Seminiferous Tubule Diameter Research Articles

Prenatal exposure to bisphenol AF induced male offspring reproductive dysfunction by triggering testicular innate and adaptive immune responses

As an emerging endocrine-disrupting component with a chemical structure related to Bisphenol A (BPA), Bisphenol AF (BPAF) has become widely distributed in the environment and human surroundings. Although numerous studies have focused on its reproductive toxicity, the impact of prenatal BPAF exposure on the reproductive system of adult male offspring, particularly testicular morphology and function, as well as the underlying mechanisms, remains largely understudied. This study found prenatal BPAF exposure at a dose of 300 μg/kg b.w. induced a 32% loss of seminal vesicle weight, a 12% reduction in the anogenital distance index (AGI), and impairments to testicular morphology, such as a reduced diameter of seminiferous tubules and thickness of the seminiferous epithelium, as well as a more than 2 - fold decrease in testosterone level, and 41% and 19% reduction of sperm count and vitality, respectively, in the 10 week-old male offsprings. Testicular RNA-Seq data showed that 334 differential expressed genes (DEGs) were primarily involved in several immunological processes, including host defense response, innate and adaptive immune response, cellular response to interferon (IFN)-β and γ, antigen processing and presentation, regulation of T cell activation, etc. Importantly, our results revealed a pattern recognition receptor — absent in melanoma-2 (Aim2) was significantly increased in the testes of exposed males, thus triggering a testicular innate antiviral immunological response, leading to an increase of F4/80+ and CD11b+ macrophage. Subsequently, Aim2 activated the downstream signaling nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), stimulated the transcription of IFN-β and -γ, and then induced cytokine production while upregulating MHC class II molecules to activate CD4+ and CD8+ Tcells, suggesting that an adaptive immune response was also elicited. The results demonstrated that prenatal BPAF exposure could provoke innate and adaptive immunological responses in the testes of adult males through the Aim2-NF-κB-IFNs signaling pathway. Our work provided insights into understanding the reproductive toxicity caused by BPAF and clarified the possible mechanisms, which offered a potential therapeutic target and treatment strategy for BPAF exposure-induced reproductive dysfunction.

Supplementation of feedlot lambs with cactus cladodes as strategy to improve testicular function

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of diets containing cactus cladodes genotypes on plasma testosterone levels, testicular histopathological and histomorphometric parameters, and oxidative stress markers in lambs. Thirty-six male, intact Santa Inês lambs (22.0 ± 2.9 kg initial body weight), were to feedlot for 86 days. A completely randomized design was used with three dietary treatments (control diet with Tifton-85 hay as the only roughage; and two more diets with Miúda or OEM cactus cladodes partially replacing hay) and twelve replicates. There was no influence of the diets on the testicular weight (P = 0.414) and gonadosomatic index (P = 0.384) of lambs. The testosterone serum concentrations were almost twice as higher in lambs fed Miúda cactus cladodes compared to control treatment. There was greater incidence and severity of lesions in the testicular parenchyma of animals that received control diet: loosening of germ cell epithelium, germ cell desquamation and vacuolization of Sertoli cells. The seminiferous tubule diameter and height of the seminiferous epithelium were higher in lambs fed OEM cactus cladodes (P = 0.003). The tubular volume and Leydig cells volume were higher in animals fed with cactus cladodes (P < 0.05). The levels of malondialdehyde were higher in the lambs of control group compared to OEM group (P = 0.039) and the testicular concentration of nitric oxide was higher in control group (P = 0.009). The diet containing OEM cactus cladodes increased the levels of superoxide dismutase. Our results indicate that diets containing cactus cladodes promote antioxidant protection to the testicular parenchyma and preserve the spermatogenic process of lambs.

