Identification of spermatogenesis in individual seminiferous tubules and testicular tissue of adult normal and busulfan-treated mice employing Raman spectroscopy and principal component analysis

The present study aims to identify spermatogenesis in testicular seminiferous tubules (ST) and testicular tissue of adult normal and busulfan-treated mice utilizing PCA and Raman spectroscopy. Raman measurements were conducted on single tubules and testes samples from adult and immature mice, comparing them with those from busulfan-treated adult mice, with validation through histological examination. The analysis revealed a higher signal variability (30 %-40 % at the peaks), prompting scrutiny of individual Raman spectra as a means of spermatogenesis measurement. However, principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrated significant cluster separation between the ST of mature and immature mice. Similar investigations were performed to compare ST from normal mature mice and those from busulfan-treated (BS-treated) mature mice, revealing substantial separation along PC1 and PC2 for all comparison sets. Additionally, comparing testicular samples from mature and immature mice revealed distinct separation in PCA. The study concludes that the combined approach of PCA and Raman spectroscopy proves to be a noninvasive and potentially valuable method for identifying spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubules and testicular samples.

Low concentrations of glyphosate alone affect the pubertal male rat meiotic step: An in vitro study

Glyphosate is the most used herbicide in the world. Controversial studies exist on its effect on the male reproductive system. We used the validated BioAlter® model to test the effects of low concentrations of Glyphosate. Pubertal rat seminiferous tubules were treated with Glyphosate 50 nM, 500 nM, 5 μM or 50 μM over a 3-week culture period. The Trans-Epithelial Electrical Resistance was not modified by any of the concentrations. The decrease of Clusterin mRNAs suggested that glyphosate would target the integrity of Sertoli cells. The decrease of the numbers of germ cells from day 14 onward highlighted the chronic effect of glyphosate at 50 nM, 500 nM or 5 μM. No consistent effect of glyphosate was observed on the numbers of spermatogonia or on their specific mRNA levels. However, those low concentrations of glyphosate targeted young spermatocytes and middle to late pachytene spermatocytes resulting in a decrease of the numbers of round spermatids, the direct precursors of spermatozoa. This study underlines that the effect of a toxicant should be also studied at low doses and during the establishment of the blood-testis barrier.

The Effects of Separate and Combined Treatment of Male Rats with Type 2 Diabetes with Metformin and Orthosteric and Allosteric Agonists of Luteinizing Hormone Receptor on Steroidogenesis and Spermatogenesis

In men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis are impaired. Metformin and the agonists of luteinizing hormone/human chorionic gonadotropin(hCG)-receptor (LH/hCG-R) (hCG, low-molecular-weight allosteric LH/hCG-R-agonists) can be used to restore them. The aim was to study effectiveness of separate and combined administration of metformin, hCG and 5-amino-N-tert-butyl-2-(methylsulfanyl)-4-(3-(nicotinamido)phenyl)thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine-6-carboxamide (TP3) on steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in male rats with T2DM. hCG (15 IU/rat/day) and TP3 (15 mg/kg/day) were injected in the last five days of five-week metformin treatment (120 mg/kg/day). Metformin improved testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis and restored LH/hCG-R-expression. Compared to control, in T2DM, hCG stimulated steroidogenesis and StAR-gene expression less effectively and, after five-day administration, reduced LH/hCG-R-expression, while TP3 effects changed weaker. In co-administration of metformin and LH/hCG-R-agonists, on the first day, stimulating effects of LH/hCG-R-agonists on testosterone levels and hCG-stimulated expression of StAR- and CYP17A1-genes were increased, but on the 3-5th day, they disappeared. This was due to reduced LH/hCG-R-gene expression and increased aromatase-catalyzed estradiol production. With co-administration, LH/hCG-R-agonists did not contribute to improving spermatogenesis, induced by metformin. Thus, in T2DM, metformin and LH/hCG-R-agonists restore steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, with metformin being more effective in restoring spermatogenesis, and their co-administration improves LH/hCG-R-agonist-stimulating testicular steroidogenesis in acute but not chronic administration.

Multi Species Analyses Reveal Testicular T3 Metabolism and Signalling as a Target of Environmental Pesticides

Thyroid hormones (THs) regulate many biological processes in vertebrates, including reproduction. Testicular somatic and germ cells are equipped with the arrays of enzymes (deiodinases), transporters, and receptors necessary to locally maintain the optimal level of THs and their signalling, needed for their functions and spermatogenesis. Pesticides, as chlorpyrifos (CPF) and ethylene thiourea (ETU), impair the function of thyroid and testis, affecting male fertility. However, their ability to disarrange testicular T3 (t-T3) metabolism and signalling is poorly considered. Here, a multi-species analysis involving zebrafish and mouse suggests the damage of t-T3 metabolism and signalling as a mechanism of gonadic toxicity of low-doses CPF and ETU. Indeed, the developmental exposure to both compounds reduces Dio2 transcript in both models, as well as in ex-vivo cultures of murine seminiferous tubules, and it is linked to alteration of steroidogenesis and germ cell differentiation. A major impact on spermatogonia was confirmed molecularly by the expression of their markers and morphologically evidenced in zebrafish. The results reveal that in the adopted models, exposure to both pesticides alters the t-T3 metabolism and signalling, affecting the reproductive capability. Our data, together with previous reports suggest zebrafish as an evaluable model in assessing the action of compounds impairing locally T3 signalling.

Phycobiliproteins Ameliorate Gonadal Toxicity in Male Mice Treated with Cyclophosphamide

Cyclophosphamide (CP)-which is used to treat autoimmune diseases and cancer-is related to gonadotoxicity attributed to oxidative stress. As phycobiliproteins (PBPs) are strong antioxidants that are unexplored as protective agents against male gonadotoxicity, our work aimed to investigate the effects of PBP crude extract on testicular damage and sperm parameter alterations caused by CP in mice. Three doses of PBP (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) were tested in the experimental groups (n = 8 per group), administered concomitantly with 100 mg/kg CP. After 42 days receiving PBP daily and CP weekly, body and relative testicular weights, serum testosterone levels, testicular lipoperoxidation and antioxidant enzyme activity levels, and testicular histology and sperm parameter alterations were assessed. The results showed that PBP crude extract at 200 mg/kg prevented testosterone serum reduction, body weight loss, lipoperoxidation and enzyme activity increments, and sperm parameter alterations and partially ameliorated relative testicular weight reductions and histological damage in CP-treated mice. In conclusion, we showed that PBP crude extract (200 mg/kg) mitigated oxidative damage in the testes and ameliorated alterations in sperm parameters in mice treated with CP (100 mg/kg); therefore, PBP extract could be considered as a potential protective agent against CP toxicity.

Crocetin Mitigates Irradiation Injury in an In Vitro Model of the Pubertal Testis: Focus on Biological Effects and Molecular Mechanisms

Infertility is a potential side effect of radiotherapy and significantly affects the quality of life for adolescent cancer survivors. Very few studies have addressed in pubertal models the mechanistic events that could be targeted to provide protection from gonadotoxicity and data on potential radioprotective treatments in this peculiar period of life are elusive. In this study, we utilized an in vitro model of the mouse pubertal testis to investigate the efficacy of crocetin to counteract ionizing radiation (IR)-induced injury and potential underlying mechanisms. Present experiments provide evidence that exposure of testis fragments from pubertal mice to 2 Gy X-rays induced extensive structural and cellular damage associated with overexpression of PARP1, PCNA, SOD2 and HuR and decreased levels of SIRT1 and catalase. A twenty-four hr exposure to 50 μM crocetin pre- and post-IR significantly reduced testis injury and modulated the response to DNA damage and oxidative stress. Nevertheless, crocetin treatment did not counteract the radiation-induced changes in the expression of SIRT1, p62 and LC3II. These results increase the knowledge of mechanisms underlying radiation damage in pubertal testis and establish the use of crocetin as a fertoprotective agent against IR deleterious effects in pubertal period.

A novel glucokinase activator TMG-123 causes long-lasting hypoglycemia and impairs spermatogenesis irreversibly in rats

The importance of glucose is well known as an energy source in testes. In order to evaluate the effects of long-lasting hypoglycemia on testes, a novel glucokinase activator, TMG-123, was dosed to rats at 5, 20 and 100 mg/kg for 13 weeks. As a result, plasma glucose levels decreased for several hours with increasing doses over the dose range of 5 to 100 mg/kg. No toxicological findings attributable to the test article were observed in clinical observation, measurements of body weight and food consumption, necropsy, and organ weight measurement. Histopathology showed scattered degeneration of seminiferous tubules in testes, and exfoliation of germ cells related to the degeneration of seminiferous tubules was observed in the lumen of both epididymides in the same animals at the end of the dosing period. Similar histopathological findings were noted at the end of the recovery period. In addition, a fertility study was conducted at the same doses for 13 weeks for males and 5 weeks for females. Sperm analysis showed decreases in the sperm concentration and the motility index and an increase in the incidences of sperm malformations. However, there were no abnormalities in the copulation or fertility rate. These results suggest that long-lasting hypoglycemia in rats is harmful to spermatogenesis and the testicular damage does not recover.

