Potential of 4-Hexylresorcinol in Preserving Testicular Function in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

It is known that many diabetic patients experience testicular atrophy. This study sought to investigate the effect of 4-hexylresorcinol (4HR) on testicular function in rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes, focusing on testicular weight, sperm motility, histological alterations, and serum testosterone levels to understand the efficacy of 4HR on testes. Our findings reveal that 4HR treatment significantly improves testicular health in diabetic rats. Notably, the STZ group exhibited a testicular weight of 1.22 ± 0.48 g, whereas the STZ/4HR group showed a significantly enhanced weight of 1.91 ± 0.26 g (p < 0.001), aligning closely with the control group's weight of 1.99 ± 0.17 g and the 4HR group's weight of 2.05 ± 0.24 g, indicating no significant difference between control and 4HR groups (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the STZ/4HR group demonstrated significantly improved sperm motility compared to the STZ group, with apoptotic indicators notably reduced in the STZ/4HR group relative to the STZ group (p < 0.05). These results underscore the therapeutic potential of 4HR for maintaining testicular function under diabetic conditions.

Metabolic Markers Associated with Progression of Type 2 Diabetes Induced by High-Fat Diet and Single Low Dose Streptozotocin in Rats

Science is still searching for readily available, cost-effective biomarkers to assess metabolic disorders occurring before the onset and during the development of type-2 diabetes (T2DM). The aim of the present study was to induce T2DM in rats through a high-fat diet, followed by a single administration of low dose streptozotocin (STZ), and make an assessment of the development of the disease. The rats were divided into two groups-experimental and control-and were monitored for a period of 10 days. Changes in anthropometric parameters, glucose, insulin, lipids, uric acid, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), as well as the histological changes in the liver and pancreas, were recorded. To assess insulin resistance, we used the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and beta cell function (HOMA-β) and visceral obesity-adiposity index (AI). The data demonstrate that the increasing values of glucose, HOMA-IR, AI, total cholesterol, triacylglycerols, low- and very-low-density lipoproteins are important markers of the pre-diabetic state. The stable hyperglycemia and increased levels of TC, TG, VLDL, LDL, uric acid and AOPP in experimental rats strongly suggest the development of T2DM. HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, AI, and uric acid are reliable criteria for T2DM in rats.

The effect of Aspalathin linearis, Cyclopia intermedia and Sutherlandia frutescene on sperm functional parameters of healthy male wistar rats

Introduction: Rooibos (Aspalathin linearis), honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia), and sutherlandia (Sutherlandia frutescene) are three Southern Africa indigenous plants, of which the extracts have become house-hold items and are consumed on a large scale. Although, they are known for their antioxidant properties, studies have highlighted danger in the excessive intake. Therefore, the current study investigated whether treatment with rooibos, honeybush, and sutherlandia will impact sperm functional parameters positively or otherwise, in healthy rats. Methods: Fourteen-week-old pathogen-free adult male Wistar rats (250-300 g) were randomly divided into four groups of ten, including a control, rooibos (RF), honeybush (HB) and a sutherlandia (SL) group. After 7 weeks of treatment, animals were sacrificed. Spermatozoa were retrieved from the cauda epididymis for motility, morphology and concentration analysis and the testis was used for all biochemical assays. Results: The infusion treated animals (RF, HB, and SL) presented with a non-significant decrease of -14.3%, -18.2%, -17.2% and -24.8%, -20.7%, -27.3% in total motility and progressive motility when compared to the control group, respectively. There was a significant increase in number of spermatozoa with slow speed (p = 0.03), especially in SL treated group compared to the control (p = 0.03). Additionally, there was an increase of 28.8%, 31.7%, 23% in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of RF, HB and SL compared to control, respectively. This was accompanied with a percentage decrease of -21.1%, -23.7%, 45.9% in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared to the control group. Conclusion: In summary, animals treated with the respective infusions presented with a percentage increase in SOD activity but have reduced sperm motility and decreased normal morphology. Paradoxically, they presented with increased sperm concentration. Hence, it is presumed that rooibos, honeybush and sutherlandia may enhance sperm quantity (concentration) but may impair sperm quality (motility morphology) when consumed by healthy animals.