Sexual maturation in male bowhead whales (Balaena mysticetus) of the Bering-Chukchi-Beaufort Seas stock

Since the mid-1970s, study has focused on reproductive biology of female bowhead whales, while little has been described for males. This study evaluates testicular morphology (mass and length) and histology in relation to body length to determine the onset of male sexual maturity. Mean testis mass and mean testis length were highly correlated. Body length and mean testis mass were significantly correlated and an inflection of increased testicular mass occurred at approximately 12.5-13.0m suggesting the onset of puberty, and also indicated by histologic findings. Biological variability and the fact that few male animals have been examined within this critical length cohort do not allow determination of the onset of maturity with higher precision. Too few mature males have been landed in spring to make statistical comparisons of testes mass with autumn-landed animals within specific size cohorts. Two large (15.7m and 17.7m) males landed in spring had relatively small inactive testes and were diagnosed as pseudohermaphrodites; body length and mean testis length and seminiferous tubule diameter (STD) were not correlated with the other ‘normal’ whales. The smallest male confirmed as mature based on the presence of spermatocytes was 12.7m. The largest testes measured (combined mass 203kg) were from a whale landed in autumn. Mean STD for individual whales ranged from 33.3-170.9m and increased with mean testis weight and whale length. The STD is similar within a testis regardless of region evaluated, with minor variability. Some variation was noted for transverse sections within a cross section for some whales but no pattern was evident.

Contraceptive efficacy and antioxidant potential of Leptadenia reticulata bark extracts in male albino rats

Birth control measures available are primarily for women which are hormonal supplements that are increasing cancer risks and reproductive health issues. Male contraceptive options are effective and available, i.e. barrier methods and vasectomy. Condoms are failure-prone and single-use, while a vasectomy is a permanent sterilization method done surgically, and reversion is not always successful and expensive. A promising oral male contraceptive drug candidate is yet to be discovered. This study investigated the contraceptive efficacy and antioxidant potential of various extracts of Leptadenia reticulata bark in male rats. To study the effects of various extracts (ethanolic and petroleum ether) of L. reticulata bark in male rats, oral administration at the dose level of 250 mg/kg body weight/ day was done for 60 days. Observations were made for body and organ weight, hematology, serum biochemical chemistry, testosterone and antioxidants, lipid profile, sperm parameters (density and motility) and histological changes (reproductive organs). As compared to control in treated groups (TP and bark petroleum ether extract), a significant reduction (P ≤ 0.001) was perceived in sperm motility and density, as well as reproductive organ weight, serum testosterone, and serum antioxidant parameters like SOD. Histological observations revealed arrest in spermatogenesis and reduced seminiferous tubule diameter, mature Leydig cells, secondary spermatogonia, and spermatids which caused a substantial increase in LPO and GSH. From the research findings, it can be concluded that bark petroleum ether extract of L. reticulata possesses contraceptive potential in male albino rats and can serve as a safe and reversible oral contraceptive for males.

The Flavonoid Chrysin Protects against Testicular Apoptosis Induced by Torsion/Detorsion in Adult Rats

In the present work, we examined the beneficial efficacy of chrysin as a natural flavonoid on testicular torsion/detorsion damages among adult male rats. Forty-eight male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into six groups: sham, torsion/detorsion (TD) group, TDC30 group in which TD process was applied and treated with chrysin (30 mg/kg), TDC50 group in which TD process was applied and treated with chrysin (50 mg/kg), HC30 group in which animals were treated with chrysin (30 mg/kg), and HC50 group in which rats were treated with chrysin (50 mg/kg). Serum samples were tested for testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. The sperm parameters, histopathological analysis, and expressions of apoptosis-related genes were examined among different groups. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the testicles and serum were measured. Serum levels of SOD, GPx, FSH, LH, and “Bax” expression significantly increased in the TD group compared to the sham group ( P &lt; 0.05 ). Sperm parameters, serum testosterone level, Johnson’s scores, seminiferous tubule diameter, the height of the germinal epithelium (HE) measurements, and expression of “Bcl2” meaningfully decreased ( P &lt; 0.05 ). Administration of chrysin impeded ischemia/reperfusion damages in testis tissue and improved sperm quality. The result of our study indicates that treatment with chrysin can protect testis tissue from ischemia/reperfusion damages induced by TD procedure.

Testicular toxicity in mice exposed to terephthalic acid in utero and during lactation.

