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Gattuso DT, Polisca A, Interlandi CD, Rizzo M, Tabbì M, Giudice E, Cristarella S, Rifici C, Quartuccio M, Zappone V. Influence of dietary supplementation with Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on sperm quality in dogs. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1375146. [PMID: 38487706 PMCID: PMC10937364 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1375146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Maca is a traditional Andean crop used as a nutraceutical for the fertility-enhancing properties that are linked with antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the potential beneficial effects of oral Maca (Lepidium meyenii or Lepidium peruvianum) supplementation in improving reproductive performance in male dogs. Forty-eight male dogs of different breeds were enrolled in the study, fed the same maintenance diet, and exposed to the same environmental conditions. The subjects were divided into four groups of 12 dogs each: Subfertile treatment group, Subfertile control group, Normofertile treatment group, and Normofertile control group. The dogs in the treatment groups received Lepidium meyenii in their diet in a capsule formulation [75 mg/kg Maca extract 10:1, thickening agent (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), ground rice], while the control groups received placebo capsule (starch). For each subject included in the study, the spermiogram was analyzed at three time points of the sperm cycle: at day 0 (T0), day 31 (T31), and day 62 (T62). Dietary supplementation with Maca in subfertile subjects resulted in a significant increase in ejaculate volume and total sperm count compared to the control group. This increase was also observed in normofertile subjects in the treatment group. In addition, total and progressive motility as well as sperm morphology were significantly improved in the groups treated with Maca compared to the control groups. The results thus highlight, for the first time, the potential efficacy of supplementation with 75 mg/kg of Maca extract daily in improving semen quality in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angela Polisca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Maria Rizzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Marco Tabbì
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giudice
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Santo Cristarella
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Rifici
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Marco Quartuccio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Viola Zappone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Ulloa del Carpio N, Alvarado-Corella D, Quiñones-Laveriano DM, Araya-Sibaja A, Vega-Baudrit J, Monagas-Juan M, Navarro-Hoyos M, Villar-López M. Exploring the chemical and pharmacological variability of Lepidium meyenii: a comprehensive review of the effects of maca. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1360422. [PMID: 38440178 PMCID: PMC10910417 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1360422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a biennial herbaceous plant indigenous to the Andes Mountains, has a rich history of traditional use for its purported health benefits. Maca's chemical composition varies due to ecotypes, growth conditions, and post-harvest processing, contributing to its intricate phytochemical profile, including, macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates, among other components. This review provides an in-depth revision and analysis of Maca's diverse bioactive metabolites, focusing on the pharmacological properties registered in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Maca is generally safe, with rare adverse effects, supported by preclinical studies revealing low toxicity and good human tolerance. Preclinical investigations highlight the benefits attributed to Maca compounds, including neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory properties, immunoregulation, and antioxidant effects. Maca has also shown potential for enhancing fertility, combating fatigue, and exhibiting potential antitumor properties. Maca's versatility extends to metabolic regulation, gastrointestinal health, cardio protection, antihypertensive activity, photoprotection, muscle growth, hepatoprotection, proangiogenic effects, antithrombotic properties, and antiallergic activity. Clinical studies, primarily focused on sexual health, indicate improved sexual desire, erectile function, and subjective wellbeing in men. Maca also shows promise in alleviating menopausal symptoms in women and enhancing physical performance. Further research is essential to uncover the mechanisms and clinical applications of Maca's unique bioactive metabolites, solidifying its place as a subject of growing scientific interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norka Ulloa del Carpio
- Centro de Investigación Clínica de Medicina Complementaria—CICMEC, Gerencia de Medicina Complementaria, Seguro Social de Salud-EsSalud, Lima, Peru
| | - Diego Alvarado-Corella
- Bioactivity and Sustainable Development (BIODESS) Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Costa Rica (UCR), San Jose, Costa Rica
| | | | - Andrea Araya-Sibaja
- Laboratorio Nacional de Nanotecnología, LANOTEC-CeNAT-CONARE, San José, Costa Rica
| | - José Vega-Baudrit
- Laboratorio Nacional de Nanotecnología, LANOTEC-CeNAT-CONARE, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Maria Monagas-Juan
- United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Dietary Supplements and Herbal Medicines, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Mirtha Navarro-Hoyos
- Bioactivity and Sustainable Development (BIODESS) Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Costa Rica (UCR), San Jose, Costa Rica
| | - Martha Villar-López
- Centro de Investigación Clínica de Medicina Complementaria—CICMEC, Gerencia de Medicina Complementaria, Seguro Social de Salud-EsSalud, Lima, Peru
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
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Cocchia N, Merlo B, Calabria A, Spada S, Iacono E, Ciarcia R, Damiano S, Giordano E, Laperuta F, Gasparrini B, Del Prete C. Effect of Maca aqueous extract addition to a freezing extender for canine semen. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:301-307. [PMID: 37676460 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10163-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of the addition of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) to the freezing extender on the post-thaw quality of dog semen. Ten canine ejaculates were frozen following a two-step protocol using a tris-glucose-citrate egg yolk extender with or without the addition of 10 µl/mL of aqueous extract of Maca (Maca and ctrl groups, respectively). Prior to (fresh semen) and after freezing (T0) sperm motility, kinetic parameters, viability and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), as well as the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) were evaluated. In addition, sperm motility, kinetic parameters, viability and MMP were examined up to 2 h of incubation of 37 °C after thawing (T1 and T2) to evaluate thermo-resistance. The addition of Maca reduced MDA concentration at T0 (p < 0.05) and increased total motility, the percentage of sperm with medium velocity and WOB at T1. Progressive motility decreased (p < 0.05) at T1 in the ctrl group, whereas it was not affected in Maca group at any time point. In addition, the percentage of hyperactivated spermatozoa remained constant at T1 in the ctrl, while in the Maca group an increase (p < 0.05) of this parameter was recorded. Although no differences were found for MMP between groups at any time points, a decrease of viable sperm with low MMP was observed in ctrl group between T0 and T1 and in Maca group between T1 and T2. The addition of Maca prior freezing reduced the extent of lipid peroxidation and activated canine sperm motility and hyperactivation after thawing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Merlo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alfonso Calabria
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Stefano Spada
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Eleonora Iacono
