Male Reproductive System Research Articles

Congenital absence of vas deferens: Anatomical and embryological inputs from a series of autopsies reported in Europe throughout the 18th and 19th century.

Congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD) is a syndrome with a heterogeneous presentation: bilateral (CBAVD) or unilateral (CUAVD), complete or partial and associated or not with other anomalies of the male urogenital system. A turning point came in 1968 when CBAVD was associated with cystic fibrosis and its CFTR gene mutations. Genetic studies then revealed that a minority of CBAVD but a majority of CUAVD are CFTR-independent. In the literature, reference is classically made to two sources from the 18th and 19th century: Hunter and Reverdin. This scarcity prompted us to look for additional observations of CAVD. By a meticulous bibliographical search, we identified a corpus of 10 European observations (8 CUAVD and 2 CBAVD) some of them richly illustrated. They were collected between 1755 and 1876 throughout adult men autopsies. We also provided their primary and unambiguous sources. Analysis of the reported data revealed some interesting facts: both CBAVD cases were unlikely linked to cystic fibrosis and half of CUAVD cases were associated with an ipsilateral kidney absence, suggesting a CFTR-independent pathophysiology. Moreover, the anatomical details of the anomalies raise interesting embryological questions we have tried to address in the light of current data. This work made it possible to identify new historical sources dealing with male genital tract pathologies. It sheds light on the origins of andrology and opens up interesting prospects for research and education in the field.

Ginkgo biloba extract alleviates deltamethrin-induced testicular injury by upregulating SKP2 and inhibiting Beclin1-independent autophagy

BackgroundMale infertility is a worldwide concern that is associated with a decline in sperm quality. Environmental pollutants such as deltamethrin (DM) have harmful effects on male reproductive organs. By maintaining intracellular redox homeostasis, ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) can alleviate male reproductive dysfunction. However, research on the mechanisms by which GBE alleviates reproductive toxicity induced by DM is limited. PurposeIn this study, we investigated whether GBE can alleviate DM-induced testicular and Sertoli cell reproductive toxicity by modulating SKP2 and Beclin1, thus providing a theoretical basis for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Study DesignWe explored the role of GBE in mitigating DM-induced testicular damage, with a specific focus on the intricate involvement of ubiquitination and autophagy. MethodsAn experimental model was constructed using ICR male mice and the TM4 cell line. Tissue, cellular, and sperm morphological changes were observed through methods such as Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, Periodate-Schiff (PAS) staining, ultrastructural observation, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Enzyme and hormone levels were measured, and gene and protein levels were detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting techniques. ResultsIn vivo experiments showed that DM exposure led to decreased sex hormone levels, increased seminiferous tubule diameter and impaired spermatogenesis. Meanwhile, DM exposure was found to decrease ubiquitination levels, leading to mitochondrial damage and further escalation of mitochondrial autophagy. Furthermore, in the DM-induced cell model, the upregulation of Beclin1 expression was associated with the inhibition of the ubiquitin‒proteasome system (UPS) and SKP2, thereby exacerbating autophagy. However, GBE has demonstrated notable efficacy in alleviating the reproductive toxicity induced by DM. ConclusionOur findings highlighted that SKP2 is a key regulator of Beclin1-independent autophagy and that GBE exerts therapeutic effects by upregulating SKP2 and inhibiting Beclin1 activation, which ameliorates autophagy and reduces DM-induced testicular damage.

Molecular Aspects of Loss of Y-linked Proteins and Their Potential Applications in Cell Biology