Terephthalic acid (TPA) is a worldwide aromatic compound widely used to manufacture resins and the raw material for the polymerization reaction with ethylene glycol to produce polyethylene terephthalate, known as PET. The use of TPA extends to the synthesis of phthalates, plasticizers used in various industrialized products such as toys and cosmetics. The present study aimed to evaluate the testicular toxicity of terephthalic acid on male mice exposed in utero and during lactation to TPA in different developmental windows. The animals were treated intragastric with TPA at stock dispersal dosages corresponding to 0.0014g/ml and 0.56g/ml of TPA in 0.5% v/v carboxymethylcellulose as well as the control dose, composed solely of dispersion of carboxymethylcellulose (0.5% v/v). Four experimental windows were established: group I-treatment in utero, in the fetal period (gestational day-GD 10.5-18.5), with euthanasia at GD 18.5; group II-treatment in utero, in the fetal period (GD 10.5-18.5) and the lactational period (postnatal day (PND-15)), with euthanasia at 15days; group III-treatment in utero in the fetal period (DG 10.5-18.5) with euthanasia at 70days (age of sexual maturity, PND 70); group IV-treatment in utero, in the fetal period (GD 10.5-18.5) and the lactational period (PND-15), with euthanasia at 70days (PND70). The results indicate that TPA changes the reproductive parameters (testicular weight, GI, penis size, and anogenital index) only at the dose of 0.56g/ml in the fetal period. Data on the volumetric ratio of the testis elements show that the dispersion with the highest concentration of TPA significantly altered the blood vessel/capillary, lymphatic vessel, and connective tissue percentages. Only at the dose of 0.56g/ml TPA was it effective in decreasing the Leydig and Sertoli cell numbers of the euthanized animals at GD 18.5. In group II, TPA increased the diameter and lumen of seminiferous tubules, which indicates that TPA accelerated the maturation process of Sertoli cells without changing the number and the nuclear volume of these cells. The Sertoli and Leydig cell numbers of the 70-day animals exposed to TPA in the gestational and lactational period were similar to the control. Therefore, the present study is the first in the literature to show that TPA presents a testicular toxicity during fetal (DG18.5) and postnatal life (PND15), without repercussion in adulthood (70days).

Pentoxifylline promotes spermatogenesis via upregulation of the Nrf2-ARE signalling pathway in a mouse model of germ-cell apoptosis induced by testicular torsion-detorsion.

Testicular torsion-detorsion results in loss of germ cells and infertility. Pentoxifylline has been shown to prevent tissue damage. To determine the effect of pentoxifylline on germ cell survival in torsion-detorsion induced apoptosis Methods: Twenty male mice were divided into four groups of five animals each: Control, T1 (Torsion-detorsion+single dose 100mg/kg Pentoxifylline/IP), T2 (Torsion-detorsion+daily 20mg/kg pentoxifylline/IP for 2weeks, and T/D (Torsion-detorsion only). 35thday after torsion-detorsion, the left testes of all the animals were harvested for histological and biochemical analysis. Histomorpholoical analysis showed significant increase (P <0.05) in seminiferous tubule diameter, Johnsen's score and germ cells of Control and T1 compared to T2 and T/D, with no significant difference (P >0.05) in testis weight, sertoli, leydig and myoid cells. Tunnel assay showed significant increase (P <0.05) in apoptotic cells of T/D and T2 animals compared to Control and T1. RT-PCR analysis showed significant high (P <0.01) mRNA expression of Bax gene in T/D compared to T1 and T2 and significant increase (P <0.05) of Bcl2 in Control, T1, T2 compared to T/D. Nrf2-ARE transcripts revealed significant increase (P <0.05) in Control and T1 compared to T2 and T/D. Western blot showed significantly increased (P <0.05) caspase-3 in T/D compared to Control, T1 and T2. Pentoxifylline promotes spermatogenesis and suppressed apoptosis induced by testicular torsion-detorsion. Pentoxifylline could serve as adjunct therapy to surgery in the treatment of torsion-detorsion induced germ cell apoptosis.

