Number Of Seminiferous Tubules Research Articles

The Protective Effect of Oxitard on Sperm Function and Antioxidant Status in Rats Exposed to Swimming Stress.

Infertility is a significant public health issue, but its impact on quality of life and treatment efficacy is limited. Modern medicine lacks safe and effective drugs for male infertility, while traditional medicine has explored herbal extracts like Oxitard, which contains multiple extracts and oils. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Oxitard on male rats exposed to swimming (SW) stress. Albino rats weighing 220-250 g were divided into five groups: control, SW stress, and SW treated with Oxitard at low, medium, and high doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg/day, respectively. The rats were subjected to SW stress for 15 days and then assessed for body weight, reproductive organ weight, testosterone, antioxidant status, sperm function, and histological changes in the testes, seminal vesicles, and vas deferens. The results showed that SW stress significantly reduced body weight, seminal vesicle weight, testosterone levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability, and significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The testes of the SW-stress group rats also showed a significant decrease in spermatogenesis and the number of seminiferous tubules containing sperm. In contrast, treatment with Oxitard, especially at the highest dose, demonstrated potent free radical scavenging activity, recovering antioxidant status, and sperm function. SW stress led to decreased sperm function, antioxidant status, and increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) in male rats. Oxitard treatment, particularly in high doses, showed a potential role as a free radical scavenger in treating oxidative stress (OS)-associated male infertility. Further studies are needed to investigate the individual components of Oxitard and conduct clinical trials in human subjects.

Effects of therapeutic ultrasound and moderate heat on stallion testes

Transplantation of stem cells into dysfunctional testes is currently being investigated as a therapeutic option for men and stallions with advanced testicular degeneration. This series of “proof of concept” studies aimed to identify a safe and efficient method of inducing severe testicular degeneration to create an optimal equine recipient model for intratesticular stem cell transplantation (SCT). Two ex vivo and two in vivo experiments were conducted. At first, forty testes obtained from castrations were used to identify an effective therapeutic ultrasound (TUS) device and the protocol for increasing intratesticular temperature in stallions. Six min of treatment using the Vetrison Clinic Portable TUS machine raised the intratesticular temperature by 8°C-12.5 °C. This protocol was applied to treat three scrotal testes in three Miniature horse stallions, three times, every other day. Contralateral testes served as controls. There were signs of slight tubular degeneration in treated testes two and three weeks after TUS treatment. The number of seminiferous tubules (STs) with exfoliated germ cells (GCs) was increased in one testis only, three weeks after treatment. The degree of apoptosis of GCs was higher in each treated testis in comparison to the contralateral control testis. Next, the ability of various heating devices to increase intratesticular temperatures to at least 43 °C in stallion testes was tested, using twenty testes obtained from castrations. ThermaCare® Lower Back & Hip Pain Therapy Heatwrap (TC heat wrap) reliably increased intratesticular temperatures and kept them continuously between 43 °C and 48 °C for seven to 8 h. In the follow-up in vivo study, the left testes of three Miniature horse stallions were treated with TUS, after which both testes of each stallion were treated with moderate heat provided by the TC heat wrap (three times, every other day, for 5 h each time). There were signs of moderate tubular degeneration in the samples from all treated testes obtained three weeks after treatments (Heat only or Heat/TUS): areas with hypospermatogenesis, spermatogenic arrest, vacuolized Sertoli cells, numerous STs with exfoliated GCs, increased degree of GCs apoptosis, and changes in three histomorphometric numeric attributes of STs. We concluded that TUS or TC wraps increase intratesticular temperature of the isolated stallion testes. Further, treatment with TUS or moderate heat may induce mild to moderate degenerative changes in stallion testes. However, to achieve more robust result – severe testicular degeneration, our treatment protocol has to be modified.

