Hesperidin protects testicular and spermatological damages induced by cisplatin in rats

An updated and comprehensive review of the health benefits and pharmacological activities of hesperidin

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to comprehensively assess the health benefits and pharmacological activities of hesperidin, a flavonoid commonly found in citrus fruits. It consolidates recent research findings to provide insights into hesperidin's diverse health-promoting effects.

KEY FINDINGS

Hesperidin has gained significant attention recently for its notable pharmacological activities and potential health benefits. Studies reveal its antioxidant properties, protecting cells from oxidative damage, and its anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes. Also, hesperidin shows promise in cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels and enhancing endothelial function. It also exhibits anticancer potential by hindering cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing tumour growth. Moreover, hesperidin demonstrates neuroprotective effects, potentially mitigating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, it displays beneficial effects in metabolic disorders such as diabetes, obesity, and fatty liver disease by influencing glucose metabolism, lipid profile, and insulin sensitivity.

SUMMARY

Hesperidin exhibits a wide range of health benefits and pharmacological activities, making it a promising candidate for therapeutic interventions in various diseases. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, anticancer, neuroprotective, and metabolic effects underscore its potential as a valuable natural compound for promoting health and preventing chronic diseases.

The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects of sesamin against cisplatin-induced renal and testicular toxicity in rats

PURPOSE

The present study investigated the nephron-testicular protective effects of sesamin against cisplatin (CP)-induced acute renal and testicular injuries.

METHODS

Thirty-two male Wistar rats were allocated to receive carboxymethylcellulose (0.5%, as sesamin vehicle), CP (a single i.p. 5 mg/kg dose), CP plus sesamin at 10 or 20 mg/kg orally for 10 days.

RESULTS

Data analysis showed significant increases in serum urea, creatinine, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), as well as renal and testicular tissue malondialdehyde and nitric-oxide concentrations in CP-intoxicated rats in comparison to control animals. On the contrary, rats treated with CP only exhibited significantly lower (p < .05) serum testosterone, tissue glutathione, and activities of endogenous antioxidant enzymes compared to control rats. Histopathologically examining CP-intoxicated rats' tissues using H&E and PAS stains showed atrophied glomeruli, interstitial inflammatory cells, atypic tubular epithelium with focal apoptosis, and reduced mucopolysaccharide content. Further, immunohistochemical staining of the same group revealed an increase in p53 and cyclooxygenase-II (Cox-II) expression in renal and testicular tissues. Treatment with sesamin alleviated almost all the changes mentioned above in a dose-dependent manner, with the 20 mg/kg dose restoring several parameters' concentrations to normal ranges.

CONCLUSIONS

In brief, sesamin could protect the kidneys and testes against CP toxicity through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects.

Potential Protective Effect of Hesperidin (Vitamin P) against Glyphosate-Induced Spermatogenesis Damage in Male Rats: Biochemical and Histopathological Findings on Reproductive Parameters

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of hesperidin (HES) on testicular histopathological changes, biochemical changes, and semen characteristics in rats exposed to glyphosate (GLP). The control group was given a normal diet devoid of GLP and HES, the HES group was given 100 mg/kg/day HES with the normal diet, the GLP group was given GLP at the LD50/10 dose of normal feed, which was 787.85 mg/kg/day, and the GLP + HES group was given normal feed containing 787.85 mg/kg/day LD50/10 dose of GLP in addition to 100 mg/kg/day HES. GLP administration reduced sperm motility, sperm plasma membrane integrity, glutathione levels, and total antioxidant levels in the testicular tissues of rats. Moreover, it caused an increase in right testis and left epididymis weights, abnormal sperm counts, malondialdehyde levels, total oxidant status, and DNA damage. The HES treatment showed curative effects on these parameters. Furthermore, HES was effective in lessening the histopathological damage that was caused by GLP. The results showedthat HES protects spermatological parameters and DNA integrity, improves antioxidant defenses, and lowers the damage and lipid peroxidation caused by GLP in testicular tissue.

Smart Hesperidin/Chitosan Nanogel Mitigates Apoptosis and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Fluoride and Aluminum-Induced Testicular Injury

Fluoride and aluminum are ubiquitous toxic metals with adverse reproductive effects. The citrus flavonoid hesperidin has protective activities but poor solubility and bioavailability. Nanoparticulate delivery systems can improve flavonoid effectiveness. We conducted this study to prepare a pH-responsive chitosan-based nanogel for hesperidin delivery and evaluate its effectiveness against sodium fluoride (NaF) and aluminum chloride (AlCl3) induced testicular toxicity in mice. The nanogel was synthesized using 2 kGy gamma irradiation, enabling a size under 200 nm and enhanced hesperidin release at pH 6 matching testicular acidity. Male mice received 200 mg/kg AlCl3 and 10 mg/kg NaF daily for 30 days. Hesperidin nanogel at 20 mg/kg was administered orally either prophylactically (pretreatment) or after intoxication (posttreatment). The results showed that AlCl3 + NaF induced severe oxidative stress, hormonal disturbance, apoptosis, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, evidenced by significant changes in the studied parameters and testicular histological damage. Hesperidin nanogel administration significantly inhibited oxidative stress markers, restored luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone levels, and alleviated tissue damage compared to the intoxicated group. It also downregulated the expression level of pro-apoptotic genes Bax, caspase-3, caspase-9, and P38MAPK, while upregulating the expression level of the anti-apoptotic BCL2 gene. Endoplasmic reticulum stress sensors PERK, ATF6, and IRE-α were also downregulated by the nanogel. The chitosan-based nanogel enhanced the delivery and efficacy of poorly bioavailable hesperidin, exhibiting remarkable protective effects against AlCl3 and NaF reproductive toxicity. This innovative nanosystem represents a promising approach to harnessing bioactive phytochemicals with delivery challenges, enabling protective effects against chemical-induced testicular damage.