Gum Acacia attenuates cisplatin toxic effect spermatogenesis dysfunction and infertility in rats

This study aimed to investigate the potential benefits Gum Arabic/Acacia senegal (GA) in mitigating the harmful effects of cisplatin (CP) on spermatogenesis and testicular health in male adult rats. A total of forty albino rats were used in the study and divided into four groups; control, GA, CP, and Co-treated group, which received both CP and GA concurrently. The results revealed that CP caused a significant increase in oxidative stress and a decrease in antioxidant activities (CAT, SOD, and GSH), which disturbed the testicular machinery. This caused significant histological and ultrastructural damage to the testicular structure, including atrophied seminiferous tubules with severely reduced germinal epithelium. Additionally, CP caused a decrease in reproductive hormones (testosterone and LH), a decline in nucleic proliferation PCNA immunoexpression, and an increase in cytoplasmic apoptotic Caspase-3 protein expression in testicular tissue, when compared to the control and GA groups. Moreover, the CP treatment impaired spermatogenesis and decreased sperm number and motility with abnormal morphology. However, co-administration of GA with CP mitigated the dysfunction in spermatogenesis and reversed testicular damage caused by CP through significantly (P < 0.01) reducing oxidative stress (MDA) and increasing the activities of CAT, SOD, and GSH. Additionally, co-administration of GA elevated the levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone in blood sera, significantly (P < 0.01) improved the histometric measurements of seminiferous tubules diameter, their epithelial height, Johnsen's score of spermatogenesis, 4-level histological grading scale Cosentino's score, immunohistochemical expression of nucleic PCNA, and cytoplasmic Caspase-3 proteins. Furthermore, TEM examination confirmed the synergistic effect of GA in restoring the germinal epithelial cells ultrastructure, the elongated and transverse sections of spermatozoa in the lumen, and the interstitial tissue. All of these effects resulted in a significant improvement in sperm quality in the Co-treated animals compared with the CP group, as well as, a significant decline in the morphological abnormalities of sperm in Co-treated rats compared to those in the CP group. GA is a valuable agent for ameliorating chemotherapy-related infertility.

The Protective Effects of Aloe Vera Gel Extract on the Sexual Complications Caused by Diabetes in Male Rats

Introduction: Diabetics usually suffer from chronic complications, including microvascular and macrovascular disorders. The capillaries supplying the sexual organs affect normal sexual functions. The erectile process has been shown to be impaired in diabetics. Vascular damage in diabetics may be associated with decreased testosterone production, sperm count, testicular weight, and seminiferous tubule diameter. In this study, we investigated the effects of Aloe vera gel extract (from Sistan and Baluchistan, Iran) on the male genital system in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: A total of 24 male Wistar rats were included in the study. Diabetes was induced in 12 rats by intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of streptozotocin (STZ). The rats were divided into four groups. The first and third groups received saline (NaCl) by gavage daily. The second and fourth groups received Aloe vera gel extract daily by gavage. Treatments were continued for 30 days. At the end of the treatment period, blood samples were taken and serum glucose and testosterone levels were measured by photometric methods. Histological examinations were performed on the prostate and testes. Results: Mean weight index, serum levels of glucose and testosterone, mean sperm count, germinal epithelium (GE) thickness, and seminiferous tubule diameter improved significantly in the diabetes+Aloe vera group. Conclusion: We concluded that consumption of Aloe vera gel extract improved sexual complications in diabetic rats.

The Effect of Shrimp Shell (Litopenaeus vannamei) Extract on Testicular Parameters of Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that has become a major health problem worldwide. Reproductive dysfunction is one of the main complications of DM, particularly in men. However, as is known, shrimp shell extract contains nutrients, such as astaxanthin, that affect reproductive traits. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of shrimp shell extract on the volume, weight, and histological features of the testes of a DM rat model. Fifteen adult male rats were randomly divided into three groups. Group A (n = 5) was a healthy control group, group B (n = 5) was a DM control group, and group C (n = 5) was a DM group treated with shrimp shell extract. Rats in groups B and C were treated with streptozotocin to induce DM. Rats in group C were given shrimp shell extract at 25 mg/kg body weight for 30 consecutive days after DM induction. Testicles were collected and submitted to dimension, weight, and histological examinations. The testicle volume and weight of rats in group C were significantly higher and heavier, respectively, than rats in group B and did not differ from rats in group A. The seminiferous tubule diameter of rats in group C was significantly larger than rats in group B and did not differ from rats in group A. Rats in group B had a lower testicle volume and lighter testicle weight as well as a shorter seminiferous tubule diameter than rats in groups A and C. In conclusion, shrimp shell extract could improve male fertility parameters in a DM rat model. However, the mechanism of action needs to be studied further.