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Ciarcia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Damiano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Bianca Gasparrini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Del Prete
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Díaz Rojas E, Carrillo Moreno DI, Contreras Villarreal V, Arellano Rodríguez F, Alvarado Espino AS, Ángel García O. Effect of nutraceutical supplementation on semen quality in stallions. Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:2600-2605. [PMID: 37817488 PMCID: PMC10650371 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of reproductive biotechnologies in equine practice has shown that some stallions are subfertile, so ways to improve fertility have been sought. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nutraceutical supplementation on improving semen quality in Quarter Horse stallions. METHODS Semen from six Quarter Horse stallions was assessed for 4 months every 20 days using the computer-assisted semen analysis system. They were evaluated for 60 days before supplementation; then, the same stallions were re-evaluated for 60 days with nutraceutical supplementation (30 g/day). RESULTS Volume showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) with nutraceuticals. Sperm concentration (10x6 ) was significantly higher with supplementation (339.4 ± 17.5 sperm/mL) than without supplementation (224.6 ± 19.9). Sperm abnormalities (%) were significantly (p < 0.05) lower with supplementation (14.3 ± 0.6) than without supplementation (19.1 ± 0.4). Sperm kinematic parameters, total motility (TM), progressive motility (PM), rectilinear velocity (VSL), the velocity of the trajectory (VAP) and curvilinear velocity (VCL), were significantly better with supplementation (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Based on the results, it is concluded that nutraceutical supplementation improved semen parameters in Quarter Horse stallions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Díaz Rojas
- Ciencias en Producción AgropecuariaUniversidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio NarroTorreónCoahuilaMexico
| | - Dalia I. Carrillo Moreno
- Departamento de Producción AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio NarroTorreónCoahuilaMexico
| | | | | | - Alan S. Alvarado Espino
- Departamento de Producción AnimalUniversidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio NarroTorreónCoahuilaMexico
| | - Oscar Ángel García
- Departamento de Ciencias Médico VeterinariasUniversidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio NarroTorreónCoahuilaMexico
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Levano G, Quispe J, Vargas D, García M, López A, Aguila L, Valdivia M. Effect of Atomized Black Maca ( Lepidium meyenii) Supplementation in the Cryopreservation of Alpaca ( Vicugna pacos) Epididymal Spermatozoa. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2054. [PMID: 37443852 DOI: 10.3390/ani13132054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination is an important assisted reproductive technology that has been applied in several mammalian species. However, successful cryopreservation of semen of South American camelids has been limited, hindering the commercial application of artificial insemination in alpaca species. In this scenario, the addition of antioxidants to semen extenders provides a strategy to improve the freezability of mammalian sperm. Bioactive metabolites from natural extracts of black maca have shown valuable antioxidant properties. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of atomized black maca in the freezing medium of epididymal spermatozoa of alpacas. Fifteen pairs of epididymis were collected from a local slaughterhouse. Each sample was divided into six groups: (1) fresh, (2) yolk medium (YM), (3) 10 mg/mL maca, (4) 20 mg/mL maca, (5) 30 mg/mL maca, and (6) resveratrol (as an antioxidant control). Sperm cryopreservation was performed through the slow freezing method. Markers associated with functionality, such as motility, viability, and plasma membrane integrity, as well as markers associated with oxidative damage, such as DNA integrity, total ROS production, and mitochondrial function, were analyzed. The results show that the supplementation with black maca (20 mg/mL) improved the sperm motility, viability, plasma membrane integrity, and mitochondrial function evaluated according to an index of formazan deposits. Similarly, the ROS production decreased with maca at 20 mg/mL, although the DNA integrity did not show any differences among the groups. These results suggest that maca at 20 mg/mL has cytoprotective effects during freezing/thawing of epididymal sperm of alpaca species. Further research will be focused on assessing the effects of maca supplementation on semen extenders by using biomolecular markers (proAKAP4) associated with fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Levano
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Juana Quispe
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Diego Vargas
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Marlon García
- Laboratory of Genetics, Biological Sciences Faculty, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Alberto López
- Laboratory of Genetics, Biological Sciences Faculty, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Luis Aguila
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - Martha Valdivia
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Biological Sciences Faculty, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima 15081, Peru
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Kahrizi D, Far AF, Chaghakaboodi Z, Khazaei M, Sozmen EU, Dogan H. Stem cell induction and plant regeneration are affected by medium components in maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp). Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:4187-4192. [PMID: 36899280 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08319-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In medicinal plants, selection, reproduction and preservation of important genotypes are very necessary. Nowadays, using tissue culture and regeneration techniques of medicinal plants under in vitro conditions has been able to proliferate medicinal plants widely, which is much higher than traditional methods of vegetative propagation. Maca (Lepidium meyenii), is an industrial plant whose root is the usable part. Maca has valuable medicinal effects such as sexual enhancement and reproductive power, infertility treatment, improved sperm count and quality, anti-stress, osteoporosis prevention and more. METHODS AND RESULTS This study was conducted to induce callus and regeneration of Maca. First, MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of Kinetin, Naphthaleneacetic acid and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid [0.5, 1 and 2 µM respectively] and control were compared for callus induction from root and leaves. After 38 days of incubation, the first callus appeared, after 50 days of callus induction and after 79 days regeneration occurred. The callus induction experiment was performed for the study of the effect of three explants (leaf, stem and root) and seven hormone levels. The regeneration experiment was carried out by studying the effect of three explants (leaf, stem and root) on eight levels of the hormone. The results of data analysis on callus induction showed that the effects of explants, hormones and their interactions on callus induction percentage were highly significant but not significant on callus growth rate. The results of regression analysis showed that explants, hormones and their interactions had no significant effect on regeneration percentage. CONCLUSION Based on our results, the best medium for inducing callus was Hormone 2,4-D [2 µM] and Kinetin [0.5 µM], in which the highest percentage of callus induction was in leaf explants (62%). And the lowest were in stem (30%) and root (27%) explants. According to the comparison of the mean, the best environment for regeneration of the environment was 4 µM 6-Benzylaminopurine 2.5 + Thidiazuron, in which the highest percentage of regeneration was in leaf explant (87%) and stem (69%) and the lowest in root explant (12). %).