El Gendy A, Serag A, Abd El-Fadeal NM, Abdel-Karim RI, Mostafa MM, El-Sheikh DH, Zayed MA. Acacia saligna extract alleviates quetiapine-induced sexual toxicity in male albino rats: Insights from UPLC-MS/MS metabolite profiling, structural and PI3K/NF-κB pathway assessments

Background

Quetiapine (QET) abuse has increased due to its anxiolytic and hedonic effects, necessitating protective adjunct treatments. Acacia saligna (A. saligna) flowers, used in traditional medicine, have potential health benefits.

Aim

To investigate the protective role of A. saligna flower extract against QET-induced sexual toxicity, and to elucidate the possible underlying mechanisms through metabolomic and physiological studies.

Methods

A. saligna extract was subjected to metabolite profiling via High-Resolution Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-qTOF-MS). Forty-eight adult male albino rats were assigned into six groups for 30 days. The intracavernosal pressure (ICP), semen, biochemical, hormonal, histological, genetic and Western blot (WB) analyses were determined.

Results

A. saligna extract is rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and unsaturated fatty acids. QET significantly decreased ICP and negatively affected semen parameters. A. saligna mitigated decreased sperm motility and ameliorated overexpressed proinflammatory genes in QET-55 group. A. saligna ameliorated the reduction of the antioxidant biomarkers, testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), concurrent with downregulation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) protein. A. saligna counteracted the disrupted testicular and prostatic structures revealed by histological examination.

Conclusion

The extract from A. saligna, which contains a high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory chemicals, effectively mitigates sexual toxicity caused by QET. This study provided the first known explanation of the hypothesized processes behind the protective properties of A. saligna through biological, biochemical, and histological parameters. The results emphasize the potential of A. saligna as a safeguarding agent against drug-induced sexual toxicity.

Testicular protective effects of hesperidin against chemical and biological toxicants

Toxic agents can adversely impact the male reproductive system mainly via activating oxidative stress affecting the seminiferous epithelia, spermatogenesis, sperms, and the testis. Toxic agents lead to the excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydroxyl radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide anions. ROS exert a cytotoxic effect and oxidative damage to nucleic acids, proteins, and membrane lipids. Hesperidin is a pharmacologically active phytoflavone abundantly occurring in citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons. It has shown various pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic, antiviral, anti-coagulant, hypolipidemic, and hypoglycemic effects. Hesperidin has been found to exert protective effects against natural and chemical toxins-induced organ toxicity. Considerable evidence has implicated the testicular protective effects of hesperidin against the toxicological properties of pharmaceutical drugs as well as biological and chemical agents, and in the present review, we discussed, for the first time, the reported studies. The resultant data indicate that hesperidin can exert testicular protective effects through antioxidant properties.

Mitigating cyclophosphamide-associated gonadotoxicity in male Wistar rats: exploring the therapeutic potential of hesperidin

Hesperidin, a bioactive flavanone glycoside prevalent in citrus fruits, with remarkable therapeutic properties stands out as a formidable defender against the debilitating reproductive toxicity associated with Cyclophosphamide (CYP) chemotherapy. This study explores the protective potential of hesperidin (HSP@100 mg/kg b.wt PO daily) against CYP-induced (@ 40 mg/kg b.wt IP once in a week) reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats as several studies were documented on single dose toxicity of CYP. In this experiment, we chose multidosage drug effects, which are more relevant in chemotherapy. Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups: Group 1 (Control), group 2 (CYP-treated), group 3 (HSP-treated), and group 4 (CYP + HSP-treated) for 28 days. The experimental design included assessments of relative testicular weight, semen analysis, testosterone levels, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, gross and histopathological changes, and immunohistochemical evaluation. The results revealed that the administration of CYP led to a significant reduction in testicular weight, sperm count, motility, and testosterone levels, accompanied by increased oxidative stress and inflammatory response. Hesperidin co-administration demonstrated a protective effect by restoring these parameters to near-normal levels. Histopathological analysis revealed improved testicular architecture in the group 4 compared with the group 2. Oxidative stress indices indicated that hesperidin attenuated CYP-induced damage by reducing malondialdehyde levels, enhancing superoxide dismutase activity and maintaining glutathione levels. Similarly, inflammatory cytokine analysis demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects of hesperidin by reducing tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and elevating interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels in the group 4. Immunohistochemical evaluation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) revealed increased inflammation in the CYP group, while hesperidin significantly reduced NF-κB expression, suggesting its anti-inflammatory properties.

Protective role of hesperidin in finasteride-induced testicular toxicity in adult male Wistar rats: Insights into oxidative stress, apoptosis, and ultrastructure of seminiferous tubules

A negative impact of finasteride on fertility has been reported, in which over production of reactive oxygen species and apoptosis were implicated. Hesperidin, a plant-derived bioflavonoid with antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects, may mitigate these adverse effects. In order to investigate the possible protective role of hesperidin against finasteride-induced seminiferous tubules toxicity in adult male Wistar rats, 60 rats were randomized into five groups (I-V) receiving distilled water, 0.5% sodium carboxymethylcellulose solution, hesperidin, finasteride, and combined hesperidin and finasteride respectively. Testicular weight, sperm count and motility were determined. Testicular tissue homogenates were prepared to measure the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH) and the gene expression of caspase-3 and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2). Testes were processed for light and electron microscopic evaluation. Johnsen score was calculated. Administration of finasteride resulted in significantly decreased testicular weights, sperm count and motility, Johnsen score, tissue levels of TAC and GSH together with significant increase in tissue MDA. Gene expression revealed significantly increased caspase-3 and decreased Bcl2. Furthermore, finasteride disrupted the seminiferous tubules, causing degenerative changes affecting Sertoli cells and spermatogenic cells. Co-administration of hesperidin with finasteride resulted in improvement in testicular weights, TAC, GSH, Bcl2, Johnsen score, sperm count and motility as well as preservation of the structure of the seminiferous tubules. To conclude, hesperidin was found to have a protective potential on finasteride-induced oxidative stress, apoptosis and testicular structural damage.