Protective effects of human amniotic membrane derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) secreted factors on mouse spermatogenesis and sperm chromatin condensation following unilateral testicular torsion

Testicular torsion is considered a urological disorder that requires immediate detorsion surgery. Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury after testicular torsion detorsion causes of drastic impairment of spermatogenesis and infertility. Cell-free-based approaches seem to be a promising strategy to prevent I/R injury, they have more stable biological properties, and they contain paracrine factors of mesenchymal stem cells. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of human amniotic membrane derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) secreted factors on mouse sperm chromatin condensation and spermatogenesis improvement after I/R injury. hAMSCs were isolated and characterized by RT- PCR and flow cytometry, preparation of hAMSCs secreted factors was performed. Forty male mice were randomly divided into 4 groups: sham-operated, torsion detorsion, torsion detorsion+ intratesticular injection of DMEM/F-12, and torsion detorsion+ intratesticular injection of hAMSCs secreted factors. After one cycle of spermatogenesis, the mean number of germ cells, Sertoli, Leydig, myoid as well as tubular parameters, Johnson score, and spermatogenesis indexes were evaluated by H& E and PAS stainings. Sperm chromatin condensation and relative expression of c-kit and prm 1 genes were assessed by aniline blue staining and real-time PCR, respectively. The mean number of spermatogenic cells, Leydig, myoid, Sertoli, spermatogenesis parameters, Johnson score, as well as germinal epithelial height and diameters of seminiferous tubules decreased significantly after I/R injury. The thickness of basement membrane and percentage of sperm with excessive histone significantly increased, while the relative expression of c-kit and prm 1 significantly decreased in torsion detorsion group (p 0.001). hAMSCs secreted factors remarkably restored normal sperm chromatin condensation, spermatogenesis parameters and histomorphometric organization of seminiferous tubules via intratesticular injection (p 0.001). Thus, hAMSCs secreted factors may potentially salvage torsion-detorsion-induced infertility.

Changes in testicular histomorphometry and ultrastructure of Leydig cells in adult male Japanese quail exposed to di (n-butyl) phthalate (DBP) during the prepubertal period

Phthalate esters, such as di(n-butyl) phthalate, (DBP), are synthetic chemical pollutants commonly used as plasticizers in the manufacture of plastics. In the present study, we investigated the effects of DBP in the testes of adult male quails (Coturnix cortunix japonica) exposed by oral gavage to variable doses of DBP (0 [control], 1, 10, 50, 200, and 400 mg/kgbw−d), for 30 days during the prepubertal period, using histo-morphometric and ultrastructural techniques. Generally, significant decreases in seminiferous tubular diameter (STD) and epithelial height (SEH) were observed predominantly at the highest DBP doses (200 and 400 mg/kg), as compared to medium (50 mg/kg), and lowest doses (1 and 10 mg/kg) as well as the control group. Ultrastructurally, apparent dose-specific degenerative changes were observed in the Leydig cells. The lowest DBP doses (1 and 10 mg/kg) did not produce significant effects on Leydig cell ultrastructure, whereas, at the highest doses (200 and 400 mg/kg), the Leydig cells were remarkably conspicuous in the interstitium and appeared foamy. There was a preponderance of electron-lucent lipid droplets which crowded out the normal organelles of the cell, as well as increases in the number of dense bodies in the cytoplasm. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (sER) was less obvious, compacted, and wedged between the abundant lipid droplets and mitochondria. Taken together, these findings indicate that pre-pubertal exposure of precocious quail birds to DBP, produced parameter-specific histometric tubular changes, as well as dose-dependent cyto-structural derangement of the Leydig cells; which consequently may lead to overt reproductive impairments in the adult bird in the environment.Graphical

Carvacrol reduces abnormal and dead sperm counts by attenuating sodium arsenite‐induced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy in the testicular tissues of rats