Lauric acid improves hormonal profiles, antioxidant properties, sperm quality and histomorphometric changes in testis and epididymis of streptozotocin-induced diabetic infertility rats

Lauric acid, a 12‑carbon atom medium chain fatty acid (MCFA) has strong antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. However, whether lauric acid can ameliorate hyperglycaemia-induced male reproductive damage remains unclear. The study aimed to determine the optimal dose of lauric acid with glucose-lowering activity, antioxidant potential and tissue-protective effects on the testis and epididymis of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Hyperglycaemia was induced in Sprague Dawley rats by an intravenous injection of STZ at a dose of 40 mg/kg body weight (bwt). Lauric acid (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg bwt) was administered orally for eight weeks. Weekly fasting blood glucose (FBG), glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity were examined. Hormonal profiles (insulin and testosterone), lipid peroxidation (MDA) and antioxidant enzyme (SOD and CAT) activities were measured in the serum, testis and epididymis. The reproductive analyses were evaluated based on sperm quality and histomorphometry. Lauric acid administration significantly improved FBG levels, glucose tolerance, hormones-related fertility and oxidant-antioxidant balance in the serum, testis and epididymis compared to untreated diabetic rats. Treatment with lauric acid preserved the testicular and epididymal histomorphometry, along with the significant improvements in sperm characteristics. It is shown for the first time that lauric acid treatment at 50 mg/kg bwt is the optimal dose for ameliorating hyperglycaemia-induced male reproductive complications. We conclude that lauric acid reduced hyperglycaemia by restoring insulin and glucose homeostasis, which attributes to the regeneration of tissue damage and sperm quality in STZ-induced diabetic rats. These findings support the correlation between oxidative stress and hyperglycaemia-induced male reproductive dysfunctions.

LncRNA XIST promotes adjuvant-induced arthritis by increasing the expression of YY1 via miR-34a-5p

Objectives: This study aims to explore the mechanism by which long non-coding ribonucleic acids (lncRNA) X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) affects the progression of adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA).

Materials and methods: Freund's complete adjuvant was used to induce arthritis in rats. The polyarthritis, spleen and thymus indexes were calculated to evaluate AIA. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining was used to reveal the pathological changes in the synovium of AIA rats. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to detect the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in the synovial fluid of AIA rats. The cell continuing kit (CCK)-8, flow cytometry, and Transwell assays were used to assess the proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of transfected fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) isolated from AIA rats (AIA-FLS). Dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify the binding sites between XIST and miR-34b-5p or between YY1 mRNA and miR-34b-5p.

Results: The XIST and YY1 were highly expressed, and miR-34a-5p was lowly expressed in the synovium of AIA rats and in AIA-FLS. Silencing of XIST impaired the function of AIA-FLS in vitro and inhibited the progression of AIA in vivo. The XIST promoted the expression of YY1 by competitively binding to miR-34a-5p. Inhibition of miR-34a-5p strengthened the function of AIA-FLS by upregulating XIST and YY1.

Conclusion: The XIST controls the function of AIA-FLS and may promote the progression of rheumatoid arthritis via the miR-34a-5p/YY1 axis.

Suppressive role of lovastatin in intracerebral hemorrhage through repression of autophagy

Statins possess critical function in the brain. Here, we intended to investigate the role of lovastatin in brain damage after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). A collagenase-induced ICH rat model was established followed by lovastatin treatment. Then, the effect of lovastatin on ICH-induced brain damage was explored with cognitive function, learning and memory abilities, and neurological damage of rats analyzed. Besides, brain water content, number of degenerate neurons, Nissl's body, and apoptosis of neurons were detected. Oxidative stress levels, inflammation, and autophagy levels in ICH were measured after treatment of lovastatin. Lovastatin improved the cognitive impairment of rats, enhanced their spatial learning and memory abilities, reduced nervous system damage, lesion area, and brain water content after ICH. Lovastatin was capable of reducing the number of degenerated neurons, the apoptosis level, autophagy level, and increasing the number of Nissl's body. Lovastatin inhibited the oxidative stress response and inflammatory factors in the brain tissue after ICH, and increased the expression of anti-inflammatory factor IL-10. Lovastatin inhibited AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway after ICH. Our study highlighted the suppressive role of lovastatin in ICH-induced brain damage.