The amelioration of ovarian dysfunction by hesperidin in malathion-treated mice through the overexpression of PCNA and FSHR proteins

OBJECTIVE

Malathion (MAL), a pesticide used for decades, is a highly toxic substance. Several studies have documented the negative effects of such agents on reproductive organ physiology, but the precise mechanism of action in the induction of ovarian dysfunction remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to examine the effects of the antioxidant hesperidin (HES) on ovarian damage and toxicity caused by malathion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experiment, forty adult female bulb/c mice weighing 27-30 g were categorized into four groups, namely hesperidin (20 mg/kg, i.p.), malathion (3 mg/kg, i.p.), malathion + hesperidin, and control groups. Following a period of 35 consecutive days of treatment, mice were euthanized, and their ovarian tissues were gathered for the purposes of histopathological analysis by H&E staining, immunohistochemical assessment via proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) immunostaining, and biochemical evaluation via measuring the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). In addition, serum samples were collected from the blood of mice to perform hormonal analyses, especially 17β-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that MAL exposure resulted in the development of abnormalities in the architecture and structure of ovaries. Also, the treatment of mice with MAL led to declined follicular counts at all three stages, namely, primary, secondary, and tertiary, reduced serum levels of sex hormones, decreased immunoreactivity of FSHR and PCNA, and diminished activity of CAT and SOD enzymes. In contrast, it caused an increase in MDA, IL-1β, and TNF-α, as well as the count of atretic follicles. Nonetheless, it was observed that HES exhibited the ability to ameliorate the deleterious impacts of malathion across all the aforementioned parameters.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with HES via upregulating the protein expression of PCNA and FSHR and activating antioxidant defense was able to ameliorate the adverse effects of MAL on ovarian tissues.

Hesperidin Mitigates Cyclophosphamide-Induced Testicular Dysfunction via Altering the Hypothalamic Pituitary Gonadal Axis and Testicular Steroidogenesis, Inflammation, and Apoptosis in Male Rats

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a cytotoxic, cell cycle, non-specific, and antiproliferative drug. This study aimed to address the toxic effects of CP on male fertility and the possible ameliorative role of hesperidin (HSP). Thirty-two adult albino rats were randomly divided into four groups, namely, the negative control, HSP, CP-treated, and CP+HSP-treated groups. The CP-treated rats showed a significant reduction in the levels of serum LH, FSH, testosterone, prolactin, testicular glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) with an elevation in levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), and p53, and iNOS immune expression, compared to the control group. A significant downregulation in hypothalamic KISS-1, KISS-1r, and GnRH, hypophyseal GnRHr, and testicular mRNA expression of steroidogenesis enzymes, PGC-1α, PPAR-1, IL10, and GLP-1, as well as a significant upregulation in testicular mRNA of P53 and IL1β mRNA expression, were detected in the CP-treated group in comparison to that in the control group. The administration of HSP in CP-treated rats significantly improved the levels of serum LH, FSH, testosterone, prolactin, testicular GPx, and TAC, with a reduction in levels of MDA, and p53, and iNOS immune expression compared to the CP-treated group. A significant upregulation in hypophyseal GnRHr, and testicular mRNA expression of CYP19A1 enzymes, PPAR-1, IL10, and GLP-1, as well as a significant downregulation in testicular mRNA of P53 and IL1β mRNA expression, were detected in the CP+HSP-treated group in comparison to that in the CP-treated group. In conclusion, HSP could be a potential auxiliary agent for protection from the development of male infertility.

Hesperidin partly ameliorates the decabromodiphenyl ether-induced reproductive toxicity in pubertal mice

Many materials use polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) as flame retardants. As one of the most common congeners of PBDEs, decabromodiphenyl ether (PBDE-209) is reported to harm reproductive health. However, little is known research on attenuating the reproductive toxicity induced by PBDE-209. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of hesperidin against PBDE-209-induced reproductive toxicity in male mice. Pubertal male C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to PBDE-209 groups (20, 100, 500 mg/kg·bw) and hesperidin groups (100 mg/kg·bw PBDE-209 + 100 mg/kg·bw hesperidin) for 8 weeks. The results showed that PBDE-209 increased the amount of abnormal morphological sperms and decreased the sex hormone levels. PBDE-209 induced the histopathological lesions of seminiferous tubules and blood-testis barrier in mice testis. Expressions of apoptosis-associated proteins and mRNA (Bax, Bcl-2, etc.) were altered by the PBDE-209 treatment. PBDE-209 prominently increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, the biomarker of oxidative stress. Hesperidin treatment partly alleviated PBDE-209-induced histopathological lesions and apoptosis in mice testis. These findings suggested that hesperidin partly protects against PBDE-induced reproductive toxicity in pubertal mice. We conclude that more work needs to be done to explore the appropriate dosage of hesperidin or find other drugs to protect against the reproductive toxicity of PBDEs.

Investigation of Changes in Spermatozoon Characteristics, Chromatin Structure, and Antioxidant/Oxidant Parameters after Freeze-Thawing of Hesperidin (Vitamin P) Doses Added to Ram Semen

We conducted this study to determine the potential cryopreservative effects of different hesperidin (vitamin P; H) doses on ram semen after freeze-thawing. Semen samples were obtained from Sönmez rams using an artificial vagina. The samples were divided into six groups: control, 10, 50, 100, 250, and 500 µg/mL H (C, H10, H50, H100, H250, and H500, respectively). At the end of the study, sperm motility and kinetic parameters, acrosome integrity (AI), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), viability, lipid peroxidation levels (LPL), chromatin damage, oxidant parameters, and antioxidant parameters were assayed. None of the doses of H added to the semen extender showed any enhancing effects on progressive motility compared to C (p > 0.05). In fact, H500 had negative effects (p < 0.05). Moreover, AI was the highest at the H10 dose, while LPL values were the lowest at the same dose (p < 0.05). The doses of H10 and H50 added to the Tris extender medium showed positive effects on sperm cell chromatin damage. Consequently, we can say that H doses used in this study are not effective on semen progressive motility, but the H10 dose is effective on AI and chromatin damage by reducing LPL.