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Affiliation(s)
- Danial Kahrizi
- Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Atefeh Fahimi Far
- Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Zeinab Chaghakaboodi
- Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mozafar Khazaei
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Esra Ucar Sozmen
- Department of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Sivas Vocational School, Cumhuriyet University, Sivas, 58140, Turkey
| | - Hulya Dogan
- Department of Plant and Animal Production, Yozgat Vocational School, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat, Turkey
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Ragab MA, Hassan MAE, Shazly SA, El-Kholany ME, Ahmed ME, El-Raghi AA. The benefits of Maca (Lepidium meyenii) extract administration for male rabbits affected by environmental heat stress. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2023; 107:286-297. [PMID: 36102208 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Heat stress (HS) is the most substantial environmental issue in rabbit health status impairment, which can lower productivity. Maca is a common medicinal plant with important biological activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fatigue, and neuroprotective effects. The present research explored the alleged protective role of Maca extract in alleviating the adverse impact of HS on rabbits. Growing V-line 6-week-old buck rabbits (N = 48) were orally administered Maca extract at levels of 0 (MAC0), 200 (MAC2), 400 (MAC4), or 600 (MAC6) mg/head twice per week. Compared to the control groups, rabbits provided Maca had better growth performance, feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Liver and tests weights were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in Maca treated groups compared to the control. hemoglobin, white blood cell, red blood corpuscles, platelet count, hematocrit, and lymphocytes were significantly increased in the MAC4 group compared with the control group. MAC4 treatment significantly reduced aspartate aminotransferase and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. Moreover, the concentrations of total bilirubin, creatinine, glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides were lower (p < 0.05) in the MAC4 group than in the controls. Oral administration of Maca improved cortisol and testosterone values, total antioxidant capacity, and superoxide dismutase. The MAC4 group exhibited significant improvement (p < 0.05) in sperm motility, survival, membrane functionality, concentration, and libido, with a significant decrease in abnormal sperm compared with the control group. Also, aforementioned group showed sperm cells with a normal structure and intact plasma membranes, acrosomes, and well-organised axonemal components. Histopathological screening of liver sections showed moderate to severe degenerative and necrotic changes in rabbits exposed to HS, which were alleviated with Maca oral administration. In conclusion, oral administration of Maca extract at 400 or 600 mg/head-weekly enhanced growth performance, hemato-biochemical attributes, antioxidant status, and semen quality in rabbits during the hot season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona A Ragab
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agriculture Research Center, Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A E Hassan
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agriculture Research Center, Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Soheir A Shazly
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agriculture Research Center, Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed E El-Kholany
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agriculture Research Center, Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed E Ahmed
- Animal Production Research Institute (APRI), Agriculture Research Center, Ministry of Agriculture, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ali Ali El-Raghi
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Damietta University, Damietta, Egypt
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Lee HW, Lee MS, Qu F, Lee JW, Kim E. Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) on semen quality parameters: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:934740. [PMID: 36110519 PMCID: PMC9468664 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.934740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to examine the evidence for the effect of Lepidium meyenii Walp. [Brassicaceae] (L. meyenii W.), known as maca, on improving semen quality. Methods: Nine databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the parameters for improvements in semen quality, regardless of the type of L. meyenii W. The risk of bias (ROB) among the studies was evaluated according to the Cochrane ROB tool. Results: Five RCTs met all of the inclusion criteria. Three RCTs showed mixed efficacy of maca in improving semen quality parameters, including sperm concentration and sperm motility, in men experiencing infertility. The meta-analysis also failed to show the efficacy of maca in increasing the sperm concentration compared to the placebo (weighted mean difference, 2.22, 95% confidence interval −2.94 to 7.37, p = 0.4). Two other RCTs also showed mixed effects of maca on several semen quality parameters in healthy men. Conclusion: The evidence from the included studies suggests unclear effects of maca on semen quality parameters in both men experiencing infertility and healthy men. However, the total number of RCTs and the total sample size were too small to draw firm conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Won Lee
- KM Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Myeong Soo Lee,
| | - Fan Qu
- Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Je-Won Lee
- BM Internal Korean Medicine Clinic, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Eunseop Kim
- You and Green Korean Medicine Clinic, Daejeon, South Korea
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Effect of maca powder supplementation to growing quail diets on performance, carcass, serum constituents and hormones, and bone and ileum characteristics. Trop Anim Health Prod 2022; 54:239. [PMID: 35867215 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-022-03230-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different levels of maca powder supplementation (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 g/kg) in the diet on performance, carcass characteristics, serum biochemical constituents and hormone concentrations, bone biomechanical properties, and ileum histomorphology in growing Japanese quails. In this 42-day trial, a total of 480 mixed sex Japanese quail chicks, aged 1 day, were randomly distributed among six experimental groups. Each experimental group contained four replicates of 20 chicks each. The addition of 2.0 g/kg of maca powder to the diet significantly decreased body weight, body weight gain compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, with the 1.5 g/kg level of maca powder, feed efficiency improved considerably (P < 0.05). The testis weight increased significantly with the addition of maca powder at 1.0 g/kg level to the diet, and testesteron concentration of serum in male quails was also increased significantly at 1.5 g/kg level of maca powder compared to control group (P < 0.05). The addition of 2.5 g/kg level of maca powder significantly reduced the cholesterol concentration of serum in male quails compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The administration of 2.0 g/kg level of maca powder to the diet caused a decrease in shear force (P < 0.05). The addition of maca powder to the diet significantly increased crypt depth and villus surface area at 0.5 g/kg level, villus width at 1.0 g/kg level, and villus height at 2.0 g/kg level in growing quails (P < 0.05). According to the results obtained from the present research, it can be said that the addition up to 2.0 g/kg maca powder to growing quail diets could improve feed efficiency, testesteron concentration of serum, and ileum properties.