Comparison of the Effects of Allium cepa L. Extract Together with Insulin on Sperm Parameters in Diabetic Rats

Background: In diabetic patients, uncontrolled blood sugar causes disorders in various systems of the body in the long term. The reproductive system is one of these susceptible systems. It is known that diabetes can adversely affect spermatogenesis. The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of various diseases has been discussed by many researchers for a long time. Onion, scientifically known as Allium cepa L., contains antioxidants. Insulin is also a drug used to control blood sugar in diabetic patients. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate and compare in vivo antidiabetic activities of hydroalcoholic onion seed extract together with insulin in diabetic rats. Methods: In this study, diabetes was induced in rats with streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). Fifty animals were equally divided into five groups: nondiabetic control (group 1); diabetic control (group 2); diabetic rats receiving streptozotocin plus insulin (group 3); and diabetic rats treated with 200 and 400 mg/kg of Allium cepa L. seed extract by gavage for four weeks (groups 4 and 5). At the end of the study, the prostate ventral lobe was removed and processed for histological studies. Next, sperm parameters from the tail of the left epididymis, biochemical parameters, and histopathological changes were analyzed and compared. Results: The sperm parameters of diabetic rats receiving 200 and 400 mg/kg of Allium cepa L. extract showed a significant increase compared to the diabetic control group. Conclusions: Administration of Allium cepa L. extract as a strong antioxidant was adequate to compensate for the toxic effects of streptozotocin and increase the motility of sperms.

Mesenchymal stem cells promote spermatogonial stem/progenitor cell pool and spermatogenesis in neonatal mice in vitro

Prepubertal cancer treatment leads to irreversible infertility in half of the male patients. Current in vitro spermatogenesis protocols and cryopreservation techniques are inadequate to expand spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells (SSPC) from testicles. Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) bearing a close resemblance to Sertoli cells, improved spermatogenesis in animal models. We asked if a co-culture setup supported by syngeneic BM-MSC that contributes to the air–liquid interphase (ALI) could lead to survival, expansion and differentiation of SSPCs in vitro. We generated an ALI platform able to provide a real-time cellular paracrine contribution consisting of syngeneic BM-MSCs to neonatal C57BL/6 mice testes. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this culture system on SSPC pool expansion and spermatogenesis throughout a complete spermatogenic cycle by measuring the number of total germ cells (GC), the undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, the spermatocytes and the spermatids. Furthermore, we evaluated the testicular cell cycle phases, the tubular and luminal areas using histochemical, immunohistochemical and flow cytometric techniques. Cultures in present of BM-MSCs displayed survival of ID4(+) spermatogonial stem cells (SSC), expansion of SALL4(+) and OCT4(+) SSPCs, VASA(+) total GCs and Ki67(+) proliferative cells at 42 days and an increased number of SCP3(+) spermatocytes and Acrosin(+) spermatids at 28 days. BM-MSCs increased the percentage of mitotic cells within the G2-M phase of the total testicular cell cycle increased for 7 days, preserved the cell viability for 42 days and induced testicular maturation by enlargement of the tubular and luminal area for 42 days in comparison to the control. The percentage of PLZF(+) SSPCs increased within the first 28 days of culture, after which the pool started to get smaller while the number of spermatocytes and spermatids increased simultaneously. Our findings established the efficacy of syngeneic BM-MSCs on the survival and expansion of the SSPC pool and differentiation of spermatogonia to round spermatids during in vitro culture of prepubertal mice testes for 42 days. This method may be helpful in providing alternative cures for male fertility by supporting in vitro differentiated spermatids that can be used for round spermatid injection (ROSI) to female oocyte in animal models. These findings can be further exploited for personalized cellular therapy strategies to cure male infertility of prepubertal cancer survivors in clinics.

