Protective effects of quercetin on testicular torsion/detorsion-induced ischaemia-reperfusion injury in rats

Pathophysiology and management of testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury: Lessons from animal models

Testicular torsion is a urological emergency that involves the twisting of the spermatic cord along its course. Compelling pieces of evidence have implicated oxidative stress-sensitive signaling in pathogenesis of testicular I/R injury. Although, surgical detorsion is the mainstay management; blockade of the pathways involved in the pathogenesis may improve the surgical outcome. Experimental studies using various testicular I/R models have been reported in a bid to explore the mechanisms associated with testicular I/R and evaluate the benefits of potential therapeutic measures; however, most are limited by their shortcomings. Thus, this review was intended to describe the details of the available testicular I/R models as well as their merits and drawbacks, the pathophysiological basis and consequences of testicular I/R, and the pharmacological agents that have being proposed to confer testicular benefits against testicular I/R. This provides an understanding of the pathophysiological events and available models used in studying testicular I/R. In addition, this research provides evidence-based molecules with therapeutic potentials as well as their mechanisms of action in testicular I/R.

The potential prophylactic and therapeutic impacts of niacin on ischemia/reperfusion injury of testis

INTRODUCTION

The testicular ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is characterized by the excessive aggregation of un-scavenged reactive oxygen species, leading to the heightened levels of oxidative stress. This phenomenon plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of testicular torsion damage.

OBJECTIVE

The current study aimed to detect the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of niacin on testicular I/R injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Twenty-four healthy adult male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly allocated into three groups as follows: (1) sham group, (2) torsion/detorsion (T/D) group, and (3) treatment group which received 200 mg/kg niacin along with testicular T/D. Torsion/detorsion was induced by 2 h of torsion followed by 10 days of reperfusion period. In the treatment group, niacin was injected 30 min before the reperfusion period intraperitoneally and continued for 10 days by oral gavage.

RESULTS

T/D was associated with marked decreases in terms of sperm count, viability, and kinematic parameters versus the sham group (P < 0.05), which niacin significantly reverted the kinematic parameters (P < 0.05). I/R injury caused a significant increase in the number of abnormal epididymal sperms compared to the sham group (P < 0.05). Niacin decreased the epididymal sperm abnormality significantly compared to the T/D group (P < 0.05). Tissue abnormalities in T/D group, such as edema, hyperemia, inflammation, and necrosis were completely visible histopathologically, while the histological changes in the niacin-treated group were better than those in the T/D group. Regarding the pathological parametric evaluations, I/R injury significantly reduced the mean testicular biopsy score (MTBS), germinal epithelial cell thickness (GECT), and mean seminiferous tubular diameter (MSTD), and increased the tubular hypoplasia/atrophy (THA) compared to the sham group (P < 0.05), which niacin treatment significantly improved the MTBS and GECT compared to the T/D group (P < 0.05). T/D significantly increased the oxidative stress index (OSI) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) (P < 0.05). Niacin significantly reduced the OSI and MDA levels compared to the T/D group (P < 0.05).

DISCUSSION

The current study found that niacin has preventive/therapeutic effects against the elevation of oxidative stress markers and depletion of antioxidants during I/R injury. Following administration of niacin, a reduction in histologic injury was observed in rats. In our study, we showed the antioxidant properties of niacin and its capacity to protect against I/R damage.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present investigation revealed that niacin, as an antioxidant agent, can suppress the oxidative stress induced by testicular I/R injury, and can be used as a supplementary agent in the treatment of those undergoing testicular torsion surgery.

Protective effects of empagliflozin on testicular injury induced by torsion/detorsion in adult male rats

INTRODUCTION

Testicular torsion is a known urologic emergency condition and one of the common causes of infertility in males. Hence, prompt diagnosis and treatment play a crucial role in prevention of testicular injury. It has been observed that empagliflozin, a drug for management of hyperglycemia, has anti-oxidative properties against different pathologies, the most important of which are ischemia reperfusion related injuries.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the protective effects of empagliflozin on a testicular torsion injury in adolescent rats followed by ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) phenomena.

STUDY DESIGN

Thirty-six rats were randomly assigned into three groups including sham-operated group received all surgical procedures except testicular torsion-detorsion, torsion/detorsion + dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as vehicle, and torsion/detorsion + empagliflozin (10 mg/kg). Testicular torsion was performed for 2 h through rotating right testis 720° in the clockwise direction. Thirty minutes before detorsion, a single intraperitoneal dose of empagliflozin was injected to treatment group. Four hours later, orchiectomy was conducted for histopathological and biochemical examinations of testicular tissue specimens.

RESULTS

The malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the torsion/detorsion animals was markedly greater than in the animals under sham operated procedure. Moreover, the testicular MDA levels in the torsion/detorsion + empagliflozin group were significantly lower than in the torsion/detorsion group. Also, significant decreases observed in catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities in the torsion/detorsion group in comparison with sham operated group. These values were significantly improved in the empagliflozin group. Furthermore, histopathological examinations also revealed severe testicular injury which were improved by empagliflozin administration.

DISCUSSION

Empagliflozin prevented increases in oxidative stress markers and subsequently reduced the tissue injury induced by torsion/detorsion in the current study.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that administration of empagliflozin before prevents I/R related cellular damage in testicular torsion, possibly via oxidative stress inhibition.