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Del Prete C, Calabria A, Longobardi V, Palumbo V, Merlo B, Iacono E, Tafuri S, Carotenuto D, Ciani F, Damiano S, Ciarcia R, Cocchia N. Effect of Aqueous Extract of Maca Addition to an Extender for Chilled Canine Semen. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12131638. [PMID: 35804537 PMCID: PMC9264857 DOI: 10.3390/ani12131638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The wide use of artificial insemination in dogs justifies the development of new strategies to prevent the reduction of fertilizing ability of stored semen. In recent years, the use of plant antioxidant supplementation has become increasingly popular. Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is an Andean edible root with antioxidant properties. The effectiveness of the oral supplementation of Maca in improving fresh semen quality and quantity and cooling or freezing ability has already been reported. This is the first in vitro study on the effects of aqueous extract of Maca on canine spermatozoa. The addition of low concentrations of aqueous extract of Maca to the canine chilled extender had positive effects only until 24 h of storage, increasing hyperactivation of sperm cells and preserving DNA integrity of spermatozoa in short-term storage. Meanwhile, a high concentration of Maca had an immediately deleterious effect on semen quality. Abstract Antioxidant supplementation has been proposed as a new strategy to improve the long-term preservation of semen. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Maca supplementation of semen extender on quality-related canine semen parameters during cooling. Ejaculates from nine dogs were cooled for 7 days in the absence (control group) or in the presence of 10, 20 and 50 μL/mL of an aqueous extract of Maca. Sperm were evaluated for sperm viability, motility, DNA fragmentation and lipid peroxidation after 3 h, 24 h, 4 days and 7 days of storage. The addition of 10 μL/mL of Maca preserved sperm DNA and plasma membrane integrity at 3 h and increased sperm curvilinear velocity after 24 h. Treatment with 20 and 50 μL/mL of Maca increased the percentage of hyperactivated sperm after 3 h. Moreover, semen treated with 20 μL/mL of Maca decreased lipid peroxidation at 24 h. A significant reduction of sperm DNA and plasma membrane integrity as well as of kinetics parameters between 3 and 24 h of refrigerated storage with the higher concentration tested was observed. Although Maca was not able to protect canine semen with extended refrigeration storage time, it increased hyperactivation and preserved DNA integrity in short-term storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Del Prete
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-2536017
| | - Alfonso Calabria
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Valentina Longobardi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Veronica Palumbo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Barbara Merlo
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell’Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (B.M.); (E.I.)
| | - Eleonora Iacono
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 50, Ozzano dell’Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (B.M.); (E.I.)
| | - Simona Tafuri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Domenico Carotenuto
- Facultad de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor San Marcos (UNMSM), Avenida Universitaria 34, Lima 15081, Peru;
| | - Francesca Ciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Sara Damiano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Roberto Ciarcia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Via Federico Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy; (A.C.); (V.L.); (V.P.); (S.T.); (F.C.); (S.D.); (R.C.); (N.C.)
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11
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Leiva-Revilla J, Rolón M, Siyadatpanah A, Pereira MDL, Nissapatorn V. First study of in vitro protective effect of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on frozen–thawed bovine spermatozoa. Vet World 2022; 15:1481-1488. [PMID: 35993065 PMCID: PMC9375202 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1481-1488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Lepidium meyenii Walp (Maca) is an herbaceous plant that grows in the Peruvian Andes and it has been widely used as a nutritional supplement and fertility enhancer and has been used in the treatment of a variety of diseases, such as rheumatism, respiratory disorders, and anemia. The most notable feature of Maca is its potent antioxidant capacity, which helps in the scavenging of free radicals and protection of cells from oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro effect of Maca extract on thawed sperm cells from bulls. Materials and Methods: Three dilutions of 1, 10, and 100 mg/mL of Maca extract were incubated with frozen–thawed bovine semen and analyzed at 1, 3, and 24 h of exposure time, evaluating the activity of the extract on the DNA, motility, morphology, viability, integrity of the membrane and acrosome of spermatozoa. Results: The Maca extract improved the studied sperm parameters of motility, acrosome integrity, vitality, and DNA integrity of sperm cells at a concentration of 10 mg/mL, and at 1 mg/mL, an improvement was observed in the morphology and integrity of the membrane. However, the best activity of the Maca extract was observed on the DNA integrity of the sperm, which was effective at the three concentrations evaluated after 24 h of incubation. Conclusion: The results indicate that L. meyenii can help in maintaining spermatozoa cellular integrity after the frozen–thaw process, especially in the protection against DNA fragmentation. Therefore, Maca would be a feasible supplementation to protect sperm to maintain their fertile ability after thawing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Leiva-Revilla
- Center for the Development of Scientific Research (CEDIC), Manduvira 635, CP 1255, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Miriam Rolón
- Center for the Development of Scientific Research (CEDIC), Manduvira 635, CP 1255, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Abolghasem Siyadatpanah
- Ferdows School of Paramedical and Health, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials and Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- School of Allied Health Sciences, World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
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12
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Chen CY, Li YH, Li Z, Lee MR. Characterization of effective phytochemicals in traditional Chinese medicine by mass spectrometry. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2022:e21782. [PMID: 35638257 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have been widely used in clinical and healthcare applications around the world. The characterization of the phytochemical components in TCMs is very important for studying the therapeutic mechanism of TCMs. In the analysis process, sample preparation and instrument analysis are key steps to improve analysis performance and accuracy. In recent years, chromatography combined with mass spectrometry (MS) has been widely used for the separation and detection of trace components in complex TCM samples. This article reviews various sample preparation techniques and chromatography-MS techniques, including the application of gas chromatography-MS and liquid chromatography-MS and other MS techniques in the characterization of phytochemicals in TCM materials and Chinese medicine products. This article also describes a new ambient ionization MS method for rapid and high-throughput analysis of TCM components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Yu Chen
- Research Center for Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Chemistry, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yen-Hsien Li
- Department of Chemistry, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Zuguang Li
- College of Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Maw-Rong Lee
- Department of Chemistry, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
- Graduate Institute of Food Safety, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
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13
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Malik J, Choudhary S, Mandal SC, Sarup P, Pahuja S. Oxidative Stress and Male Infertility: Role of Herbal Drugs. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1391:137-159. [PMID: 36472821 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-12966-7_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a universal health problem affecting 15% of couples, out of which 20-30% cases are due to male infertility. The leading causes of male infertility include hormonal defects, physical reasons, sexual problems, hazardous environment, stressful lifestyle, genetic factors, epigenetic factors, and oxidative stress. Various physiological functions involve reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrogen species at appropriate levels for proper smooth functioning. ROS control critical reproductive processes such as capacitation, acrosomal reaction, hyperactivation, egg penetration, and sperm head decondensation. The excessive free radicals or imbalance between ROS and endogenous antioxidant enzymes damages sperm membrane by inducing lipid peroxidation causing mitochondrial dysfunction and DNA damage that eventually lead to male infertility. Numerous synthetic products are available in the market to treat infertility problems, largely ending in side effects and repressing symptoms. Ayurveda contains a particular group of Rasayana herbs, called vajikarana, that deals with nourishment and stimulation of sexual tissues, improves male reproductive vitality, and deals with oxidative stress via antioxidant mechanism. The present study aims to describe oxidative stress and the role of herbal drugs in treating male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Malik