Loss of proteins linked to Y chromosome (LOY) is a biomarker in human that is typically found in male blood samples. In healthy males, its frequency often rises with age. Additionally, it has lately been linked to numerous illnesses, including cancer with significantly high prevalence. A healthy male development depends on the Y chromosome and associated proteins. The deletion of this chromosome’s proteins or even its LOY variant may have effects on the male body. These proteins serve purposes beyond those of the male reproductive system. Paternity testing, ancestry research, and sexual assault investigations are just a few of the forensic situations where Y-linked protein analyses are frequently used. Due to its connection to the aging process, LOY detection has the benefit of being a biological age biomarker. The possibility of using LOY as a biomarker brings to light the need to define the molecular process underlying its occurrence and its potential applications in both health and forensic studies. Humans frequently experience LOY, a non-physiological post-zygotic molecular change that mostly affects male blood cells[Forsberg, 2017; Forsberg et al., 2017]. It is a natural part of aging and has been related to a number of illnesses, including as Alzheimer’s, Autoimmune disorders, Schizophrenia, Cardiovascular problems, and different malignancies[Holmes et al., 1985;Persanietal., 2012; Dumanskiet al., 2016; Forsberg, 2017; Forsberg et al., 2017; Haitjemaet al., 2017;]. It is possible to think about LOY as a biological age marker and a biomarker that predicts male age-related disorders [Dumanskiet al., 2016].However, LOY analysis might obstruct the forensic examination of male samples while also being helpful in forensic investigations by offering important details.

ETUDE DES MARQUEURS BIOCHIMIQUES DU LIQUIDE SEMINAL DANS LE DIAGNOSTIC DIFFERENTIEL DE LAZOOSPERMIE SECRETOIRE ET EXCRETOIRE A LINSP DE BAMAKO (MALI)

Infertility remains a major public health problem in Africa, particularly in Mali, as the main purpose of marriage is procreation. The birth of a child in the home is a source of joy and contributes to the maintenance of the household. The woman is almost always to blame for the couples infertility, as men confuse infertility with virility. The male cause is often discovered during an infertility work-up.The aim of the present study was to measure some biochemical markers of seminal fluid (alphaglucosidase and fructose) in the differential diagnosis of secretory and excretory azoospermia.This was a cross-sectional study, which ran from January 2020 to December 2023. It was carried out in the cytogenetics and reproductive biology department of the INSP, Bamako (Mali). It involved 49 patients selected from 125 confirmed azoospermic patients. Seminal fluid fructose and alphaglucosidase assays were performed on an ELx808, version 2021.Data analysis found that the mean age of patients was 37.5 ± 7.2 years, with a median of 37 years and 75% percentiles (Q3 quartiles) less than or equal to 42 years. Primary infertility was observed in 67.3%, compared with 32.7% for secondary infertility. Monogamy was the most common with 75.5%. The most common lifestyle habits were smoking (28.6%) and exposure of the genitals to heat (12.2%). There was no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) between medical history of varicocele, epididymitis, bilharziosis, mumps, orchitis and cryptorchidism and fructose. For the same medical history, only orchitis is associated with a pathological alphaglucosidase value, with a statistically significant difference (p=0.001). This result remains significant with the Bonferroni correction (0.004).The results of seminal fluid biochemical marker assays (alphaglucosidase and fructose) in our 49 patients showed secretory azoospermia in 32 patients (65.3%) and excretory azoospermia in 17 patients (34.7%). Fructose and hypospermia were not associated with the type of azoospermia (p>0.05). The significance of the association with abnormal alphaglucosidase defined the type of excretory azoospermia (P=0.000000001).Indeed, seminal fluid biochemical marker assays should be requested in all cases of male infertility. These results could provide vital information on all the organs of the male genital tract, enabling practitioners to better manage male infertility.

GHRH and reproductive systems: Mechanisms, functions, and clinical implications.

Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) has classically been considered a regulatory neuropeptide of the hypothalamic-pituitary system, which mediates its anabolic effects through hepatic GH/IGF-I axis. However, during the last decades it has been demonstrated that this key regulatory hormone may be produced in numerous peripheral tissues outside the central nervous system, participating in fundamental physiological functions through a complex balance between its purely endocrine action, and the recently local (autocrine/paracrine) discovered role. Among peripheral sites, its presence in the male and female reproductive systems stands out. In this review, we will first explore the role of the GHRH/GHRH-R hormone axis as a central player in the gonadal function; then, we will discuss available information regarding the presence of GHRH/GHRH-R and the potential physiological roles in reproductive systems of various species; and finally, we will address how reproductive system-related disorders-such as infertility problems, endometriosis, or tumor pathologies (including prostate, or ovarian cancer)-could benefit from hormonal interventions related to the manipulation of the GHRH axis.