Hypothyroidism induced by postnatal PTU (6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil) treatment decreases Sertoli cell number and spermatogenic efficiency in sexually mature pigs

Studies with 6-n-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) in laboratory rodents have shown that transient neonatal hypothyroidism leads to increased Sertoli cell (SC) number, testis size and sperm production. However, scarce and inconclusive data are available for farm animals. In the present study, Piau pigs received PTU in a gel capsule containing 8 mg/kg of body weight for 14 weeks starting from the first week of age, whereas control animals received only the vehicle. Blood samples were collected during the experimental period for hormonal evaluation in the serum. The animals were orchiectomized at adulthood and had their testes used for histomorphometric analysis. Indicating that the PTU concentration used was effective in promoting hypothyroidism, PTU-treated pigs showed a 30% lower body weight and reduced thyroxine levels (p < 0.05) during the treatment period. At adulthood, the body weight was similar in both groups but, surprisingly, PTU-treated pigs showed 30% lower testis weight (p < 0.05). In general, treated pigs presented increased follicle-stimulating hormone levels, whereas testosterone levels tended to be lower from 9 to 23 weeks of age. No significant differences were observed for estradiol, Leydig cell volume and number, tubular diameter, SC number per gram of testis, SC efficiency and meiotic index. However, seminiferous tubule occupancy, total tubular length, SC number per testis, and daily sperm production per testis and per gram of testis (DSP/g/T) were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in PTU-treated pigs. Therefore, in contrast to laboratory rodents, our results showed that SC proliferation and DSP/g/T (spermatogenic efficiency) in Piau pigs is diminished by postnatal PTU treatment.

[Protective effect of taurine against formaldehyde-induced male reproductive toxicity in adult male rats]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of taurine on the reproductive toxicity damage induced by formaldehyde (FM) in adult male rats.

METHODS

Forty-eight SD adult male rats were equally randomized into a normal control, an FM poisoning (FMP), a taurine intervention (TI), and an TI+FMP group. The control rats were given normal diet and gavage of saline, the rats of the FMP group treated intraperitoneally with FM at 10 mg/kg qd alt, those of the TI group intragastrically with taurine at 100 mg/kg qd, and those of the TI+FMP group with both FM and taurine at the above doses. After 30 days of treatment, the blood of the abdominal cardinal vein of the rats was extracted for measurement of the levels of serum hormones, the body weight, testis weight and testicular coefficient obtained, the testis tissue subjected to HE staining, and the expressions of Bcl-2 and Bax determined by Western blot.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences among the four groups of rats in the body weight, testis weight or testicular coefficient (P > 0.05). The rats in the FMP group showed obviously decreased testicular spermatogenic cells and disordered layers and loose structure of seminiferous tubules, which were basically restored to normal after taurine intervention. Compared with the normal controls, the animals of the TI group exhibited no significant abnormality, but those of the FMP group presented markedly reduced levels of serum T, LH and FSH (P < 0.05), and dramatically increased level of Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) (P < 0.01). The levels of serum hormones were all significantly improved (P < 0.05) and that of the apoptotic protein Bax basically returned to normal (P < 0.05) after taurine intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Taurine has a certain protective effect against male reproductive toxicity caused by formaldehyde.

Effects of Fetal Exposure to Heat-Not-Burn Tobacco on Testicular Function in Male Offspring

Several studies show that maternal conventional cigarette smoking during pregnancy has been associated with reduced sperm concentration in sons. The development of heat-not-burn (HnB) tobacco has gained a growing following. However, the effects of prenatal HnB tobacco smoking on male offspring are as yet unknown. Pregnant CD-1 mice were exposed to I-Quit-Ordinary-Smoking (IQOS) (HnB tobacco) aerosol from heat sticks, mainstream smoke from 3R4F (conventional cigarettes) or clean air, using a whole-body exposure system. Adult male offspring mice were divided into six groups: control (5- and 15-weeks-old offspring), IQOS (5 and 15-weeks-old) and 3R4F (5 and 15-weeks-old). Spermatogenesis, sperm characteristics, serum testosterone, and seminiferous tubule morphology were evaluated. Prenatal IQOS exposure increased abnormal seminiferous tubule morphology and decreased sperm production at 5 weeks, but 3R4F exposure did not. Prenatal exposure to IQOS aerosol delays sexual maturation of male offspring or adversely affects the male testicular function of the offspring more than smoke from a combustion cigarette.

Paternal morphine exposure induces bidirectional effects on cocaine versus opioid self-administration

The United States is in the midst of an opioid epidemic and is thus experiencing unprecedented levels of opioid exposure. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that this may have consequences on multiple generations. The current set of experiments examined the effect of male adolescent opioid exposure on cocaine and opioid self-administration in the F1 generation. Male Sprague Dawley rats were administered increasing doses of morphine (5-25 mg/kg, s.c.) for 10 days during adolescence (P30-39). Rats were then maintained drug free until adulthood (P70-80) at which point they were mated with drug-naïve females. Male and female F1 offspring were first examined for cocaine self-administration during adulthood. Naïve littermates were tested for morphine self-administration acquisition followed by a within subjects design progressive ratio test for morphine, oxycodone, and cocaine. Results show that male and female F1 rats have delayed acquisition and decreased intake of cocaine. In addition, they have blunted PR levels compared to Sal-F1 control rats. Female Mor-F1 rats also demonstrate increased levels of morphine intake during acquisition and increased PR responding for oxycodone. Surprisingly, even following acquisition of morphine self-administration, Mor-F1 males and females still demonstrate blunted effort for cocaine. There were no differences in sucrose self-administration in naïve littermates. MorF0 seminiferous tubules demonstrated increased levels of acetylated histone H3 and there were increased levels of BDNF mRNA in the mPFC in male and female F1 offspring. Together, these data identify systems that are vulnerable to the impact of opioids in the F0 generation.

Vitamin E but Not GSH Decreases Reactive Oxygen Species Accumulation and Enhances Sperm Production during In Vitro Maturation of Frozen-Thawed Prepubertal Mouse Testicular Tissue

Freezing-thawing procedures and in vitro culture conditions are considered as a source of stress associated with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, leading to a damaged cell aerobic metabolism and consequently to oxidative stress. In the present study, we sought to investigate whether vitamin E (Vit E) or reduced glutathione (GSH) enhances sperm production by decreasing ROS accumulation during in vitro maturation of prepubertal mice testes. Testes of prepubertal mice were cryopreserved using a freezing medium supplemented or not supplemented with Vit E and were cultured after thawing. In presence of Rol alone in culture medium, frozen-thawed (F-T) testicular tissues exhibited a higher ROS accumulation than fresh tissue during in vitro culture. However, Vit E supplementation in freezing, thawing, and culture media significantly decreased cytoplasmic ROS accumulation in F-T testicular tissue during in vitro maturation when compared with F-T testicular tissue cultured in the presence of Rol alone, whereas GSH supplementation in culture medium significantly increased ROS accumulation associated with cytolysis and tissue disintegration. Vit E but not GSH promoted a better in vitro sperm production and was a suitable ROS scavenger and effective molecule to improve the yield of in vitro spermatogenesis from F-T prepubertal mice testes. The prevention of oxidative stress in the cytoplasmic compartment should be regarded as a potential strategy for improving testicular tissue viability and functionality during the freeze-thaw procedure and in vitro maturation.

Comparative study of environmental pollutants bisphenol A and bisphenol S on sexual differentiation of anteroventral periventricular nucleus and spermatogenesis

BACKGROUND

Bisphenol A is well known endocrine-disrupting chemical while Bisphenol S was considered a safe alternative. The present study aims to examine the comparative effects of xenobiotic bisphenol-A (BPA) and its substitute bisphenol-S (BPS) on spermatogenesis and development of sexually dimorphic nucleus population of dopaminergic neurons in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV) of the hypothalamus in male pups.

METHODS

Sprague Dawley rat's pups were administered subcutaneously at the neonatal stage from postnatal day PND1 to PND 27. Thirty animals were divided into six experimental groups (6 animals/group). The first group served as control and was provided with normal olive oil. The four groups were treated with 2 μg/kg and 200 μg/kg of BPA and BPS, respectively. The sixth group was given with 50 μg/kg of estradiol dissolved in olive oil as a standard to find the development of dopaminergic tyrosine hydroxylase neurons in AVPV regions. Histological analysis for testicular tissues and immunohistochemistry for brain tissues was performed.

RESULTS

The results revealed adverse histopathological changes in testis after administration of different doses of BPA and BPS. These degenerative changes were marked by highly significant (p < 0.001) decrease in tubular and luminal diameters of seminiferous tubule and epithelial height among bisphenols treated groups as compared to control. Furthermore, significantly increased (p < 0.001) TH-ir cell bodies in the AVPV region of the brain with 200 μg/kg dose of BPA and BPS was evident.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that exposure of BPA and BPS during a critical developmental period can structural impairments in testes and affects sexual differentiation of a dimorphic dopaminergic population of AVPV region of hypothalamus in the male brain.

Amelioration of toxicopathological effects of cadmium with silymarin and milk thistle in male Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)

Cadmium is an important widely distributed heavy metal in the environment due to its several industrial uses, while milk thistle is an important herb and is a source of several antioxidant particularly silymarin which is a pharmacological active substance present in seeds of milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum). The current study investigated pathological effects of cadmium (Cd) and their amelioration with silymarin (SL) and milk thistle (MT) quails. A total of 144 quails were equally divided into 9 groups and given different combinations of cadmium chloride (150 and 300 mg/kg feed), SL (250 mg/kg), and MT (10 g/kg) feed. Parameters studied were clinical signs, mortality, organ weights, testes weight and volume, and gross and microscopic pathology. Results of this study indicated an increased mortality and reduced body weight in cadmium-treated quails. Quails were dull, depressed compared with control. Swollen hemorrhagic liver along with atrophied testes were also observed in these groups. No active spermatozoa were observed in lumen of seminiferous tubules of Cd-treated birds presenting arrest of spermatogenesis. Supplementing MT and SL ameliorated mortality, organ weights, spermatogenesis, and histopathological lesions. It may be concluded that MT and SL proved beneficial in cadmium-induced toxicities in Japanese quails.

