Sodium fluoride disrupts testosterone biosynthesis by affecting the steroidogenic pathway in TM3 Leydig cells

Ameliorative Effect of Artemisia absinthium Ethanolic Extract Against Sodium Fluoride Toxicity in Rat Testes: Histological and Physiological Study

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Artemisia absinthium extract on testicular dysfunction in rats and explain the involvement of the androgen receptor signaling pathway as a biomarker in maintaining fertility during sodium fluoride (NaF) treatment. Thirty-two male rats were divided equally into four groups and received treatment for 60 days. The control group (I) received normal saline; group II received Artemisia extract at 100 mg/kg b.w.; group III received NaF at 12 mg/kg b.w. orally; and group IV received NaF (12 mg/kg b.w.) and Artemisia extract (100 mg/kg b.w.). The testis weights and the lipid peroxidation, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone levels were estimated. The genital organs were prepared and immunoreacted with a receptor. Histomorphometric analyses were performed to obtain the diameter of the seminiferous tubules and the height of the germinal epithelia in the testes. The results showed that exposure to NaF caused a significant increase in testis weight and malondialdehyde (MDA) and a decrease in serum LH, FSH, and testosterone concentrations compared to the control group, while extract administration induced an increase in the levels of these hormones in group IV. Testicular histological and histomorphometric changes were observed in group III: degenerative seminiferous tubules with vascular congestion, disorganization of the germinal layer, and decreased seminiferous tubule diameter and germinal epithelium height. The expression of androgen receptors in the testes of the NaF-treated rats was significantly reduced. In contrast, these testicular histological changes were ameliorated in rats treated with the extract. The results allow us to conclude that the administration of Artemisia absinthium confers positive effects on male reproductive function by inhibiting fluoride, maybe via ameliorative testicular function.

Impact of fluoride exposure on reproductive health: Insights into molecular mechanisms and health implications

While the benefits of fluoride in preventing dental caries are well-established, concerns about its potential toxicity at high intake levels are rising. This review investigates the link between chronic fluoride exposure and reproductive health outcomes at the molecular level, focusing on population growth and child sex ratios in the fluorosis-affected and non-fluorosis regions. The exploration of the detrimental effects of fluoride on both male and female reproductive systems is necessary. In males, hormonal variations, alterations in spermatogenesis, capacitation, and sperm motility using molecular markers, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data. For females, hormonal imbalances, disruptions in oocyte formation, teratogenicity (congenital disabilities), and compromised infant development due to maternal fluorosis using similar approaches. Furthermore, we explored drugs that address affected pathways, the potential benefits of vitamins and natural remedies, and lifestyle modifications to minimise adverse effects. The impact of various molecular pathways like apoptosis, autophagy, DNA damage, hormonal imbalance, inflammatory response, mitochondrial dynamics, and cell signalling pathways has been linked to reproductive toxicity induced by chronic and specific doses of fluoride. Analysing existing research and exploring potential therapeutic avenues contributes to the development of strategies to safeguard reproductive well-being in populations exposed to high fluoride levels.

Nano Spirulina platensis countered cisplatin-induced repro-toxicity by reversing the expression of altered steroid hormones and downregulation of the StAR gene

Cisplatin is a commonly utilized chemotherapy medication for treating different sarcomas and carcinomas. Its ability interferes with cancer cells' DNA repair pathways and postpones unfavorable outcomes in cancer patients. The current investigation's goal was to ascertain if nano Spirulina platensis (NSP) might shield rat testicles from cisplatin damage by assessing the expression of the StAR and SOD genes, sex hormones, 17ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase(17ß-HSD), sperm profile picture, oxidative condition of testes, testicular histology, and DNA damage. Four equal and random groups of 28 adult male Wistar rats were created; the control group was given saline for 8 weeks. An extraction of NSP at a concentration of 2500 mg/kg body weight was administered orally for 8 weeks to the NSP group. For the first 4 weeks, the cisplatin group was intraperitoneally injected with 2 mg/kg/body weight of cisplatin, and for the next 4 weeks, they were given a dosage of 4 mg/kg/body weight. The cisplatin + NSP group was given both NSP and cisplatin. The results of the experiment showed that intake of NSP and cisplatin improved sperm profile; re-established the balance of oxidizing agents and antioxidant state; enhanced testicular histology; promoted the histometric parameters of seminiferous tubules including epithelial height, their diameter, and Johnsen's score, decreasing DNA breakage in testicular tissue; increased testosterone level; decreased 17ß-HSD concentration; and upregulated both the StAR and SOD gene expression in testicles compared to rats exposed to cisplatin alone. These results demonstrate that NSP is a promising agent for improving cisplatin-induced testicular injury and infertility.

