Tubular Diameter Research Articles

Mammalian Ste-20-like Kinase 1/2 (MST1/2) Inhibitor XMU-MP-1: A Potential Compound to Improve Spermatogenesis in Mouse Model of Diabetes Mellitus

Background/Objectives: Spermatogenesis is a key process in male reproduction that, if it does not happen correctly, can lead to infertility, with diabetes being one of the most prevalent causes of spermatogenesis disruption. Currently, there is a lack of research examining the potential benefits of targeting cell proliferation to enhance spermatogenesis in this condition. XMU-MP1 has been identified as an inhibitor of MST1, a core component of the Hippo pathway, which is anticipated to promote proliferation and regeneration. This study aims to evaluate the effects of XMU-MP1 treatment on sperm and testicular characteristics in mice. Methods: We used the STZ-induced diabetic mouse model to investigate the impact of administering XMU-MP1 on testicular tissue and sperm parameters. This study compared the seminiferous tubules, specifically focusing on the diameter of the seminiferous tubule, the thickness of the seminiferous tubule epithelium, the ratio of the thickness of the seminiferous tubule epithelium to the diameter of the seminiferous tubules, and the lumen diameter of the seminiferous tubules. We also conducted a comparison of sperm parameters, including sperm concentration, progressive motility, total motility, total motility, and morphology. Results: XMU-MP1-treated mice had a larger spermatogenesis area and better sperm motility than control mice. Diabetic mice treated with XMU-MP1 also showed a trend toward improvements in the spermatogenesis area, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology, although these improvements were not statistically significant. Conclusions: XMU-MP1 serves as a potential compound to improve spermatogenesis in mice.

The Impact of N-Acetylcysteine on Hypoxia-Induced Testicular Apoptosis in Male Rats: TUNEL and IHC Findings

The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on testicular hypoxia caused by varicocele, focusing specifically on the regulation of genes related to apoptosis and oxidative stress in the testes of mature Wistar rats.Thirty-two rats were divided into four groups: Control (Sham), hypoxia, testicular hypoxia treated with NAC (Hypoxia + NAC), and healthy animals treated with NAC. After the 8-week treatment period, testicular histopathology and the levels of oxidative stress markers—superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA)—in serum were examined. The expression of Bax and Bcl-2 mRNA was analyzed using immunocytochemistry and RT-qPCR assays, while the apoptosis rate was determined using the TUNEL method.Histopathological evaluations showed that parameters such as Johnsen’s score, epithelium width, and seminiferous tubule diameter indicated significant improvement in the Hypoxia + NAC group compared to the Hypoxia group. NAC administration resulted in elevated serum levels of GPx and SOD, accompanied by a reduction in MDA levels (p < 0.003). Furthermore, the study revealed that NAC decreased Bax expression and enhanced Bcl-2 gene and protein expression compared to the varicocele group (p < 0.05). Additionally, NAC administration significantly decreased the rate of apoptosis in germ cells (p < 0.05).These findings suggest that NAC administration can mitigate testicular damage induced by hypoxia from varicocele in rats, primarily due to its antioxidant properties.

Pathological and Hormonal Alterations of the Testis in Balb/C Mice Treated With Spirotetramat Insecticide

Background and Objectives: The side effects of insecticides are undeniable due to their excessive use by farmers. This study aims to investigate the impact of spirotetramat insecticide on pathological and hormonal alteration in BALB/c mice testes. Methods: In this experimental study, 24 adult BALB/c male mice, with a body weight range of 25-30 g, were obtained from the Animal House of Uremia University and examined. Mice were randomly divided into three groups of eight: control, experimental group 1, and experimental group 2. The mice of experimental group 1 received 2.5 mg/kg, and experimental group 2 received 10 mg/kg of spirotetramat. The control group received the same amount of distilled water for 21 days through the mouth by gavage. After this period, the mice were anesthetized and evaluated. Data were analyzed using a 1-way analysis of variance in SPSS version 19 software. Results: The results of the study showed that spirotetramat increased the thickness of the tunica albuginea, the diameter of the seminiferous tubules, the differentiation index of the testis tube, and the spermiogenesis index, but it decreased the thickness of the epithelium of the spermatogenic tubules, the replacement index of active spermatogonia, Leydig cells, and FSH, LH, and testosterone hormone levels. The thickness of interstitial tissue, Sertoli, and lymphocyte cells did not change significantly. Conclusion: By inhibiting the activity of acetyl coenzyme A, spirotetramat insecticide disrupts energy production and prevents the synthesis of lipids in the cells, finally decreasing spermatogenesis in mice.