Effect of acute gold nanorods on reproductive function in male albino rats: histological, morphometric, hormonal, and redox balance parameters

In this study, we investigated the effect of acute administration of gold nanorods (AuNRs) on testicular function, sexual hormones, and oxidative stress parameters in male albino rats. Forty mature male albino rats were divided into two equal groups (n = 20/each). The first group received 1 ml saline solution intraperitoneally (i.p.). The second group received single i.p. injection of 75 μg 50 nm AuNRs/kg/bwt. Five rats from each group were sacrificed on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 post treatment and blood samples were collected for hormonal and biochemical analysis. Testes were collected from each group at each time point for histopathology, morphometric, and transmission electron microscope analyses of testis and epididymis. Results indicated that i.p. injection of AuNRs did not produce any histopathological changes. Morphometric analysis of testicular samples revealed that the height of lining epithelium was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in AuNR group on days 3 and 14 post treatment, and the minor axis of seminiferous tubules was higher (P < 0.05) in AuNR-injected rats than in control group. For the epididymis, the number of spermatozoa was significantly (P < 0.05) higher on days 7 and 14 after AuNR injection when compared with control rats. AuNRs were not detected by TEM at all time points of the experiment. Serum analysis demonstrated that total and free testosterone values significantly (P < 0.05) increased on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 post AuNR injection. LH was higher (P < 0.05) in AuNRs-injected rats on days 3, 7, and 14 post injection, while FSH values were higher (P < 0.05) in AuNR group on days 3 and 14. Malondialdehyde significantly (P < 0.05) decreased on days 3, 7, and 14 in AuNR group, while catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase values were significantly (P < 0.05) elevated on days 3, 7, and 14 in AuNRs-injected rats compared with control group. In conclusion, intraperitoneal injection of 50 nm AuNRs is safe on the reproductive function and has an antioxidant action.

All-Trans Retinoic Acid Disrupts Development in Ex Vivo Cultured Fetal Rat Testes. I: Altered Seminiferous Cord Maturation and Testicular Cell Fate

Exposure to excess retinoic acid (RA) disrupts the development of the mammalian testicular seminiferous cord. However, the molecular events surrounding RA-driven loss of cord structure have not previously been examined. To investigate the mechanisms associated with this adverse developmental effect, fetal rat testes were isolated on gestational day 15, after testis determination and the initiation of cord development, and cultured in media containing all-trans RA (ATRA; 10-8 to 10-6 M) or vehicle for 3 days. ATRA exposure resulted in a concentration-dependent decrease in the number of seminiferous cords per testis section and number of germ cells, assessed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Following 1 day of culture, genome-wide expression profiling by microarray demonstrated that ATRA exposure altered biological processes related to retinoid metabolism and gonadal sex determination. Real-time RT-PCR analysis confirmed that ATRA enhanced the expression of the key ovarian development gene Wnt4 and the antitestis gene Nr0b1 in a concentration-dependent manner. After 3 days of culture, ATRA-treated testes contained both immunohistochemically DMRT1-positive and FOXL2-positive somatic cells, providing evidence of disrupted testicular cell fate maintenance following ATRA exposure. We conclude that exogenous RA disrupts seminiferous cord development in ex vivo cultured fetal rat testes, resulting in a reduction in seminiferous cord number, and interferes with maintenance of somatic cell fate by enhancing expression of factors that promote ovarian development.

Development of Spermatogenesis In Vitro in Three-Dimensional Culture from Spermatogonial Cells of Busulfan-Treated Immature Mice

Aggressive chemotherapy may lead to permanent male infertility. Prepubertal males do not generate sperm, but their testes do contain spermatogonial cells (SPGCs) that could be used for fertility preservation. In the present study, we examined the effect of busulfan (BU) on the SPGCs of immature mice, and the possible induction of the survivor SPGCs to develop spermatogenesis in 3D in-vitro culture. Immature mice were injected with BU, and after 0.5⁻12 weeks, their testes were weighed and evaluated histologically compared to the control mice. The spermatogonial cells [Sal-like protein 4 (SALL4) and VASA (a member of the DEAD box protein family) in the testicular tissue were counted/seminiferous tubule (ST). The cells from the STs were enzymatically isolated and cultured in vitro. Our results showed a significant decrease in the testicular weight of the BU-treated mice compared to the control. This was in parallel to a significant increase in the number of severely damaged STs, and a decrease in the number of SALL4 and VASA/STs compared to the control. The cultures of the isolated cells from the STs of the BU-treated mice showed a development of colonies and meiotic and post-meiotic cells after four weeks of culture. The addition of homogenates from adult GFP mice to those cultures induced the development of sperm-like cells after four weeks of culture. This is the first study demonstrating the presence of biologically active spermatogonial cells in the testicular tissue of BU-treated immature mice, and their capacity to develop sperm-like cells in vitro.

[Estradiol benzoate induces abnormal proliferation of spermatogenic cells in the testis of infertile male mice]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the change in the proliferation of spermatogenic cells in the male mouse with infertility induced by exogenous estradiol benzoate (EB).

METHODS

Sixty male mice aged 4 weeks were randomly divided into a control, a low-dose EB, and a high-dose EB group to be injected intramuscularly with corn oil at 150 μl or EB at 5 or 10 mg/kg, respectively, every other day for 4 weeks. Then, we obtained the weight and indexes of the testis, performed HE staining of the paraffin sections of the testis tissue and epididymal cauda, counted the spermatozoa in the epididymal sperm suspension, and determined the expression of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), the mRNA expressions of CyclinA1, CyclinB1, VASA and p53, and the protein expressions of p53 and phosphorylated p53 in the testis by immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively.

RESULTS

In comparison with the controls, the mice treated with EB showed significantly decreased testicular indexes (P <0.05), no sperm in the sperm suspension or epididymal tubes, remarkably reduced numbers of spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes and Sertoli cells (P <0.05), down-regulated expression of PCNA (P <0.05) and mRNA expressions of CyclinA1, CyclinB1, PCNA and VASA in the seminiferous tubules (P <0.05), but a dose-dependent increase of the p53 level (P <0.05). Western blot revealed markedly higher levels of p53 protein expression and phosphorylation in the EB than in the control group (P <0.05) and even higher in the 10 mg/kg than in the 5 mg/kg EB group (P <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

EB inhibited the proliferation of spermatogenic cells by down-regulating the expressions of cell cycle-related factors in a dose-dependent manner, which might contribute to abnormal proliferation of spermatogenic cells in the testis of infertile male mice.

Effect of Lead Acetate on Basement Membrane of Seminiferous Tubules of Adult Rat Testis and Protective Effects of Ficus Carica: A Histological Study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of lead acetate and Ficus carica on disruption of basement membrane in seminiferous tubules of adult rat testis.

STUDY DESIGN

An experimental study.

PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY

Department of Anatomy, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi in collaboration with National Institute of Health (NIH), Islamabad, from March to November 2017.

METHODOLOGY

Thirty male adult Sprague Dawley rats were selected and divided into three groups, each with ten animals. All treatments were given once daily for a period of eight weeks. Control was labelled as group A. Group B was administered lead acetate at a dose of 30 mg/kg body weight. Group C was treated with lead acetate at a dose of 30 mg/kg body weight and Ficus carica at a dose of 80 mg/kg body weight. Animals were dissected 24 hours after the last dose. Testis were treated, fixed and stained for histological study. Disruption of basement membrane in seminiferous tubules was scored morphometrically on a scale of 0 (normal) to 3 (>70% tubules showing disruption) and statistically analysed.

RESULTS

Significant number of seminiferous tubules showed disruption of basement membrane in group B (20%) as compared to group A (0%). Less severe disruption of membrane was seen in group C as compared to group B, which was statistically not significant (p=0.082).

CONCLUSION

Lead acetate causes significant disruption of basement membrane in seminiferous tubules of testis of adult rats but subsequent administration of Ficus carica reduces the effects on short term.

Exposure to a Brazilian pulp mill effluent impacts the testis and liver in the zebrafish

While many studies have shown that pulp mill effluents can affect ovarian physiology in fish, far fewer studies have considered the effects in males. We conducted a lab study to examine the effects of effluent from a Brazilian pulp and paper mill on hepatic and testicular morphology and various aspects of testicular physiology in the zebrafish Danio rerio. Males were exposed to lab water (control) or 4% effluent for 14 days. Effluent exposure did not affect testis size as measured by the gonadosomatic index, but contributed to morphological changes in the seminiferous tubules. The number of cysts with histopathological changes was elevated in effluent-exposed fish and the number of cysts containing spermatids was significantly reduced. The testis of effluent exposed fish had reduced levels of lactate, elevated lactate dehydrogenase activity, increased levels of reactive oxygen species and reduced levels of phosphorylated P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (pP38 MAPK). Separate studies showed that the addition of lactate to testicular tissue incubated in vitro increased the activation of P38 MAPK. Effluent exposure also increased vacuolization, necrosis, apoptosis, hyperemia, and fat infiltration of the hepatocytes. Collectively, we provide evidence of short term effects of pulp mill effluent on testicular and hepatic physiology and biochemistry in the zebrafish.