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences - UGC Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
| | - Sunayna Choudhary
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences - UGC Centre of Advanced Study, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Subhash C Mandal
- Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Engineering & Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Prerna Sarup
- Swami Vivekanand College of Pharmacy, Patiala, Punjab, India
| | - Sonia Pahuja
- Swami Vivekanand College of Pharmacy, Patiala, Punjab, India
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14
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Greco A, Del Prete C, De Biase D, Palumbo V, Albanese S, Bruzzese D, Carotenuto D, Ciani F, Tafuri S, Meomartino L, Mancini M, Paciello O, Cocchia N. Effects of Oral Administration of Lepidium meyenii on Morphology of Mice Testis and Motility of Epididymal Sperm Cells After Tetrahydrocannabinol Exposure. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:692874. [PMID: 34957272 PMCID: PMC8697607 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.692874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) administration is associated with testicular damage and reduced semen quality. Oral administration of Lepidium Meyenii (maca) improves spermatogenesis and sperm motility and count and reduces spermatogenic damage. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of administration of THC, maca, and their combination on testicular tissue and semen parameters. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six-week-old male mice were classified into control, THC, Maca, and THC + Maca groups. The mice were subjected to Eco Color Doppler ultrasound examination of the testicles before and after treatment. After euthanasia, the epididymis, testes, liver, and kidney were collected for histological examination. For morphometry of the testis, tubular diameters and seminiferous epithelium height were measured. Sperm concentration and sperm motilities were assessed. Differences among the groups were assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post-hoc test. Results: In all the groups, there were no significant changes in testicular morphology before and after treatment. Histological assessment of the testes showed no alterations in control, no significant alterations in Maca, mild to moderate alterations in THC, and mild alterations in THC + Maca groups. Histological examination of the other organs showed no significant differences among the groups. Tubular diameter showed significantly increased thickening for THC and THC + Maca compared with that for Maca and control. Moreover, seminiferous epithelium height decreased for THC compared with that in the control, Maca, and THC + Maca groups. No statistically significant reduction in the spermatogenic index was observed for THC compared with that for Maca and THC + Maca. Epididymal cross-sections of the groups showed no significant alterations. Sperm concentration and motility were higher for control and THC + Maca groups than in group THC and Maca. Conclusion: In vivo maca administration reduced the deleterious effect of THC on testicular parenchyma and semen production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelaide Greco
- Interdepartmental Center of Veterinary Radiology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging of the National Council of Research, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Del Prete
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Davide De Biase
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Veronica Palumbo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sandra Albanese
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging of the National Council of Research, Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Bruzzese
- Department of Public Sanity, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Ciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Tafuri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Leonardo Meomartino
- Interdepartmental Center of Veterinary Radiology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marcello Mancini
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging of the National Council of Research, Naples, Italy
| | - Orlando Paciello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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15
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Melnikovova I, Russo D, Fait T, Kolarova M, Tauchen J, Kushniruk N, Falabella R, Milella L, Fernández Cusimamani E. Evaluation of the effect of Lepidium meyenii Walpers in infertile patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6359-6368. [PMID: 34585449 PMCID: PMC9293450 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility refers to the inability to conceive a natural pregnancy in a fertile female, and approximately 15% of reproductive‐aged couples worldwide face this problem. Several plants were used to treat fertility disorders and, among them, Lepidium meyenii, a folk medicament of Andean regions, is still used to enhance vitality and treat sterility in humans and domestic animals. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of L. meyenii Walpers on infertile patients by a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Fifty patients suffering from various reproductive‐related problems were enrolled for 16 weeks to evaluate the effect of yellow maca on semen quality and serum hormone levels. Treatment with maca improved the percentage of sperm concentration by 40%, whereas the placebo improved by 76% after 8 and 16 weeks of treatment, but the results were statistically non‐significant. No statistically significant change in hormone levels was reported by using maca, except a decrease in the level of free testosterone. Results are not sufficient to assess the efficacy of maca on male fertility. Further investigation and trials are required to obtain conclusive results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Melnikovova
- Department of Crop Sciences and Agroforestry, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Daniela Russo
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy.,Spinoff BioActiPlants.r.l., Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Tomas Fait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Kolarova
- Department of Agroecology and Biometeorology, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Tauchen
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Nataliya Kushniruk
- First Medical Faculty of Charles University Prague, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Roberto Falabella
- Urology Unit, San Carlo Hospital, Via Potito Petrone, Potenza, Italy
| | - Luigi Milella
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Eloy Fernández Cusimamani
- Department of Crop Sciences and Agroforestry, Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague 6, Czech Republic
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16
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Fouda SF, Khattab AAA, El Basuini MFM, El-Ratel IT. Impacts of different antioxidants sources on semen quality and sperm fertilizing ability of Muscovy ducks under high ambient temperature. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2021; 106:1060-1071. [PMID: 34363248 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The potentiality of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), D-Aspartic acids (D-Asp), Maca or vitamin C, as antioxidant agents, to reduce negative impacts of high ambient temperature on semen quality, oxidative capacity and fertility of Muscovy ducks was investigated. Seventy-five Muscovy males (34-wk of age) were distributed randomly into five experimental groups of fifteen ducks each. The first group was fed a basal diet without supplementation and served as a control. The other four groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with 400 mg CoQ10, 400 mg D-Asp, 500 mg Maca and 200 mg vitamin C (ascorbic acid) per kg diet for 17 consecutive weeks under high ambient temperature conditions. The dietary inclusion of antioxidants significantly maintains better semen variables and a higher fertility rate either for fresh or preserved semen. Among the tested antioxidants, the Maca group showed the best status and outperformed the others in terms of motility, viability, sperm cell concentration, intact acrosome and membrane integrity percentages, total proteins, total antioxidants capacity, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), testosterone, and the fertility rate for the fresh semen, as well as, forward motility, SOD and MDA for the preserved semen. The CoQ10 showed similar results to Maca in some measurements. Conversely, the basal diet had the poorest performance in all examined variables. The dietary incorporation of antioxidants (Maca or CoQ10) enhances fresh and preserved semen quantity and quality, as well as the fertility rate of Muscovy males under high ambient temperature conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara F Fouda
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A A Khattab
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Mohammed F M El Basuini
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.,Faculty of Desert Agriculture, King Salman International University, South Sinai, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim T El-Ratel