Fluoride-induced testicular and ovarian toxicity: evidence from animal studies

Fluoride (F), as a natural element found in a wide range of sources such as water and certain foods, has been proven to be beneficial in preventing dental caries, but concerns have been raised regarding its potential deleterious effects on overall health. Sodium fluoride (NaF), another form of F, has the ability to accumulate in reproductive organs and interfere with hormonal regulation and oxidative stress pathways, contributing to reproductive toxicity. While the exact mechanisms of F-induced reproductive toxicity are not fully understood, this review aims to elucidate the mechanisms involved in testicular and ovarian injury. In males, F exposure at different doses has been associated with reduced testis weight, reduced sperm quality in terms of count, motility, and viability, as well as abnormal sperm morphology and disruption of seminiferous tubules by altering hormone levels (especially testosterone), impairing spermatogenesis, and inducing oxidative stress and zinc deficiency. Similarly, administration of F can impact female reproductive health by affecting ovarian function, hormone levels, oocyte quality, and the regularity of the estrous cycle. However, the impact of F exposure on LH, FSH, and GnRH levels is controversial between males and females. In both males and females, F exerts its adverse effects by triggering apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, reduction in ATP synthesis, and modulation of important genes involved in steroidogenesis. Furthermore, genetic susceptibility and individual variations in F metabolism may contribute to different responses to fluoride exposure.

Serum calcium improves the relationship between fluoride exposure and hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis hormones levels in males-a cross-sectional study on farmers in the lower reaches of the Yellow River

Numerous studies have reported the toxicity of fluoride to the male reproductive system, but epidemiological evidence is limited. We conducted a cross-sectional study in Kaifeng City, Henan Province in 2011 to explore the association between fluoride exposure and hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis hormones in men. Morning urinary fluoride (UF), serum HPT axis hormones and serum calcium (SC) concentrations were detected. Percent changes and 95% confidence intervals in HPT axis hormones associated with UF were estimated using adjusted linear regression models, and performed subgroup analysis based on SC levels. The restricted cubic spline model was used to fit nonlinear relationships. For every 10% increase in UF, the concentrations of serum GnRH, T, SHBG and TSI decreased by 2.13%, 2.39%, 2.19% and 1.96%, while E2 and FEI increased by 1.11% and 3.33%. Subgroup analysis showed that for every 10% increase in UF, the levels of GnRH, T, TSI and FTI decreased by approximately 3.15%, 5.49%, 4.47% and 5.14%, while the E2 level increased by 2.92% in low-serum-calcium group (LCG). The levels of GnRH and T decreased by approximately 2.97% and 1.82% in medium-serum-calcium group (MCG). In high-serum-calcium group (HCG), serum SHBG levels decreased by 4.70%, while FTI and FEI levels increased by 4.93% and 4.20% as UF concentration increased (P < 0.05, respectively). The non-linear relationship between serum GnRH and UF concentrations presented an approximately inverted U-shaped curve, with a turning point UF concentration of 1.164 mg/L (P < 0.001), and their nonlinear relationship in LCG and MCG were similar to that in the overall subjects. In conclusion, excessive exposure to fluoride can interfere with male serum HPT axis hormones, and a moderate increase in SC alleviates the effect of fluoride. Prospective cohort studies are essential to confirm the causality.

New insights into the mechanisms underlying 5-hydroxymethylfurfural-induced suppression of testosterone biosynthesis in vivo and in vitro

5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), produced by the Maillard reaction, can indicate thermal processes in food. Previous research has examined the cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic characteristics of HMF and its derivatives in different organs. Nevertheless, there is currently no available evidence about the impact of HMF on male reproductive toxicity. In this study, the effects of HMF on testosterone biosynthesis in both mouse testis and TM3 Leydig cells were investigated. HMF was administered to mice at doses of 30 and 300 mg/kg/day for 21 days and to Leydig cells at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 mM for 24 h. The mechanism of action of HMF on testosterone biosynthesis in both mouse testis and Leydig cells was revealed by measuring the amount of testosterone, 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels, and the expression level of some important genes in the steroidogenic pathway. In addition, its effects on general testis were examined through histopathological evaluations. Upon examination of the results, it was observed that HMF had a significant impact on reducing testosterone and cAMP levels. Furthermore, HMF inhibited the expression of steroidogenic genes, including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme, 3β-hydroxy dehydrogenase, and 17β-hydroxy dehydrogenase, as well as transcription factors, such as steroidogenic factor-1, GATA binding protein-4, and nerve growth factor IB. HMF-administrated groups had germinal epithelium degradation, vacuolization, and disorders in the interstitial area. Consequently, it has been proven for the first time that HMF can damage the male reproductive system by detrimentally impacting the production of testosterone.