[Lipoic acid protects spermatogenesis in male rats with ornidazole-induced oligoasthenozoospermia]

OBJECTIVE

To study the protective effect of lipoic acid (LA) on the spermatogenic function of the male rats with oligoasthenozoospermia induced by ornidazole (ORN).

METHODS

Seventy male SD rats were equally randomized into groups A (solvent control: 1 ml 0.5% CMC-Na + 1 ml olive oil), B (low-dose ORN model: 400 mg/kg ORN suspension + 1 ml olive oil), C (low-dose ORN + low-dose LA treatment: 400 mg/kg ORN + 50 mg/kg LA), D (low-dose ORN + high-dose LA treatment: 400 mg/kg ORN + 100 mg/kg LA), E (high-dose ORN model: 800 mg/kg ORN suspension + 1 ml olive oil), F (high-dose ORN + low-dose LA treatment: 800 mg/kg ORN + 50 mg/kg LA), and G (high-dose ORN + high-dose LA treatment: 800 mg/kg ORN + 100 mg/kg LA), and treated respectively for 20 successive days. Then all the rats were sacrificed and the weights of the body, testis, epididymis and seminal vesicle obtained, followed by calculation of the organ index, determination of epididymal sperm concentration and motility, and observation of the histomorphological changes in the testis and epididymis by HE staining.

RESULTS

Compared with group A, group E showed significantly decreased body weight (［117.67 ± 11.53］ vs ［88.11 ± 12.65］ g, P < 0.01) and indexes of the testis (［1.06 ± 0.12］ vs ［0.65 ± 0.13］ %, P < 0.01) and epididymis (［0.21 ± 0.03］ vs ［0.17 ± 0.01］ %, P < 0.01). In comparison with group E, group F exhibited remarkable increases in the epididymal index (［0.17 ± 0.01］ vs ［0.20 ± 0.02］ %, P < 0.01), and so did group G in the body weight (［88.11 ± 12.65］ vs ［102.70 ± 16.10］ g, P < 0.05) and the indexes of the testis (［0.65 ± 0.13］ vs ［0.95 ± 0.06］ %, P < 0.01) and epididymis (［0.17 ± 0.01］ vs ［0.19 ± 0.02］ %, P < 0.05), but no obvious difference was observed in the index of seminal vesicle among different groups. Compared with group A, group B manifested significant decreases in sperm motility (［74.12 ± 8.73］ vs ［40.25 ± 6.08］ %, P < 0.01), and so did group E in sperm count (［38.59 ± 6.40］ vs ［18.67 ± 4.59］ ×105/100 mg, P < 0.01) and sperm motility (［74.12 ± 8.73］ vs ［27.58 ± 8.43］ %, P < 0.01). Sperm motility was significantly lower in group B than in C and D (［40.25 ± 6.08］ vs ［58.13 ± 7.62］ and ［76.04 ± 8.44］%, P < 0.01), and so were sperm count and motility in group E than in F and G (［18.67 ± 4.59］ vs ［25.63 ± 9.66］ and ［29.92 ± 4.15］ ×105/100 mg, P < 0.05 and P < 0.01; ［27.58 ± 8.43］ vs ［36.56 ± 11.08］ and ［45.05 ± 9.59］ %, P < 0.05 and P < 0.01). There were no obvious changes in the histomorphology of the testis and epididymis in groups A, B, C and D. Compared with group A, group E showed necrotic and exfoliated spermatogenic cells with unclear layers and disorderly arrangement in the seminiferous tubules and remarkably reduced sperm count with lots of noncellular components in the epididymal cavity, while groups F and G exhibited increased sperm count in the seminiferous tubules and epididymis lumen, also with exfoliation, unclear layers and disorderly arrangement of spermatogenic cells, but significantly better than in group E.

CONCLUSIONS

LA can reduce ORN-induced damage to the spermatogenetic function of rats, improve sperm quality, and protect the reproductive system.

Epitestosterone- and testosterone-replacement in immature castrated rats changes main testicular developmental characteristics

Epitestosterone is the 17α-epimer of testosterone and has been described as an anti-androgen, since it inhibits the effects produced by testosterone and dihydrotestosterone via the nuclear androgen receptor (nAR). However, epitestosterone also displays an effect which is similar to the non-classical effect of testosterone, depolarizing the membrane potential of Sertoli cells and inducing a rapid Ca²⁺ uptake. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a treatment with epitestosterone on developmental parameters of immature rats. Animals were chemically castrated by using the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist cetrorelix and then received a replacement of 7 days with epitestosterone or testosterone. Replacement with either epitestosterone or testosterone restored the anogenital distance (AGD) and testicular weight which had been reduced by chemical castration. The immunocontent of nAR and the nAR-immunoreactivity were reduced by epitestosterone treatment in the testis of both castrated and non-castrated animals. Furthermore, testosterone was unable of changing the membrane potential of Sertoli cells through its non-classical action in the group of animals castrated and replaced with epitestosterone. In conclusion, in relation to the level of protein expression of nAR epitestosterone acts as an anti-androgen. However, it acts in the same way as testosterone when genital development parameters are evaluated. Moreover, in castrated rats epitestosterone suppressed the non-classical response of testosterone, changing the pattern of testosterone signalling via a membrane mechanism in Sertoli cells.

1,2-Dichloroethane Induces Reproductive Toxicity Mediated by the CREM/CREB Signaling Pathway in Male NIH Swiss Mice

1,2-Dichloroethane (1,2-DCE) is a widely used chlorinated organic toxicant but little is known about the reproductive disorders induced by its excessive exposure. To reveal 1,2-DCE-induced male reproductive toxicity and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we exposed male National Institutes of Health Swiss mice to 1,2-DCE by inhalation at 0, 100, 350, and 700 mg/m3 for 6 h/day, for 1 and 4 weeks. Our findings showed a significant decrease in body weight with increased testis/body weight ratio, reduced sperm concentration and induced malformation of spermatozoa, and vacuolar degeneration of germ cells in the seminiferous tubules of testes in mice exposed to 1,2-DCE. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-response element binding protein (CREB) and cAMP-response element modulator (CREM) were significantly inhibited by 1,2-DCE. This is consistent with the declines in the transducer of regulated CREB activity 1 and activator of CREM in testis, which results in the decrease in lactate dehydrogenase C and testis-specific kinase 1 in the testes. Moreover, the activation of p53 and Bax with the inhibition of Bcl-2 might be the reason for the upregulation of caspase-3 in the apoptosis, as detected by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assay in the testes induced by 1,2-DCE. Finally, elevated testosterone levels were found along with increased levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, cAMP, luteinizing hormone (LH), and LH receptors in the testes. These findings suggest that 1,2-DCE inhibits CREM/CREB signaling cascade and subsequently induces apoptosis associated with p53 activation and mitochondrial dysfunction. This also results in induced malformation of spermatozoa, reduced sperm concentration, and pathological impairment of the testes.

The antineoplastic busulphan impairs peritubular and Leydig cells, and vitamin B12 stimulates spermatogonia proliferation and prevents busulphan-induced germ cell death

Busulphan (Bu), an alkylating agent used for bone marrow and spermatogonial stem cell transplantation (SSCT), impairs Sertoli (SC) cells, which are necessary for the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) homing during transplantation. As Leydig (LC) and peritubular myoid (PMC) cells are essential for SC support and maintenance of spermatogonial niche, we evaluated the impact of Bu on the LC and PMC structural integrity. Vitamin B₁₂ (B₁₂) has demonstrated beneficial effects against drug-induced testicular changes; thus, we also examined whether this vitamin is able to stimulate spermatogonia mitotic activity and prevent Bu-induced germ cell death. Rats received 10mg/kg of Bu in the 1st and 4th days, and daily B₁₂ supplementation during Bu treatment and for 6days after the last injection of Bu (Bu-6d), totaling 10days of treatment. Other animals received the same treatment as Bu-6d, and B₁₂ supplementation (Bu+7dB₁₂) or saline (Bu+7dS) for 7 more days, totaling 17days of treatment. Serum testosterone levels were measured. In the historesin-embedded testis sections, the seminiferous tubule and epithelial areas were measured, and the number of spermatogonia and PMC was quantified. Actin and 17β-HSD6 immunofluorescence was detected, and the number of TUNEL-positive LC and germ cells was computed. In Bu-6d, PMC number reduced, and a weak actin immunoexpression and death in these cells was observed. The testosterone levels reduced, and the interstitial tissue showed a weak 17β-HSD6 immunoexpression and increased number of TUNEL-positive LC. In Bu+7dB₁₂, the number of spermatogonia was higher than in Bu-6d and Bu+7dS, and the number of TUNEL-positive germ cells was significantly lower than in Bu+7dS. Bu exerts a harmful impact on PMC and LC, reducing the testosterone levels. Vitamin B₁₂ prevents significantly Bu-induced germ cell death and stimulates spermatogonia proliferation, being a useful strategy for the enrichment of SSC in vitro and an adjuvant therapy for spermatogenesis recovery in oncologic patients.