РАДИОПРОТЕКТОРНЫЙ ЭФФЕКТ ЭРАКОНДА НА СПЕРМАТОГЕНЕЗ ПРИ ВОЗДЕЙСТВИИ ОДНОКРАТНОГО ВНЕШНЕГО ОСТРОГО γ-ОБЛУЧЕНИЯ

Purpose: Experimental evaluation of the radioprotective effect of Erakond on spermatogenesis in BALB/c mice under external acute γ-irradiation. Material and methods: Single external γ-irradiation of males at a dose of 1 Gy was carried out at the IGUR facility (137Cs, dose rate 0.85 Gy/min). Erakond was administered orally for 6 days followed by irradiation 2 weeks later. Violation of spermatogenesis and its correction by eracondas in irradiated animals was assessed by the morphofunctional state of the testes, spermatozoa and the reproductive function of males. Results: In mice on days 16, 24, 48 after irradiation, the number of seminiferous tubules with destructive changes in the spermatogenic epithelium increases from 2.4 to 5.4; 10.2 8.3 % respectively. Erakond contributed to the reduction in the number of seminiferous tubules with destruction to 3.2; 5.1 and 3.5 % respectively. On the 24th, 48th day after irradiation, the number of spermatozoa with an abnormal head increases from 2.8 to 4.8 and 4.5 %; and tail pathology from 4.2 to 8.2 and 7.5 %, respectively, the number of live spermatozoa decreases from 58.1 to 40.5 and 20.0 %, respectively. Erakond contributed to a decrease in the number of spermatozoa with an abnormal head to 3.0; 3.5 %, with tail pathology up to 6.1; 5.3 % and an increase in the number of live sperm up to 50.8; 35.5 % respectively. In mice, on days 16, 24, and 48 after irradiation, the spermatogenea index decreased from 3.4 to 1.5; 0.9 and 2.1, respectively, Erakond contributed to an increase in the spermatogenesis index to 1.9; 2.1 and 2.9 respectively. In mice after irradiation, pre-implantation death at the stages of mature spermatozoa, spermatids, spermatocytes and spermatogonia increased from 24.1 to 41.0; 39.8 and 44.7; 42.0 %, respectively, and post-implantation death at the stages of mature sperm, spermatids, spermatocytes from 16.9; up to 26.5; 27.1 and 38.4 % respectively. The number of live fetuses per female decreased from 5.8 to 3.0; 3.9 and 3.7 respectively. Erakond statistically significantly contributed to the reduction of pre-implantation death at the stages of mature sperm, spermatids, spermatocytes and spermatogonia to 35.6; 33.4; 37.5 and 34.1, respectively, and a decrease in post-implantation death at the stages of mature sperm, spermatids and spermatocytes to 21.6; 20.5 and 28.2 respectively. Conclusion: The data obtained indicate the possible preventive use of Erakond as an effective dietary supplement for the correction of spermatogenesis disorders when exposed to ionizing radiation.

Nutritional Geometry of Male Fertility: Moving Beyond The ‘High-Fat’ Diet

Background: Females are given extensive dietary recommendations both during and prior to pregnancy, but similar guidelines for males trying to conceive are conspicuously absent. There is an urgent need to fill this knowledge gap because male fertility is in decline, with rising rates of obesity likely to be a contributing factor. Yet, we understand surprisingly little about nutritional impacts on male fertility. Aim: To examine the individual and interactive effects of protein, carbohydrates, and fats on male reproductive traits, we conducted a nutritional geometry study in adolescent C57Bl6 male mice. Method: Mice were fed one of ten isocaloric diets differing only in macronutrient balance (n = 6/diet) from 5 to 20 weeks of age. Reproductive organs were fixed/frozen and processed for a range of fertility-related measures. Results: We found that different aspects of reproductive function were influenced by different macronutrients. Testis mass and expression of HSD17B3 (testosterone biosynthesis) were positively related to the proportion of protein in the diet. In contrast, dietary fat had a stronger influence on male body mass and seminal vesicle mass. Both dietary protein and fat were found to influence testicular expression of genes with antioxidant functions (GSS, GPX1, GPX4). The number of seminiferous tubules and degree of vacuolation within seminiferous tubules were influenced by complex interactive effects between macronutrients. Conclusion: This foundational study suggests that a far more nuanced approach is required to develop pre-conception dietary recommendations for males, and reveals exciting new directions for research.

Protective Effect of Melatonin on Nonylphenol-Induced Reproductive and Behavioral Disorders in First-Generation Adult Male Rats.