Improvement of Late-Onset Hypogonadism Symptoms of Fermented Morinda citrifolia Extract in TM3 Leydig and TM4 Sertoli Cells

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH), characterized by declining testosterone levels with age, negatively affects the health of men, causing physical, psychological, and sexual dysfunction. Conventional testosterone replacement therapies have side effects, which has led to interest in natural alternatives. We investigated the effects of a standardized fermented Morinda citrifolia extract (FME) on oxidative stress-induced damage in TM3 Leydig and TM4 Sertoli cells. The cells were treated with H2O2 to simulate oxidative stress, followed by the FME treatment.

METHODS

Cytotoxicity assays, testosterone measurements, and gene and protein expression analyses were conducted to evaluate the restorative properties of FME.

RESULTS

The H2O2 treatment significantly decreased the cell viability, testosterone production, and the expression of proteins involved in testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis, and the FME treatment improved testosterone production and restored the luteinizing hormone receptor, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, CYP11A1, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17,20 desmolase, and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase levels in the TM3 Leydig cells. It also reduced the expression of testosterone-degrading enzymes, aromatase and 5α-reductase. The FME treatment restored the levels of the androgen receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor in the TM4 Sertoli cells.

CONCLUSIONS

FME alleviates oxidative stress-induced damage in Leydig and Sertoli cells by promoting testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis while regulating testosterone metabolism. These findings suggest that FME could be a promising candidate for the management of LOH symptoms.

Enniatin B1 induces damage to Leydig cells via inhibition of the Nrf2/HO-1 and JAK/STAT3 signaling pathways

Enniatin B1 (ENN B1) is a mycotoxin that can be found in various foods. However, whether ENN B1 is hazardous to the reproductive system is still elusive. Leydig cells are testosterone-generating cells that reside in the interstitial compartment between seminiferous tubules. Dysfunction of Leydig cells could result in male infertility. This study aimed to examine the toxicological effects of ENN B1 against TM3 Leydig cells. ENN B1 significantly inhibited cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. ENN B1 treatment also decreased the expression of functional genes in Leydig cells. Moreover, ENN B1 induced Leydig cells apoptosis and oxidative stress. Mechanistically, ENN B1 leads to the upregulation of Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2 in Leydig cells. In addition, ENN B1 inhibited the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which is critical for the induction of oxidative stress. Additionally, ENN B1 treatment repressed the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in Leydig cells. Rescue experiments showed that activation of STAT3 resulted in alleviation of ENN B1-induced damage in Leydig cells. Collectively, our study demonstrated that ENN B1 induced Leydig cell dysfunction via multiple mechanisms.

Haematological, biochemical, enzymological changes and mitochondrial dysfunction of liver in freshwater climbing perch Anabas testudineus during their acute and chronic exposure to sodium fluoride

Anthropogenic activities are increasing fluoride concentration in watercourses. The present study focuses on the sublethal toxicity of sodium fluoride during sub-chronic and chronic time periods in the freshwater fish Anabas testudineus. The 96-hour LC50 value for fluoride was found to be 616.50 mg/L. Excessive mucous production and hyper excitability, followed by loss of balance, were seen in fish under acute fluoride exposure. Significant reduction in yield and specific growth rate of fish were assessed at 15, 30 and 45-days exposure intervals. Different bio-indicators like Hepatosomatic-index, Gonadosomatic-index and fecundity were reduced significantly in fish exposed to 10% (61.6 mg/L) and 20% (123.2 mg/L) of 96 h of LC50 values of fluoride in comparison to control. Toxicant concentrations directly correlated with parameter lowering. Fluoride exposure increased plasma glucose, creatinine, AST, and ALT and reduced total RBC, haemoglobin content, Hct (%), plasma protein, and cholesterol. Moreover, fluoride exposure significantly reduces the mitochondrial membrane potential in liver. This may result in metabolic depression, haematological, biochemical, and enzymological stress. The in-silico structural analysis predicts that fluoride may impede cytochrome c oxidase of the electron transport system, hence inhibiting mitochondrial functionality. These findings collectively highlight the urgent need for stringent regulation and monitoring of fluoride levels in freshwater ecosystems, as the subchronic and chronic effects observed in A. testudineus may have broader implications for aquatic ecosystems.