- Department of Poultry Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Damietta University, Damietta, Egypt
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17
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Yu Z, Liu H, Li D, Chen X, Ao M, Jin W, Yu L. N-(3-Methozybenzyl)-(9 Z,12 Z,15 Z)-octadecatrienamide from maca ( Lepidium meyenii Walp.) ameliorates corticosterone-induced testicular toxicity in rats. Food Funct 2021; 11:7762-7774. [PMID: 32797129 DOI: 10.1039/d0fo00890g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the protective effects of maca ethanol extract (EEM) and N-(3-methozybenzyl)-(9Z,12Z,15Z)-octadecatrienamide (M 18:3) on corticosterone (CORT)-induced testicular toxicity. Male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups. Except for the control group, CORT (40 mg per kg·bw) was injected subcutaneously for 21 consecutive days to induce testicular toxicity. 1 h before CORT injection, the rats were treated with EEM (400 mg per kg·bw) and M 18:3 (5 mg per kg·bw, 25 mg per kg·bw) by gavage, except for the control group and model group. Epididymal sperm and biochemical, and histological parameters were evaluated for the protective effects of the drugs. EEM (400 mg per kg·bw) and M 18:3 (5 mg per kg·bw, 25 mg per kg·bw) increased the sperm concentration and sperm motility, decreased the production of abnormal sperms, and increased the number of spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes in the seminiferous tubules of CORT-induced rats. Moreover, EEM and M 18:3 decreased the MDA levels and the positive expression rates of TUNEL, whereas they increased the activities of SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and GST, and the contents of GSH in the testicles of CORT-induced rats. Furthermore, EEM and M 18:3 alleviated CORT-induced reduction in the positive expression rates of PCNA and Ki67 in the testicles of rats. Besides, EEM and M 18:3 reduced the expression levels of Keap-1 and increased the expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, γ-GCS, and NQO1 in the testicles of CORT-induced rats. In summary, the protective effects of EEM and M 18:3 may be attributed to their anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zejun Yu
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Dong Li
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xuemin Chen
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Mingzhang Ao
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Wenwen Jin
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Longjiang Yu
- Institute of Resource Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. and Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
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18
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Bazzano M, Laus F, Spaterna A, Marchegiani A. Use of nutraceuticals in the stallion: Effects on semen quality and preservation. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 56:951-957. [PMID: 33772909 PMCID: PMC8360198 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Nutritional supplements are widely used in the equine industry with the aim of improving horse health, sports or reproductive performances. Over the years, a number of studies have focused on investigating the effects of several dietary compounds on the quality and preservation of stallion semen. This paper reviews the literature available on the use of nutritional supplementation for the improvement of reproductive performance and semen quality in equine species, critically appraising the benefits and negative effects of several compounds found in complementary feeds such as PUFAs from different sources, vitamins and antioxidants, carnitine and botanical extracts. Different nutraceuticals have been highlighted to improve stallion fertility by providing optimal levels of antioxidants, with the most promising results obtained by the combination of PUFAs and antioxidants that resulted to be essential for the maintenance of normal reproductive functions and the reduction of cryodamage in cooled and frozen equine semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Bazzano
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica MC, Italy
| | - Fulvio Laus
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica MC, Italy
| | - Andrea Spaterna
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica MC, Italy
| | - Andrea Marchegiani
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica MC, Italy
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19
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Sperm Global DNA Methylation (SGDM) in Semen of Healthy Dogs. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8030050. [PMID: 33802963 PMCID: PMC8002840 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8030050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is an emerging problem in both humans and animals, and the knowledge of its causes is the first step to identifying new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. In humans, alteration of sperm DNA methylation have been related to poor quality semen, impaired seminal parameters, azoospermia and reduced fertility. Although semen analysis is routinely used to evaluate the male reproductive potential in the canine species, no authors have attempted to relate semen characteristics to the sperm global DNA methylation (SGDM). The aim of this study was to evaluate the SGDM level in healthy dogs and to correlate it with semen parameters that are currently used in dog semen analyses. Conventional and unconventional (sperm DNA fragmentation and SGDM) seminal parameters of thirty dogs from different breeds were evaluated. A positive correlation was found between SGDM and sperm concentration (r = 0.41; p < 0.05), and total sperm count (r = 0.61; p < 0.001); SGDM was significantly lower in oligozoospermic vs non-oligozoospermic dogs (4.3% vs. 8.7%; p < 0.005). Our findings suggest that SGDM levels are related to conventional seminal parameters, and could be used as a marker of testis function and spermatogenesis in dogs.
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20
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Ciani F, Maruccio L, Cocchia N, d’Angelo D, Carotenuto D, Avallone L, Namagerdi AA, Tafuri S. Antioxidants in assisted reproductive technologies: An overview on dog, cat, and horse. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2021; 8:173-184. [PMID: 33860028 PMCID: PMC8043350 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2021.h500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are widely used as a tool to improve reproductive performance in both humans and animals. In particular, in the veterinary field, ARTs are used to improve animal genetics, recover endangered animals, and produce offspring in the event of subfertility or infertility in males or females. However, the use of ARTs did not improve the fertilization rate in some animals due to various factors such as the difficulty in reproducing an anatomical and humoral substrate typical of the natural condition or due to the increase in catabolites and their difficult elimination. The in vitro environment allows the production and increase in the concentration of substances, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could be harmful to gametes. If produced in high concentration, the ROS becomes deleterious, both in vitro and in vivo systems. It has been seen that the use of antioxidants can help neutralize or counteract the production of ROS. The present study aims to report the latest findings regarding the use of antioxidants in ARTs of some domestic species, such as dogs, cats, and horses, compared to other animal species, such as cattle, in which ARTs have instead developed more widely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Lucianna Maruccio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Danila d’Angelo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Avallone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Simona Tafuri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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21
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DNA fragmentation and morphometric studies in sperm of stallions supplemented with maca ( Lepidium meyenii). ZYGOTE 2021; 29:325-330. [PMID: 33563356 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199420000751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The reproductive performances of livestock play an essential role in the economic management of the farm. The improvement of semen quantity and quality through the use of food supplements that lack substances which are forbidden in animal feeding, or that may have detrimental effects, is an important goal. Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a plant that has been used for centuries in the Andes for nutrition and fertility enhancement in humans and animals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of food supplementation of stallions with maca during the breeding season on spermatozoa parameters such as DNA fragmentation and shape, which are two predictive indexes of spermatozoa functionality. For this purpose, ejaculate volume, semen gel-free volume, sperm concentration and motility, total sperm count, sperm DNA fragmentation and sperm head parameters (length, width, perimeter, area, shape factor, roughness) were measured in four stallions. Maca food supplementation in stallions during breeding reduced the percentage of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA, increased significantly sperm concentration and exerted an elongation of the spermatozoa head, a condition that is believed to improve spermatozoa functionality, suggesting that food supplementation of maca could be useful in horse breeding during the breeding season.