Methods Pregnant Wistar rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control, NP (25 mg/kg), NP (25 mg/kg)+MLT (10 mg/kg), NP (25 mg/kg)+MLT (20 mg/kg), and MLT (20 mg/kg). The duration of treatment was 21 days from gestation time. Morris water maze was used to assess learning and memory. NP concentrations of serum and testicular tissue were measured by HPLC. Histological analysis of testicular tissues was done by H&E staining. Results Behavioral study showed that NP does not impair learning and memory in first-generation rats. Histomorphometric results showed that NP can significantly reduce the cross-sectional area of the seminiferous tubules and the epithelium, the diameter and number of seminiferous tubules, the thickness of the epithelium, and the number of spermatocytes and spermatogonia compared to other groups. MLT reversed the NP-induced histomorphometric. Also, it changes and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and catalase (CAT). The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly decreased in MLT-treated groups compared with the NP group. Conclusion Our finding showed that MLT enhanced the learning process and reduced NP-induced testicular tissue damage through its antioxidants and cytoprotective effects.

Acetylsalicylic acid-induced alterations in male reproductive parameters in Wistar rats and the effect of sprint interval training.

The present study investigated the effect of a 5-week ASA treatment on male reproductive parameters in Wistar rats; moreover, the potential benefits of a 4-week sprint interval training (SIT) on these measures following ASA treatment were investigated. A total of 25 male rats were obtained and randomly assigned to the control group (C, n=10) and the ASA treatment group (EP, n=15). After 5weeks, five rats from each group were killed and the effect of ASA treatment on the reproductive parameters was assessed. Then, the ASA treatment terminated and the remaining 10 ASA-treated rats were divided into the non-treatment group (NT, n=5) and the exercise training group (ET, n=5), which performed SIT 3 sessions/week for 4weeks. Five weeks of ASA treatment resulted in a statistically significant decrease in serum testosterone level, Leydig cell number, sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability, TDI, SI and RI, and it resulted in a significant increase in sperm nucleus maturity and sperm DNA fragmentation (p˂0.05). Furthermore, 4weeks of SIT reversed all the ASA-induced changes in male reproductive parameters (p<0.05), but not the number of seminiferous tubules and the sperm motility (p>0.05). A subchronic dose of ASA could lead to adverse alterations in male reproductive parameters and SIT is beneficial in reversing those alterations.

Establishment of a controlled slow freezing-based approach for experimental clinical cryopreservation of human prepubertal testicular tissues

ObjectiveTo develop an efficient, clinical-grade, freezing protocol toward experimental clinical cryopreservation of testicular tissues in prepubertal boys suffering from cancer.DesignExperimental cryopreservation of testicular tissue.SettingUniversity Medical Center.Patient(s)Adult patients undergoing orchiectomy for various tumors and prepubertal boys scheduled for gonadotoxic treatment.Intervention(s)None.Main Outcome Measure(s)Histopathological analysis of tissue architecture, structural integrity, and cellular morphology was performed for control and frozen-thawed cryopreserved tissues.The number of seminiferous tubules per testicular section was calculated. The survival of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and Sertoli cells of the control and frozen-thawed cryopreserved tissues was analyzed by immunofluorescence staining.Result(s)Uncontrolled Slow Freezing, Controlled slow freezing, and vitrification similarly preserved the integrity of the adult testicular tissues and the survival of SSCs and Sertoli cells. Controlled slow freezing of prepubertal testicular tissues effectively preserved their architecture, the number of tubules, SSCs, and Sertoli cells. In addition, we observed SSC loss after chemotherapy in prepubertal boys, reemphasizing the importance of fertility preservation before gonadotoxic treatment.Conclusion(s)Future fertility restoration for male survivors of pediatric cancers depends on the development of an optimal prepubertal testicular tissue cryopreservation method. Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of controlled slow freezing for cryopreservation of human prepubertal testicular tissues and may contribute to more effective banking of these tissues and potential fertility restoration.Clinical Trial Registration NumberNIH research clinical trials number: NCT02529826.

Depletion of high-mobility group box 2 causes seminiferous tubule atrophy via aberrant expression of androgen and estrogen receptors in mouse testis†.