Effect of zinc intake on association between fluoride exposure and abnormal sex steroid hormones among US pubertal males: NHANES, 2013-2016

Excessive fluoride exposure can disturb the balance of sex hormones. Zinc is essential for sex hormone synthesis and spermatogenesis. But it is not clear how zinc affects the relationship of fluoride exposure with abnormal sex steroid hormones. Here, a total of 1008 pubertal males from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in two cycles (2013-2014, 2015-2016) were enrolled. The concentrations of water fluoride and plasma fluoride and the levels of serum testosterone, estradiol, and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were measured. Two 24-h dietary recall interviews were conducted to assess the dietary zinc intake. The relationships of fluoride exposure and zinc intake with sex hormones were examined using linear regression and logistic regression models, while the generalized additive model was used to evaluate their non-linear relationship. Our findings revealed that for every two-fold increase in plasma fluoride concentration, testosterone levels decreased by 7.27% (95% CI - 11.49%, - 2.86%) and estradiol levels decreased by 8.73% (95% CI - 13.61%, - 3.57%). There was also significant non-linear association observed between zinc intake and SHBG levels. Being in the first tertile of plasma fluoride had a 60% lower risk of high SHBG (OR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.18, 0.89) compared with being in the second tertile. When compared to the first tertile, being in the second tertile of zinc intake was associated with a 63% (OR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.14, 0.98) lower risk of high SHBG. Furthermore, we observed an interactive effect between the plasma fluoride and zinc intake on estradiol and SHBG, as well as the risk of high SHBG (P-interaction < 0.10). These findings suggest that fluoride exposure and zinc intake can affect sex steroid hormone levels and the risk of high SHBG. Notably, zinc intake may alleviate the increased risk of high SHBG and the abnormal changes of estradiol and SHBG caused by higher fluoride exposure.

Ameliorative effects of nano Moringa on fluoride-induced testicular damage via down regulation of the StAR gene and altered steroid hormones

Fluoride is a common environmental contaminant that has harmful effects on human health when it is present in high concentrations. Fluoride enters the bloodstream after being absorbed by the gastrointestinal system when fluoride-contaminated groundwater is consumed by people. The aim of the present study was to determine whether polyphenol-rich nano Moringa oleifera (NMO) could protect rat testicles from sodium fluoride (NaF) damage by evaluating sperm quality, sex hormones, testicular oxidative status, histopathology, and StAR gene expression. Twenty-eight adult Wistar rats were divided equally and randomly into four groups: group one received distilled water; group two received NMO at a dosage of 250 mg/kg/body weight; group three received NaF at a dosage of 10 mg/kg/body weight; and group four received NaF and NMO. The rats were orally administrated daily for a duration of eight weeks. The study's findings demonstrated that, in comparison to rats exposed to NaF alone, co-administration of NMO and NaF enhanced sperm motility and viability, decreased sperm morphological changes, restored the balance between oxidant and antioxidant status, improved testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone, improved testicular histology, raised the Johnson score, and upregulated the StAR gene in testicular tissue. These findings show that NMO is promise as a prophylactic medication against sodium fluoride-induced testicular damage because administration of NMO had no adverse effects and enhanced reproductive health.

Alleviating effects of selenium on fluoride-induced testosterone synthesis disorder and reproduction toxicity in rats

Fluoride (F) exists widely in food, water and other natural resources, and can cause damage to the reproductive system of human and animals. Studies have shown that selenium (Se) is a necessary trace element to maintain the normal male reproductive system. However, it is not clear whether it can alleviate the damage of reproductive system induced by F. Hence, sodium fluoride (NaF) was administered singly in drinking water at 100 mg L^-1 alone and co-administered by drinking with sodium selenite (Na₂SeO₃) at 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 mg L^-1 for 10 consecutive weeks. The results demonstrated that the sperm deformity rate were increased significantly by F, however, it was improved significantly after the addition of 2.0 mg L^-1 Na₂SeO₃. The contents of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX-4), selenoprotein P (SePP), pregnenolone (PREG), androstenedione (ASD), and testosterone (T) were reduced obviously in the F group, however, it was increased significantly after adding 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mg L^-1 Na₂SeO₃. F decreased noticeably the mRNA and protein expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome P450 cholesterol side chain lyase (P450scc), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase (P450c17) and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), which was increased obviously after the addition of 1.0 and 2.0 mg L^-1 Na₂SeO₃. In summary, 2.0 mg L^-1 Na₂SeO₃ can alleviate testosterone synthesis disorder induced by F via reducing oxidative stress, increasing the level of selenoprotein in testis and regulating the content of related hormones and enzyme activity during testosterone synthesis pathway.