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22
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Perez CJ, Conceição RS, Ifa DR. Chemical profiling and separation of bioactive secondary metabolites in Maca (Lepidium peruvianum) by normal and reverse phase thin layer chromatography coupled to desorption electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry. JOURNAL OF MASS SPECTROMETRY : JMS 2021; 56:e4690. [PMID: 33410238 DOI: 10.1002/jms.4690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Maca is a Peruvian tuberous root of the Brassicaceae family grown in the central Andes between altitudes of 4000 and 4500 m. The medicinal plant is a nutraceutical with important biological activities and health effects. In this study, we report a rapid high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC)-(-)desorption electrospray ionization (DESI)-mass spectrometry (MS) method to profile and separate intact glucosinolates without prior biochemical modifications from the hydromethanolic extracts of two phenotypes, red and black Maca (Lepidium peruvianum) seeds. In the first stage of the plant's life cycle, aromatic glucosinolates were the main chemical constituents whereby six aromatic, three indole, and one aliphatic glucosinolate were tentatively identified. At the seedling stage, glucolepigramin/Glucosinalbin was the most predominant precursor, rather than Glucotropaeolin, which is mainly found in hypocotyls and roots. These findings lead us to suggest that glucolepigramin/glucosinalbin play a major role as active precursors in the biosynthetic pathways of other secondary metabolites in the early stages of plant development. Between red and black Maca seeds, only minor differences in the relative abundances of glucosinolates were observed rather than different plant metabolites. For the first time, we report six potential plant antibiotics, phytoanticipins: glycosylated ascorbigens and dihydroascorbigens from Maca seeds. We also investigated a targeted reverse phase C18 functionalized TLC-DESI-MS method with high sensitivity and specificity for Brassicaceae fatty acids in Maca seeds and health supplements such as black Maca root lyophilized powder and tinctures. The investigation of secondary metabolites by normal and reverse phase TLC-DESI-MS methods, described in this study, can aid in their identification as they begin to emerge in later stages of development in plant tissues such as leaves, hypocotyls, and roots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo J Perez
- Centre for Research in Mass Spectrometry, Department of Chemistry, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rodrigo S Conceição
- Centre for Research in Mass Spectrometry, Department of Chemistry, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Health, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana, Brazil
| | - Demian R Ifa
- Centre for Research in Mass Spectrometry, Department of Chemistry, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Ciani F, Cocchia N, Calabrò V, Pollice A, Maruccio L, Carotenuto D, Esposito L, Avallone L, Tafuri S. Uncaria tomentosa: A promising source of therapeutic agents for prevention and treatment of oxidative stress and cancer. Cancer 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819547-5.00045-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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24
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Macamides: A review of structures, isolation, therapeutics and prospects. Food Res Int 2020; 138:109819. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2020.109819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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25
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da Silva Leitão Peres N, Cabrera Parra Bortoluzzi L, Medeiros Marques LL, Formigoni M, Fuchs RHB, Droval AA, Reitz Cardoso FA. Medicinal effects of Peruvian maca (Lepidium meyenii): a review. Food Funct 2020; 11:83-92. [PMID: 31951246 DOI: 10.1039/c9fo02732g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Peruvian maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root native to the Andean region, cultivated for at least 2000 years. Maca is rich in fiber, a large number of essential amino acids, fatty acids, and other nutrients, including vitamin C, copper, iron, and calcium. Besides these essential nutrients, this root contains bioactive compounds responsible for benefits to the human body, which has caused a considerable increase in its consumption in the last 20 years worldwide. This review documents the Peruvian maca composition and the recent findings regarding the medicinal effects of this root in sexual dysfunction regulation, neuroprotective effects, action in memory enhancement, antidepressant, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory activities, and skin protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natália da Silva Leitão Peres
- Department of Food Engineering, Federal University of Technology - Paraná (UTFPR), Campo Mourão, Paraná 87301-005, Brazil.
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26
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Amjad S, Rahman MS, Pang MG. Role of Antioxidants in Alleviating Bisphenol A Toxicity. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10081105. [PMID: 32722388 PMCID: PMC7465987 DOI: 10.3390/biom10081105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an oestrogenic endocrine disruptor widely used in the production of certain plastics, e.g., polycarbonate, hard and clear plastics, and epoxy resins that act as protective coating for food and beverage cans. Human exposure to this chemical is thought to be ubiquitous. BPA alters endocrine function, thereby causing many diseases in human and animals. In the last few decades, studies exploring the mechanism of BPA activity revealed a direct link between BPA-induced oxidative stress and disease pathogenesis. Antioxidants, reducing agents that prevent cellular oxidation reactions, can protect BPA toxicity. Although the important role of antioxidants in minimizing BPA stress has been demonstrated in many studies, a clear consensus on the associated mechanisms is needed, as well as the directives on their efficacy and safety. Herein, considering the distinct biochemical properties of BPA and antioxidants, we provide a framework for understanding how antioxidants alleviate BPA-associated stress. We summarize the current knowledge on the biological function of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and discuss their practical potential as BPA-detoxifying agents.