High-mobility group box 2, a chromatin-associated protein that interacts with deoxyribonucleic acid, is implicated in multiple biological processes, including gene transcription, replication, and repair. High-mobility group box 2 is expressed in several tissues, including the testis; however, its functional role is largely unknown. Here, we elucidated the role of high-mobility group box 2 in spermatogenesis. Paraffin-embedded testicular tissues were obtained from 8-week-old and 1-year-old wild-type and knock-out mice. Testis weight and number of seminiferous tubules were decreased, whereas atrophic tubules were increased in high-mobility group box 2-depleted mice. Immunohistochemistry revealed that atrophic tubules contained Sertoli cells, but not germ cells. Moreover, decreased cell proliferation and increased apoptosis were demonstrated in high-mobility group box 2-depleted mouse testis. To elucidate the cause of tubule atrophy, we examined the expression of androgen and estrogen receptors, and the results indicated aberrant expression of androgen receptor and estrogen receptor alpha in Sertoli and Leydig cells. Southwestern histochemistry detected decreased estrogen response element-binding sites in high-mobility group box 2-depleted mouse testis. High-mobility group box 1, which has highly similar structure and function as high-mobility group box 2, was examined by immunohistochemistry and western blotting, which indicated increased expression in testis. These findings indicate a compensatory increase in high-mobility group box 1 expression in high-mobility group box 2 knock-out mouse testis. In summary, depletion of high-mobility group box 2 induced aberrant expression of androgen receptor and estrogen receptor alpha, leading to decreased germ cell proliferation and increased apoptosis which resulted in focal seminiferous tubule atrophy.

Effects of deoxynivalenol exposure at peripuberty over testicles of rats: structural and functional alterations

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is related to reduced reproductive performance in males and females in several species. Children and adolescents showed a high risk of exposure to DON, however, no study has evaluated reproductive effects of DON at puberty. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of DON at peripuberty on the testicles of pubertal rats. To achieve this, 10 Wistar rats (28 days old) were fed for 28 days with a DON-contaminated diet (9.4 mg/kg) or a control diet. After the experimental period, rats (56 days old) were euthanised and the following evaluations were performed in the testicles: dynamics of spermatogenesis, tubular morphometry, number of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells, analysis of caspase-3 expression, and the index of cell proliferation using the nucleolus organising regions (NOR) method. Ingestion of DON-contaminated diet induced a significant reduction in the number of Sertoli and Leydig cells and the number of seminiferous tubules in stage XIV. A significant increase in the number of NORs in seminiferous tubules in stage I-VI was observed in animals receiving the DON diet. No significant difference was noted in tubular morphometry or caspase-3 expression. Taken together, our results unravelled that the peripubertal exposure to DON compromised the testicular structure of pubertal rats, changing the dynamics of spermatogenesis.

Protective effects of curcumin against methotrexate-induced testicular damage in rats by suppression of the p38-MAPK and nuclear factor-kappa B pathways.

ObjectiveThe present study aimed to investigate the possibility that curcumin (CMN) protects against methotrexate (MTX)-induced testicular damage by affecting the phospho-p38 (p-p38) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways.MethodsEighteen male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into three groups. The control group was given an intragastric administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) daily for 14 days, the MTX group was given a single intraperitoneal dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) on the 11th day, and the MTX+CMN group was given intragastric CMN (100 mg/kg/day, dissolved in DMSO) for 14 days and a single intraperitoneal dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) on the 11th day. At the end of the experiment, all animals were sacrificed and the testicular tissues were removed for morphometry, histology, and immunohistochemistry. Body and testicular weights were measured.ResultsBody weights, seminiferous tubule diameter, and germinal epithelium height significantly decreased in the MTX group compared to the control group. Whereas, the number of histologically damaged seminiferous tubules and interstitial space width significantly increased in the MTX group. In addition, the number of p-p38 MAPK immunopositive cells and the immunoreactivity of NF-κB also increased in the MTX group compared to the control group. CMN improved loss of body weight, morphometric values, and histological damage due to MTX. CMN also reduced the number of p-p38 MAPK immunopositive cells and the NF-κB immunoreactivity.ConclusionCMN may reduce MTX-induced testicular damage by suppressing the p38 MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.