Linagliptin and Vitamin D3 Synergistically Rescue Testicular Steroidogenesis and Spermatogenesis in Cisplatin-Exposed Rats: The Crosstalk of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress with NF-κB/iNOS Activation

This study investigated the therapeutic effect of linagliptin and/or vitamin D3 on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in cisplatin-exposed rats including their impact on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and NF-κB/iNOS crosstalk. Cisplatin (7 mg/kg, IP) was injected into adult male albino rats which then were orally treated with drug vehicle, linagliptin (3 mg/kg/day), vitamin D3 (10 μg/kg/day) or both drugs for four weeks. Age-matched rats were used as the control group. Serum samples and testes were collected for further analyses. Cisplatin induced testicular weight loss, deteriorated testicular architecture, loss of germ cells and declined serum and intra-testicular testosterone levels, compared to the control group. There was down-regulation of steroidogenic markers including StAR, CYP11A1, HSD3b and HSD17b in cisplatin-exposed rats, compared with controls. Cisplatin-exposed rats showed up-regulation of ER stress markers in testicular tissue along with increased expression of NF-κB and iNOS in spermatogenic and Leydig cells. These perturbations were almost reversed by vitamin D3 or linagliptin. The combined therapy exerted a more remarkable effect on testicular dysfunction than either monotherapy. These findings suggest a novel therapeutic application for linagliptin combined with vitamin D3 to restore testicular architecture, aberrant steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis after cisplatin exposure. These effects may be attributed to suppression of ER stress and NF-kB/iNOS.

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

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

Chemoprotective effect of vitexin against cisplatin-induced biochemical, spermatological, steroidogenic, hormonal, apoptotic and histopathological damages in the testes of Sprague-Dawley rats

Cisplatin (CP) is one of the most widely used antineoplastic drugs, which possesses the potential to treat a variety of malignancies. However, it displays numerous side effects as well. Male reproductive dysfunction is one of the most adverse side effects of CP. Vitexin is a naturally occurring flavonoid, which exhibits remarkable antioxidant properties. Present study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of vitexin on CP-induced damages on testes. 48 Sprague-Dawley rats were equally distributed into 4 groups: control, cisplatin (CP), cisplatin + vitexin (CP + VIT) and vitexin (VIT). After 14 days of treatment, evaluation of biochemical, spermatogenic, steroidogenical, hormonal, apoptotic and histopathological parameters was carried out. CP damaged the biochemical profile by reducing activity of CAT, SOD, GPx and GSR, while level of MDA and ROS was increased. It also decreased sperm motility, viability, number of hypo-osmotic tail swelled spermatozoa and epididymal sperm count, besides increasing the sperm morphological anomalies. Moreover, levels of LH, FSH and plasma testosterone were reduced. CP reduced the gene expression of testicular anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2) and steroidogenic enzymes (3β-HSD, 17β-HSD and StAR), but upregulated the gene expressions of apoptotic markers (Bax and Caspase-3). Besides, CP led to histopathological damages in testicular tissues. However, vitexin reversed all aforementioned damages in testes. Therefore, it is concluded that vitexin could play an effective role as a therapeutic agent against CP-prompted testicular toxicity due to its antioxidant, anti-apoptotic and androgenic potential.

Cisplatin-Induced Reproductive Toxicity and Oxidative Stress: Ameliorative Effect of Kinetin

Cisplatin is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent; however, its potential side effects, including gonadotoxicity and infertility, are a critical problem. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cisplatin-induced testicular dysfunction. We investigated whether kinetin use at different concentrations could alleviate gonadal injury associated with cisplatin treatment, with an exploration of the involvement of its antioxidant capacity. Kinetin was administered in different doses of 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg, alone or along with cisplatin for 10 days. Cisplatin toxicity was induced via a single IP dose of 7 mg/kg on day four. In a dose-dependent manner, concomitant administration of kinetin with cisplatin significantly restored testicular oxidative stress parameters, corrected the distorted sperm quality parameters and histopathological changes, enhanced levels of serum testosterone and testicular StAR protein expression, as well as reduced the up-regulation of testicular TNF-α, IL-1β, Il-6, and caspase-3, caused by cisplatin. It is worth noting that the testicular protective effect of the highest kinetin dose was comparable/more potent and significantly higher than the effects of vitamin C and the lowest kinetin dose, respectively. Overall, these data indicate that kinetin may offer a promising approach for alleviating cisplatin-induced reproductive toxicity and organ damage, via ameliorating oxidative stress and reducing inflammation and apoptosis.

Ameliorative effect of hesperidin on streptozotocin-diabetes mellitus-induced testicular DNA damage and sperm quality degradation in Sprague-Dawley rats

This study aimed to investigate the effect of hesperidin on reproductive damage caused by diabetes mellitus. A total of 24 adult male rats were divided into four groups: control group, hesperidin group, diabetes mellitus group, and diabetes mellitus + hesperidin group. The study was conducted for 4 weeks. At the end of the study, the rats were sacrificed and testicular oxidative stress markers (MDA, GSH, GSH-Px, SOD, and CAT), DNA damage in testes (8-OHdG), and routine sperm parameters were evaluated. According to the results of the study, most of the parameters were similar in the control and hesperidin groups but CAT activity in the hesperidin group was statistically higher than the control group. Also, diabetes mellitus (DM) significantly increased MDA levels and decreased enzymatic antioxidant (GSH-Px, SOD, CAT) activities and nonenzymatic (GSH) antioxidant levels. On the other hand, hesperidin supplementation significantly decreased oxidative stress and increased enzymatic antioxidant activities and nonenzymatic antioxidant levels due to the antioxidant effect. Also, DM increased DNA damage levels in testicular tissue and hesperidin supplementation significantly decreased DNA damage levels in testes of diabetic male rats. Besides, sperm motility significantly decreased while abnormal sperm rate and dead sperm rate were significantly increased in diabetic rats. Hesperidin supplementation significantly reduced these side effects in diabetic rats. In conclusion, hesperidin supplementation could be beneficial for decreasing the side effects on the male reproductive system caused by DM in rats. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Diabetes is an important metabolic disease, affecting quality of life and fertility. Hesperidin has an antioxidant effect and has a potential protective effect on reproductive toxicity in diabetic male rats. Hesperidin decreased oxidative stress, and DNA damage in testis resulted from hyperglycemia and improved sperm quality in diabetic rats. The hesperidin supplementation could be a good strategy to protect male fertility in diabetic patients.