Oxidative Stress and Male Infertility: Evidence From a Research Perspective

Male fertility potential can be influenced by a variety of conditions that frequently coincide. Spermatozoa are particularly susceptible to oxidative damage due to their limited antioxidant capacity and cell membrane rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The role of oxidative stress (OS) in the etiology of male infertility has been the primary focus of our Stellenbosch University Reproductive Research Group (SURRG) over the last 10 years. This review aims to provide a novel insight into the impact of OS on spermatozoa and male reproductive function by reviewing the OS-related findings from a wide variety of studies conducted in our laboratory, along with those emerging from other investigators. We will provide a concise overview of the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the development of OS in the male reproductive tract along with the physiological and pathological effects thereof on male reproductive functions. Recent advances in methods and techniques used for the assessment of OS will also be highlighted. We will furthermore consider the current evidence regarding the association between OS and ejaculatory abstinence period, as well as the potential mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of various systemic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and certain mental health disorders which have been shown to cause OS induced male infertility. Finally, special emphasis will be placed on the potential for transferring and incorporating research findings emanating from different experimental studies into clinical practice.

High magnesium mitigates the vasoconstriction mediated by different types of calcium influx from monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertensive rats

NEW FINDINGS

What is the central question of this study? The aim was to examine and explore the involvement of Mg²⁺ in mitigating the vasoconstriction in PAs and sPAs in the MCT-PAH rat model. What are the main finding and its importance? 1.Both SOCE- and ROCE-mediated vasoconstriction enhanced in the MCT-PAH model. 2.High magnesium inhibited vasoconstriction due to directly antagonizing Ca²⁺ and increasing NO release. 3.The inhibition effect of high magnesium was more notable in sPA.

ABSTRACT

Increased extracellular magnesium concentration ([Mg²⁺ ]_e ) has been evidenced to attenuate the endothelin-1 (ET-1)-induced contractile response via the release of nitric oxide (NO) from the endothelium in proximal pulmonary arteries (PAs) of chronic hypoxic (CH) mice. Here we further examined the involvement of Mg²⁺ in the inhibition of vasoconstriction in PAs and distal smaller pulmonary arteries (sPAs) in a monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension (MCT-PAH) rat model. The data showed that in control rats, vasoconstriction in sPAs is more intense than that in PAs. In MCT-PAH rats, the store-operated Ca²⁺ entry (SOCE)-, and receptor-operated Ca²⁺ entry (ROCE)-mediated contraction was significantly strengthened. However, there was no upregulation of the vasoconstriction mediated by voltage-dependent calcium entry (VDCE). Furthermore, high magnesium greatly inhibited the VDCE-mediated contraction in PAs instead of sPAs, which was opposite to the ROCE-mediated contraction. Moreover, MCT pretreatment partly eliminated the endothelium-dependent vasodilation in PAs, which in sPAs, however, was still promoted by magnesium due to the increased NO release in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs). In conclusion, the findings suggest that both SOCE- and ROCE-mediated vasoconstriction in the MCT-PAH model are enhanced, especially in sPAs. The inhibition effect of high magnesium on vasoconstriction can be achieved partly by its direct role as a Ca²⁺ antagonist and partly by increasing the NO release in PMVECs. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Aerobic training mitigates the negative impact of diabetes on fertility

Diabetes negatively affects the reproductive system. This present study investigated the effects of aerobic training on protamine 1 and 2 mRNA expression, sex hormones, antioxidant defence and sperm quality in diabetic rats. Thirty-six male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into three groups including diabetic training (DT) group, diabetic (D) group and control (C) group. Rats in DT were exercised 5 times per week for 8 weeks. Blood samples were collected for evaluation of sex hormones 48 h after the last training session. Also, the testes were removed and subjected to histological evaluation and semen analysis. Testicular mRNA expressions of protamines were determined by RT-qPCR. Protamines 1 and 2, and the ratio of protamine 1 to protamine 2 were significantly lower in DT and D groups compared with C group (p < 0.01). LH and testosterone levels were significantly lower in D group compared with DT and C group (p < 0.01). Malondialdehyde was significantly lower in DT and C groups compared with D group (p < 0.001). Sperm parameters were significantly lower in D group compared with C group (p < 0.01). Our findings suggest that aerobic training may mitigate the negative impact of diabetes on sex hormones, oxidative stress, protamine content and sperm parameters in male rats.