Propolis ameliorates ischemia/reperfusion-induced testicular damage by reducing oxidative stress

PURPOSE

This study was performed to evaluate the effect of ethanolic extract of Turkish propolis (EEP) on testicular ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) damage in rats in terms of biochemistry and histopathology, for the first time.

METHODS

A total of 18 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups with six rats in each group: control, torsion/detorsion (T/D), and T/D+EEP (100mg/kg). Testicular torsion was performed by 720° rotating the left testicle in a clockwise direction. The duration of ischemia was 4h and orchiectomy was performed after 2h of detorsion. EEP was applied only once 30min before detorsion. Tissue malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels were determined using colorimetric methods. Oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated by proportioning tissue TOS and TAS values to each other. Tissue glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Johnsen's testicle scoring system was used for histological evaluation.

RESULTS

In the T/D group, it was determined that statistically significant decreasing in TAS, GSH, GPx levels and Johnsen score, and increasing in TOS, OSI and MDA levels (p<0.05) compared with control group. EEP administration statistically significantly restored this I/R damage (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to show that propolis prevent I/R-induced testicular damage through its antioxidant activity. More comprehensive studies are needed to see the underlying mechanisms.

Pharmacological Activity of Flavonoid Quercetin and Its Therapeutic Potential in Testicular Injury

Quercetin is a natural flavonoid widely found in natural fruits and vegetables. Recent studies have shown that quercetin mediates multiple beneficial effects in a variety of organ damage and diseases, and is considered a healthcare supplement with health-promoting potential. Male infertility is a major health concern, and testicular damage from multiple causes is an important etiology. Previous studies have shown that quercetin has a protective effect on reproductive function. This may be related to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic biological activities of quercetin. Therefore, this paper reviews the mechanisms by which quercetin exerts its pharmacological activity and its role in testicular damage induced by various etiologies. In addition, this paper compiles the application of quercetin in clinical trials, demonstrating its practical effects in regulating blood pressure and inhibiting cellular senescence in human patients. However, more in-depth experimental studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm the true value of quercetin for the prevention and protection against testicular injury.

Possible Mechanisms of the Neuroprotective Actions of Date Palm Fruits Aqueous Extracts against Valproic Acid-Induced Autism in Rats

The current study aimed to determine how palm date aqueous fruit extracts (AFE) affected the autistic-like behaviors brought on by valproic acid (VPA) injection, as well as any potential contributions from Sirt-1, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy. The pregnant Sprague Dawley females were treated with VPA at 12.5th gestation day and pregnant females and their offspring were treated with AFE orally at doses of 4 mg/Kg by gastric gavage for 45 days after birth. The elevated plus-T maze, water maze, and rotarod tests were used to examine autism-like behaviors. At the end of the study, the expression of Nrf2, heme oxygenase (HO-1), Sirt-1, caspase-3 (a marker of apoptosis), LC3 (a marker of autophagy), and NFκB (inflammatory cytokines) were evaluated along with the oxidative stress in brain tissues and the histological changes in the cerebellum and hippocampus. The neurobehavioral assessments significantly declined due to VPA, which also significantly increased oxidative stress in the brain tissues and significantly decreased Nrf2 and HO-1 expression. Additionally, VPA administration caused significant increase in the expression of caspase-3 in the cerebellar cortex, not in the hippocampus; LC3 and NFκB in the hippocampus, not in the cerebellar cortex; and significant reduction in the expression of Sirt-1 in the hippocampus, not in the cerebellum. On the other hand, AFE treatment significantly improved the neurobehavioral changes as well as it improved significantly the oxidative stress and the expression of LC3, NFκB, NrF2, HO-1, and Sirt-1 in the cerebellum and hippocampus. Conclusions: AFE administration might improve the autistic-like symptoms induced by VPA in rats via attenuation of the oxidative stress, upregulation of Nrf2 and HO-1, Sirt-1 and LC3 expression with downregulation of caspase-3, and NFκB expression in the cerebellum and hippocampus.

The role of taurine in male reproduction: Physiology, pathology and toxicology

Taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, has a wide range of biological effects, such as bile salt formation, osmotic regulation, oxidative stress inhibition, immunomodulation and neuromodulation. Taurine has been proved to be synthesized and abundant in male reproductive organs. Recently, accumulating data showed that taurine has a potential protective effect on reproductive function of male animals. In physiology, taurine can promote the endocrine function of the hypothalamus-pituitary-testis (HPT) axis, testicular tissue development, spermatogenesis and maturation, delay the aging of testicular structure and function, maintain the homeostasis of the testicular environment, and enhance sexual ability. In pathology, taurine supplement may be beneficial to alleviate pathological damage of male reproductive system, including oxidative damage of sperm preservation in vitro, testicular reperfusion injury and diabetes -induced reproductive complications. In addition, taurine acts as a protective agent against toxic damage to the male reproductive system by exogenous substances (e.g., therapeutic drugs, environmental pollutants, radiation). Related mechanisms include reduced oxidative stress, increased antioxidant capacity, inhibited inflammation and apoptosis, restored the secretory activity of the HPT axis, reduced chromosomal variation, enhanced sperm mitochondrial energy metabolism, cell membrane stabilization effect, etc. Therefore, this article reviewed the protective effect of taurine on male reproductive function and its detailed mechanism, in order to provide reference for further research and clinical application.