The Potential of Pasak Bumi as a Food Supplement to Improve Spermatogenesis in Mice Model of Malnutrition

Malnutrition causes disruption of spermatogenesis in children. Pasak Bumi has the potential to increase spermatogenesis due to malnutrition. Aimed of research is to proved Pasak Bumi as a food supplement to improve spermatogenesis disorders due to malnutrition in malnourished rats. The research method used analytical observational method by observing the histological preparations of the testes of malnourished rats. Observations using a binocular microscope were analyzed with Optilab Camera and Image Raster software. There are 5 groups of experimental: M: malnutrition without intervention; P1: malnutrition + standard feed + PB 7.5 mg/kgBW; P2: malnutrition + standard feed + PB 15 mg/kgBW; P3: malnutrition + standard feed + PB 22.5 mg/kgBW; P4: malnutrition + standard feed + PB 30 mg/kgBW; Research parameters were number of seminiferous tubules, primary spermatocytes and Leydig cells. Data analysis used the Anova One way test with a confidence level of 95%. The results showed number of seminiferous tubules, primary spermatocytes and Leydig cells in the M group was less than the P1-P4 group. This suggests malnutrition causes disruption of spermatogenesis. Conclusion the administration of Pasak Bumi extract at various doses increased spermatogenesis in malnourished.

Effects of dietary L-carnitine on puberty indices in the young breeder rooster

The aim of current study was to investigate the effect of dietary L-Carnitine (LC) in immature roosters on reproductive hormones, lipid profile and testicular histology at the time of maturity. Eighteen 12-wk-old breeder roosters (Ross 308) of similar weights were randomly allocated into 3 dietary treatments (LC-0: basic diet, LC-250: basic diet + 250 mg LC/kg of diet, LC-500: basic diet + 500 mg of LC/kg of diet) in 6 replicates. The feeding program and photoperiod regimen were performed based on ROSS 308 management handbook. Dietary LC supplementation markedly improved testicle weight and testicle index (p < 0.05). Comb height was also affected by LC supplementation (p < 0.05). The testicle weight and index, comb height, and shank lengths improved linearly with increasing levels of dietary LC (p < 0.05). The LC-250 and LC-500 diets significantly improved the number of sertoli cells (NSC), height epithelium seminiferous tubules (HEST), seminiferous tubules diameter (STD), spermiogenesis index (SI) and tubular differentiation index (TDI) of rooster's testis tissue (p < 0.05). The number of seminiferous tubules (NST) was affected by of the amount of LC (p < 0.05). The roosters on the LC-250 mg/kg diet had longer HEST compared to roosters that received the LC-500 mg/kg diet (p < 0.05). Testicular histology parameters increased in a linear and quadratic manner in response to increasing levels of LC (p < 0.05). Dietary LC significantly increased (p < 0.05) plasma concentrations of testosterone, GnRH, LH, FSH and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), but reduced the plasma concentration of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL). However, no significant differences were observed between LC-250 and LC-500 groups in these parameters. Plasma testosterone, GnRH, LH, LDL and HDL were affected in a linear and quadratic manner in response to increasing levels of LC (p < 0.05). Similarly, FSH increased linearly with increasing dietary LC (p < 0.05). Thus, adding up to 250 mg of LC per kg of diet of the rooster chicken can improve reproductive hormones, blood lipids and testicular histology parameters at the time of maturity.

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate induces testicular endoplasmic reticulum stress and germ cell apoptosis in adolescent mice.

Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a male reproductive toxicant. This research is aimed at investigating the effect of pubertal DEHP exposure on testicular endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and germ cell apoptosis. Five-week-old male mice were orally administered with DEHP (0, 0.5, 50, or 500mg/kg/day) for 35 days. Testis weight and sperm count were reduced in mice exposed to 500mg/kg/day DEHP. The number of seminiferous tubules in stages VII-VIII, mature seminiferous tubules, was reduced and the number of seminiferous tubules in stages IX-XII, immature seminiferous tubules, was elevated in mice treated with 500mg/kg/day DEHP. Numerous apoptotic germ cells were observed in mouse seminiferous tubules exposed to 50 and 500mg/kg/day DEHP. Moreover, cleaved caspase-3 was elevated in mouse testes exposed to 500mg/kg/day DEHP. In addition, Bcl-2 was reduced and Bax/Bcl-2 was elevated in mouse testes exposed to 500mg/kg/day DEHP. Additional experiment showed that GRP78, an ER molecular chaperone, was downregulated in mouse testes exposed to 500mg/kg/day DEHP. Testicular p-IRE-1α, p-JNK, and CHOP, three markers of ER stress, were upregulated in mice exposed to 500mg/kg/day DEHP. These results suggest that pubertal exposure to high doses of DEHP induces germ cell apoptosis partially through initiating ER stress in testes.