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27
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Esposito L, Tafuri S, Cocchia N, Fasanelli R, Piscopo N, Lamagna B, Eguren V, Amici A, Iorio EL, Ciani F. Assessment of living conditions in wild boars by analysis of oxidative stress markers. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2020; 24:64-71. [PMID: 32649230 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2020.1790365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
This study demonstrated that it is possible to differentiate wild boars living in habitats with different animal densities by the measurement of oxidative stress markers. Therefore, reactive oxygen metabolites, the antioxidant barrier, i.e., the biological antioxidant potential and the antioxidative power (OXY-Adsorbent), as well as cortisol were measured in freely ranging wild boars. In two different areas of a State Forest in the Campania Region (Italy), 42 freely ranging, managed wild boars were captured with a corral trap, and blood samples were collected. The wild boars were divided by age (>1 year old and <1 year old) and sex (male and female). Animals in one area showed significantly higher values of oxidative stress parameters than those living in the other area. The annual boar censuses of areas highlighted a higher population density in the first area than in the second one, and this would explain the results obtained. Since the health or nutritional status of animals is reflected by oxidative stress, wild boars in areas with higher animal densities may live under worse conditions than animals in areas with lower densities which becomes evident by measuring oxidative stress markers. As cortisol in blood is only reflecting a short period, the measurement of oxidative stress level may be a better indicator to evaluate the living conditions of wild boars.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Esposito
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II , 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Tafuri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II , 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II , 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Fasanelli
- Department of Social Sciences, University of Naples Federico II , 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Nadia Piscopo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II , 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Lamagna
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II , 80137, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincente Eguren
- Department of Animal Production, University of León , 241071 León, Spain
| | - Andrea Amici
- Department of Agriculture and Forestry Science, University of Tuscia , 01100, Viterbo, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Ciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II , 80137, Naples, Italy
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Abstract
Information on donkey sperm bioenergetics, kinetics and oxidative status is scarce even though crucial for development of reproductive technologies and germplasm conservation. For these reasons, it is interesting to monitor sperm kinetics, bioenergetics, and oxidative status during sperm storage at +4°C and with several sperm extenders and concentrations. Donkey semen was collected from three jackasses, three times each. It was diluted with four extenders (Kenney, Equiplus, INRA96 or Hippex), set at three sperm concentrations (30, 50 or 70 × 106 spermatozoa/ml) and evaluated for its functionality after 0, 3, 24, 48 and 72 h storage at +4°C. Sperm kinetics was analyzed by Sperm Computer Analysis; sperm bioenergetics was assessed by mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP); sperm oxidative status was evaluated by lipid peroxidation (LPO), anti-LPO potential and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) assays. Incubation produced a progressive (P < 0.01) decline in sperm kinetics and MMP, whereas parameters related to oxidative status either increased (LPO, NBT) or decreased (anti-LPO). The anti-LPO potential was the index better related to sperm motility and kinetics. Extenders proved to be differently (P < 0.01) effective in preserving sperm kinetics, MMP, and oxidative status. The concentration of 30 × 106 spermatozoa/ml provided an optimum preservation of sperm functions. Significant correlations emerged between most parameters examined. This study identified reference criteria for storing donkey spermatozoa at +4°C. A low sperm concentration together with a proper extender are crucial requirements for optimum sperm cryopreservation efficiency. Field trials are, however, required to validate these findings, making them operational in practice.
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29
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Abarikwu SO, Onuah CL, Singh SK. Plants in the management of male infertility. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13509. [PMID: 31989693 DOI: 10.1111/and.13509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This review attempts to collate existing data and provide the perspectives for future studies on the effects of plants on the male gonads. For many of these medicinal plants such as Lepidium meyenii, Rupus coreanus, Tribulus terrestres, Panax ginseng, Petasites japonicas, Apium graveolens, Eurycoma longifólia, Pedalium murex, Corchorus depressus, Mucuna pruriens, Astragalus membranaceus, Nigella sativa, Crataegus monogyna, Fagara tessmannii, Phaleria macrocarpa, Anacyclus pyrethrum, Cynomorium songaricum and Morinda officinalis, the mechanism of actions of their active principles and crude extracts has been shown in both laboratory animals, in vitro, and human studies, and includes their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, spermatogenesis-inducing, aphrodisiac, smooth muscle relaxing and androgenic properties. Several active chemical leads including glucosinolates, anthocyanins, protodioscin, ginsenosides, sesquiterpenes, phyto-oestrogens, quassinoids, diosgenin, thymoquinone, proanthocyanidins and bajijiasu isolated from these plants are known to have target effects on the testis, but efforts have been limited in their application at the clinical level. There still appear to be many more extracts of medicinal plants that have not been characterised to determine the phytochemicals unique to them that have target effects on the gonads. Further, collaborative efforts at isolating pro-drug candidates from medicinal plants for studies at the molecular, cellular and clinical level towards elucidating their mechanisms of action on the testes are therefore warranted in the light of the current male fertility crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunny O Abarikwu
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Chigozie Linda Onuah
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
| | - Shio Kumar Singh
- Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
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Tafuri S, Cocchia N, Vassetti A, Carotenuto D, Esposito L, Maruccio L, Avallone L, Ciani F. Lepidium meyenii (Maca) in male reproduction. Nat Prod Res 2019; 35:4550-4559. [PMID: 31805775 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2019.1698572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Lepidium meyenii (Maca) is an edible root plant that grows in the Andean region of Peru. For centuries, the plant has been used as a dietary supplement for its nutritional and therapeutic properties. Maca are rich in high value nutritional elements and secondary metabolites (macaridine, macamides and glucosinolates) with high biological activity. Several studies demonstrated various biological effects of Maca mainly in the field of fertility. The aim of this review is to summarize the state of knowledge on the properties of Maca on male reproduction. Literature data was performed in PubMed with researches published from 2000 to 2019. The research showed results related to the effects of Maca on the quality and quantity of the semen, sexual behaviour and disorders of the male genital tract. Despite the numerous studies carried out on different animal species, further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms of action of Maca.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Tafuri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Anastasia Vassetti
- Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, National Research Council, Portici (Na), Italy
| | - Domenico Carotenuto
- Facultad de Ciencias Biologicas, UNMSM, Universidad Nacional Mayor San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Luigi Esposito
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucianna Maruccio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Avallone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Ciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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31
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Chemical Analysis of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) and Its Effects on Redox Status and on Reproductive Biology in Stallions †. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24101981. [PMID: 31126050 PMCID: PMC6571579 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24101981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was conducted to assess the chemical composition of Yellow Maca (Lepidium meyenii) and its biological activity on stallions following oral administration of hypocotyl powder. Maca was subjected to methanolic extraction and the chemical analysis was carried out by LC-MS-QTOF (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry). Our results showed that Maca contains some effective antioxidants, a high percentage of glucosinolates, and other important components with a high antioxidant capacity. To evaluate the plant biological activity in stallions fed with Maca powder for 60 days, the redox status and some reproductive parameters were investigated. Blood and semen samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, and 90 days from the beginning of this study. Blood samples showed a decrease of the reactive oxygen metabolites, evaluated by d-ROMs test, and an increase of the antioxidant barrier in terms of biological antioxidant potential (BAP test), powerful oxidant capacity (OXY-Adsorbent test), and thiols evaluation (-SHp test). Furthermore, semen samples showed a positive trend during Maca administration in the following parameters: ejaculate volumes and sperm concentrations, total and progressive motility, and acrosome integrity.
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