Oxidative Stress and Energy Metabolism in Male Reproductive Damage from Single and Combined High-Power Microwave Exposure at 1.5 and 4.3Ghz

The effect of multi-frequency electromagnetic environments on male reproduction has attracted the medical community’s interest. Studies have investigated the effects and mechanisms of single-frequency microwave exposure on male reproduction, but comparative research on high-power microwave (HPM) composite and single exposure remains scarce. This study aimed to examine the effects and mechanisms of combined 1.5GHz and 4.3GHz microwave exposure on male reproduction. Male Wistar rats were exposed to 1.5GHz (L-band) and 4.3GHz (C-band) electromagnetic radiation for 15minutes. The four groups were: sham, 10mW/cm² L-band, 10mW/cm² C-band, and 5mW/cm² L-band and 5mW/cm² C-band compound. Assessments were made on the pathological structures of testes, sperm viability, serum sex hormones, oxidative stress, and energy metabolism levels after radiation. Exposure to 1.5GHz and 4.3GHz microwaves individually resulted in testicular tissue damage and reduced sperm quality. There was little difference between the damage caused by HPM composite and single exposure. The exposed groups showed histological and ultrastructural changes, with reduced spermatozoa viability, motility parameters, and serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and serum inhibin-B on days 1 and 7 after exposure. These tended to recover partially by day 14. Adenosine triphosphate content and lactate dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase activities in the exposed testicular tissue decreased, corresponding to decreased superoxide dismutase activity and increased malondialdehyde content. Both single and combined exposure to L- and C-band HPM affect the male reproductive system. Exposure to single and compound HPM shows no significant difference in risks, with oxidative stress and energy metabolism disturbances playing key roles.

Oxidative stress on the male reproductive organs of wild mice collected from an area contaminated by radioactive materials in Fukushima

The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident caused the release of large amounts of radioactive material into the environment. Radiation from radionuclides cause DNA lesions, mainly via oxidation, which adversely affect wild organisms by damaging their germ cells. Here, we investigated the effects of radiation on the reproductive organs of Japanese field mice (Apodemus speciosus) by estimating the dose rate of radiation exposure, the accumulation of DNA lesions, and the expression of DNA repair enzymes. In highly contaminated areas, mouse testes received a radiation dose rate > 0.1 mGy/d. According to the International Commission on Radiological Protection, there is a very low probability of effects in the reference rat species at this exposure level. The results of the current study do not definitively conclude that the expression of 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase 1 and superoxide dismutase in mouse testes increase with dose rate and lifetime dose. However, 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine accumulation increases in a dose rate- and lifetime dose-dependent manner in mouse testes, but is not observed in the sperm of the cauda epididymis. These results suggest that, although DNA lesions occurred in male germ cells of Fukushima mice, most were successfully repaired by DNA repair enzymes at the observed gene expression level.

Testicular enzyme activity alterations in rats with liver cirrhosis induced by alcohol and acetaminophen

Alcohol-induced acetaminophen (APAP) toxicity is one of the numerous factors that might result in liver cirrhosis (LC). The hepatotoxicity of APAP appears to increase in chronic drinkers, according to a number of investigations. These people not only have a greater risk of experiencing acute overdose-related severe and deadly liver damage but are also at risk of experiencing similar substantial liver damage from therapeutic APAP use. The male reproductive system consists of both testes and a few other auxiliary sexual organs. Smaller and lighter testicles are indicative of severe cirrhosis causing testicular atrophy. In the case of severe LC, low testosterone results from hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Sexual dysfunction is a prevalent condition that is frequently overlooked in individuals suffering from cirrhosis and chronic liver disease. Eighteen rats were randomly divided into three groups. Rats of normal control group received water and normal diet ad libitum; alcohol control and LC group received 4.5% alcohol and a combination of 4.5% alcohol and APAP (300 mg/kg bw) through drinking water, respectively, for 7 days. Several glycolytic and antioxidant enzymes were assessed for their effects through non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis and enzyme activity. The results indicated that long-term alcohol consumption and APAP medication altered the levels of antioxidant and glycolytic enzymes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that chronic alcoholism and APAP induce hepatotoxicity, and LC further affects the antioxidant and glycolytic enzyme activities of the testes.