Disruption of Leydig cell steroidogenic function by sodium arsenite and/or sodium fluoride

Arsenite (As) and fluoride (F), both of which are linked to a variety of human ailments, are regularly found in underground drinking water. Numerous studies have shown that As and/or F have negative impacts on testicular function and fertility. For this purpose, mouse Leydig cells, the main cells responsible for the generation and regulation of steroid hormones such as testosterone, were used to reveal the effects of individual and combined exposure of As and F on the steroidogenic pathway in the male reproductive system. Leydig cells were treated with 0.39 μM (50 ppb) As and 0.0476 mM (2 ppm) F alone and in combination for 24 h. The findings revealed that As and/or F exposure induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in Leydig cells and altered antioxidant equilibrium of the cells by reducing superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase. Additionally, individual and combined administration of As and/or F significantly supressed the expression of both steroidogenic enzymes and the genes encoding these enzymes. In conclusion, this study showed that exposure to As and F at environmentally relevant concentrations dispersed by water decreased testosterone production in Leydig cells, an important cell of the male reproductive system. The deleterious effects of even the lowest concentrations of As and F elements that can reach humans from the environment on the Leydig cell, and therefore on male infertility, emphasize necessity new safe limits for these elements.

Synergistic effects of arsenic and fluoride on oxidative stress and apoptotic pathway in Leydig and Sertoli cells

Excessive intake of arsenic (As) and fluoride (F), which are present in underground drinking water, have adverse effects on human health, and especially on the male reproductive system. In this regard, it's critical to figure out how As and F affect Leydig and Sertoli cells, which are key cells in the male reproductive system. The goal of this study was to determine the synergistic effects of co-exposure of As and F, via drinking water, on Leydig and Sertoli cells, which are models for the male reproductive system, as well as the mechanisms underlying these effects in terms of oxidative damage and apoptosis. Leydig and Sertoli cells were exposed to concentrations of 7.7 µM (0.57 ppm) As and 0.4 mM (7.24 ppm) F based on the highest daily intake of drinking water for 24 h. The present results revealed that As and/or F treatment reduced cell viability and proliferation in Leydig and Sertoli cells, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, a cytotoxicity marker, and triggered oxidative stress and apoptosis. Furthermore, it has been proven that when As and F are exposed in combination, they have a synergistic effect. In conclusion, by revealing the harmful effects of As and F on Leydig and Sertoli cells, and thus on male infertility, it is possible to reduce As and F exposure to prevent infertility after exposure to these molecules not only separately but also together. It will be considered to determine new action and action plans to reduce As and F exposure.

Diet, herbs and erectile function: A good friendship!

Plants and plant materials have been used for thousands of years to treat and control erectile dysfunction in men. This practice has spanned many cultures and traditions around the world, with the therapeutic effects of many plants attributed to their phytochemical constituents. This review explains how polyphenols (including phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, carotenoids, alkaloids and polyunsaturated fatty acids) in plants and plant food products interact with key enzymes (phosphodiesterase-5 [PDE-5], angiotensin-converting enzyme [ACE], acetylcholinesterase [AChE], adenosine deaminase [ADA] and arginase) associated with erectile dysfunction. By modulating or altering the activity of these physiologically important enzymes, various bioactive compounds from plants or plant products can synergistically or additively provide tremendous protection against male erectile problems.

Evaluation of acetamiprid and azoxystrobin residues and their hormonal disrupting effects on male rats using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Endocrine-disrupting compounds as pesticides affect the hormonal balance, and this can result in several diseases. Therefore, the analysis of representative hormones with acetamiprid (AC) and azoxystrobin (AZ) was a good strategy for the investigation of the endocrine-disrupting activity of pesticides. Hence, a sensitive and rapid analytical method using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was developed. The method was validated for the analysis of AC, AZ, estriol, estrone, progesterone, and testosterone in the serum, testis, and liver of rats. The correlation between the residues of pesticides and the disturbance of the endocrine system was evaluated. The different mass parameters, mobile phase types, analytical columns, injection volumes, and extraction solvents were compared to get the lowest limit of detection of the studied compounds. The detection limits of AC, AZ, estriol, estrone, progesterone, and testosterone were 0.05, 0.05, 1.0, 10, and 1.0 ng/ml, respectively. The method developed was applied to evaluate the changes in these hormones induced by the duration of exposure to AC and AZ in rat testis and serum. The hormones level in rat serum and testis had a significant decrease as they were oral gavage treated with different high concentrations of studied pesticides. Both pesticides were distributed in the body of rats by the multi-compartment model (liver, testis, and serum).