Kolaviron abates busulfan-induced episodic memory deficit and testicular dysfunction in rats: The implications for neuroendopathobiological changes during chemotherapy

Busulfan is a popular antileukemia chemotherapeutic alkylating agent widely known to induce variety of serious adverse effects including chemobrain-related cognitive impairments and dysfunction in male reproductive system. Whether kolaviron, a neuro- and repro-active compound obtained from Garcinia kola, with neuroprotective and reproductive-promoting activities, mitigates busulfan-induced cognitive and male reproductive impairments remain unknown. Hence, we investigated the reversal effects of kolaviron on busulfan-induced episodic memory deficit and testicular dysfunction, and its underlying mechanisms in male rats. In the treatment-protocol, rats in groups 1 and 2 received saline (10 mL/kg/p.o./day) and DMSO (10 mL/kg/p.o./day) respectively, group 3 was given kolaviron (200 mg/kg/p.o./day), group 4 received busulfan (50 mg/kg/p.o./day) and group 5 was pretreated with busulfan (50 mg/kg/p.o./day) consecutively for 56 days prior to kolaviron treatment (200 mg/kg/p.o./day) from days 29-56. Episodic memory deficit was assessed using passive avoidance task (PAT). Following euthanization, blood samples, epididymal sperm, testes and brain were harvested and hormonal and neurochemical contents and their metabolizing enzymes were assayed. Kolaviron reversed busulfan-induced episodic cognitive deficit in the PAT. The reduced serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline concentrations, elevated glutamate levels, acetylcholinesterase, monoamine oxidase-A and B activities were normalized by kolaviron. Kolaviron also reversed the busulfan-induced decreased testicular/body weights and spermatogenesis. Kolaviron abated busulfan-induced changes in androgenic hormones (testosterone, FSH, LH), dehydrogenase enzymes (3ß-HSD and 17ß-HSD), altered sperm-chromatin, sperm-membrane integrity and sperm-acrosomal reaction and capacitation impairments. Our findings suggest that kolaviron could mitigate busulfan-induced episodic memory deficit and dysfunction in male reproductive system via neurochemical modulations and increase testicular androgenic hormones/enzymes in rats.

Protective Effect of Aloe vera Gel against Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Damage, Sperm Alteration and Oxidative stress in Rats

BACKGROUND

Cisplatin (CIS) is an effective antineoplas tic drug that is used to treat various types of cancers. However, it causes side effects on the male reproductive sys tem. The present s tudy aimed to inves tigate the possible protective effects of Aloe vera (AL) gel (known as an antioxidant plant) on CIS-induced changes in rat sperm parameters, tes ticular s tructure, and oxidative s tress markers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, forty-eight adult male rats were divided into 6 groups including: control, CIS, AL, metformin (MET), CIS+AL, and CIS+MET. CIS was used intraperitoneally at a dose of 5 mg/kg on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 of the experiment. AL gel (400 mg/kg per day) and MET (200 mg/kg per day) were administered orally for 35 days (started one week before the beginning of the experiment). Testes weight and dimensions, and morphometrical and histological alterations, activities of antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), serum testosterone concentration, lipid peroxidation level, and sperm parameters were examined.

RESULTS

CIS caused a significant decrease (P<0.05) in relative weight and dimension of the testis, germinal epithelium thickness and diameter of seminiferoustubules, the numbers of testicular cells, and spermatogenesis indexes. The malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased and antioxidant enzymes activities decreased in the CIS group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Additionally, sperm parameters (concentration, viability, motility, and normal morphology), and testosterone levels reduced significantly in CIS-treated rats (P<0.05). Also, CIS induced histopathological damages including disorganization, desquamation, atrophy, and vacuolation in the testis. However, administration of AL gel to CIS-treated rats attenuated the CIS-induced alterations, mitigated testicular oxidative stress and increased testosterone concentration.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that AL as a potential antioxidant plant and due to free radicals scavenging activities, has a protective effect against CIS-induced testicular alterations.

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

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

Phytochemical and Biological Evaluation of a Newly Designed Nutraceutical Self-Nanoemulsifying Self-Nanosuspension for Protection and Treatment of Cisplatin Induced Testicular Toxicity in Male Rats

The incorporation of cisplatin (CP) as a cytotoxic antineoplastic agent in most chemotherapeutic protocols is a challenge due to its toxic effect on testicular tissues. Natural compounds present a promising trend in research, so a new nutraceutical formulation (NCF) was designed to diminish CP spermatotoxicity. A combination of three nutraceutical materials, 250 mg Spirulina platensis powder (SP), 25 mg Tribulus terrestris L. extract (TT), and 100 mg fish oil (FO) were formulated in self-nanoemulsifying self-nanosuspension (SNESNS). SP was loaded into the optimized self-nanoemulsifying system (30% FO, 50% span 80/cremophor EL and 20% isopropanol) and mixed with TT aqueous solution to form SNESNS. For the SP, phytochemical profiling revealed the presence of valuable amounts of fatty acids (FAs), amino acids, flavonoids, polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and particle size analysis confirmed the formation of nanoemulsion-based nanosuspension upon dilution. Method validation of the phytochemical constituents in NCF has been developed. Furthermore, NCF was biologically evaluated on male Wistar rats and revealed the improvement of spermatozoa, histopathological features, and biochemical markers over the CP and each ingredient group. Our findings suggest the potential of NCF with SNESNS as a delivery system against CP-induced testicular toxicity in male rats.