Nobiletin protects against diabetes-induced testicular injury via hypophysis-gonadal axis upregulation and amelioration of oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

Testicular injury is one of the most serious problems associated with diabetes mellitus. The present study aimed to compare the effects of two different doses of nobiletin and analyze its mechanisms of action against diabetes-induced testicular impairment in rats.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Streptozotocin injection was used to induce diabetes. Diabetic rats received nobiletin orally at 10 or 25 mg/kg daily for 30 days. Diabetic rats displayed significant elevations in glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), Homeostatic Model of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), and pro-inflammatory cytokines, while the serum levels of insulin, testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were significantly reduced. Histological changes to positivity for caspase-3 and decreased androgen receptors (AR) immunoexpression were observed in diabetic rats. Both doses of nobiletin improved hyperglycemia, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, and augmented insulin, testosterone, LH, and FSH levels. LH and FSH receptors and cytochrome P450 17 α-hydroxylase (CYP17A1) were markedly downregulated in terms of both gene and protein expression in testicular tissues of the diabetic group, effects that were markedly ameliorated with both doses of nobiletin. In addition, both doses significantly reduced lipid peroxidation and caspase-3 immunoexpression and improved the activity of the antioxidant enzymes and AR in testicular tissues of the diabetic group.

CONCLUSION

Both nobiletin doses showed protective effects against diabetes-induced testicular injury by reducing oxidative stress, hyperglycemia, inflammation, and caspase-3 and upregulating the hypophysis-gonadal axis and AR. The high dose of nobiletin was more effective than the lower one.

Mechanism of Baicalein in Brain Injury After Intracerebral Hemorrhage by Inhibiting the ROS/NLRP3 Inflammasome Pathway

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a devastating subtype of stroke with high disability/mortality. Baicalein has strong anti-inflammatory activity. This study aims to explore the mechanism of baicalein on brain injury after ICH. The model of brain injury after ICH was established by collagenase induction, followed by the evaluation of neurological severity, brain water content, the degenerated neurons, neuronal apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The ICH model was treated with baicalein or silencing NLRP3 to detect brain injury. The expression of NLRP3 inflammasome was detected after treatment with ROS scavenger. The expressions of oxidative stress markers and inflammatory factors were detected, and the levels of components in NLRP3 inflammasome were detected. Baicalein reduced the damage of nervous system, lesion surface, brain water content, and apoptosis. Baicalein inhibited malondialdehyde and increased IL-10 by inhibiting ROS in brain tissue after ICH. Baicalein inhibited the high expression of NLRP3 inflammasome in ICH. ROS scavenger inhibited the NLRP3 inflammatory response by inhibiting ROS levels. Silencing NLRP3 alleviated the brain injury after ICH by inhibiting excessive oxidative stress and inflammatory factors. Overall, baicalein alleviated the brain injury after ICH by inhibiting ROS and NLRP3 inflammasome.

Tribulus terrestris Efficacy and Safety Concerns in Diabetes and Erectile Dysfunction, Assessed in an Experimental Model

The present project aims to evaluate Tribulus terrestris (TT) extracts by addressing various possible mechanisms of action in order to see whether the use of TT supplements in diabetes and diabetes complications is justified. Diabetic rats were divided into three groups: diabetic control group, TT extract with low protodioscin content group (TT-LPC) and TT extract with high protodioscin content group (TT-HPC). After twelve weeks of treatment, fasting blood glucose, insulin, LH, FSH and testosterone levels were measured. Both TT preparations reduced elevated blood glucose level. Insulin and luteinizing hormone levels were not significantly different compared with the control group; however, the FSH and testosterone levels were significantly higher in the TT-HPC group compared with the diabetic control group. The testosterone level is correlated in part with the protodioscin concentration in extracts and is probably mediated through an FSH-linked pathway.