The evaluation of citral effects on experimental unilateral testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury

This investigation aimed to evaluate the defensive impacts of citral on ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury induced by testicular torsion/detorsion (T/D) in rats in an experimental model. The grouping of subjects was as follows: (1) sham, (2) T/D, (3) and (4) T/D plus citral 150 and 300 mg/kg, respectively, and (5) intact (citral 300 mg/kg). T/D was performed by testicular 720° turning for 2 h and then detorsion for 24 h. Blood serum was obtained to assess testosterone and oxidative stress markers, epididymal sperms were collected for sperm staining and sperm analysis, and testicular tissues were examined for histopathology. T/D damage was associated with a remarkable decline in sperm total count, viability, and some velocity parameters in comparison to the sham group (p < 0.05), which could be reversed significantly by citral (p < 0.05). Histopathologically, T/D damage caused severe oedema, haemorrhage, inflammation, and seminiferous tubules disruption, while citral improved significantly the mean seminiferous tubular diameter, Cosentino's score, and Johnsen's score (p < 0.05). I/R injury was associated with significant increased malondialdehyde and oxidative stress index, and also significant reduced total antioxidant capacity and testosterone versus the sham group (p < 0.05), which all were prevented significantly by citral administration (p < 0.05). The outcomes greatly proved that testicular I/R injury could be significantly prevented by citral.

Date Palm as Source of Nutraceuticals for Health Promotion: a Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Chronic diseases are problematic to health professional specially when using drugs throughout the course of life with un-tolerated side effects. Returning to nature through using nutraceuticals might have both protective and therapeutic effects. Date palm was claimed to be a good source of such nutraceuticals or functional food ingredients. The purpose of the present review was to spot light on the different phytochemicals, phytonutrients, and remedial effects of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in a goal to be utilized in form of nutraceuticals. The possible mechanisms of action of the remedial effects were among the aim of the study.

RECENT FINDINGS

A protein hydrolyzate prepared from date seed could prevent DNA mutation and susceptibility to cancer. In addition to cancer prevention, date palm fruit improved the treatment outcome of cancer pediatric patients and possesses anti-angiogenic activity as one of the important anticancer mechanisms of action. On the other hand, date seed extracts was recently reported to protect from ulcerative colitis. It seems that all the aforementioned remedial effect might be ascribed to immunoregulatory effect of date palm. These findings proposed that date palm is beneficial for health. Date palm fruit is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, dietary fibers, energy, and easily digestible and absorbable sugars that instantaneously replenish and revitalize the body specially after fasting condition. Mineral contents in date fruits include potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium. Diverse health claims were reported to belong to various parts of the tree including the edible part of fruits, the seeds, the leaves, spathe (an envelope-like structure that encloses male and female date palm flowers), and pollen grains due to the presence of different bioactive constituents. The main phytochemicals and phytonutrients reported in date palms are phenolic compounds, carotenoids, sterols, anthocyanins, and others. In folk medicine, date palm fruits are used for enhancing immunity and treating gastrointestinal tract disorders, edema, bronchitis, wound, cancer, as well as infectious diseases. However, the exact health benefits and remedial effects of date palm were not fully and deeply investigated. The present review focused on the bioactive constituents and the reported health benefits of date palm and proposed mechanism of action.

Protective effects of crocin on testicular torsion/detorsion in rats

Oxidative stress, caused by extreme accumulation of un-scavenged reactive oxygen species, plays an integral role in the Ischemia-Reperfusion (I/R) injury to the testicles following testicular torsion. The current research aimed to examine the protective effects of crocin as a natural antioxidant on testicular I/R injury in rats. Animals were divided randomly into five groups (seven each): (1) sham group, (2) torsion/detorsion (T/D) group, (3) intact group with 100 mg/kg crocin, (4) and (5) T/D groups followed by treatment with two different doses of crocin (50 and 100 mg/kg (IP)). I/R injury was induced by 720° clockwise torsion of the left testicles for 2 h. After 24 h of reperfusion, blood samples and epididymal sperms were collected to measure biochemical (GPx, SOD, and MDA), hormonal (testosterone), and sperm parameters (total sperm recovery, motility, viability, and morphology). Moreover, affected testicles were subjected to histopathology examination. I/R injury caused a significant reduction in sperm characteristics (except for morphology) (P < 0.05), which could not be significantly improved by crocin administration at either dose (P > 0.05). Johnsen's testicular score, mean seminiferous tubular diameter, and germinal epithelial cell thickness were significantly decreased in the T/D group compared to the intact and sham groups. However, crocin could significantly improve the histopathological parameters in both treatment groups compared to the T/D group (P < 0.05). T/D reduced SOD and GPx activity and testosterone level significantly (except for GPx) compared to the sham group (P < 0.05). However, crocin administration could significantly reverse them. Also, crocin reduced the amount of MDA significantly in the high-dose treatment group in comparison to T/D group (P < 0.05). The results of the current study revealed that crocin could be a promising agent to protect against I/R injury following surgical correction of the testicular torsion.

