Protective effect of D-psicose against testicular atrophy induced by di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate

Abstract

The pollutant di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a suspected reproductive toxicant. To clarify the protective effect of D-psicose on DEHP-induced testicular atrophy, we exposed rats to 1% DEHP via their diet while receiving D-psicose supplementation. A significant negative correlation was found between plasma mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) concentrations and relative testicular weight in rats given the 1% DEHP-containing diet for seven days. There was, however, no significant difference in testicular weight compared with control in rats given the 1% DEHP-containing diet plus 2% D-psicose-supplemented water. Rats given the 1% DEHP-containing diet for 14 days showed severe testicular atrophy. Conversely, those given the diet plus 2 or 4% D-psicose-supplemented water did not develop testicular atrophy and exhibited complete spermatogenesis. Testicular weight was also restored almost completely by D-psicose. But, incomplete but significant protection was noted in rats receiving a 2% DEHP-containing diet plus 4% D-psicose-supplemented water for 14 days. The present study shows the almost complete protective effect of D-psicose against DEHP-induced testicular atrophy. Although the reproductive toxicity of DEHP in human beings remains unclear, D-psicose may act as a protective agent against oxidant-mediated testicular injury in mammals, including human beings.