The effect of streptozotocin induced diabetes on sperm function: a closer look at AGEs, RAGEs, MAPKs and activation of the apoptotic pathway

This study was designed to (1) investigate the possible mechanisms through which diabetes-induced advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and receptor for AGEs (RAGE) activation can affect male reproductive function; and (2) corroborate the interaction of previously established independent pathways. Male albino Wistar rats (14-weeks old) weighing 250-300 g received either a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (30 mg/kg or 60 mg/kg), represented as STZ30 or STZ60 respectively, or citrate buffer (control). Diabetes mellitus (DM) was confirmed if plasma glucose levels were ≥ 14 mmol/L after 1 week. Animals were sacrificed after 8 weeks of treatment by an overdose of sodium pentobarbital (160 mg/kg body weight). The testes and epididymides were harvested. The testes were used for biochemical and Western blot analysis, while sperm was retrieved from the epididymis and analysed with computer-aided sperm analysis. The blood glucose levels of STZ60 animals were above the cut-off point and hence these animals were regarded as diabetic. Diabetic animals presented with a non-significant increase in AGE and RAGE expression. Diabetic animals showed a significant increase in the expression of cleaved caspase 3 compared to control (p < 0.001), and these animals also presented with an increase in the expression of JNK (p < 0.05), PARP (p = 0.059) and p38 MAPK (p = 0.1). Diabetic animals also displayed decreased catalase activity accompanied by a non-significant increase in malondialdehyde levels. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in the percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa (p < 0.05) in diabetic animals. This study has shed some light on the interplay between DM, AGE, RAGE and mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling in the testes of diabetic rats, which can result in altered sperm function and contribute to male infertility. However, more studies are needed to better understand this complicated process.

Protective action of melatonin on diabetic rat testis at cellular, hormonal and immunohistochemical levels

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of melatonin treatment on diabetic rat testes. Fifty albino rats were divided into the following groups: CG: control group; GD: placebo-induced and placebo-treated mice; GDI: insulin-induced and post-confirmation diabetes-induced rats; GDM: diabetes-induced and melatonin-treated post-confirmation mice and GDMS: diabetes-induced and melatonin-treated mice simultaneously. Melatonin was administered at a dose of 10 mg/kg in drinking water every day for 20 days at night. Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (60 mg/kg) and confirmed after the fifth day of induction. Insulin was administered at 5 IU (international units)/day at different times of the day for 20 days. The testes were submitted to histopathological, morphometric, immunohistochemical and oxidative stress analysis. Melatonin moderately decreased glycemic levels, protected weight loss and morphometric changes in the testicles, increased antioxidant enzyme levels and stabilized plasma testosterone and androgen receptor levels and decreased inflammatory markers in the testicles. Showing its potential to mitigate diabetes effects.

A review on the potential of Resveratrol in prevention and therapy of diabetes and diabetic complications

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major world health problem and one of the most studied diseases, which are highly prevalent in the whole world, it is frequently associated with severe clinical complications, such as diabetic cardiomyopathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, neuropathy etc. Scientific research is continuously casting about for new monomer molecules from Chinese herbal medicine that could be invoked as candidate drugs for fighting against diabetes and its complications. Resveratrol (RES), a polyphenol phytoalexin, possesses diverse biochemical and physiological actions, including antiplatelet, estrogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is recently gaining scientific interest for RES in controlling blood sugar and fighting against diabetes and its complications properties in various types of diabetic models. These beneficial effects seem to be due to the multiple actions of RES on cellular functions, which make RES become a promising molecule for the treatment of diabetes and diabetic complications. Here, we review the mechanism of action and potential therapeutic use of RES in prevention and mitigation of these diseases in recent ten years to provide a reference for further research and development of RES.