Beneficial effects of memantine on ischemia/reperfusion injury following torsion/detorsion induced testicular damage in rats: Improvement in histological and biochemical parameters

INTRODUCTION

Testicular torsion is a common urologic emergency and one of the causes of infertility in males. Hence, prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent testicular damages. It has been reported that memantine, a drug for Alzheimer's disease has anti-oxidative role against cerebral ischemic stroke and cardiac ischemia reperfusion.

OBJECTIVE

In this experimental study, the effects of memantine on a testicular torsion injury in adolescent rat testis after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) were evaluated.

STUDY DESIGN

Thirty-six adolescent rats were divided into three groups with 12 rats per group including sham-operated, T/D (torsion/detorsion) + vehicle, and T/D + memantine (10 mg/kg). Testicular torsion was induced for 2 h by rotating right testis 720⁰ in the clockwise direction. In treated group 30 min before detorsion, a single intraperitoneal dose of memantine was administered. After 4 h of reperfusion, orchiectomy was conducted and Histopathological and biochemical evaluations of testicular tissue samples were performed.

RESULTS

The malondialdehyde level in the T/D group was significantly greater than in the sham operated group. Moreover, the testicular malondialdehyde values in the T/D + memantine group were significantly lower than in the T/D group. Also, significant decreases occurred in catalase and superoxide dismutase activities in the T/D group compared with sham operated group. These values were significantly greater in the memantine group than in the T/D group. Furthermore, after induction of T/D, histopathological evaluations also revealed severe testicular damages which were improved by memantine administration.

DISCUSSION

Memantine prevented increases in oxidative stress markers and reductions of antioxidants during I/R injury in the current study. Subsequently the histologic injury was reduced in rats treated with memantine. The antioxidant characteristics of memantine and its protective effects have been shown in our study.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that administration of memantine before detorsion prevents I/R cellular damage in testicular torsion. This drug probably acts through reduction of reactive oxygen species and support antioxidant enzyme systems.

Reproductive toxicity of cadmium in pubertal male rats induced by cell apoptosis

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that is widely present in modern industrial production. It is a known, highly toxic environmental endocrine disruptor. Long-term exposure to Cd can cause varying degrees of damage to the liver, kidney, and reproductive system of organisms, especially the male reproductive system. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of Cd toxicity in the male reproductive system during puberty. Eighteen healthy 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups (control group, low-dose group, and high-dose group) according to their body weight, with six in each group. Cd (0, 1, and 3 mg/kg/day) was given by gavage for 28 consecutive days. The results showed that Cd exposure to each dose group caused a decrease in the testicular organ coefficient and sperm count, compared with the control group. Cd exposure resulted in significant changes in testicular morphology in the 3 mg/kg/day Cd group. In the 1 and 3 mg/kg/day Cd groups, serum testosterone decreased and apoptosis of testicular cells increased significantly (p < 0.05). In addition, compared with the control group, the activity of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in each Cd exposure dose group decreased, but the content of malondialdehyde in the high-dose, 3 mg/kg/day Cd treatment group significantly increased (p < 0.05). Although Cd exposure caused an increase in the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of Bcl-2, Caspase-3 and Caspase-9 in the testicular tissues (p < 0.05), Bcl-2 expression was unchanged (p > 0.05). The expression level of Akt mRNA in testicular tissue of rats in the high-dose 3 mg/kg/day Cd group was increased (p < 0.05). Our data suggest that Cd affected testosterone levels, and apoptosis was observed in spermatids.

Diffusion tensor imaging in evaluating testicular injury after unilateral testicular torsion and detorsion in rat model: A preliminary study

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a functional magnetic resonance sequence based on the movement of water molecules. This study attempted to investigate the feasibility of DTI in evaluating testicular injury after testicular torsion and detorsion. Seventy-two rats were randomly divided into the sham group, torsion group and detorsion group. The left testis in the sham group was brought out through a scrotal incision for 1 hr, and that of the torsion group was twisted 720^o clockwise for 1 hr and fixed to the scrotum, while the detorsion group was restored after being twisted 720° for 1 hr. Rats were further divided into four subgroups according to the set time, then performed DTI and histology analysis. The mean diffusion of the torsion and detorsion groups increased within 24 hr (p <.01), while it in the detorsion-1-week-group was lower than that in the detorsion-24-hr-group (p <.05). The fraction anisotropy of both experimental groups decreased in the acute phase (p <.01), while that of the detorsion-1-week-group increased (p <.01). Cosentino score in both experimental groups showed an increasing trend (p <.05). Besides, the spermatogenic ability of the detorsion-1-week-group decreased (p <.05). In conclusion, DTI was able to evaluate the injury after testicular torsion and detorsion.

Testicular Torsion and Spermatogenesis

Testicular torsion (TT) is a common urologic emergency that can occur at any age. It is most common in newborns and during puberty. Prompt evaluation and management is required to salvage the testis following an episode of torsion. TT brings about damage to testicular tissue and spermatogenesis through various hypothesized mechanisms; however there is a consensus that the effects of ischemia, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and oxidative stress account for the most destructive effects. Numerous studies have examined the effects of various agents and therapies in limiting the effects of TT on the testis.