Gene expression profiles of two testicular somatic cell lines respond differently to 4-nitrophenol mediating vary reproductive toxicity

4-Nitrophenol (PNP) has been extensively used in manufacturing for several decades. Its toxic effects on the male reproductive system have been reported, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we utilized two testicular somatic cell lines (TM3 and TM4 cells) to explore the possible toxic effects of PNP on the male reproductive system. The activity of the cells after exposure to different doses of PNP (0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 μM) was evaluated. PNP treatment at 10 μM significantly inhibited cell viability, and 10 μM PNP was thus selected for subsequent experiments. Although PNP (10 μM) inhibited cell proliferation, promoted cell apoptosis, and changed the cell cycle distribution and ultrastructure in both types of cells, these effects were more significant in the TM4 cells. In addition, an Agilent mouse mRNA array was used to identify the gene expression differences between the control and PNP (10 μM) exposed TM3 and TM4 cells. The microarray analysis identified 67 and 1372 differentially expressed genes mainly concentrated in endothelial cell morphogenesis and anatomical structure development in TM3 cells and associated with cardiovascular system development and circulatory system development in TM4 cells. Moreover, a pathway analysis revealed that PNP not only predominately affected meiotic recombination and meiosis in TM3 cells, but also influenced axon guidance and developmental biology in TM4 cells. These results suggest that TM3 and TM4 cells exhibit different responses to PNP, which might mediate different toxic mechanisms.

Sodium Fluoride In Vitro Treatment Affects the Expression of Gonadotropin and Steroid Hormone Receptors in Chicken Embryonic Gonads

Simple Summary

Effects of in vitro sodium fluoride (NaF) treatment on the mRNA expression of luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), estrogen receptors (ESR1 and ESR2), progesterone receptor (PGR), and the immunolocalization of PGRs were examined in gonads of 14-day-old chicken embryos. In the ovary, the NaF treatment significantly increased mRNA levels of all investigated receptors. In the testes, the lowest applied dose of NaF (1.7 mM) significantly decreased the expression of FSHR, ESR1, ESR2, and PGR. Alternatively, the higher NaF dose (7.1 mM) elevated PGR mRNA level in the male gonad. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the NaF exposure increased PGR expression in the ovarian cortex, while it decreased its expression in the testes. Collectively, these data indicate that: (i) NaF may disturb the chicken embryonic development, and (ii) different mechanisms of this toxicant action exist within the female and male gonads.

Abstract

Sodium fluoride (NaF), in addition to preventing dental decay may negatively affect the body. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a 6 h in vitro treatment of gonads isolated from 14-day-old chicken embryos with NaF at doses of 1.7 (D1), 3.5 (D2), 7.1 (D3), and 14.2 mM (D4). The mRNA expression of luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR), follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), estrogen receptors (ESR1 and ESR2), progesterone receptor (PGR), and the immunolocalization of progesterone receptors were examined in the tissue. In the ovary, the expression of FSHR and LHR increased following the NaF treatment. In the case of FSHR the highest stimulatory effect was noticed in the D2 group, while the expression of LHR increased in a dose-dependent manner. A gradual increase in ESR1 and PGR mRNA levels was also observed in the ovary following the NaF treatment, but only up to the D3 dose of NaF. The highest ESR2 level was also found in the D3 group. In the testes, the lowest dose of NaF significantly decreased the expression of FSHR, ESR1, ESR2, and PGR. On the other hand, an increase in PGR expression was observed in the D3 group. The expression of LHR in the testes was not affected by the NaF treatment. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that NaF exposure increased progesterone receptor expression in the ovarian cortex, while it decreased its expression in the testes. These results reveal that NaF may disturb the chicken embryonic development and different mechanisms of this toxicant action exist within the females and males.

Interleukin 17A deficiency alleviates fluoride-induced testicular injury by inhibiting the immune response and apoptosis

The reproductive toxicity of fluoride (F) has been verified by various epidemiological and experimental studies. Our previous work suggested that the interleukin 17A (IL-17A) is involved in the testicular damage induced by excessive F exposure. In this study, we further investigated the role of IL-17A in F-induced testicular injury. Wild type (WT) and IL-17A knockout (IL-17A^-/-) mice were exposed to 0, 25, 50, or 100 mg/L sodium fluoride (NaF) for 90 days. We found that exposure to excessive F levels caused testicular damage, decreased semen quality, negatively affected testicular morphology, and increased the inflammatory response. Specifically, excessive F intake increased the expression levels of IL-17A in the testis and increased the protein levels of Act1, NF-κB, IL-17R, C/EBP-α, and TRAF6 in the IL-17A signaling pathway. The increase in IL-17A expression corresponded to increases expression of IL-17R, IL-6, IL-23, IL-1β, TGF-β and TNF-α as assessed by RT-PCR and ELISA assays. Remarkably, IL-17A knockout in mice ameliorated the effects of F on testicular damage, semen quality, testicular morphology, and the immune response. Additionally, we found the in vitro exposure of Leydig cells to NaF and recombinant IL-17A led to abnormal apoptosis and a decrease in testosterone secretion. Our findings prove that IL-17A plays a key role in the exacerbation of testicular injuries in F-exposed mice, and that IL-17A deficiency can alleviate F-induced injury by inhibiting the immune response and apoptosis in the testis. These data suggest that targeting IL-17A may be a useful therapeutic strategy for treating F-mediated toxicity in the testis.