The Beneficial Role of Anchomanes difformis in STZ-Induced Reproductive Dysfunction in Male Wistar Rats

BACKGROUND

Progression of diabetes mellitus has increasingly led to several diabetic complications. Diabetes is one of the major factors implicated in male reproductive system damage. Recent approaches such as the use of medicinal plants have been explored in the management of diabetes and associated complications. Anchomanes difformis (common name: children's umbrella) has been shown to possess anti-diabetic ability in animal model. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the potency of Achomanes difformis in ameliorating diabetes-induced reproductive dysfunction.

METHODS

Type 2 diabetes was induced in male Wistar rats with 10% fructose administration for 2 weeks and an intraperitoneal injection of 40mg/kgBW of streptozotocin. Aqueous extract (200mg and 400mg/kgBW) of Anchomanes difformis leaves was administered daily for 6 weeks. The rats were randomly divided into 7 groups with a minimum of eight rats in each (8 rats in normal groups and 10 in diabetic groups). The impact of diabetes and treatment was investigated by estimating sperm concentration, motility indices, viability and morphological parameters in the normal, treatment controls and diabetic rats using CASA-SCA system. Histological examination of the testes and epididymis was performed.

RESULTS

Diabetes induction resulted in significant decrease in sperm concentration, viability and some motility parameters with 40% abnormalities in sperm morphology. The administration of Anchomanes difformis significantly increased sperm concentration and sperm viability, while it significantly improved the percentage of morphologically normal sperm in diabetic rats. Anchomanes difformis ameliorated testicular damage such as vacuolization and loss of germinal epithelium in the diabetic-treated rats when compared to the diabetic controls.

CONCLUSION

The potency Anchomanes difformis displayed against diabetic-induced damage in the reproductive system might be a new and promising tool in the management of male reproductive dysfunctions and associated complications in diabetes mellitus.

Protective effects of Salidroside on spermatogenesis in streptozotocin induced type-1 diabetic male mice by inhibiting oxidative stress mediated blood-testis barrier damage

Spermatogenic dysfunction is one of the major secondary complications of male diabetes. Salidroside (SAL) is the important active ingredients isolated from Herba Cistanche, which exhibits numerous pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory effects. The present study was designed to determine whether SAL contributes to the recovery from spermatogenic dysfunction in streptozotocin (STZ) induced type-1 diabetic mice. SAL (25, 50, or 100 mg/kg) and Clomiphene citrate (CC, 5 mg/kg) were orally administered to male type-1 diabetic mice for 10 weeks. Testis tissues were collected for histopathological and biochemical analysis. Moreover, reproductive organ weight, sperm parameters, and testicular cell DNA damage were estimated. The results revealed that SAL significantly improved the weight of the reproductive organs, sperm parameters and testicular morphology to different degrees in type-1 diabetic mice. Furthermore, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly reduced, and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), markedly increased in the testicular tissue after SAL treatment. In addition, our data also showed a marked downregulation the fluorescence expressions of p38 MAPK phosphorylation and upregulation the protein expressions of ZO-1, Occludin, Claudin-11 and N-cadherin after SAL administration (100 mg/kg) compared with the type-1 diabetic group. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that SAL exerts protective effects on type-1 diabetes-induced male spermatogenic dysfunction, which is likely mediated by inhibiting oxidative stress-mediated blood testis barrier damage.

The protective effect of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni on serum hormone levels, key steroidogenesis enzymes, and testicular damage in testes of diabetic rats

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a kind of metabolic endocrine diseases, which has various effects on the gonadal system. The current study aimed to examine the effect of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni extract on the mRNA expression involved in testosterone synthesis, and stereological parameters in rat testes, for improving diabetes complications. In this study, 48 rats were randomly classified into control, diabetic (streptozocin 60 mg/kg + nicotinamide 120 mg/kg), diabetic + Stevia (400 mg/kg), and diabetic + metformin (500 mg/kg) groups. Finally, Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) level, the serum level of LH and testosterone, the Star, Cyp11a1, and Hsd17b3 gene expressions, and changes in the testis histology were evaluated. The results indicated a decrease in body weight, serum LH and testosterone level, the star gene expression, stereological changes of testes, and an increase in the FBS level in diabetic group, compared with the control group (P<0.05). Nonetheless, Stevia significantly reduced the FBS and increased the serum LH level, in comparison with diabetic rats (P<0.05), but no significant differences in the serum testosterone level and the Star gene expression has been found. Stevia also resulted in an increase in weight, testis volume, the number of sexual lineage cells, and sperm count and motility, compared to diabetic rats (P<0.05). Due to its antioxidant properties, Stevia enhanced the alteration in spermatogenesis and stereological characteristics in diabetic rat testes. Hence, Stevia could diminish the reproductive system problems and improve infertility in diabetic male rats.