The genome of the simultaneously hermaphroditic snail Lymnaea stagnalis reveals an evolutionary expansion of FMRFamide-like receptors

The great pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis has served as a model organism for over a century in diverse disciplines such as neurophysiology, evolution, ecotoxicology and developmental biology. To support both established uses and newly emerging research interests we have performed whole genome sequencing (avg.176 × depth), assembly and annotation of a single individual derived from an inbred line. These efforts resulted in a final assembly of 943 Mb (L50 = 257; N50 = 957,215) with a total of 22,499 predicted gene models. The mitogenome was found to be 13,834 bp long and similarly organized as in other lymnaeid species, with minor differences in location of tRNA genes. As a first step towards understanding the hermaphroditic reproductive biology of L. stagnalis, we identified molecular receptors, specifically nuclear receptors (including newly discovered 2xDNA binding domain-NRs), G protein-coupled receptors, and receptor tyrosine kinases, that may be involved in the cellular specification and maintenance of simultaneously active male and female reproductive systems. A phylogenetic analysis of one particular family of GPCRs (Rhodopsin neuropeptide FMRFamide-receptor-like genes) shows a remarkable expansion that coincides with the occurrence of simultaneous hermaphroditism in the Euthyneura gastropods. As some GPCRs and NRs also showed qualitative differences in expression in female (albumen gland) and male (prostate gland) organs, it is possible that separate regulation of male and female reproductive processes may in part have been enabled by an increased abundance of receptors in the transition from a separate-sexed state to a hermaphroditic condition. These findings will support efforts to pair receptors with their activating ligands, and more generally stimulate deeper insight into the mechanisms that underlie the modes of action of compounds involved in neuroendocrine regulation of reproduction, induced toxicity, and development in L. stagnalis, and molluscs in general.

Mesenchymal stem cells and mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes: attractive therapeutic approaches for female reproductive dysfunction.

Infertility is a reproductive health problem in the male or female reproductive system. Traditional assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been unable to solve various cases of infertility for years. Clinical researchers have sought to treat infertility using new methods that are more effective and noninvasive than the old methods. Recently, Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and MSCs-derived Exosomes (MSC-Exos) via paracrine activity play an important role in treating various causes of infertility and improving pregnancy outcomes. In this review, we focus on the roles of MSCs and MSC-Exos cell therapy in female infertility in the different types of female reproductive disorders.

Exosomal ncRNAs in reproductive cancers.

Extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes, play a pivotal role in the cellular mechanisms underlying cancer. This review explores the various functions of exosomes in the progression, growth, and metastasis of cancers affecting the male and female reproductive systems. Exosomes are identified as key mediators in intercellular communication, capable of transferring bioactive molecules such as miRNAs, proteins, and other nucleic acids that influence cancer cell behavior and tumor microenvironment interactions. It has been shown that nc-RNAs transported by exosomes play an important role in tumor growth processes. Significant molecules that may serve as biomarkers in the development and progression of male reproductive cancers include miR-125a-5p, miR-21, miR-375, the miR-371 ~ 373 cluster, and miR-145-5p. For female reproductive cancers, significant miRNAs include miR-26a-5p, miR-148b, miR-205, and miRNA-423-3p. This review highlights the potential of these ncRNAs as biomarkers and prognostics in tumor diagnostics. Understanding the diverse roles of exosomes may hold promise for developing new therapeutic strategies and improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients.