Application of quercetin flavonoid based hybrid nanocomposites: A review

Natural bioflavonoids are an essential component of dietary supplements possessing antimicrobial properties. Many of the bioflavonoids have resulted in positive antitumor, anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory properties, but the efficacy remains low due to toxicity at the molecular level whereas antiviral property limits to negative. The synergistic link between nanoscience and flavonoid chemistry enhances the epidemiological properties of flavonoid and also diminish the antimicrobial resistivity (AMR) by forming their hybrid nanocomposites. Nanochemistry uses various nanocomposite and nanomaterials for biosensing the flavonoids and their delivery as a drug. The quercetin flavonoid and its derivatives such as rutin, and myricetin are used for sensing and drug delivery. Quercetin with 15Carbon-5Hydroxyl chemical scaffold has been explored for a few decades for the development of hybrid nanocomposite and nanomaterial with metallic as well as organic nano co-composites. This quercetin flavonoid based hybrid nanocomposites seemed to show a significant effect on In vitro and some animal model processes along with attenuating lipid peroxidation, platelet aggregation, and capillary permeability actions. This review mainly focused on the hybrid nanoscience of quercetin bioflavonoid and its application in numerous biological, material fields with a future perspective.

Possible mechanisms for the renoprotective effects of date palm fruits and seeds extracts against renal ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

PURPOSE

This work investigates the possible renoprotective effects of date palm fruits and seeds extract against renal ischemia and their underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

108-Sprague Dawle male rats were randomly allocated into 6 equal groups differently receiving aqueous or methanolic fruit and seed extracts. Assay of serum creatinine, BUN and TNF-α, morphological examination of the left kidney, markers of the redox state (MDA, CAT, and GSH), the expression of TNFα and Nrf2 genes at the level of mRNA, the expression of caspase-3 and TGF-β proteins by immunohistochemistry were performed.

RESULTS

45-min renal I/R caused significant deterioration of kidney functions (increase in serum creatinine and BUN) and morphology (P < 0.001) and significant reduction in CAT activity and GSH levels with significant increase in serum TNF-α and MDA concentration and the expression of Nrf2, caspase-3, TNF-α, and TGF-β in kidney tissues. Pre-treatment with either date palm fruit or seed extracts significantly improved kidney functions and morphology (P ≤ 0.001) with a significant increase in the expression of Nrf2 and CAT activity, and GSH concentration and a reduction in serum TNF-α and expression of caspase-3, TNF-α, and TGF-β (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of date palm extracts exhibited a renoprotective effect against renal I/R injury.This renoprotective action might be due to their antioxidants, anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory actions. Moreover, aqueous fruit extracts offered powerful renoprotective effect than aqueous seed extracts, and aqueous fruit and seed extracts were generally more effective than methanolic extracts.

The molecular and biochemical insight view of grape seed proanthocyanidins in ameliorating cadmium-induced testes-toxicity in rat model: implication of PI3K/Akt/Nrf-2 signaling

The present study aims to evaluate the protective effect of grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSP) on cadmium (Cd)-induced testicular apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in rats. A total of 24 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups, namely control, GSP (100 mg/kg BW), Cd (5 mg/kg BW), and Cd+GSP. Cd-treated rat testes exhibited a significant increment in oxidative stress mediated inflammation and apoptosis. Pre-administration of GSP exhibit significant protection against the apoptotic and inflammatory damages elicited by Cd and uphold the intercellular antioxidant status in testes. Histological changes were studied and the immunohistochemical staining for caspase 3, HSP70, and eNOS protein expressions were also analyzed to justify the protective action of GSP. Furthermore, GSP prevented DNA damage, and enhanced the expression of antioxidant responsive elements Nrf2/HO-1 by PI3K/Akt-dependent pathway. Therefore, our results suggest that GSP acts as a multipotent antioxidant entity against Cd-induced oxidative testicular toxicity in rats.

Antioxidants in experimental ischemia-reperfusion injury of the testis: Where are we heading towards?

Testicular torsion (TT) is a medical emergency that primary affects newborns and young adolescents. It causes testicular injury due to the torsion of the spermatic cord and its components, initially in the venous blood flow and finally in the arterial blood flow. Prompt diagnosis and early surgical management are necessary in managing this urgent situation. The process of the pathophysiological events in ischemia-reperfusion is multifactorial and deals with the perception of the oxidative stress responsible for the consequences of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) stress following TT. Duration and severity of torsion also play a significant role in the oxidative stress. A detrimental result of the defense system of the testes takes place resulting finally in testicular atrophy and impaired function. Antioxidant factors have been experimentally studied in an effort to front this state. They have been classified as endogenous or exogenous antioxidants. Endogenous antioxidants comprise a structure of enzymic enzymatic and non-enzymic enzymatic particles presented within cytoplasm and numerous other subunits in the cells. Exogenous antioxidants include a variety of natural and pharmaceutical agents that may prevent or ameliorate the harmful effects of I/R injury. In this study we review those factors and their ability to enhance the oxidative status of the testis. A feature insight into where we are heading is attempted.