The effects of the Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 on the oxidative stress of reproductive system in diabetic male rats

BACKGROUND

Background: Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of diabetic complications.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the impact of pre- and post-treatment with Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 on the oxidant and anti-oxidant factors of testis and epididymis in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty male Wistar rats (10 wk old) weighing 220-230 g. were divided into five groups (n = 6/ each): 1- normal group, 2- normal lactobacillus group, 3- diabetic group, 4- diabetic + lactobacillus before (DLB) group, and 5- diabetic + lactobacillus after (DLA) group. The normal and diabetic groups received daily 1 mL normal saline for 6 wk. Normal lactobacillus group received daily L. acidophilus for 6 wk. Group DLB received daily L. acidophilus for 2 wk before diabetes and for 4 wk after diabetes. Group DLA received daily 1 mL normal saline for 2 wk before diabetes and L. acidophilus for 4 wk after diabetes. The dose of L. acidophilus was 1 × 109 CFU/mL.

RESULTS

The administration of L. acidophilus worsened blood glucose level and reduced the levels of Malondialdehyde (p ≤ 0.0001) and Hydrogen peroxide (p ≤ 0.0001) and, Catalase and Glutathione peroxidase activity increased in the testis. In epididymis, Glutathione peroxidase and Catalase (p = 0.013) activity increased and Hydrogen peroxide concentration reduced, while Malondialdehyde concentration did not show any changes compared to the diabetic rats. Also, there was no significant difference between DLB and DLA groups, in these markers.

CONCLUSION

Data obtained suggests that L. acidophilus has anti-oxidant effects on the testis and sometime in the epididymis in diabetic rats.

Stress Hormone and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers Link Obesity and Diabetes with Reduced Fertility Potential

Objective

Tilting the balance in favor of antioxidant agents could increase infertility problems in obese and diabetic individuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate oxidative stress status in semen of men with type 2 diabetes and obesity to investigate whether excessive amounts of oxidative stress, as a result of diabetes and obesity, influence infertility potential.

Materials and Methods

A case-control study was conducted in men (n=150) attending the Infertility Center of Royan Institute between December 2016 and February 2017. Participants were categorized into four groups; normal weight (BMI<25 kg/m²) and non-type-2 diabetic (control=40), obese and non- type-2 diabetic (obese=40), non-obese and type- 2 diabetic (Nob-DM=35), and obese and type-2 diabetic (Ob-DM=35). The semen analysis was performed according to the World Health Organization criteria. Oxidative stress, DNA fragmentation, sperm apoptosis, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were evaluated in semen samples of men. Serum glucose, HbA1c, cortisol, and testosterone levels were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.

Results

Compared with the control group, sperm motility, progressive motility, and normal morphology were significantly decreased in the obese, Nob-DM, and Ob-DM groups (P<0.01). The obese, Nob-DM, and Ob-DM groups showed significantly lower levels of TAC and higher amounts of oxidative stress, early apoptotic sperm, and the percentage of DNA fragmentation as compared with the control group (P<0.05). Testosterone concentration was decreased in the obese, Nob-DM, and Ob-DM groups when compared with healthy individuals (P<0.05), whereas the cortisol level was significantly increased in the Nob-DM and Ob-DM groups in comparison to the obese and control group (P<0.01).

Conclusion

Increased amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and DNA fragmentation in men affected by either diabetes or obesity could be considered prognostic factors in sub-fertile patients, alerting physicians to an early screen of male patients to avoid the development of infertility in prone patients.