Influence of garlic (Allium sativum) and vitamin E on semen characteristics, reproductive performance and histopathology of rabbit bucks

Researches have proven that garlic has medicinal, antimicrobial properties, speeds up digestion and widely used as preservatives, spice and condiment in many homes Vitamin E on the hand is a fat soluble vitamin with potent antioxidant properties essential for the stabilization of biological membranes, protecting cells from oxidative stress and inhibits angiogenesis. Thus, a study using thirty-six (36) pre-pubertal New Zealand White rabbit bucks was conducted to investigate the physiological response of garlic and vitamin E supplementations on libido, gonadal and extra-gonadal sperm characteristics, reproductive hormone and testicular histology of rabbit bucks. The bucks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments and replicated three times in a completely randomized design (CRD). Each dietary treatment consisted of 9 rabbits per treatment with 3 rabbits per replicate. Four dietary treatments were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements of rabbits supplemented at 0% garlic and vitamin E (T1), 3% garlic (T2), Vitamin E (T3), and 3% garlic and Vitamin E (T4) respectively. Data were collected on the libido, seminal characteristics, seminal plasma, testicular morphology and hormones. The testicles were collected and processed for histopathology. Data collected on different parameters were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results showed that significantly (P&lt;0.05) differences were observed in all the seminal characteristics parameters, on the testicular weights, volumes and on the reproductive hormones compared with the control. Testicular histology showed increased in number of seminiferous tubules with the supplementation. These results proved that both garlic and Vitamin E improve semen production both in quality and quantity and the overall reproductive performance. Moreover, combination of the garlic and vitamin E gives a better result. Therefore, garlic and vitamin E should be used together for better quantitative and qualitative semen production and reproductive performance in breeding animals

Expressions of cytochrome P450 aromatase and anti‐Müllerian hormone in testes of fattening pigs by the timing of the first vaccination for immunocastration

In practice, two injections of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccine are recommended for pig immunocastration for effective outcomes. The present study aimed to investigate the expressions of cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450arom ) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in testes, testicular length and testicular histomorphometry of the fattening pigs receiving the first injection of GnRH vaccine 6weeks earlier than the standard protocol. Based on vaccination protocol, 24 pigs were equally divided into three groups: T1 was vaccinated at 15 and 19weeks of age, T2 received vaccine at 9 and 19weeks of age and C remained intact. P450arom and AMH expressions were analysed using immunohistochemistry and Western blot. The results revealed that testicular length was highest in C pigs, but not different between T1 and T2 groups (6.5±0.2 versus 6.9±0.3cm, p=.538). Histomorphometry demonstrated that the height of spermatogenic epithelia, the diameter of seminiferous tubules and the number of seminiferous tubules between T1 and T2 groups were not different (p>.05). For P450arom , immunohistochemistry revealed that H-score of C group was significantly higher than that of both T1 and T2 groups. Western blot analysis showed that C group possessed the densest protein band. Moreover, H-score between T1 and T2 groups was not significantly different. Protein band intensity between both groups was not apparently different. As for AMH, C pigs had significantly lower H-score than both T1 and T2 pigs. Furthermore, T2 pigs possessed significantly higher H-score than T1 pigs. Western blot analysis showed that the most intense protein band was found in T2 group. In summary, GnRH vaccine affected testicular development and functions. The first injection could be performed either at 9 or 15weeks of age since both protocols contributed to comparable results in aspect of testicular length, histomorphometry and expressions of P450arom and AMH.

Effects of Maternal Exposure to Lamotrigine during Pregnancy on Gonadal Toxicity in Fetus Rats.