Examination of the Toxicity Pattern and Influence of Azadirachta indica on Testicular Function and Expression of Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen in Plasmodium berghei-Infected Mice

Background: Malaria, a parasitic disease caused by a single-celled parasite called Plasmodium, poses a significant global health burden, especially in tropical regions such as Africa. The impact of malaria on human health is well-documented; however, its effects on the male reproductive system and the impact of herbal extracts remain underexplored. Objectives: This study aims to investigate Azadirachta indica's toxicity and its antimalarial potency's influence on testicular function and expression of proliferating cells nuclear antigen (PCNA). Methods: The antimalarial activity of Azadirachta indica was determined using standard procedures. Thirty male mice were used and grouped into six. Group 1 (normal control), group 2 (P. berghei infected only - negative control), group 3 (Plasmodium berghei infected + lonart - standard drug), group 4 (P. berghei infected + 100 mg/kg BWT crude ethanol extract), group 5 (P. berghei infected + 200 mg/kg BWT crude ethanol extract), group 6 (P. berghei infected + 400 mg/kg BWT crude ethanol extract). Administration of A. indica leaf extract to infected mice for four consecutive days demonstrated promising results. Results: The extract significantly suppressed parasite multiplication, ameliorated testicular damage, and improved sperm quality. The non-toxic extract also reduced oxidative stress in the testes, suggesting its potential effectiveness as phytotherapy against malaria-induced male reproductive impairments. Conclusions: The beneficial effects of A. indica emphasize its potential as a natural remedy for malaria-induced reproductive complications, offering a new avenue for therapeutic intervention in malaria-endemic regions. This study contributes to our knowledge of the intricate relationship between malaria and male reproductive health and provides valuable insights for future research and clinical applications.

HISTOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF ACTION BITTERS ON THE TESTES OF ADULT MALE WISTAR RATS

Action Bitters, a popular herbal concoction, has been traditionally used to treat various health conditions, including those related to the male reproductive system. Despite its widespread use, there is a dearth of scientific evidence on its effects on the testes. This study aimed to investigate the histological changes in the testes of adult male Wistar rats following administration of Action Bitters. Methods: Fifteen adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups (n = 5). Group A served as the normal control, while groups B and C received 10% (0.66ml/kg) and 5% (0.33ml/kg) lethal dose 50 (Ld50) of Action Bitters, respectively. The Ld50 values were calculated based on the median lethal dose of the herbal remedy. The rats were administered the herbal remedy for a period of one month, after which they were sacrificed, and their testes collected for histological examination. Results: Microscopic examination of the testicular tissue samples revealed no evidence of abnormal cellular changes or tissue damage. The tissue samples appeared normal, with no signs of inflammation, necrosis, or apoptosis. Discussion: The findings of this study suggest that Action Bitters does not induce histological changes in the testes of adult male Wistar rats. These results provide new insights into the potential mechanism of action of the herbal medication on testicular function. The study highlights the importance of considering both histological and biochemical assessments when evaluating the effects of herbal remedies on reproductive health. Conclusion: This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the effects of herbal remedies on the male reproductive system. The findings suggest that Action Bitters may be a safe and effective herbal remedy for treating reproductive health issues, and further research is warranted to explore its potential benefits and mechanisms of action.

From Hypoxia to Oxidative Stress: Antioxidants' Role to Reduce Male Reproductive Damage.

Hypoxia is one of the main reasons causing male reproductive damage for people living in high altitude. Pathological evidences have been presented both in humans and animal models. Spermatogenesis disruption, worse sperm parameters, hormone disorder and erectile dysfunction are emblematic of male reproductive impairments brought by hypoxia. Among many mechanisms impairing male reproductive systems, oxidative stress is always a field of interest to explore. Although previous reviews have discussed about hypoxia or oxidative stress and antioxidants on male fertility respectively, no one has elucidated the concrete role of oxidative stress in hypoxia and correlating antioxidants that can ameliorate the negative effects. In this review, we firstly introduce hypoxia etiology and describe specific damage of hypoxia on male reproductive functions. Then, we emphasized interplays between hypoxia and oxidative stress as well as negative influences brought by oxidative stress. Finally, we listed antioxidants for oxidative stress and hypoxia-induced reproductive damage and discussed their controversial experimental effects for male infertility.