Influence of iodine in excess on seminiferous tubular structure and epididymal sperm character in male rats

Excess iodine induced public health problems are now emerging in many iodine sufficient regions for indiscriminate intake of iodine through various iodized products. It has been reported that excess iodine can disrupt overall male reproductive physiology by generating oxidative stress in the testis. However, information on the possible effect of iodine in excess on spermatozoa found less. In the present investigation flow cytometric techniques and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) have been used to study the spermatozoal functional as well as structural status under the influence of excess iodine; generation of ROS in the spermatozoa as evident by DCFDA, altered acrosomal integrity as observed by fluorescence lectin staining method and depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨ_m ) noticed by JC-1 staining. Ultrastructure of seminiferous tubule after excess iodine exposure indicated severe deterioration of seminiferous tubular surface architecture. Significant increase in spermatozoal DNA fragmentation and apoptotic sperms were found by acridine orange and Annexin V, respectively, however the plasma membrane integrity/viability was decreased as evident by propidium iodide staining in various incremental doses and durations under iodine excess. The study reveals that excess iodine could cause apoptosis of spermatozoal cells by inducing ROS that ultimately affects male fertility potential.

In Utero Exposure to Di( n-butyl)phthalate Induces Morphological and Biochemical Changes in Rats Postpuberty

Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered di( n-butyl)phthalate (DBP; 100 mg/kg/day) on gestation days (GD) 12 to 21. We investigated the male offspring and probed morphological alterations in Sertoli cells at 7, 9, 14, and 17 weeks of age. Parameters assessed in this study included offspring number, sex ratios, body weights, testis weights, seminiferous tubule (ST) profile numbers and diameters, number of vimentin-labeled Sertoli cells, and both testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Testicular weight/body weight ratios and the numbers and diameters of ST in maximum transverse testicular sections were statistically similar at weeks 7 and 9; however, at weeks 14 and 17, they were statistically different and displayed higher BrdU-positive Sertoli cells/Sertoli cell ratios in the DBP treatment group. Noteworthily, the serum FSH levels were higher and testicular testosterone levels were lower in the DBP treatment group. To our knowledge, the present study is the first to report that in utero DBP exposure significantly increased Sertoli cell numbers and their cellular proliferation from postpuberty to adulthood, with a significant decrease in testicular testosterone and an increase in FSH.

Impact of a timed-release follicle-stimulating hormone treatment from one to three months of age on endocrine and testicular development of prepubertal bulls

In prepubertal bulls, FSH facilitates testis maturation and a transient proliferation of Sertoli cells. Two experiments examined the effects of exogenous FSH on hormone secretion and testis development in Angus bulls. Exogenous FSH treatment consisted of an intramuscular injection (i.m.) of 30 mg FSH (Folltropin-V) in a 2% hyaluronic acid solution (FSH-HA). In Exp. 1, bulls (50 ± 6.5 d of age) received either FSH-HA ( = 5) or saline (control; = 5) on d 50 and 53.5. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture to assess FSH concentrations every 6 h for 24 h after treatment and every 12 h until 84 h. After each treatment, peripheral FSH concentrations were greater ( < 0.05) in the FSH-HA-treated bulls than in the control bulls 6 h after treatment and tended to be greater ( ≤ 0.08) 12 h after treatment. The FSH concentration from 18 to 84 h after treatment did not differ between treatments. In Exp. 2, bulls were treated with FSH-HA ( = 11) or saline (control; = 11) every 3.5 d from 35 to 91 ± 2 d of age. Blood samples were collected before each treatment to quantify FSH, testosterone, and activin A concentrations. Scrotal circumference (SC) and BW were measured weekly. Bulls were castrated at 93 ± 2 d of age. Seminiferous tubule diameter, testis composition, and the number of Sertoli cells per tubule cross section (GATA-4 positive staining) were determined from fixed and stained histological sections. Follicle-stimulating hormone concentrations within the FSH-HA-treated bulls increased ( < 0.05) on d 70 from prior sampling and remained elevated. The FSH concentration did not differ between treatments from 35 to 66.5 d of age but were greater ( < 0.05) in the FSH-HA-treated bulls than in the control bulls from 70 to 91 d of age. Serum concentration of activin A on d 35, 70, and 91 did not differ between treatments. The FSH-HA and control bulls did not differ ( > 0.1) in BW, SC, testis weight, testis volume, percent of parenchyma composed of tubules, tubule diameter, and concentration of testosterone. The number of Sertoli cells per tubule cross section was greater in the FSH-HA-treated bulls than in the control bulls (33.35 ± 0.9 vs. 28.27 ± 0.9 cells; ˂ 0.05). In summary, the FSH-HA treatment from 35 to 91 d of age resulted in increased endogenous FSH from 70 to 91 d and increased numbers of Sertoli cells at 93 d of age. Exogenous FSH altered endocrine mechanisms regulating endogenous FSH secretion and augmented Sertoli cell proliferation in young bulls, but this effect was apparently not caused by increased activin A concentration in the FSH-HA-treated bulls.

Histomorphometric Alterations Induced in the Testicular Tissues by Variable Sizes of Silver Nanoparticles

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the histomorphometric alterations induced in testicular tissues by variable sizes of silver nanoparticles (SNPs). STUDY DESIGN: Male mice (BALB/C) were treated with SNPs (1 mg/kg) using 5 different sizes (10, 20, 40, 60, and 100 nm) for 35 days. Testicular biopsies from all mice under study were examined histomorphologically. RESULTS: SNPs sized 10 and 20 nm had provoked morphometric changes in the testes of the subjected mice together with the following histological alterations: seminiferous tubules, degeneration, spermatocyte cytoplasmic vacuolation, spermatocyte sloughing, and spermatid giant cell formation. Larger SNPs (40, 60, and 100 nm) induced little or no testicular histomorphometric alterations. CONCLUSION: The findings of the present work may indicate that subchronic exposure to SNPs could have a deleterious impact on the testicular tissues and spermatogenic process that could affect fertility and reproduction, with smaller SNPs being more toxic than larger ones.

Potential of ascorbic acid as antioxidant on chemotherapeutic agent induced change in morphology of testes

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the morphological changes in number of seminiferous tubules that are produced by anthracycline doxorubicin on the testes of mice.

METHODS

This experimental study was conducted at Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, from March to August 2012, and comprised male mice aged up to five weeks. The mice were separated into 3 equal groups: A, B and C. Each animal was treated with normal saline 1ml intraperitoneal in group A, doxorubicin alone in group B and doxorubicin + vitamin C in group C. At the end of the study, animals were sacrificed and the testes were kept in Bouin's fluid and tissue processing and staining were done. SPSS 16 was used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 30 mice, there were 10(33.3%) in each group. The overall mean age was 5±1 weeks. The mean number of tubules was 20.28±3.29 in group A, 9.39±3.01 in group B and 18.56±2.82 in group C. The mean diameter of seminiferous tubules of testes was 218.26 ± 7.45µm in group A, 123.96±11.84 in group B and 180.86±12.13 in group C (p<0.001). Co-administration of vitamin C with doxorubicin significantly reduced (p<0.001) the seminiferous epithelial damage compared to doxorubicin group.

CONCLUSIONS

The antioxidant vitamin C had a significant role in ameliorating the damage of testes induced by doxorubicin.

Regenerative Potential of Stem and Progenitor Cells from Ischemic Testes of C57Bl/6 Mice in Culture and in the Model of Spermatogenesis Suppression Caused by Busulfan

The regenerative potential of stem and progenitor cells from ischemic testes of C57Bl/6 mice was studied in vitro (cell culture) and in vivo (mouse model of busulfan-induced suppression of spermatogenesis). Spermatogonial stem cells with phenotypes CD117^-CD90⁺ and CD51^-CD24⁺CD52⁺ from ischemic testes demonstrated 33-fold and 7-fold increments of cell mass and generated colonies in vitro. Epithelial (CD45^-CD31^-Sca-1⁺CD49f⁺) and endothelial (CD45^-CD31⁺) precursors exhibited lower self-renewal capacity. On day 30 after injection of stem and progenitor cells from ischemic testes to the rete testis zone of the testes of busulfantreated animals, an increase in the count of CD117^-CD90⁺ spermatogonial stem cells, total count, and mobile sperm count in the testes of recipient mice was observed. In addition, we observed an increase in Sca-1⁺ cell count, recovery of the spermatogenic epithelium in the seminiferous tubules, and appearance of immature Leydig cells in "busulfan" testes; the level of tissue testosterone and fertility index also increased.

Antifertility efficacy of Coccinia indica in male mice and its possible mechanisms of action on spermatogenesis

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the antifertility efficacy of Coccinia indica and its possible mechanisms of action on testicular functions in Parkes male mice. Mice were orally administered 50% ethanolic leaf extract of Coccinia indica (200 and 500mgkg^-1 body weight day^-1) or distilled water (controls) for 35days. To assess reversibility, additional mice were treated with 500mgkg^-1 body weight of Coccinia or distilled water for 35days and sacrificed 56days later. Several male reproductive parameters such as motility, viability, morphology and number of spermatozoa in the cauda epididymidis, histopathology, serum level of testosterone, and fertility indices were evaluated; further, activities of 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, western blot analyses of StAR protein, cytochrome P450scc enzyme and of caspase-3, germ cell apoptosis by TUNEL, and lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes activities in the testis were assessed. Toxicological parameters were also examined. Histologically, testes in Coccinia-treated mice showed nonuniform diverse degenerative changes in the seminiferous tubules. Treatment had adverse effect on serum level of testosterone, steroidogenic markers in the testis and on sperm parameters in the cauda epididymidis. The treatment also affected oxidative status of the testis and induced germ cell apoptosis. Serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and creatinine, and haematological parameters were, however, not affected in treated mice. Fertility of the extract-treated males was also suppressed, but their libido remained unaffected. By 56days of treatment withdrawal, the above parameters recovered to control levels, suggesting that the Coccinia treatment causes reversible suppression of spermatogenesis and fertility in P mice, without producing detectable signs of toxicity. Further, suppression of spermatogenesis may be caused by germ cell apoptosis resulting from deficiency of testosterone, which, in turn, may result from the adverse effect of C. indica treatment on steroidogenesis and oxidative status in the testis.