Arsenic (As) is a highly toxic metalloid. Carvacrol (CAR) is the active ingredient of Lamiaceae plants and has various biological and pharmacological properties. The present study investigated the protective effects of carvacrol (CAR) against testicular toxicity induced by sodium arsenite (SA). Rats were given SA (10mg/kg) and/or CAR (25 or 50 mg/kg) for 14 days. Semen analyzes showed that CAR increased sperm motility and decreased the percentage of abnormal and dead sperm. It was determined that the oxidative stress induced by SA decreased with the increase of Nrf-2 and HO-1 expressions, SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH levels, and MDA levels decreased after CAR treatment. It was observed that autophagy and inflammation triggered by SA in testicular tissue were alleviated by suppressing the expressions of LC3A, LC3B, MAPK-14, NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, iNOS, and COX-2 biomarkers in rats given CAR. Also, CAR treatment suppressed SA-induced apoptosis by inhibiting Bax and Caspase-3 expressions in testicles and up-regulating Bcl-2 expression. Histopathological analyzes showed that rats given SA had deterioration in tubule structure and spermatogenesis cell line, especially a serious loss of spermatogonia cells, atrophy of seminiferous tubules, and deterioration of germinal epithelium. In the group given CAR, the germinal epithelium and connective tissue were in normal morphological structure and an increase in seminiferous tubule diameters was observed. As a result, it was determined that oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy, and apoptosis induced by SA were suppressed by CAR, thus protecting the testicular tissue from damage and increasing semen quality.

Effect of corn straw or corncobs in total mixed ration during peri-puberty on testis development in Hu lambs

Corn straw and corncobs contain large amounts of crude fibers and are widely used in mutton sheep husbandry in northwest China. The aim of this study was to determine whether feeding with corn straw or corncobs affects lamb testis development. A total of 50 healthy Hu lamb at two-month-old (average body weight of 22.3 ± 0.1 kg) were randomly and equally divided into two groups, and the lambs were equally allocated to five pens in each group. The corn straw group (CS) received a diet containing 20% corn straw, whereas the corncobs group (CC) received a diet containing 20% corncobs. After a 77-day feeding trial, the lambs, except the heaviest and lightest in each pen, were humanely slaughtered and investigated. Results revealed no differences in body weight (40.38 ± 0.45 kg vs. 39.08 ± 0.52 kg) between the CS and CC groups. Feeding diet containing corn straw significantly (P < 0.05) increased testis weight (243.24 ± 18.78 g vs. 167.00 ± 15.20 g), testis index (0.60 ± 0.05 vs. 0.43 ± 0.04), testis volume (247.08 ± 19.99 mL vs. 162.31 ± 14.15 mL), diameter of seminiferous tubule (213.90 ± 4.91 μm vs. 173.11 ± 5.93 μm), and the number of sperm in the epididymis (49.91 ± 13.53 × 108/g vs. 19.34 ± 6.79 × 108/g) compared with those in the CC group. The RNA sequencing results showed 286 differentially expressed genes, and 116 upregulated and 170 downregulated genes were found in the CS group compared with the CC group. The genes affecting immune functions and fertility were screened out. Corn straw decreased the mtDNA relative copy number in the testis (P < 0.05). These results suggest that compared with corncobs, feeding corn straw in the early reproductive development stage of lambs increased the testis weight, diameter of seminiferous tubule and the number of cauda sperm.

Effects of glibenclamide and troxerutin on the sperm parameters and histopathological changes of testis in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats: An experimental study.

Oxidative stress is a major contributor to diabetes mellitus (DM), which leads to testicular damage and infertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of glibenclamide (GL) as a chemical medicine and troxerutin (TR) as an herbal agent on sperm parameters and histopathological changes of testis in diabetic male rats. Forty male Wistar rats (230-260 gr) were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 8/each), including control, diabetic (D), GL, TR, and GL+TR. DM was induced by the administration of 60 mg/kg streptozotocin intraperitoneally. The groups were treated with 5 mg/kg/day of GL or 150 mg/kg/day of TR via oral gavage for 4 wk. In the final stage of the treatment, blood sampling was done for biochemical analysis. The rats were then sacrificed and their left testis and epididymis were dissected for sperm analysis, histopathology, and morphometric assessment. A significant decrease in the number, motility, viability, maturity, and chromatin quality of sperm was found in diabetic rats compared to control group. (p 0.001). DM also increased the malondialdehyde level and decreased the level of the serum's total antioxidant capacity compared to the control group (p 0.001). Furthermore, we observed a significant difference in seminiferous tubule diameter, germinal epithelium height, and testicular histological abnormalities in diabetic rats compared to control group (p 0.001). Administration of GL, TR, and their combination improved the above-mentioned parameters, and treatment with TR provided a higher improvement (p 0.001). According to these findings, it can be concluded that TR plays a more influential role than GL to treat diabetic-induced infertility.