Radioprotective effects of melatonin therapy against testicular oxidative stress: a systematic review and meta-analysis of rodent models

Background: Radiation exposure is a concern in today’s world, given the widespread use of electronic devices and medical procedures involving ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. Radiations may cause male infertility by inducing oxidative stress in testicular tissue. Melatonin has antioxidant properties. Methods: We systematically reviewed the literature for the studies that have investigated the effects of melatonin therapy on radiation-induced oxidative stress in rodents’ testicular tissue. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for relevant animal trials. Standardized mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were used to pool the data. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were done. The risk of bias was assessed using SYRCLE tool. Results: Outcomes: histopathology and sperm analyses (testicular apoptotic cells, Johnsen’s testicular biopsy score, seminiferous epithelial height, tubular diameter, sperm motility, viability, count, and morphology, concentration of spermatid, spermatocyte, and spermatogonia), body and testes weights (absolute and relative body and testicular weights), reproductive hormones (serum prolactin, FSH, and testosterone), and oxidative stress tissue markers (TBARS, CAT, GSH, GSH-Px, MDA, SOD, and XO, and total antioxidant capacity). Rats and mice were exposed to electromagnetic radiations (gamma, roentgen, microwave, radiofrequency, and high-power line energy) and particle waves (radioiodine and carbon-ion). Melatonin therapy was significantly associated with improved male reproduction. Conclusion: Radiation exposure harms male fertility, but melatonin, as an antioxidant, is potentially associated with improved male reproductive function in rodents. Inconsistencies in research require further investigations.

Perinatal exposure to environmental chemicals that disrupt thyroid function can perturb testis development

Thyroid hormones (THs) are essential for normal growth and development. Their role in skeletal and brain development is well established, with congenital hypothyroidism causing stunted growth and severe intellectual disability. THs are also important for the development of other tissues and organs, including the testis. Developmental hypothyroidism can manifest as smaller testes in early postnatal life that later develop into macroorchidism in adulthood due to increased proliferation of Sertoli cells. Effects of hypothyroidism on the testes can be modelled in rodents by exposing developing animals to TH-suppressing pharmaceuticals such as propylthiouracil (PTU) and methimazole (MMI). These drugs act by inhibiting the thyroperoxidase (TPO) enzyme in the thyroid gland, inhibiting the synthesis of THs. It is possible that environmental chemicals that inhibit TPO activity can also cause TH-mediated effects on the developing testis, but the extent to which this occurs is not known. Herein, we characterized the effects of perinatal exposure to the herbicide amitrole together with the antithyroid drug MMI. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed by oral gavage to two doses of amitrole (25 or 50 mg/kg body weight/day) or MMI (8 or 16 mg/kg body weight/day) from gestational day 7 until birth. After birth, pup exposure was continued by dosing lactating dams from day of delivery until pup day 16. Both chemicals caused a significant reduction in TH levels on day 16. This perinatal hypothyroidism disrupted both germ and Sertoli cell development, resulting in smaller testes and reduced seminiferous tubule diameter in 16-day old pups. Notably, fetal male blood progesterone levels were increased after exposure to both amitrole and MMI, whereas the amitrole-exposed animals also displayed increased estradiol levels. Our study raises concerns that exposure to environmental chemicals that happen to disrupt TH production may disrupt TH-dependent testis development, with adverse consequences to human reproductive health.

Integration analysis of transcriptome and metabolome revealed the potential mechanism of spermatogenesis in Tibetan sheep (Ovis aries) at extreme high altitude

Testis has an indispensable function in male reproduction of domestic animals. Numerous genes and metabolites were related to testicular development and spermatogenesis. However, little is known about the biological regulation pathways associated with fecundity in male Tibetan sheep. In this study, Testes were collected from Huoba Tibetan sheep (HB, 4614 m) and Gangba Tibetan sheep (GB, 4401 m) at extreme high altitude, and Alpine Merino sheep (AM, 2500 m, control group) at medium-high altitude, investigating the genes and metabolites levels of them. The histological analysis of testicular tissue using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was performed for Tibetan sheep and Alpine Merino sheep, and the testes of them were analyzed by transcriptomics and metabolomics to explore the potential mechanism of testicular development and spermatogenesis. The statistical results showed that the cross-sectional area of testicular seminiferous tubules, diameter of seminiferous tubules, and spermatogenic epithelium thickness were significantly smaller in HB and GB than in AM (P < 0.05). Overall, 5648 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 336 differential metabolites (DMs) were identified in three sheep breeds, which were significantly enriched in spermatogenesis and other related pathways. According to integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, AMPK signaling pathway, and TCA cycle, were predicted to have dramatic effects on the spermatogenesis of Tibetan sheep. Several genes (including Wnt2, Rab3a, Sox9, Hspa8, and Slc38a2) and metabolites (including L-histidinol, Glucose, Fumaric acid, Malic acid, and Galactose) were significantly enriched in pathways related to testicular development and spermatogenesis, and might affect the reproduction of Tibetan sheep by regulating the acrosome reaction, meiotic gene expression, and the production of sex hormones. Our results provide further understanding of the key genes and metabolites involved in testicular development and spermatogenesis in Tibetan sheep.