Comparison of quercetin and resveratrol in the prevention of injury due to testicular torsion/detorsion in rats

Quercetin (QE) and resveratrol (RSV) are powerful antioxidants with the potential to protect the testes against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. We compared their effects in testicular torsion/detorsion (T/D) in adult rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: sham (group A), T/D (group B), T/D treated with QE (group C), and T/D treated with RSV (group D). QE (20 mg kg⁻¹) and RSV (20 mg kg⁻¹) were injected intra-peritoneally at 60 min of torsion. After 90 min of surgically induced torsion, the testicular cord was restored to its anatomical position. Twenty-four hour after torsion, blood and tissue samples were obtained for further examination. Testicular tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels and serum total oxidant status (TOS) were higher in group B than in group A (P < 0.05). Group A had higher serum total antioxidant status (TAS) than group B. (P < 0.05) QE and RSV significantly lowered MDA, NO, and TOS levels and TAS consumption (P < 0.05). QE reduced the MDA and TOS levels more than RSV (P < 0.05), but their effects on NO reduction and TAS consumption were similar (P > 0.05). Group A had normal testicular architecture (grade 1). Groups C (mean grade 2.60) and D (mean grade 3.00) had lower testicular injury grades than group B (mean grade 3.45) (P < 0.05). Group C had lower testicular injury grade than group D (P < 0.05). Treatment with QE and RSV protects against I/R injury after testicular T/D. QE may exhibit better function than RSV at the doses tested in this study.

Short-term Effects of Date Palm Extract (Phoenix dactylifera) on Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury Induced by Testicular Torsion/Detorsion in Rats

Background:

Antioxidants are potent scavengers of free radicals and have beneficial effects on human health.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective antioxidant activity of the edible portion of date fruit extract in an experimental testicular torsion/detorsion (T/D) model in rats.

Materials and Methods:

To investigate the potential protective effects of date palm (DP), 30 male Spraque-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: sham-operated, T/D, and T/D + DP-treated (500 mg/kg, PO) groups. Testicular ischemia was induced via keeping the left testis under 720° clockwise torsion for 2 h (h), afterward, detorsion was performed. All rats were sacrificed 4 h after detorsion. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, total oxidative status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and histopathological damage score were evaluated.

Results:

Serum MDA, TOS, and OSI levels rose significantly in the T/D group. These values were lower in the T/D + DP group. TAS values decreased significantly in T/D group and rose in T/D + DP group. Severe injury was seen in the twisted testes of T/D group. In contrast, ipsilateral-twisted testicular tissue in the DP-treated group showed moderate-to-mild changes. Contralateral testicular tissue in the T/D group had a mild-to-moderate tissue injury; meanwhile, treated group revealed normal-to-mild changes. Spermatogenesis was significantly improved in DP-treated group when compared with the T/D group.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest a possible protective effect of DP against testicular oxidative damage induced by T/D; however, more detailed studies are warranted.

SUMMARY

Given the presence of several phenolic compounds possessing high antioxidant activity in DP, it could potentially be used to reduce testis ischemia/reperfusion-induced damage.

Abbreviations Used: TAS: Total antioxidant status,TOS: Total oxidative status; OSI: Oxidative stress index; MDA: Malondialdehyde; C: Congestion; H: Hemorrhage, E: Edema; SG: Sloughed germinal cells; SA: Spermatogenesis arrest; STD: Seminiferous tubules disorganization; STA: Seminiferous tubules atrophy; G: Giant cells; T/D: Torsion/detorsion; DP: Date palm

Mannitol has a protective effect on testicular torsion: An experimental rat model

OBJECTIVE

Testicular torsion is an emergency condition that causes testicular injury. Any treatment opportunity reducing the destructive effect of testicular torsion is important for the future life of patients. In this experimental study we investigated the protective effect of mannitol on ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in a rat testes torsion model.

METHOD

In total, 32 male Sprague Dawley rats were included. Four experimental groups included eight rats each. Group A was a sham group in which the right testis was brought out through a scrotal incision and then replaced in the scrotum without torsion. In Group B, the right testis was torsioned, by rotating 720° clockwise and fixed to the scrotum with no treatment. In Group C, the same testicular torsion process was performed with saline infusion just after testicular torsion. In group D, mannitol infusion was used just after testicular torsion. Testicles were detorsioned after 3 h and left inside for more than 2 h before orchiectomy. Histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Testicular architecture was disturbed significantly in the torsion groups without mannitol infusion. However, testicular tissue structure was significantly better in the mannitol-treated group, demonstrating a protective effect. Similar findings were also shown for the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) index and antioxidant activity; both were higher in the mannitol group than in the no-treatment and saline groups (p < 0.01). The apoptotic index was also significantly lower in the mannitol-treated group compared with the no treatment and saline groups (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The seminiferous tubule structure in testicular torsion without mannitol treatment was significantly disturbed, whereas the structural disruption was considerably less in the mannitol group. Mannitol treatment also decreased reactive oxygen radical levels significantly and was able to decrease apoptosis. These results were consistent with other organ model studies that evaluated the protective effects of mannitol treatment in I/R injury. Mannitol infusion had a protective effect against I/R injury in testicular torsion in rats. This experimental study may guide clinicians to evaluate the effectiveness of mannitol in human testicular torsion.