Individual and combined effect of chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin on reproductive system of adult male albino rats

Commercial mixtures of chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin pesticides are widely used to enhance the toxic effects of cypermethrin on target insects. So, the purpose of the current study was to evaluate the individual and combined toxic effects of chlorpyrifos (CPF) and cypermethrin (CYP) on reproductive system of adult male albino rats. Forty adult male albino rats were randomized into main four groups: group I (control group) included 16 rats, subdivided into negative and positive control; group II (eight rats) received chlorpyrifos 6.75 mg/kg b.w./orally∕daily); group III (eight rats) (received cypermethrin 12.5 mg/kg b.w./orally∕daily); and group IV (eight rats) (received chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin at the same previously mentioned doses). All treatments were given by oral gavage for 12 weeks. We found that single CPF and CYP exposures significantly have adverse effects on reproductive function of adult male albino rats manifested by reduced testicular weight, decreased sperm count, motility and viability, significantly increased percent of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa, and significant increments in sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) with respect to control group. Furthermore, serum follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone levels were decreased significantly compared to control group. This was accompanied with histopathological changes in the testis of rats such as necrosis, degeneration, decreasing number of spermatogenic cells in some seminiferous tubules, edema, congested blood vessels, and exudate in interstitial tissue of the testis. Notably, all these changes were exaggerated in rats treated concomitantly with chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin rendering the mixture more toxic than the additive effects of each compound and causing greater damage on the reproductive system of male albino rats than the individual pesticides.

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Formaldehyde (FA) interacts with biological molecules such as DNA and it induces DNA-protein cross-links (DPCs), oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS), methylation, chromosomal damage, fragmentation, and adducts of DNA, which are considered the most important genotoxic effects caused by exposure to FA. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the percentage of DNA fragmentation on lymphocytes and spermatozoa from Wistar rats exposed to different doses of FA. The results about the percentage of fragmentation of DNA in lymphocytes and spermatozoa, were statistical different from controlled group versus treated groups respectively to (p < 0.05). Pathological changes were observed in the seminiferous tubules, especially in rats exposed to 30 mg/kg of FA. This study provided additional evidence supporting that FA induces DNA strand breaks in both cells and therefore genotoxic damage in Wistar rats.

Effect of polybrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-209) on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis through altered thyroid status in adult mice

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a class of brominated flame retardants (BFRs), have been widely used in many products to minimize the risk of fire, mainly by mixing in polymer products. BDE-209, a congener of PBDEs having structural similarity with thyroid hormones, acts as an endocrine disruptor by interfering with thyroid homeostasis. However, little is known about the effect of BDE-209 exposure on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. This study was therefore conducted in adult mice to examine the effect of BDE-209 on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in relation to thyroid status, and to explore possible mechanism(s) of its action. Adult Parkes strain male mice were orally gavaged with 750 and 950mg/kg BW of BDE-209 in corn oil for 35days. Significant reductions were noted in the levels of serum total T_3, T₄ and testosterone in mice treated with 950mg/kg BW of BDE-209 compared to controls; histologically, testes showed nonuniform degenerative changes in the seminiferous tubules as both affected and normal tubules were observed in the same section; further, number and viability of spermatozoa were also adversely affected in cauda epididymidis of these mice. Semiquantitative RT-PCR and western blot analyses also showed significant reductions in both testicular mRNA and protein levels of steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1), steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein, cytochrome P450scc (CYP11A1), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) in 950mg dose treated-mice compared to controls. Immunohistochemical and immunoblot analyses further revealed a marked decrease in proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive cells in testes of 950mg dose of BDE-209-treated mice. However, 750mg dose of BDE-209 had no effect on the above parameters. In conclusion, our results suggest that exposure of BDE-209 to adult mice causes reduction in serum levels of thyroid hormones and altered thyroid status may partly result into impairment of testicular steroidogenesis because of down-regulated expression of SF-1, thereby causing suppression of spermatogenesis.

Vitamin E Protection from Testicular Damage Caused by Intraperitoneal Aluminium

Different forms of Aluminium (Al) are environmental xenobiotics that induce free radical–mediated cytotoxicity and reproductive toxicity. Vitamin E ( α-tocopherol) is an antioxidative agent that has been reported to be important for detoxification pathways. This study was thus aimed at elucidating the protective effects of vitamin E towards aluminium toxicity on the histology of the rat testis. Al (5 mg/kg body weight) was administered intraperitoneally in 2 ml saline, either alone or immediately before vitamin E (500 mg/kg body weight), at a different point of abdomen, and the alterations in the testis tissue were analyaed histologically. Seven treated animals were sacrificed for each group, with the testes removed and examined histologically. In the Al-treated group, the germinal epithelium of the seminiferous tubules was thinner in places and spermatids were almost absent; sperm numbers were low and there were no sperm in the lumen. In the Al plus vitamin E rats, there were large numbers of spermatids and sperm in the seminiferous tubule lumen. In the vitamin E alone group, a normal histology was seen. Electron microscopically, in the Al-treated group there were irregularities in the nuclear membrane, some damaged mitochondria, a decrease in the number of ribosomes, and an increase in the number of lysosomes in the sertoli cell cytoplasm. In the primary spermatocyte cytoplasm, there was an increase in the rough endoplasmic reticulum. In the Al plus vitamin E group, the spermatogeneic cells and the sertoli cell cytoplasm showed an almost normal appearance. The ultrastructure of the testis in the vitamin E alone group showed a normal appearance. In conclusion, vitamin E antagonizes the toxic effects of Al at the histological level, thus potentially contributing to an amelioration of the testis histology in the Al-treated rats. The associated biochemical parameters merit further investigation.

Fish pollutants MeHg and Aroclor cause permanent structural damage in male gonads and kidneys after prepubertal exposure

This study investigated whether or not prepubertal exposure to the fish contaminants methylmercury (MeHg) and the polychlorinated bisphenol Aroclor in low doses interferes with the histomorphometry of the testes, epididymis, liver and kidneys in rats. Wistar male rats, 21 days old, were allocated into the following: control (n = 17, received corn oil), MeHg (n = 17, received MeHg at 0.5 mg/kg/day), Aroclor (n = 17, received Aroclor at 1.0 mg/kg/day), low mix (n = 18, received MeHg at 0.05 mg/kg/day and Aroclor at 0.1 mg/kg/day), high mix (n = 18, received MeHg at 0.5 mg/kg/day and Aroclor at 1.0 mg/kg/day). Dosing continued from post natal day (PND) 23 to 53, by gavage. Euthanasia was performed on PND 53; or, after an interval of 62 days without exposure to chemicals, on PND 115. The degree of maturation of the seminiferous epithelium was delayed in chemical-exposed groups and testicular interstitial oedema was observed at adulthood. The pattern of male gonad organization was changed in the Aroclor group on PND 53 and in all treated groups at adulthood. The animals from Aroclor, low mix and high mix groups showed a reduction in the number of Sertoli cells. Histological evidence of renal injury was observed in all chemical-exposed groups in both ages. A probable target for MeHg and Aroclor in the reproductive system was Sertoli cells, in which possible dysfunctions could be linked to the other testicular alterations. Curiously, the main deleterious effects were late outcomes, along with the absence of synergistic interaction of MeHg and Aroclor in the parameters investigated. In conclusion, fish pollutants MeHg and Aroclor caused permanent structural damage in male gonads and kidneys after prepubertal exposure, without showing clear chemical interactions.

Histologic study of testis injury after bisphenol A exposure in mice

The health effects of bisphenol A (BPA) have become a great concern in recent years. In this study, the reproductive toxicity of BPA was investigated. Male CD-1 mice were orally administrated with BPA (0, 100, 300 and 600 mg kg^-1 body weight) for 56 consecutive days. Results showed that relative testis weight to total body weight was significantly lower in the high-dose group ( p < 0.01, p < 0.05). Microscopic examination under light and transmission electron microscopes showed disorders of spermatogenesis after BPA exposure, including rough basal lamina of seminiferous tubules and damage of tight junctions between Sertoli cells. Further study by terminal-deoxynucleoitidyl transferase-mediated nick end labelling assay showed a significant induction of apoptosis in the testis tissue of the BPA groups ( p < 0.01). Immunohistochemical study found that the expression of androgen-binding protein (ABP) was significantly decreased in BPA-treated mice ( p < 0.01). Our results indicated that impairment of the basal lamina of seminiferous tubules and tight junctions may contribute to BPA-induced cell injury. A decrease in the level of ABP could be the possible mechanism for the reproductive toxicity of BPA. These findings provided direct evidence and novel insight into the reproductive toxicity of BPA and may have implications for understanding the toxicity of other endocrine disruptors.

Corticosterone does not cause Testicular Toxicopathology in the Rat: Relevance to Methylxanthines, ACTH and Stress

1 Methylxanthines, ACTH and stress are well known to produce testicular pathology (e.g. seminiferous tubule atrophy). Methylxanthines, ACTH and stress alter hormone secretion, particularly from the pituitary-adrenocortical system. Consequently, it has recently been suggested that there may be a causal relationship between changes in endogenous physiological adrenocortical secretions, particularly corticosterone, and testicular pathology.1

2 This study tested the hypothesis that corticosterone mediates the testicular effects of both methylxanthine treatment and stress. Corticosterone was administered daily by subcutaneous injection to groups of 10 male rats at dose levels of 2 or 20 mg kg-1 in propylene glycol (1 ml kg-1) for 1 month (the shortest duration of methylxanthine or ACTH exposure known to produce testicular pathology). The highest dose of corticosterone resulted in plasma concentrations that closely matched values resulting from stress (200-700 ng ml-1) compared with controls (<25 ng ml-1).