Protective effects of green and chemical zinc oxide nanoparticles on testis histology, sperm parameters, oxidative stress markers and androgen production in rats treated with cisplatin

Cancer treatment with cisplatin (CP) is associated with adverse side effects on male reproductive tissues. Although beneficial effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in cancer therapy have received considerable attention, data related to the protective effects of green ZnO NPs against CP-induced male reproductive dysfunctions are limited. Forty-five rats were divided into 9 groups including G1 (control), G2 (sham), G3 (ZnO bulk), G4 (green ZnO NPs), G5 (chemical ZnO NPs), G6 (CP), G7 (CP + ZnO bulk), G8 (CP + green ZnO NPs), and G9 (CP + chemical ZnO NPs). CP was administrated (5 mg/kg/week) for 4 weeks, and animals were simultaneously treated with different forms of ZnO (5 mg/kg/day). Testis histology, sperm parameters, oxidative stress markers, testosterone concentration, and expression of genes related in steroidogenesis were analyzed in different experimental groups. Testis tissue damage and epididymal sperm disorders induced by CP attenuated when animals were treated with different forms of ZnO, especially green ZnO NPs. Decreased testosterone concentration and increased MDA level in CP-treated rats were reversed following administration different forms of ZnO, especially green and chemical ZnO NPs. Co-administration of ZnO NPs to CP-treated rats restored the suppressive effects of CP on activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GPX, CAT) and the transcription of the STAR gene. None of the ZnO forms had a significant regulatory effect on the expression of CYP11A1 in CP-treated rats. The results showed that in most of the evaluated factors, green ZnO NPs showed a greater protective effect than other forms of ZnO.

Lophira lanceolata protects testicular and spermatological damages induced by cisplatin in male Wistar rats

Background

Chemotherapy is associated with male infertility. Cisplatin (CP), an antineoplastic agent has been successfully used for the treatment of diverse kinds of malignancies, however, the use of this effective agent could induce oxidative stress injury, nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and testicular damage. Combined CP chemotherapy with plant extracts can diminish the toxicity and enhance the antitumor efficacy of the drug. The objective of the study was to determine the protective effect Lophira lanceolata leaf extract (LLLE) on CP-induced toxicity on male reproductive organs.

Methods

The study was carried out with 30 (n = 30) male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus). The rats were randomly assigned into 6 groups of 5 rats each. Rats in group 1 (Control) were administered distilled water per os. Rats in group 2 were administered 5 mg/kg of CP intraperitoneally (i.p). Rats in groups 3 and 4 were administered per os LLLE at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight and rats in groups 5 and 6 were administered 5 mg/kg body weight of CP + LLLE at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight respectively.

Results

The results showed a significant decrease in the sperm parameters in the group treated with CP alone when compared with the control and there in the sperm parameters in the groups administered CP + LLLE. The body and organ weights of the rats were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in the CP treated group relative to the control. However, there was an increase in the weight of the organs in the LLLE pretreated groups. The photomicrographs showed degenerative changes in the testicular tissues of the rats administered CP alone whereas the group pretreated with the LLLE showed amelioration induced by the CP. Our study revealed that CP treatment has deleterious effects on sperm parameters and testicular tissues and the accessory sex organs (Epididymis, prostate, seminal vesicles) of the rats. Oral administration of LLLE at 200 and 400 mg/kg bodyweight for 26 days conferred protective effects against testicular damage induced by CP.

Conclusion

This study revealed that pretreatment with LLLE protected against CP-induced testicular toxicity.

The effects of hesperidin on colistin-induced reproductive damage, autophagy, and apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress

This study has been conducted to investigate the effect of hesperidin on colistin-induced reproductive damage in male rats. Twenty-four adult male Sprague Dawley rats were used as animal material. They were divided into four groups: control group, received physiological saline for 7 days by oral gavage; hesperidin group, received 300 mg/kg day hesperidin for 7 days; colistin group, received 73 mg/kg (total dose) colistin during 7 days; and colistin + hesperidin group, received 300 mg/kg day hesperidin following the colistin treatment. At the end of the study, routine spermatological parameters and biochemical evaluations were assayed. Also, apoptosis and autophagy biomarkers in testes were evaluated. Colistin increased oxidative stress, apoptosis and autophagy expression levels in testis. Hesperidin supplementation significantly decreased the oxidative stress levels in the testes of the colistin + hesperidin group when compared to the colistin group. The highest apoptosis and autophagy expression levels were detected in the colistin group. These values were statistically lower in the colistin + hesperidin group when compared to the colistin group. Colistin treatment decreased the percentage of sperm motility and increased sperm abnormality. Hesperidin supplementation mitigated significantly mentioned side effects compared to the colistin group. In conclusion, hesperidin supplementation can be a good strategy to mitigate colistin-induced testicular toxicity.

In vivo and in silico evaluation of the ameliorative effect of hesperidin on finasteride-induced testicular oxidative stress in Wistar rats

Finasteride used for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia is associated with undesirable side effects via oxidative stress related mechanisms. This study employed in vivo and in silico methods to investigate the protective role of hesperidin against testicular toxicity induced by finasteride and the possible molecular mechanisms involved. Male Wistar rats were randomized into four groups of six animals each. Group I (control) were administered distilled water, group II received finasteride (3.1 mg/kg bw), group III received hesperidin (100 mg/kg bw), while group IV were co-administered finasteride and hesperidin. Administration was by gavage for 14 days. The binding propensities of finasteride and hesperidin for 5α-reductase were assessed using in silico docking approach. Finasteride administration caused significant reductions of sperm motility, volume, count, and live/dead ratio, with significant increase in numbers of abnormal sperms. Finasteride treatment also resulted in diminished activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione-S-transferase, significant reduction in the concentration of reduced glutathione and ascorbic acid, and increased testicular malondialdehyde level relative to control. Moreover, significant increase in the activities of testicular lactate dehydrogenase and γ-glutamyl transferase was observed, with significant decrease in the activities of acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase relative to finasteride-treated rats. Furthermore, hesperidin exhibited favorable binding affinity for 5α -reductase (5AR) in silico compared to finasteride. Co-administration with hesperidin ameliorated finasteride-induced testicular damage by suppressing oxidative stress indices, enhancing antioxidant status, improving sperm parameters and alterations in the activities of marker enzymes, as well as possibly inhibiting the binding of finasteride to 5AR.