Effect of fluoride on endocrine tissues and their secretory functions -- review

The effects of fluoride on endocrine tissues has not been sufficiently explored to date. The current body of knowledge suggest significant effects of that mineral on reducing sex hormone levels, which may consequently impair fertility and disrupt puberty. The majority of studies confirm that sodium fluoride increases TSH levels and decreases the concentrations of T3 and T4 produced by the thyroid. Moreover, a correlation was observed between NaF and increased secretion of PTH by the parathyroid glands, without a significant impact on body calcium levels. Probably, fluoride may exert adverse effects on insulin levels, impairing pancreatic function and resulting in abnormal glucose tolerance. Observations also include decreased levels of cortisol secreted by the adrenal glands. In light of the few existing studies, the mechanism of fluoride toxicity on the endocrine system has been described.

Effect of in vitro sodium fluoride treatment on CAT, SOD and Nrf mRNA expression and immunolocalisation in chicken (Gallus domesticus) embryonic gonads

In this study, we examined the effect of sodium fluoride (NaF) on oxidative stress in chicken embryonic gonads. Following exposure to varying concentrations of NaF for 6 h, mRNA expression and immunolocalisation of catalase (CAT), sodium dismutase (SOD1 and SOD2) and nuclear respiratory factors (Nrf1 and Nrf) were analysed in the gonads. In the ovary, a dose-dependent increase in mRNA expression of CAT, Nrf1 and Nrf2 following NaF exposure was found, while the intensity of immunolocalised CAT, SOD2 and Nrf1 was higher in NaF-treated groups. In the testis, no effect of NaF on CAT, SOD1 and Nrf1 mRNA levels was observed; however, NaF (3.5-14.2 mM) elevated Nrf2 mRNA expression. NaF, at a dose of 7.1 mM, increased the immunoreactivity of Nrf1 and SOD2. Further experiments evaluated the ovary and testes when incubated with NaF (7.1 mM), vitamin C (Vitamin C, 4 mM) or NaF + Vitamin C. mRNA expression of all four examined genes in the whole ovary and immunoreactivity of Nrf1 and CAT in the ovarian medulla increased in each experimental group. Similar effects were observed in the testis, where mRNA expression, as well as CAT and Nrf2 immunoreactivity, increased in Vitamin C and NaF + Vitamin C-treated groups. In summary, NaF exposure generated oxidative stress which is manifested by increased expression of free radical scavenging enzymes in chicken embryonic gonads. High doses of Vitamin C did not reverse this effect.

Promising role of medicinal plants in the regulation and management of male erectile dysfunction

Male erectile dysfunction (ED) refers to incompetency to reaching and retaining adequate penile tumescence for sexual intercourse. Over 152 million men globally suffer from ED and by 2025, the number of affected individuals is anticipated to be around 322 million. Pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies such as phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, alprostadil, penile prosthesis surgery, and hormonal replacement are available for management and recuperation of ED. Nevertheless, such therapies are reported to have adverse effects as well as life-threatening. Accordingly, diversity of medicinal plant species and bioactive active compounds are preferred as therapeutic options because they are natural, abundant, available, low-cost and cause fewer or no side effects. This current review will emphasise the aetiology, risk factors, mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of ED, treatments of ED as well as their side effects. It also provides medicinal plants that are proven effective in vivo and in vitro for the mitigation and treatment of male ED. This knowledge could be used in the future in drug discovery for the development of more natural drugs with no side effects.

Reproductive effects of subchronic exposure to acetamiprid in male rats

Acetamiprid, a selective agonist of nicotinic acetylcholine recetors, is one of the most widely used neonicotinoids. There is limited data about toxicity of acetamiprid on male reproductive system. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the reproductive toxic potential of acetamiprid in male rats orally treated with acetamiprid with low (12.5 mg/kg) medium (25 mg/kg) or high dose (35 mg/kg) for 90 days. According to our results, sperm concentration and plasma testosterone levels decreased in dose dependent manner. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle-stimulating hormeone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) levels increased at low and medium dose groups and acetamiprid caused lipid peroxidation and glutathione (GSH) depletion in the testes. Histologic examinations revealed that acetamiprid induced apoptosis in medium and high dose groups and proliferation index dramatically decreased in high dose group. In conclusion, acetamiprid caused toxicity on male reproductive system in the high dose. The mechanism of the toxic effect may be associated with oxidative stress, hormonal disruptions and apoptosis.