Protective effects of grape seed extract on cadmium-induced testicular damage, apoptosis, and endothelial nitric oxide synthases expression in rats

This study aims to evaluate the protective effect of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) on cadmium (Cd)-induced testicular apoptosis, endothelial nitric oxide synthases (eNOS) expression, and toxicity in rats. A total of 24 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups, namely, control, Cd (2.5 mg/kg), Cd + GSPE (100 mg/kg/day), and GSPE. Spermatogenesis and mean seminiferous tubule diameter were significantly decreased in the Cd groups. Furthermore, the GSPE-treated animals showed an improved histological appearance in the Cd group. The immunoreactivity of eNOS and the number of apoptotic cells were increased in Cd group. Our data indicate a significant reduction of terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate nick end-labeling staining and a decrease in the expression of eNOS in the testes tissue of the Cd group treated with GSPE therapy. Therefore, our results suggest that GSPE acts as a potent protective agent against Cd-induced testicular toxicity in rats.

Mechanisms of testicular torsion and potential protective agents

Testicular torsion is a urological emergency most commonly seen in adolescence, involving a decrease in blood flow in the testis resulting from torsion of the spermatic cord that can result in gonad injury or even loss if not treated in time. Testicular ischaemia-reperfusion injury represents the principle pathophysiology of testicular torsion, with ischaemia caused by twisting of the spermatic cord, and reperfusion on its subsequent release. Many cellular and molecular mechanisms are involved in ischaemia-reperfusion injury following testicular torsion. Studies have investigated the use of pharmacological agents as supportive therapy to surgical repair in order to prevent the adverse effects of testicular torsion. Numerous substances have been proposed as important in the prevention of post-ischaemia-reperfusion testicular injury. A range of chemicals and drugs has been successfully tested in animal models for the purpose of mitigating the dangerous effects of ischaemia-reperfusion in testis torsion.

The protective effect of quercetin on IMA levels and apoptosis in experimental ovarian ischemia-reperfusion injury

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the protective effect of quercetin (QE), an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant agent, on torsion-detorsion induced histopathological changes and blood IMA levels in experimental ovarian ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Twenty-four female Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups in this study (n=6). Group I, (sham operation); Group II, torsion-detorsion plus saline (IR); Group III, torsion-detorsion plus solvent (dimethylsulfoxide: DMSO, IR+DMSO); Group IV, torsion-detorsion plus 15 mg/kg/bw quercetin (IR+QE) injected intraperitoneally 30 min prior to detorsion. After 3h of reperfusion, the right ovaries were removed surgically. The ovary tissue samples were fixed in 10% formalin solution for histopathological and immunohistochemical examination. Blood samples were obtained at the end of the procedures for each group of animals.

RESULTS

Ovarian sections in Groups II and III showed higher follicular cell degeneration, hemorrhage, vascular congestion and edema when compared with Group I. Administration of quercetin in rats significantly prevented degenerative changes in the ovary. Significantly less histopathological changes were found in Group IV compared with Groups II and III. Caspase-3 and TUNEL positive cells were detected in the ovarian surface, follicle epithelium, and stromal cells in all experimental groups, and there was a significant increase in Groups II and III compared with Group I (P<0.05). Treatment with quercetin decreased the number of caspase-3 and TUNEL positive cells. IR increased the ischemia modified albumin (IMA) levels in comparison to the sham group (1.06 ± 0.10 ABSU and 0.92 ± 0.08 ABSU, P<0.05). Quercetin administration before IR reduced the levels of IMA (0.93 ± 0.08 ABSU, P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Administration of quercetin is effective in preventing tissue damage induced by IR injury in ovaries.

The short term effects of resveratrol on ischemia-reperfusion injury in rat testis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to identify changes taking place in the rat testis at the 24th hour of reperfusion following testicular torsion and to evaluate the effects of resveratrol (RSV), a powerful antioxidant, in preventing these changes using novel biochemical parameters and histopathology.

METHODS

Eighteen adult male rats were divided into three groups: Sham-operated (S), torsion/detorsion (T/D), and T/D+RSV groups. In the T/D group, testicular ischemia was achieved by rotating the left testis 720° clockwise for 4h. In the T/D+RSV group, 20mg/kg RSV was administered intraperitoneally 30 min before detorsion. All rats were sacrificed 24h after detorsion. Serum and tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations, ischemia modified albumin (IMA), total oxidative status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and histopathological damage score were analyzed.

RESULTS

Serum MDA, IMA, TOS, and OSI levels rose significantly in the T/D group. Serum MDA and IMA values were lower in the T/D+RES groups, but not significantly. OSI and TOS values were lower in the T/D+RES group, and the difference was significant. TAS values decreased significantly in the T/D group and rose in the T/D+RSV group, but not significantly. Ipsilateral tissue MDA values were significantly elevated in the T/D group and decreased in the T/D+RSV group, but not significantly. Apoptosis and histopathological damage increased significantly in the T/D group and decreased significantly in the T/D+RSV group. In the contralateral testis, apoptosis increased significantly in the T/D group. It decreased significantly in the T/D+RSV group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show that RSV had a protective effect against oxidative damage induced with a testicular T/D model, especially at the antiapoptotic and histopathological level. OSI may be a good guide to the clinical status of testicular T/D.

The protective effects of grape seed extract on MDA, AOPP, apoptosis and eNOS expression in testicular torsion: an experimental study

OBJECTIVES

Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) is a potent antioxidant and a free radical scavenger. This study was designed to determine whether GSPE could protect against dysfunction and oxidative stress induced by torsion-detorsion injury in rat testis.