Protective effect of Ginkgo biloba and Olive oil on the reproductive performance of male albino rats exposed to oxidative stress induced by Potassium dichromate

The present study is designed to demonstrate the effect of Ginkgo biloba and Olive oil on the reproductive performance of male rats exposed to oxidative stress induced by Potassium dichromate with respect to male sex hormones, semen parameters and testicular antioxidant system,. Forty Wister albino rats were distributed into four groups and each group have ten rats, control group, Potassium dichromate group (Potassium dichromate 24 mg/kg administered with gavage for 2 month), Potassium dichromate treated with Ginkgo biloba group (Potassium dichromate and Ginkgo biloba 40 mg/kg administered at half an hour interval for 2 months) and Potassium dichromate treated with olive oil group (Potassium dichromate and Olive oil 1 ml/kg administered at half an hour interval for 2 months). The statistical analysis of results showed a significant (P&lt;0.05) decrease in sperms count, the percentage of sperms viability, the level of sex hormones, ceruloplasmin, glutathione concentration, and superoxide dismutase activity, antioxidant activity (AOA), germinal epithelium height and diameter of seminiferous tubules and a significant increase of sperm percentage abnormalities, dead sperm, malondialdelyde (MDA), peroxynitrite (ONOO-) in Potassium dichromate group, compared with control group. The administration of Potassium dichromate with Ginkgo biloba and Olive oil separately result in a significant increase of sperms count, sperms viability, sex hormones levels, ceruloplasmin, glutathione concentration , superoxide dismutase and antioxidant activity, germinal epithelium height and diameter of seminiferous tubules and a significant decrease of sperm abnormalities, dead sperm percentage, MDA, ONOO-. In conclusion the levels of antioxidant parameters, sperm count and sperm viability were restored to normal values when Potassium dichromate administered in combination with Ginkgo biloba or with Olive oil therefor Ginkgo biloba and Olive oil may be beneficial for improving reproductive performance of male rats.

Protective effects of melatonin against the toxic effects of environmental pollutants and heavy metals on testicular tissue: A systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies.

Environmental pollution and infertility are two modern global challenges that agonize personal and public health. The causal relationship between these two deserves scientific efforts to intervene. It is believed that melatonin maintains antioxidant properties and may be utilized to protect the testicular tissue from oxidant effects caused by toxic materials. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify the animal trial studies that evaluated melatonin therapy's effects on rodents' testicular tissue against oxidative stress caused by heavy metal and non-heavy metal environmental pollutants. Data were pooled, and standardized mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using the random-effect model. Also, the risk of bias was assessed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) tool. (PROSPERO: CRD42022369872). Out of 10039 records, 38 studies were eligible for the review, of which 31 were included in the meta-analysis. Most of them showed beneficial effects of melatonin therapy on testicular tissue histopathology. [20 toxic materials were evaluated in this review, including arsenic, lead, hexavalent chromium, cadmium, potassium dichromate, sodium fluoride, cigarette smoke, formaldehyde, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), 2-Bromopropane, bisphenol A, thioacetamide, bisphenol S, ochratoxin A, nicotine, diazinon, Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), Chlorpyrifos (CPF), nonylphenol, and acetamiprid.] The pooled results showed that melatonin therapy increased sperm count, motility, viability and body and testicular weights, germinal epithelial height, Johnsen's biopsy score, epididymis weight, seminiferous tubular diameter, serum testosterone, and luteinizing hormone levels, testicular tissue Malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione levels. On the other hand, abnormal sperm morphology, apoptotic index, and testicular tissue nitric oxide were lower in the melatonin therapy arms. The included studies presented a high risk of bias in most SYRCLE domains. In conclusion, our study demonstrated amelioration of testicular histopathological characteristics, reproductive hormonal panel, and tissue markers of oxidative stress. Melatonin deserves scientific attention as a potential therapeutic agent for male infertility. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022369872.