Background: Lamotrigine is one of the newest antiepileptic drugs that is used as one of the most common treatments in pregnancy. Since the investigation of the teratogenic effects of lamotrigine is very limited and there is no report of its teratogenic effects on fetal gonads, we aimed to investigate the teratogenic effects of lamotrigine on embryonic gonads. Materials and Methods: This study was performed on nine female Wistar female rats (8 weeks, weighing 180-200 mg). At first, the animals were inspected regularly by the preparation of vaginal smear and in the estrus phase in separate cages of mating, and after observing the vaginal plaque, were randomly divided into three groups (n=3). Control group did not receive any treatment. In the lamotrigine group (20mg/kg), and the vehicle group (same volume of normal saline) were injected intraperitoneally from days 8 to 13 of pregnancy. On day 20, animals were anesthetized by sodium pentobarbital (40 mg/kg), and embryos were extracted through laparotomy. First, fetuses were weighed, and their height (crown-rump length) was measured. Then the gonads of the fetuses were removed and, stained with H & E, and examined by optical microscope. Results: Our results showed that in the lamotrigine group, the number of seminiferous tubules and Sertoli cells in the male embryos and the number of oocytes in the female embryos decreased significantly compared to the control and vehicle groups (P≤0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that treatment with 20 mg/kg lamotrigine in mothers during pregnancy could cause damage to fetal gonads.

Effects of Maternal Exposure to Lamotrigine during Pregnancy on Gonadal Toxicity in Fetus Rats

Background: Lamotrigine is one of the newest antiepileptic drugs that is used as one of the most common treatments in pregnancy. Since the investigation of the teratogenic effects of lamotrigine is very limited and there is no report of its teratogenic effects on fetal gonads, we aimed to investigate the teratogenic effects of lamotrigine on embryonic gonads. Materials and Methods: This study was performed on nine female Wistar female rats (8 weeks, weighing 180-200 mg). At first, the animals were inspected regularly by the preparation of vaginal smear and in the estrus phase in separate cages of mating, and after observing the vaginal plaque, were randomly divided into three groups (n=3). Control group did not receive any treatment. In the lamotrigine group (20mg/kg), and the vehicle group (same volume of normal saline) were injected intraperitoneally from days 8 to 13 of pregnancy. On day 20, animals were anesthetized by sodium pentobarbital (40 mg/kg), and embryos were extracted through laparotomy. First, fetuses were weighed, and their height (crown-rump length) was measured. Then the gonads of the fetuses were removed and, stained with H &amp; E, and examined by optical microscope. Results: Our results showed that in the lamotrigine group, the number of seminiferous tubules and Sertoli cells in the male embryos and the number of oocytes in the female embryos decreased significantly compared to the control and vehicle groups (P≤0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that treatment with 20 mg/kg lamotrigine in mothers during pregnancy could cause damage to fetal gonads. [GMJ.2020;9:e1557]

Spermiogenesis, stages of seminiferous epithelium and variations in seminiferous tubules during active states of spermatogenesis in Yangzhou goose ganders

The past three decades revolutionized the goose industry in the world. China holds the world's largest goose breeds stock by 95% of the global total. To optimize the goose industry and cope with ever increasing poultry meat and egg demands, there is a dire need to focus on reproduction, as most geese breeds exhibit poor reproductive performance. The present study was conducted with the aim to add a contribution in the goose industry and research by the histological visualizing step wise development of germ cells during spermatogenesis by microscopy and a histological technique. Yangzhou goose is a synthetic breed developed by using local goose germplasm resources of China. It is popular in the Chinese goose industry due to high productivity and adaptability. This research evaluated the steps of spermiogenesis and stages along with morphological changes in the seminiferous epithelium in Yangzhou goose ganders. For the assessment of various stages of the seminiferous epithelium cycle, testis sections were embedded in molten paraffin wax. The initial steps of spermiogenesis were depicted by changes in acrosomic granules, whereas further stages were identified by nuclear morphological changes. Ten steps of spermiogenesis and nine stages of seminiferous epithelium were identified. Four types of spermatogonia Ad, Ap1, Ap2 and B were recognized. The results depicted a clear variation in the diameter of seminiferous tubules (ST), epithelium height (EH), luminal tubular diameter (LD), number of seminiferous tubules per field and the Johnsen score. Microscopy indicated that the stages of seminiferous epithelium were similar to other birds and mammals and the ST diameter, EH, LD and Johnsen score are positively correlated while the number of seminiferous tubules per field is negatively correlated with the ST diameter, EH, LD and Johnsen score. Fertility in Yangzhou ganders can further be improved by visualizing the histological development of germs cells in testis tissues during spermatogenesis after onset of breeding season and maturity. Our results suggest that Yangzhou ganders reach complete sexual maturity at 227 days of age.