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

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

The protective role of l-carnitine on spermatogenesis after cisplatin treatment during prepubertal period in rats: A pathophysiological study

AIMS

As the spermatogenesis process is targeted by cisplatin (Cis) that changes testicular morphology, alters sperm quality, and hence causes male infertility. This study investigated the possible therapeutic effects of l-carnitine (LC) on Cis impaired spermatogenesis's establishment during the prepubertal phase.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety-six prepubertal Sprague Dawley male rats were divided into four groups.

CONTROL GROUP

rats were injected with 0.9% saline solution intraperitoneally (i.p.). LC group: animals were injected for eight weeks, with 250 mg/kg/wk. LC (i.p.). Cis group: animals were injected with a single dose of 5 mg/kg Cis (i.p.). LC + Cis group: animals were pre-injected with LC 250 mg/kg 2 h before Cis injection. The rats were sacrificed at 37, 60, and 90 days old, and their testes were taken for biochemical, molecular, and histopathological studies. The motility, viability, morphology, and DNA fragmentation of sperm in adult rats were also measured.

KEY FINDINGS

Group treated with LC and Cis showed an increase in antioxidant and hormonal activity compared to the Cis treated group in the pre and post-pubertal period. Moreover, there was an increase in sperm survival, motility, and DNA integrity. Furthermore, LC showed an increase in the anti-apoptotic and chromatin remodeling genes and a decrease in the pro-inflammatory genes.

SIGNIFICANCE

LC could enhance the spermatogenesis process after exposure to Cis during the prepubertal phase by restoring the balance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant activity, improving hormonal activity, sperm quality and DNA integrity, promoting protamination and blood-testis barrier integrity, and maintaining the testicular architecture.

Pharmacological Activity of Honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) in Boar Spermatozoa during Semen Storage and under Oxidative Stress

Simple Summary

Nowadays, pig breeding is mostly conducted by artificial insemination using diluted semen stored for 1 to 5 days. During semen handling and storage, sperm quality usually declines, mainly because of oxidative stress and bacterial contamination. As cheap and natural sources of antioxidants, medicinal plants have become an alternative to the most common additives used in semen extenders. In this regard, several indigenous plants from Southern Africa have shown pharmacological activity in different animal cell types, although their effects on sperm cells have not been explored extensively. In the present study, we tested the effects of honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) aqueous extract as a preservative of boar semen during 5 days of storage and under induced oxidative stress. Overall, this plant extract enhanced several sperm quality parameters and did not show any toxic effects. Supplementation with honeybush extract was able to improve the preservative properties of a long-term semen extender, thus confirming the beneficial use of plant extracts as natural additives for boar sperm.

Abstract

In recent decades, an increasing number of ethnopharmacological studies have been dedicated to medicinal plants from South African fynbos. Among these plants, honeybush (Cyclopia spp.) has become a popular tea, mainly due to its healthy properties and caffeine-free status. The antioxidant, antimutagenic, and antimicrobial properties of this plant have been reported in several cell types, but its effects on reproductive function are still unknown. Here, we assessed the effects of honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) on boar sperm parameters under induced oxidative stress (Fe²⁺/ascorbate) and during five days of semen storage at 17 °C without oxidative stress. In both experiments, four concentrations (200, 50, 12.5, and 3.125 µg/mL) of fermented honeybush were tested. Our results show that honeybush enhances sperm parameters, and no toxic effects were observed at any of the tested extract concentrations. Interestingly, honeybush (12.5 µg/mL) improved the sperm motility and kinetic parameters, preserved the plasma membrane integrity, and reduced the lipid peroxidation in the samples exposed to Fe²⁺/ascorbate (p < 0.05). In the stored samples, positive effects of honeybush on sperm parameters (motility, kinetics, acrosome, and mitochondria) were observed from 48 h until 120 h of semen storage (p < 0.05). Our results clearly show the protective effects of honeybush on sperm samples, thus promoting its use as a natural source of antioxidants for boar semen.

Bee glue (propolis) improves reproductive organs, sperm quality and histological changes and antioxidant parameters of testis tissues in rats exposed to excess copper

This study was designed to determine the effects of propolis on the sperm quality, antioxidant and histological parameters in the testicular tissues of male Sprague Dawley rats exposed to excessive copper (Cu). In this aim, 24 rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: the control, Cu, Propolis and Cu+Propolis. When compared to control group, Cu administration significantly decreased sperm motility and concentration, increased total abnormal sperm rate. It caused a significant induction the malondialdehyde (MDA), and reduction the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) in testicular tissues. Also, it caused loss, disorganisation and vacuolation of the germinal epithelium, oedema of the interstitial tissues, proliferation of the interstitial cells, spilled immature spermatogenic cells in the lumen of some seminiferous tubules. A large number of active caspase-3-positive stained apoptotic cells and a significant decrease in Johnsen's testicular score were determined. However, significant ameliorations were observed in all sperm characteristics, MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH, seminiferous tubules, number of apoptotic cells and Johnsen's testicular score in Cu+Propolis group. Our results showed that oral supplementation of propolis had curative effect on the sperm quality, antioxidant and histological parameters in the testicular tissues of male Sprague Dawley rats exposed to Cu.

Favourable effect of β-glucan treatment against cisplatin-induced reproductive system damage in male rats

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential beneficial effects of β-glucan treatment against oxidative, histological and spermatological damage caused by cisplatin on the male reproductive system. Twenty-eight Sprague Dawley male rats were used in the study. The rats were randomly divided into four equal-sized groups: a control group, cisplatin group (7 mg/kg in a single-dose cisplatin administered intraperitoneally), β-glucan group (β-glucan given at a dose of 50 mg kg^-1  d^-1 for 14 day) and a cisplatin plus β-glucan group (cisplatin and β-glucan administered together at the same dose). Cisplatin administration induced an increase in the level of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, a lipid peroxidation indicator. It induced a decrease in enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase) activities and nonenzymatic (reduced glutathione) antioxidant levels. In addition, cisplatin caused both histological and spermatological damage, as shown by a decrease in sperm motility and epididymal sperm concentrations and an increase in abnormal sperm rates. The β-glucan treatment improved cisplatin-induced oxidative, histological and spermatological damage. This study revealed that β-glucan treatment provided prevention against male reproductive system damage caused by cisplatin. These preventative effects were likely due to its antioxidant properties.