Phytochemical content, antioxidant activities and androgenic properties of four South African medicinal plants

Introduction:This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical contents, antioxidant activities, and androgenic properties ofPeltophorum africanumSond,Trichilia emeticaVahl,Terminalia sambesiaca, andXimenia caffra.Methods:The finely powdered leaves of the selected plants were extracted using acetone, aqueous, and methanol as solvents. The total phenolics and flavonoids contents were determined from gallic acid and quercetin standard curves. The antioxidant activities of these extracts were evaluated using 1, 1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl ( DPPH) assay. The effect of plant extracts (100-1000 µg/mL) on TM3 Leydig cells was assessed using 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) assay. Testosterone levels were measured using ELISA kit.Results:The methanol extracts ofT. sambesiacaandX. caffrarevealed higher total phenolic and flavonoid contents (102.13±2.32 mg/g GAE and 1.05±0.04 mg/g QE, respectively) than other plant extracts. The acetone and methanol extracts ofP. africanumrevealed the best IC50value (12.50 ± 0.052 µg/mL) against DPPH than the other plant extracts and ascorbic acid. The MTT assay results showed that all varying concentrations of plant extracts maintained cell viability and were not cytotoxic with IC50values of greater than 20 µg/mL. The methanol extract ofT. sambesiacahad the highest testosterone production at 500 µg/mL (0.399 ng/mL) when compared with the basal control while at the concentration of 500 µg/mL the acetone extracts ofP. africanumandT. sambesiacahad significantly high testosterone production 0.147 and 0.188 ng/mL respectively when compared with basal control.Conclusion:The results reveal that these plants possess antioxidants and androgenic property and suggest the potential use for the treatment of male infertility.

Fluoride network and circular economy as potential model for sustainable development-A review

Fluorine is the most reactive elements among the halogen group and commonly and ubiquitously occurs as fluoride in nature. The industrial processes produce fluoride by-products causing the increase of unwanted environmental levels and consequently posing risk on human and environmental health worldwide. This review gives a fundamental understanding of fluoride networks in the industrial processes, in the geological and hydrological transport, and in the biological sphere. Numerous biological pathways of fluoride also increase the risk of exposure. Literature shows that various environmental levels of fluoride due to its chemical characteristics cause bioaccumulation resulting in health deterioration among organisms. These problems are aggravated by emitted fluoride in the air and wastewater streams. Moreover, the current waste disposal dependent on incineration and landfilling superpose to the problem. In our analysis, the fluoride material flow model still follows a linear economy and reuse economy to some extent. This flow model spoils resources with high economic potential and worsens environmental problems. Thus, we intend a shift from the conventional linear economy to a circular economy with the revival of three-dimensional objectives of sustainable development. Linkages between key dimensions of the circular economy to stimulate momentum for perpetual sustainable development are proposed to gain economic, environmental and social benefits.

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.

Fluoride exposure arrests the acrosome formation during spermatogenesis via down-regulated Zpbp1, Spaca1 and Dpy19l2 expression in rat testes

The exposure and health effects of fluoride are an ongoing topic that has attracted worldwide attention. Fluoride exposure disturbs the testicular development, sexual hormone levels and spermatogenesis. However, as to whether fluoride interferes with acrosome formation which is essential for production of capable spermatozoa during spermatogenesis still remains unclear. The objective was to determine the effects of fluoride on the acrosome formation and to further elucidate the potential mechanism of impaired reproductive function. For this, forty adult rats were assigned into four groups. The control group received distilled water, while the other three groups were treated with 25, 50 and 100 mg NaF/L via drinking water for 56 d, respectively. Testes were processed for total RNA extraction and western blot analysis. Three samples of each group were fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde solution for transmission electron microscopy analysis. From the results, we first found that fluoride decreased the expression of mRNA and protein levels of Zpbp1, Spaca1 and Dpy19l2 of seven markers during acrosome biogenesis in testes. Furthermore, fluoride damaged not only the acrosome structure, but also the structure of the nuclear lamina which was observed to be discontinuous and partially missing by transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, the results indicated that the altered structure in nuclear lamina maybe due to reduced LMNB2 expression in testis induced by fluoride. In a nutshell, fluoride exposure could restrain acrosome biogenesis during spermatogenesis and contribute to the elucidation of the underlying mechanisms of fluoride-induced male reproductive toxicity.