Pharmacological inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress mitigates testicular pathology in a mouse model of simulated microgravity

BackgroundSimulated microgravity during hindlimb unloaded (HU) induces multi-organ pathologies in mice, including testicular dysfunction. However, a detailed characterization of testicular histology and its driving molecular mechanisms remains elusive. We investigated the potential contribution of elevated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress to testicular atrophy in HU mice. MethodsWe divided male c57BL/6j mice into a control group (C) or unloaded mice without treatment (U), or treated with 4PBA (UP), an ER stress inhibitor, for three weeks. At the end of the experiment, mice were euthanized, and testes tissues were dissected for histopathology and mRNA sequencing. ResultsHU was associated with significant testicular atrophy (p = 0.03) and several histopathological alterations, including a reduction in the diameter of seminiferous tubules (p < 0.001), epithelial thinning (p < 0.001), reduced sperm density (p < 0.001), and thickening of the epididymal epithelium (p < 0.001). mRNA sequencing revealed alterations in several pathways associated with oxidative stress, protein catabolism, and inflammation induction (all p < 0.05). Three weeks of treatment with 4PBA prevented testicular atrophy (p = 0.214), partly restored testicular microarchitecture, and reversed changes in the transcriptomic profiling of HU mice. ConclusionOur novel findings indicate a mechanistic role of elevated ER stress in causing testicular pathology during HU conditions. Based on findings, we report a therapeutic potential of 4PBA in reversing testicular pathology in conditions mimicking prolonged bed rest and spaceflight.

Effects of electroacupuncture at ST36 and BL20 on the diabetic rat testis.

We aimed to evaluate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at ST36 and BL20 on the testicular tissues in a rat model of diabetes and to explore the mechanisms of action. A total of 34 male Sprague-Dawley rats were allocated to a control group (n = 10), diabetes (D) group (n = 12) or diabetes + acupuncture (DA) group (n = 12). To model diabetes, rats in groups D and DA received an intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of 35 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) dissolved in citrate buffer (pH = 4.5; 0.1 M) after 2 weeks of high-fat diet administration. Under xylazine/ketamine anesthesia, stainless steel needles (30 mm × 0.25 mm) were inserted bilaterally at ST36 and BL20. The needles were connected to an EA device via cables, and EA was applied for 30 min (15 Hz frequency and 0.2-1 mA intensity) twice a week for 5 weeks. The effects of EA at ST36 and BL20 on blood glucose levels and body weight, biochemical parameters, histopathological, morphometric and immunohistochemical findings, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) analysis were evaluated. A significant decrease was detected in DA versus D groups in blood glucose levels, basement membrane thickness and apoptotic cell/tubule indices. In addition, there was a significant increase in the Johnsen scores, seminiferous tubule diameters, serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone, proliferation indices, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) immunoreactivities. EA had multiple positive effects on blood glucose homeostasis and testicular structure/function in this rat model of diabetes. EA may be effective at preventing or eliminating histopathological damage in the diabetic testis.

Synergic Effects of Rosemary Extract and Aerobic Exercise on Sperm Parameters and Testicular Tissue in an Aged Rat Model

Background: Aging, which has globally increased, reduces male fertility and damages the testes. The effect of aerobic exercises and the use of medicinal plants like rosemary on fertility remains controversial. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of rosemary extract and exercise on testicular tissue. Methods: In this study, 30 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: (1) control group (without treatment); (2) gavage group [received the solvent of rosemary extract (distilled water) and put on a turned-off treadmill for 10 minutes daily]; (3) exercise group (put on a turned-on treadmill based on an exercise protocol for 12 weeks); (4) extract group (received 100 mg/kg of rosemary extract for 12 weeks); (5) exercise and extract group (received 100 mg/kg of rosemary extract and concurrently put on a turned-on treadmill for 12 weeks). After the treatment, the testis tissue of rats was collected, and the seminiferous tubular diameter, luminal diameter, and epithelial height were analyzed. Also, spermatogenic lineage was counted in different groups. Results: The tubal diameter and epithelial height significantly increased following the consumption of rosemary extract and exercise training compared with the control group (P &lt; 0.01). Also, a significant increase was observed in the luminal diameter in the exercise group compared to the control group (P &lt; 0.01). The rosemary extract and exercise training significantly increased the number of spermatogonia cells (P &lt; 0.01). However, there were no significant differences in the number of primary spermatocyte and spermatozoa cells among the different groups (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusions: Generally, low-intensity aerobic exercise improved testicular histomorphology parameters. However, rosemary extract had no positive effects as an aerobic exercise on male fertility during aging.