Effect of an experimental left varicocele on the bilateral testes of adult rats

Abstract

Introduction Although the varicocele has been studied for many years, the pathophysiology of a varicocele still remains controversial. The relationship between varicocele and male infertility remains to be explained. Aim of the work This work was carried to determine survivin expression in testicular tissue subjected to a left experimental varicocele and to correlate survivin expression with caspase-3, the marker of apoptosis, and with the testicular histological changes in both ipsilateral and contralateral testis. Materials and methods A total of 30 adult Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three groups: a control group, a sham-operated group, and a left varicocele group. The varicocele model was induced by partial ligation of the left renal vein. After 8 weeks, the animals were subjected to laparotomy and bilateral testes were collected, processed, and stained with H&E and with PAS stain. The expression of survivin and caspase-3 was studied by immunohistochemistry in both testes. Results The experimental left varicocele caused testicular changes in both testes. The changes in the ipsilateral testis were in the form of irregular degenerated seminiferous tubules with thickened basement membranes. Numerous blood vessels were found. There was a marked increase in the expression of caspase-3 and a marked decrease in the expression of survivin. These changes were also found in the contralateral testis, but were less severe. Conclusion A left-sided varicocele could cause bilateral testicular histological abnormalities, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. These events play an important role in testicular dysfunction.