Immediate and long-term consequences of coronavirus disease 2019 on fertility and androgenic status of men

BACKGROUND: The new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) recognized as a global pandemic, impacts many human organs and systems. In view of the coronavirus widespread and high incidence of the disease in young men of reproductive potential, It would be relevant to assess the immediate and long-term consequences of coronavirus disease on the reproductive system of men and their hormonal status AIM: To study of the effect of COVID-19 on the male reproductive system and hormonal status. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included the findings of examination and treatment of 62 men aged 22 to 45 years (mean age: 38.3 ± 3.2 years) who had COVID-19 confirmed by PCR testing within 3-6 months prior to the study. Sixteen (25.8%) men had severe disease, and 46 (74.2%) men suffered from moderate one. All patients enrolled in the study had spermogram parameters, mixed antiglobulin reaction (MAR) test findings and total plasma testosterone levels were within the reference values before the disease. These parameters were determined for all patients after recovery at 6 and 12 months. RESULTS: Six months after the disease, significant spermatogenesis disorders, manifested by a decreasing concentration and/or mobility and/or the number of normal forms of spermatozoa, leukospermia, were observed in 14 of 16 (87.5%) patients in the severe disease group and in 16 of 46 (34.7%) patients with moderate severity disease (p 0.05). Total plasma testosterone levels were decreased in all 16 (100%) patients in the severe group and in 32 of 46 (69.6%) patients in the moderate group (p 0.05). Within 12 months after the disease, significant disorders in the main spermogram parameters were observed in 5 of 16 (31.2%) patients with severe coronavirus disease, and in 4 of 46 (8.7%) patients with moderate coronavirus (p 0.05). A decrease in total plasma testosterone levels occurred in 10 of 16 (62,5%) men of the severe disease group and in 4 of 46 (8.7%) men with moderate disease (p 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrate the negative impact of COVID-19 on male fertility and hormonal status. The coronavirus severity mainly determines the rate, intensity and duration of spermatogenesis disorders and hypogonadism manifestations that occur after it.

Aflatoxin Exposure-Caused Male Reproductive Toxicity: Molecular Mechanisms, Detoxification, and Future Directions.

Widespread endocrine disorders and infertility caused by environmental and food pollutants have drawn considerable global attention. Aflatoxins (AFTs), a prominent class of mycotoxins, are recognized as one of the key contributors to environmental and food contamination. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most potent and toxic pollutant among them and is known to cause multiple toxic effects, including neuro-, nephro-, hepato-, immune-, and genotoxicity. Recently, concerns have been raised regarding AFB1-induced infertility in both animals and humans. Exposure to AFB1 can disrupt the structure and functionality of reproductive organs, leading to gametogenesis impairment in males, subsequently reducing fertility. The potential molecular mechanisms have been demonstrated to involve oxidative stress, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, inflammatory responses, and autophagy. Furthermore, several signaling pathways, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; NOD-, LRR-, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3; nuclear factor kappa-B; p53; p21; phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B; the mammalian target of rapamycin; adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase; and mitochondrial apoptotic pathways, are implicated in these processes. Various interventions, including the use of small molecules, Chinese herbal extracts, probiotic supplementation, and camel milk, have shown efficacy in ameliorating AFB1-induced male reproductive toxicity, by targeting these signaling pathways. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the harmful impacts of AFB1 exposure on male reproductive organs in mammals, highlighting the potential molecular mechanisms and protective agents.

Protective effects of Juglans regia oil on lead acetate-induced reprotoxicity in rats: an antioxidant, histological and computational molecular study.

Lead (Pb) is a metal that affects many body systems, primarily the male reproductive system. This study aimed to examine the phytochemical profiling and beneficial effects of Juglans regia oil (JRO) in alleviating lead-induced reprotoxicity-associated oxidative injury in rats. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups as follows: control group received no treatment, Pb group was exposed to 0.344 g kg-1 bw of Pb acetate, Pb + JRO group was co-treated with Pb plus walnut oil (0.9 g kg-1 bw) and JRO group received walnut oil only. Pb-treated rats showed significantly decreased gonado-somatic index, count and viability of sperm. Testosterone levels decreased in Pb-treated animals. Besides, Pb disrupted the oxidative/antioxidative status, the plasmatic lipase activity and testicular Pb content. Furthermore, Pb produced testis histopathological features, especially cell degeneration, atrophy and tubular disarrangement. Co-treatment with JRO was found to be effective for recovering the increased testicular oxidative damage-associated histological features in the Pb group. This was supported by the in silico modeling results. The in silico analyses revealed that JRO compounds bound androgen receptor and RAC-alpha serine/threonine kinase with high affinities, which together with pharmacokinetic properties and molecular interactions satisfactorily support the beneficial in vivo findings in the Pb + JRO group of rats. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Progress in the study of toxic effects of drugs on the male reproductive system