Lack of retinoid acid receptor-related orphan receptor alpha accelerates and melatonin supplementation prevents testicular aging.

The role of retinoid acid receptor-related orphan receptor alpha (RORα) on male reproductive functions during aging is unclear. Here, we analyze the morphological changes in the testis of both young and aged RORα-deficient mice, with and without melatonin supplementation. Young mutants showed vacuolation, degeneration and pyknosis of spermatogenic epithelium and Sertoli cells. Aged mutants showed atrophy of the seminiferous tubules and absence of mitotic spermatogenic cells. Absence of sperms in many tubules, loss of acrosomal cap, vacuolation and hypertrophy of Sertoli cells were detected in aged mice, with a significant reduction in the number of seminiferous tubules and a significant increase in the number of Leydig cells and telocytes. Repair in seminiferous tubules and interstitial tissues with enhancement of spermatogenesis was observed in melatonin-treated aged mice. Young mutants overexpressed VEGF that was weaker in aged animals and observed only in the spermatocytes, while melatonin increased VEGF expression in spermatocytes and spermatids. Caspase 3 increased in both young and aged mutant mice in all seminiferous tubules and interstitium; caspase 3 immunostaining in seminiferous tubules, however, showed a normal pattern of apoptosis with melatonin supplementation. The present study reports that age-dependent testicular changes in RORα mutant mice were recovered by melatonin treatment.

Spermiogenesis, Stages of Seminiferous Epithelium and Variations in Seminiferous Tubules during Active States of Spermatogenesis in Yangzhou Goose Ganders.

Simple SummaryOptimum hatchability and fertility in the goose industry is inevitable without emphasizing on reproductive health of ganders. Determining stages of spermatogenesis is a critical factor in evaluating the age of maturity and reproductive health of animals. The current study was designed to evaluate the steps of spermiogenesis and stages along with morphological changes in seminiferous epithelium in Yangzhou goose ganders. The results of the study revealed that inside seminiferous epithelium, initial steps of spermiogenesis are depicted by changes in acrosomic granules, whereas further stages are identified by nuclear morphological changes. Furthermore, ten steps of spermiogenesis, nine stages of seminiferous epithelium and four types of spermatogonia Ad, Ap1, Ap2 and B were identified. In Yangzhou goose ganders, recommended age of sexual maturity is 227 days of age.The past three decades revolutionized the goose industry in the world. China holds the world’s largest goose breeds stock by 95% of the global total. To optimize the goose industry and cope with ever increasing poultry meat and egg demands, there is a dire need to focus on reproduction, as most geese breeds exhibit poor reproductive performance. The present study was conducted with the aim to add a contribution in the goose industry and research by the histological visualizing step wise development of germ cells during spermatogenesis by microscopy and a histological technique. Yangzhou goose is a synthetic breed developed by using local goose germplasm resources of China. It is popular in the Chinese goose industry due to high productivity and adaptability. This research evaluated the steps of spermiogenesis and stages along with morphological changes in the seminiferous epithelium in Yangzhou goose ganders. For the assessment of various stages of the seminiferous epithelium cycle, testis sections were embedded in molten paraffin wax. The initial steps of spermiogenesis were depicted by changes in acrosomic granules, whereas further stages were identified by nuclear morphological changes. Ten steps of spermiogenesis and nine stages of seminiferous epithelium were identified. Four types of spermatogonia Ad, Ap1, Ap2 and B were recognized. The results depicted a clear variation in the diameter of seminiferous tubules (ST), epithelium height (EH), luminal tubular diameter (LD), number of seminiferous tubules per field and the Johnsen score. Microscopy indicated that the stages of seminiferous epithelium were similar to other birds and mammals and the ST diameter, EH, LD and Johnsen score are positively correlated while the number of seminiferous tubules per field is negatively correlated with the ST diameter, EH, LD and Johnsen score. Fertility in Yangzhou ganders can further be improved by visualizing the histological development of germs cells in testis tissues during spermatogenesis after onset of breeding season and maturity. Our results suggest that Yangzhou ganders reach complete sexual maturity at 227 days of age.