3 The highest dose of corticosterone caused reduced body weight gain, lower thymus, adrenal, seminal vesicle and prostate weights, but did not induce any testicular pathology.

4 That a high, but physiologically relevant, dose of corticosterone did not cause testicular pathology in this experiment excludes this steroid in the direct aetiology of methylxanthine, ACTH and stress-induced testicular pathology. Other steroids secreted from the adrenal, in combination with corticosterone, may be involved.

Effect of formaldehyde inhalation on Hsp70 in seminiferous tubules of rat testes: an immunohistochemical study

One parameter which might provide an insight into the underlying mechanism of the effect of formaldehyde (FA) inhalation on testicular tissue, is the assessment of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), which increases promptly in cells exposed to stress caused by chemical toxicity. Thus, following subchronic exposure at cytotoxic concentrations, we studied the immunohistochemical effect of FA inhalation on changes in Hsp70 content in testicular tissue.

We used 18 albino Wistar rats divided into three groups, exposed to 0 (control), 5 and 10 ppm FA gas for a total of 91 days, 8 h/day, five days a week. Serum testosterone levels were determined using a chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay. Testicular tissues were stained with Hematoxylin-Eosine and Hsp70 immunohistochemically performed. Diameters of seminiferous tubules and serum testosterone levels in animals inhaling FA were significantly decreased. In seminiferous epithelium stained for Hsp70, compared to those in the control group, the spermatogenetic cells in the experimental groups demonstrated an obvious increase in immunoreaction spermatides in the adluminal region and especially in the cytoplasm of spermatocytes. Immunoreaction of Hsp70 was detected in the spermatogonias of animals exposed to FA inhalation as opposed to those of the control group. Compared to the control, there was a significant increase in the immunoreactions observed not only in the cytoplasm of primary spermatocytes, but also spermatides in the adluminal region of the seminiferous tubules.

In conclusion, FA gas may damage spermatogenetic cells and increase Hsp70 synthesis.

Leptin Within the Subphysiological to Physiological Range Dose Dependently Improves Male Reproductive Function in an Obesity Mouse Model

Obesity has recently been linked with reduced fertility, and the mechanisms underpinning this effect are currently unknown. The adipokine leptin is dysregulated in obesity and affects reproductive tracts; therefore, we investigated the dose-dependent effects of leptin on Leydig cell function and spermatogenesis. Eight-week-old leptin-deficient obese (ob/ob) male mice were treated with subphysiological (0.1- or 0.5-mg/kg body weight [BW]/d) or physiological (3.0-mg/kg BW/d) doses of leptin or saline for 12 weeks (chronic treatment) or 72 hours (acute treatment). We then evaluated male reproductive function markers. Mean testis weight increased significantly in the 0.1- and 3.0-mg/kg BW/d groups compared with saline controls (both P < .05). Intratesticular testosterone levels relative to testis weight significantly increased in the 0.5-mg/kg BW/d group compared with saline controls (P < .05). FSH levels increased in a dose-dependent manner with leptin treatment, whereas LH levels did not change. Leptin treatment significantly up-regulated both mRNA and protein expression of the steroidogenic enzyme cytochrome P450 17A1. Spermatogenesis improved in leptin-treated animals. Significantly more seminiferous tubules were observed in stages I-VIII (P < .01), and there were fewer abnormal seminiferous tubule structures (P < .01). Acute treatment with physiological leptin doses partially improved male reproductive markers without changing BW. Administration of subphysiological to physiological doses of leptin improves Leydig cell function and spermatogenesis.

Flutamide induces alterations in the cell-cell junction ultrastructure and reduces the expression of Cx43 at the blood-testis barrier with no disturbance in the rat seminiferous tubule morphology

BACKGROUND

Present study was designed to establish a causal connection between changes in the cell-cell junction protein expression at the blood-testis barrier and alterations in the adult rat testis histology following an anti-androgen flutamide exposure. Particular emphasis was placed on the basal ectoplasmic specialization (ES) in the seminiferous epithelium and expression of gap junction protein, connexin 43 (Cx43).

METHODS

Flutamide (50 mg/kg body weight) was administered to male rats daily from 82 to 88 postnatal day. Testes from 90-day-old control and flutamide-exposed rats were used for all analyses. Testis morphology was analyzed using light and electron microscopy. Gene and protein expressions were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively, protein distribution by immunohistochemistry, and steroid hormone concentrations by radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

Seminiferous epithelium of both groups of rats displayed normal histology without any loss of germ cells. In accord, no difference in the apoptosis and proliferation level was found between control and treated groups. As shown by examination of semi-thin and ultrathin sections, cell surface occupied by the basal ES connecting neighboring Sertoli cells and the number of gap and tight junctions coexisting with the basal ES were apparently reduced in flutamide-treated rats. Moreover, the appearance of unconventional circular ES suggests enhanced internalization and degradation of the basal ES. These changes were accompanied by decreased Cx43 and ZO-1 expression (p < 0.01) and a loss of linear distribution of these proteins at the region of the blood-testis barrier. On the other hand, Cx43 expression in the interstitial tissue of flutamide-treated rats increased (p < 0.01), which could be associated with Leydig cell hypertrophy. Concomitantly, both intratesticular testosterone and estradiol concentrations were elevated (p < 0.01), but testosterone to estradiol ratio decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in flutamide-treated rats compared to the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term treatment with flutamide applied to adult rats exerts its primary effect on the basal ES, coexisting junctional complexes and their constituent proteins Cx43 and ZO-1, without any apparent morphological alterations in the seminiferous epithelium. In the interstitial compartment, however, short-term exposure leads to both histological and functional changes of the Leydig cells.

Role of Quercetin in Cadmium-Induced Oxidative Stress, Testicular Damage, and Apoptosis in Rats

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of quercetin on cadmium-induced oxidative stress, testicular damage, and apoptosis in rat testes.

STUDY DESIGN

The rats were randomly allotted into 1 of 3 experimental groups: control, cadmium-treated, and cadmium-treated with quercetin; each group con- tained 10 animals. Control animals received daily injec- tions of the saline vehicle alone. The cadmium-treated group was injected subcutaneously with cadmium chloride (CdCl2) dissolved in saline at a dose of 2 mL/kg/ day for 30 days, resulting in a dosage of 1 mg/kg cadmium. The rats in quercetin-treated groups were given quercetin (15 mg/kg body weight) once a day i.p., starting 2 days prior to the cadmium injection during the study period. All animals were sacrificed and testes tissues were removed for histopathological and biochemical (malondialdehyde [MDA], superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione peroxidase [GSH-Px], and serum testosterone levels) investigation.

RESULTS

The mean seminiferous tubule diameter, Johnsen's mean testicular biopsy score values, biochemical parameters (MDA, SOD, GSH-Px, and serum testosterone levels), and amount of germ cell apoptosis were significantly decreased in the cadmium-treated groups as compared to the control group. Furthermore, the quercetin-treated animals showed improved histological and biochemical parameters in the cadmium-treated group.

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that quercetin treatment protected testes against toxic effects of cadmium. We believe that further preclinical research into the utility of quercetin may indicate its usefulness as a potential treatment for spermatogenesis after testicular injury caused by cadmium-treated rats.

Histopathologic and Ultrastructural Changes in Seminiferous Tubules of Adult Male Albino Rats Following Daily Administration of Different Doses of Tadalafil

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of chronic daily administration of different doses of tadalafil on the structure of the seminiferous tubules and on spermatogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty adult male Wistar rats were included; they were divided into four groups: a control group (group I) and groups II, III, and IV that received daily tadalfil in doses of 0.45, 0.9, and 1.8 mg/kg for 12 weeks (equivalent to human doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg daily), respectively. The epididymis was processed for evaluation of sperm parameters, serum testosterone was measured, Johnsen score for rats was calculated, and testicular histopathological and ultrastructural examinations were performed.

RESULTS

Serum testosterone was significantly lower in group IV than in groups I and II. Moreover, posttreatment values in group IV were significantly lower than pretreatment values. A significant decline in sperm motility and morphology was detected in groups III and IV compared to groups I and II. Sperm count was significantly lower in group IV compared to the other groups. Johnsen score was significantly lower in groups III and IV compared to groups I and II and in group IV compared to group III. In addition, histopathological and ultrastructural degenerative changes in rat testes were detected; these changes were dose dependent and increased with increasing the dose of tadalafil.

CONCLUSION

Chronic daily oral administration of tadalafil to male albino rats demonstrates a dose-dependent alteration to testicular histology and semen parameters. The influence of these changes on the actual fertility of these animals remains to be determined.