METHODS

A total of 45 male Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups: control group, sham group, torsion-detorsion (T/D) group, T/D + GSPE group, GSPE group. GSPE was administrated 100 mg/kg/day with oral gavage over seven days before torsion. Testicular torsion was performed for 2 h, and afterward, detorsion was performed for 2 h. The rats were decapitated under ketamine anesthesia, and their testes tissues were removed. Tissue malondialdehyde, advanced oxidation protein products levels, eNOS expression, apoptosis and histopathological damage scores were then compared.

RESULTS

Testicular torsion-detorsion caused significant increases in malondialdehyde level, apoptosis and eNOS expression level and caused a significant decrease in advanced oxidation protein product levels and testicular spermatogenesis in ipsilateral testes. GSPE prevented the rise in malondialdehyde, apoptosis and eNOS expression and improved testicular morphology and Johnsen's score.

CONCLUSIONS

As a result, testicular torsion gives rise to serious damage in testes and GSPE is a potent antioxidant agent in preventing testicular injury.

Beneficial effects of taurine and carnosine in experimental ischemia/reperfusion injury in testis

PURPOSE

Testicular torsion can be thought of as an ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury to the testis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of taurine (TAU) and carnosine (CAR), which are strong antioxidants, on experimental testicular I/R injury model.

METHODS

Male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups with eight animals in each. A sham operation was performed in group 1. To create testicular I/R, the left testis was torsioned 720° for 2 h followed by 2 h of detorsion. Groups 2 (I/R), 3 (I/R + TAU) and 4 (I/R + CAR) received intraperitoneal saline, TAU (250 mg/kg) and CAR (250 mg/kg), respectively, 1 h before detorsion. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), diene conjugate (DC), protein carbonyls (PC), nonprotein sulfhydryl (NPSH), and vitamin C levels were measured in testis tissues as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities. Histopathological evaluation was also performed.

RESULTS

TBARS, DC, and PC levels were significantly increased in I/R group. TAU and CAR did not alter TBARS levels, but decreased the elevated DC and PC levels. There were no changes in testicular NPSH levels, SOD, and GPx activities in all groups; however, vitamin C significantly decreased in I/R group. CAR treatment was found to increase vitamin C levels as compared to I/R group. Histopathologically, both I/R + TAU and I/R + CAR groups showed significant increase in testicular spermatogenesis in comparison to I/R group.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that TAU and CAR reduces oxidative stress and may have a protective role in testicular I/R injury.

Comparison of the protective effect of dipyridamole and acetylsalicylic acid on long-term histologic damage in a rat model of testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury

PURPOSE

Ischemia reperfusion injury arising from testicular torsion results in a loss of spermatogenesis and a significant increase in germ cell apoptosis. We investigated the effects of dipyridamole and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), 2 well-known platelet inhibitors, on testicular ischemia reperfusion injury.

METHODS

Thirty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 6 for each group): control, sham-operated, torsion/detorsion (T/D), T/D + dipyridamole, and T/D + ASA. Testicular ischemia was achieved by rotating the left testis 720° clockwise for 2 hours. Thirty minutes before torsion, 10 mg/kg dipyridamole was injected transperitoneally in the T/D + dipyridamole group, and 100 mg/kg ASA was injected transperitoneally in the T/D + ASA group. Sixty days after the initial surgical procedure, ipsilateral orchiectomies were performed for histopathologic examination to determine Johnsen's mean testicular biopsy score (MTBS), mean seminiferous tubular diameter (MSTD), and apoptotic index (AI) in all groups.

RESULTS

Unilateral testicular torsion-detorsion led to a significant decrease in Johnsen's MTBS and MSTD values in the ipsilateral testis and a significant increase in AI values of the T/D group. There were no significant differences between the T/D + dipyridamole and control groups in terms of MSTD and MTBS values. Although an amount of improvement exits in T/D + ASA group, there were significant differences between the T/D + ASA and control group MSTD and MTBS values. There was no significant difference between the T/D + dipyridamole and control groups in terms of AI values (P > .05), but the differences between the T/D + ASA and control groups were significant despite a slight decline in AI values of the T/D + ASA group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show that the use of dipyridamole before testicular reperfusion has a potentially protective effect against long-term injury in testicular ischemia reperfusion injury.

Quercetin has a protective role on histopathological findings on testicular ischaemia-reperfusion injury in rats

We investigated the effects of quercetin on pathological findings on testicular ischaemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. Twenty-four male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned into four groups: Group 1, control (n = 5); Group 2, sham (n = 4); Group 3, I/R (n = 8); and Group 4, I/R + quercetin (n = 7). Bilateral testicular artery and vein were occluded for 1 h, followed by reperfusion in I/R and I/R + quercetin animals. Quercetin (20 mg kg(-1) per day) was administrated once daily by gavage to Group 1 and Group 4, respectively, after reperfusion. At the end of the study, bilateral orchiectomies were performed for histopathologic examination. The tissue damage was evaluated with light microscopy. Normal inter-stitium and seminiferous tubules were observed in control group. In the sham group, rats were seen minimal oedema around the seminiferous tubules and congested vascular structures. In Group 3, oedema, vascular congestion and haemorrhage between seminiferous tubules were observed. In Group 4, histopathologic features were markedly less than Group 3 (P = 0.03). Our study demonstrated that quercetin seems to have a protective effect on testis histopathology in rats with testicular I/R.