This paper provides a comprehensive summary of the toxic effects of drugs on the male reproductive system, with a special focus on the mechanisms of testicular and sperm damage caused by chemotherapeutic agents, antibiotics, and immunosuppressants. Drug-induced reproductive toxicity usually manifests through multiple pathways including direct injury, interference with hormone regulation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage. These mechanisms can lead to impaired spermatogenesis, decreased testicular function, and long-term infertility, thereby seriously affecting male reproductive health. Specifically, chemotherapeutic drugs, such as cisplatin and cyclophosphamide, have been widely documented to cause direct damage to the testes, leading to significant decreases in sperm quantity and quality. Antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs also negatively affect reproductive function by affecting mitochondrial function and inducing oxidative stress in the testicular cells. Although important advances have been made in recent years in the study of drug-induced reproductive toxicity, further exploration is needed to assess the variability of individual responses to drugs and develop long-term protective measures. Future research should focus on developing accurate toxicity assessment methods, customized therapeutic regimens, and enhanced fertility protection strategies, such as the use of antioxidants and methods for the cryopreservation of testes and sperm. Interdisciplinary collaboration will provide new solutions for balancing disease treatment and fertility preservation, especially in the use of high-risk drugs, such as anticancer therapies, where achieving both efficacy and reproductive health will be an important clinical challenge.

Evidence of antiparallel sperm bundles and limited sperm production in adult males of Phaleria testacea Say, 1824 (Tenebrionidae, Diaperinae)

In this study, we investigated the male reproductive system and sperm morphology of Phaleria testacea using both light and transmission electron microscopy. Our findings revealed important testicular features, such as the antiparallel arrangement of sperm in the testicular cysts, limited sperm prodution in adult males, defective spermatozoa, and bodies of cellular membranes in deterioration. We also observed more spermatids per cyst than in most Tenebrionoidea. The presence of vesicular bodies and defective spermatozoa may be linked to the species' environmental factors. Ultrastructurally, P. testacea spermatozoa display, in cross-section, rounded accessory bodies and a flattened nucleus and acrosome, the latter with two layers, and the flagellar elements like other tenebrionids. This study provides valuable information for understanding the reproductive biology of P. testacea and the sperm morphology in Tenebrionidae, along with their phylogenetic implications.

Subchronic elevation in ambient temperature drives alterations to the sperm epigenome and accelerates early embryonic development in mice

Forecasted increases in the prevalence and severity of extreme weather events accompanying changes in climatic behavior pose potential risk to the reproductive capacity of humans and animals of ecological and agricultural significance. While several studies have revealed that heat stress induced by challenges such as testicular insulation can elicit a marked negative effect on the male reproductive system, and particularly the production of spermatozoa, less is known about the immediate impact on male reproductive function following subchronic whole-body exposure to elevated ambient temperature. To address this knowledge gap, we exposed unrestrained male mice to heat stress conditions that emulate a heat wave (daily cycle of 8 h at 35 °C followed by 16 h at 25 °C) for a period of 7 d. Neither the testes or epididymides of heat-exposed male mice exhibited evidence of gross histological change, and similarly, spermatozoa of exposed males retained their functionality and ability to support embryonic development. However, the embryos generated from heat-exposed spermatozoa experienced pronounced changes in gene expression linked to acceleration of early embryo development, aberrant blastocyst hatching, and increased fetal:placental weight ratio. Such changes were causally associated with an altered sperm small noncoding RNA (sncRNA) profile, such that these developmental phenotypes were recapitulated by microinjection of wild-type embryos sired by control spermatozoa with RNAs extracted from heat-exposed spermatozoa. Such data highlight that even relatively modest excursions in ambient temperature can affect male reproductive function and identify the sperm sncRNA profile as a particular point of vulnerability to this imposed environmental stress.