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

PURPOSE

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

MATERIALS AND METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Zatariamultiflora ameliorates cisplatin-induced testicular damage via suppression of oxidative stress and apoptosis in a mice model

Objectives

Cisplatin (CP), as an anti-neoplastic drug, causes testicular damage. Zataria multiflora Boiss (ZM), a medicinal plant, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ZM against CP-induced testicular toxicity.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, thirty-two adult male mice were randomly divided into four groups. The control group received normal saline with oral gavage during 7 days; ZM group received ZM (200 mg/kg) during 7 days by gavage; CP group received CP (10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally (IP) in the 5^th day of study; ZM + CP group received ZM during 7 days and CP was injected in 5th day. Sperm parameters, biochemical (MDA, GSH, and PC) levels, serum testosterone levels, and histopathological and immunohistochemical assays of testis were examined one day after the last drug treatment.

Results

CP treatment caused significant damage via changed sperm parameters (sperm motility, count, viability rate, and abnormalities), increased oxidative stress (increased MDA and PC levels, and decreased GSH level), histological changes (degeneration, necrosis, arrest of spermatogenesis, congestion, and decrease in thickness of the germinal epithelium, diameter of seminiferous tubules, and Johnsen's Score), decreased serum testosterone level, and increased caspase-3 immunoreactivity. ZM preserved spermatogenesis and mitigated the toxic effects of CP on the testis tissue. In addition, treatment with ZM significantly reduced caspase-3 immunoreactivity.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that ZM as a potential antioxidant compound and due to free radicals scavenging activities has a protective effect against CP-induced testicular toxicity.

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

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

Investigation of the effects of curcumin, vitamin E and their combination in cisplatin-induced testicular apoptosis using immunohistochemical technique

OBJECTIVE

Cisplatin is an effective antineoplastic agent used in cancer therapy. However, the use of cisplatin is restricted due to its toxic side effects. Alleviation of its side effects which restricts cisplatin use is highly important. We aimed to investigate the effects of curcumin, vitamin E and their combination in cisplatin induced testicular apoptosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-five Wistar albino male adult rats, weighing 300-350 g were divided randomly into five groups including seven rats in each as control, cisplatin, curcumin, vitamin E, and curcumin + vitamin E. On the posttest 5th day, rats were sacrificed, and their testes were removed. 4-5 μm sections from formalin fixed paraffin embedded testis tissues were stained both hematoxylin-eosin to analyze histologically and immunohistochemically to determine the expression of the apoptotic pathway proteins (Bax, Cas-3, Bcl-2).

RESULTS

Increased histological damage with cisplatin administration was reduced in treatment, especially in combination therapy. Cas-3 and Bax protein immunostaining intensities H-scores were significantly increased but Bcl-2 was slightly decreased in the cisplatin group compared to the control. In all treatment groups Bax, Cas-3 decreased compared to cisplatin group however Bcl-2 decreased in the curcumin and vitamin E groups. Bax/Bcl-2 was the highest in the cisplatin, and decreased in all treatment groups in favor of control.

CONCLUSION

Cas-3 expression increased by cisplatin administration suggests that cisplatin causes apoptosis of germ cells. According to the present findings, cisplatin mainly caused testicular apoptosis through the Cas-3 and Bax apoptotic protein pathways. Cisplatin-induced testicular apoptosis can be prevented by administration of curcumin, vitamin E, and combination therapy.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate counters cisplatin toxicity of rat testes

CONTEXT

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

OBJECTIVE

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

MATERIALS AND METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Exposure to Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Induces Neurotoxicity and Proinflammatory Response: Amelioration by Hesperidin

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are widely used in food packaging and may enter the body directly if exposed. Hereby, in this study, the oral administration was selected as the route of exposure for rats to nanoparticles and the effect of hesperidin (HSP, 100 mg/kg bwt) was evaluated on ZnONP (600 mg/kg bwt)-induced neurotoxicity in rats. ZnONPs were characterized using transmission electron microscopy. Neurotoxicity was observed as seen by elevation in serum inflammatory markers including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1 (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione (GSH) content in rat brains. Pretreatment of rats with HSP in ZnONP-treated group elevated activities of antioxidant enzymes. HSP also caused decrease in TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and CRP levels which was higher in the ZnONP-treated group. The results suggest that HSP augments antioxidant defense with anti-inflammatory response against ZnONP-induced neurotoxicity. The increased antioxidant enzymes enhance the antioxidant potential to reduce oxidative stress.

Rutin ameliorates cisplatin-induced reproductive damage via suppression of oxidative stress and apoptosis in adult male rats

Cisplatin (CP) treatment causes damage in the male reproductive system. Rutin (RUT) is a naturally occurring flavonoid glycoside that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to investigate effects of RUT against cisplatin-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. Twenty-one adult male Sprague Dawley rats were used. The control group received physiological saline with oral gavage during 14 days, and physiological saline was injected intraperitoneally (IP) in 10th days of study. CP Group received physiological saline during 14 days, and 10 mg kg^-1 CP was injected IP in 10th day. RUT + CP group received RUT (150 mg kg^-1 ) during 14 days, and 10 mg kg^-1 CP was injected IP in 10th day. Spermatological parameters (including motility, cauda epididymal sperm density, dead sperm percentage and morphological sperm abnormalities), biochemical (MDA, GSH, GSH-px, SOD and CAT), histological (H&E dye) and immunochemistry evaluations of testicles were evaluated. CP treatment caused damage on some spermatological parameters, increased the oxidative stress and induced testicular degeneration and apoptosis when compared to the control group. However, RUT treatment mitigates these side effects when compared to the CP alone group. IT is concluded that RUT treatment may reduce CP-induced reproductive toxicity as a potential antioxidant compound.