Effects of Ghrelin on Testicular Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Injury

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is a possible cause of testicular damage and infertility after testicular torsion and detorsion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of ghrelin on testicular ischemia-reperfusion damage. A total of 30 adult male rats were selected for the study and divided randomly into 3 groups, each containing 10 rats. Animals in the testicular torsion and ghrelin treated groups were subjected to unilateral 720° counterclockwise testicular torsion for 1 hour, and then reperfusion was allowed after detorsion for 7 and 30 days. The ghrelin-treated group and the other two groups received intraperitoneally 40 nmol of ghrelin and physiological saline 15 min before detorsion, respectively. The animals were sacrificed at the end of reperfusion times, and their testes were taken for later histopathological examination. The seminiferous tubules diameter, germinal epithelium height, as well as volume densities in testicular torsion / detorsion plus saline group, were significantly lesser versus control group, which clearly indicates an ischemia-reperfusion injury. Ghrelin treatment resulted in a partial increment in examined histological parameters on day 30 after reperfusion. Current results showed that ghrelin ameliorates the testicular ischemia-reperfusion damage.

Protective role of alpha lipoic acid against polychlorobiphenyl (Aroclor 1254)-induced testicular toxicity in rats

The present study was aimed to investigate the antioxidant, biochemical, and histological effects of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) on polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-induced testicular toxicity in male rats. The rats were divided into five groups: In the control group, the rats were not administered any chemicals for 30 days. In the sham group, the rats were administered corn oil for 30 days. In the PCB group, the rats were administered with Aroclor 1254 for 30 days. In the ALA group, the rats were treated with ALA for 30 days. In the ALA+PCB group, the rats were treated with ALA 24 hours before Aroclor 1254 was administered for 30 days. The total oxidant status (TOS) level in the serum and testis, number of apoptotic cells, vacuolization at the basal membrane, immature spermatids in the tubular lumen, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) staining density, and abnormal spermatozoa were significantly increased in the PCB group. Moreover, in the PCB group, the seminiferous tubule diameter (STD) was decreased in stage VII-VIII and XII-XIV tubules. The TOS level in the serum and testis, vacuolization at the basal membrane, immature spermatids in the tubular lumen, and apoptosis were significantly decreased in the ALA+PCB groups. These findings suggested that ALA has a protective role against PCB-induced testicular toxicity.

Morphometric and stereological assessment of the effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles on the mouse testicular tissue

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZNPs) on morphometric and stereological parameters of mouse testis.

BACKGROUND

ZNPs are increasingly used in sunscreens, biosensors, food additives, pigments, rubber manufacture, and electronic materials. However, the potential toxicity of these nanoparticles is not well understood.

METHODS

Experimental Groups (ZNP-1, ZNP-2 and ZNP-3) received one of the following treatments daily for 35 days: 5, 50 and 300 mg/kg ZNPs respectively. Right testis from each animal was fixed in bouin's solution for measurement of total volume of testis, total volume of seminiferous tubules, total volume of interstitial tissue and total number of Leydig cells by stereological methods. Seminiferous tubule diameter and seminiferous epithelium height were assessed by morphometrical method. The left testicles were homogenized for measurement of testosterone concentration.

RESULTS

There was a significant decrease in the weight of testicles in ZNP-3 groups. The stereological and morphometrical parameters were significantly changed in ZNP-2 and ZNP-3 groups. ZNP-2 and ZNP-3 groups also showed a significant decrease in testosterone concentrations (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that ZNPs can change stereological and morphometrical parameters of the seminiferous tubules and reduce the number of Leydig cells (Tab. 3, Fig. 3, Ref. 36).

[Protective effect of Liuweidihuang Pills against cellphone electromagnetic radiation-induced histomorphological abnormality, oxidative injury, and cell apoptosis in rat testes]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of Liuweidihuang Pills in relieving cellphone electromagnetic radiation-induced histomorphological abnormality, oxidative injury, and cell apoptosis in the rat testis.

METHODS

Thirty adult male SD rats were equally randomized into a normal, a radiated, and a Liuweidihuang group, the animals in the latter two groups exposed to electromagnetic radiation of 900 MHz cellphone frequency 4 hours a day for 18 days. Meanwhile, the rats in the Liuweidihuang group were treated with the suspension of Liuweidihuang Pills at 1 ml/100 g body weight and the other rats intragastrically with the equal volume of purified water. Then all the rats were killed for observation of testicular histomorphology by routine HE staining, measurement of testicular malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels by colorimetry, and determination of the expressions of bax and bcl-2 proteins in the testis tissue by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Compared with the normal controls, the radiated rats showed obviously loose structure, reduced layers of spermatocytes, and cavitation in the seminiferous tubules. Significant increases were observed in the MDA level (P < 0.01) and bax expression (P < 0.01) but decreases in the GSH level (P < 0.01) and bcl-2 expression (P < 0.01) in the testis issue of the radiated rats. In comparison with the radiated rats, those of the Liuweidihuang group exhibited nearly normal testicular structure, significantly lower MDA level (P < 0.05), bax expression (P < 0.01), and bcl-2 expression (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Liuweidihuang Pills can improve cellphone electromagnetic radiation-induced histomorphological abnormality of the testis tissue and reduce its oxidative damage and cell apoptosis.

Volcanogenic pollution and testicular damage in wild mice

Many evidences have surfaced the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on male reproduction. Volcanogenic pollution is understudied, although it is a well-known source of hazardous contaminants. This study aims to assess the effects of chronic exposure to volcanogenic pollution on wild mice testes by studying: (i) diameter of seminiferous tubules; (ii) relative volumetric density of different spermatogenic cells and interstitial space; (iii) damage in the seminiferous tubules and (iv) apoptotic level in the germinal epithelium. The mice from the polluted site showed higher levels of the selected heavy metals than those from the reference site. The mean diameter of seminiferous tubules and the relative volume occupied by spermatozoa and lumen in exposed mice were significantly lower than in the unexposed group. Contrarily, exposed mice showed a significantly higher relative volume occupied by interstitium, as well as, a higher degree of damage and a significantly higher number of apoptotic cells in the germinal epithelium. Results show that secondary manifestations of volcanic activity can pose a serious risk of testicular injury and therefore for male reproduction.

The effects of intracerebroventricular infusion of apelin-13 on reproductive function in male rats

Apelin is a novel bioactive peptide as the endogenous ligand for APJ. Apelin and APJ have also been identified in the testis, hypothalamic nuclei such as arcuate, supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei, implicating roles in the control of reproduction. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the effects of chronic central infusion of apelin-13 on LH, FSH and testosterone levels and testis morphology. 21 Wistar-Albino male rats received continuous intracerebroventricular infusion via Alzet osmotic mini pumps filled artificial cerebrospinal fluid (vehicle) or apelin-13 at concentrations of 1 or 10 nmol (10 μl/h) for seven days. At the last 90 min of the infusion period, the blood samples were collected at 15 min intervals (0-90 min) for LH and FSH analyses. At the last sampling point, the blood samples were analyzed for testosterone levels. Infusion of high dose apelin-13 significantly suppressed LH release compared with the vehicle values at 30, 60 and 75 min (p<0.05). However, FSH levels did not significantly differ among the groups. Serum testosterone levels in high dose apelin-13 group were statistically lower than the control group (p<0.05). In addition, histological examination showed that infusion of high dose apelin-13 significantly decreased the number of Leydig cells compared with the control and lower dose apelin-13 groups (p<0.05, p<0.01). Our results suggest that apelin-13 may play a role in the central regulation and decreases testosterone release by suppressing LH secretion. Thus, antagonists of the apelin receptor may, therefore, be useful for pharmaceuticals in the treatment of infertility.

[Morinda officinalis extract repairs cytoxan-impaired spermatogenesis of male rats]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of Morinda officinalis (MO) extract on cytoxan (CTX) -impaired spermatogenesis of adult male SD rats.

METHODS

We randomly divided 56 adult male SD rats into seven groups of equal number: blank control, CTX model, CTX + NS, CTX + 10 g/kg MO, CTX + 20 g/kg MO, CTX + 30 g/kg MO, and CTX + 40 g/kg MO. We made the models of impaired spermatogenesis in the SD rats by intraperitoneal injection of CTX and treated the animal models by intragastric administration of MO at the concentrations of 10, 20, 30, and 40 g per kg per d, respectively. After two weeks of medication, we observed the changes in the body weight, testicular and epididymal indexes, and microstructure of the testis tissue, measured the mean seminiferous tubule diameter (MSTD) , and obtained testicular biopsy scores (TBS) in different groups, followed by comparative analyses.

RESULTS

After treatment, the CTX + NS group showed no remarkable differences in the body weight ([234.83 ± 28.77] g) and epididymal index (2.71 ± 0.34) from those of the four CTX + MO groups, but exhibited a significantly lower testicular index ([12.15 ± 1.04] g) than those in the CTX + 20 g/kg MO ([13.71 ± 0.97] g), CTX + 30 g/kg MO, ([13.30 ± 0.29] g), and CTX + 40 g/kg MO group ([13.48 ± 0.51] g) (P < 0.05). Light microscopy revealed obvious pathological changes of the testis tissue in the CTX + NS group and significantly ameliorated structures of the seminiferous tubules in the CTX + MO 10, 20, 30, and 40 g/kg groups, with the MSTD of (204.78 ± 11.03), (216.55 ± 10.93), (218.03 ± 11.23), and (218.59 ± 14.06) μm, respectively, and the TBS of 9.03 ± 0.39, 9.69 ± 0.26, 9.83 ± 0.18, and 9.89 ± 0.11, respectively, all significantly higher than (189.74 ± 8.55) μm and 5.95 ± 1.21 in the CTX + NS group (P < 0.05). The efficacy of MO extract was increased in a concentration-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

Morinda officinalis extract can repair cytoxan-induced damage to rat spermatogenesis, with may achieve the best effect at the concentrations of 30 and 40 g per kg per d.