Going with the flow: New insights regarding flow induced K+ secretion in the distal nephron.

K+ secretion in the distal nephron has a critical role in K+ homeostasis and is the primary route by which K+ is lost from the body. Renal K+ secretion is enhanced by increases in dietary K+ intake and by increases in tubular flow rate in the distal nephron. This review addresses new and important insights regarding the mechanisms underlying flow-induced K+ secretion (FIKS). While basal K+ secretion in the distal nephron is mediated by renal outer medullary K+ (ROMK) channels in principal cells (PCs), FIKS is mediated by large conductance, Ca2+/stretch activated K+ (BK) channels in intercalated cells (ICs), a distinct cell type. BK channel activation requires an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), and both PCs and ICs exhibit increases in [Ca2+]i in response to increases in tubular fluid flow rate, associated with an increase in tubular diameter. PIEZO1, a mechanosensitive, nonselective cation channel, is expressed in the basolateral membranes of PCs and ICs, where it functions as a mechanosensor. The loss of flow-induced [Ca2+]i transients in ICs and BK channel-mediated FIKS in microperfused collecting ducts isolated from mice with IC-specific deletion of Piezo1 in the CCD underscores the importance of PIEZO1 in the renal regulation of K+ transport.

Nicotinamide mononucleotide ameliorates ionizing radiation-induced spermatogenic dysfunction in mice by modulating the glycolytic pathway.

Radiotherapy, a common cancer treatment, leads to infertility in male cancer survivors, particularly young and middle-aged patients. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD +), plays crucial roles in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and gene expression. The purpose of this study is to investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of NMN against ionizing radiation (IR)-induced testicular injury and spermatogenic dysfunction in an adult male mouse model. To assess the effects of NMN, single whole-body γ-ray irradiation is used to induce testicular injury and spermatogenic dysfunction in adult male mice. NMN is orally administered at 500 mg/kg before and after IR exposure. The structural and cellular damage to the testes caused by 5 Gy γ-ray irradiation, as well as the protective effect of NMN on testicular spermatogenic dysfunction, are evaluated. The serum hormone testosterone, LH, and FSH levels, as well as testicular NAD +, lactate, and pyruvate levels, are detected. Furthermore, the expressions of the apoptosis-related genes Bcl-2, Bax, and Caspase-3 and the rate-limiting enzymes HK2, PKM2, and LDHA, which are potentially associated with the mechanism of injury, are examined. The results demonstrate that 5 Gy γ-ray irradiation exposure causes a decrease in the serum testosterone, LH, and FSH levels in adult male mice, as well as in the testicular NAD +, lactate, and pyruvate levels, and causes damage to the testicular structure and cells. Morphometric analysis reveal a decrease in the testis mass, seminiferous tubule diameter, and height of the germinal epithelium. The sperm quantity, motility, and testicular volume are reduced in the 5 Gy group but are restored by NMN supplementation. NMN intervention downregulates the expressions of proapoptotic genes ( Bax and Caspase-3) and upregulates the expression of an antiapoptotic gene ( Bcl- 2). Sertoli cells marker genes ( WT-1, GATA-4, SOX9, and vimentin) and glycolysis rate-limiting enzyme-encoding genes ( HK2, PKM2, LDHA) are significantly upregulated. In summary, NMN has a positive regulatory effect on testicular spermatogenic dysfunction in male mice induced by ionizing radiation. This positive effect is likely achieved by promoting the proliferation of spermatogenic cells and activating glycolytic pathways. These findings suggest that NMN supplementation may be a potential protective strategy to prevent reproductive damage to male subjects from ionizing radiation.

Histomorphological Changes in Testis of Rats with Prolonged Exposure to Allethrin-Based Mosquito Coil Smoke.

To explore the potential adverse effects of prolonged inhalation of mosquito coil smoke on the testicular histomorphology and serum testosterone levels in rats. An experimental study. Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Anatomy, Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from January to December 2020. This study was carried out on 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats, divided into control Group A (n = 10) and experimental Group B (n = 10). Rats in Group B were exposed to mosquito coil smoke (allethrin-based) for 4 hours / day for 12 weeks. After 12 weeks of exposure, serum testosterone levels and testicular morphology (seminiferous tubule diameter, germinal epithelium height, and testicular capsule thickness) were compared between the groups. Rats exposed to mosquito coil smoke showed significantly reduced serum testosterone levels (p <0.001) along with testicular histological disruption in terms of significantly dilated seminiferous tubules (p <0.001), reduced germinal epithelial height (p <0.001), and thickened testicular capsule (p <0.001), as compared to the control group. Prolonged inhalation of allethrin-based mosquito coil smoke reduced serum testosterone levels and caused testicular histological disruption in the exposed group of rats. Allethrin, Germinal epithelium, Mosquito coil, Seminiferous tubules, Testicular capsule, Testosterone, Testis.

Pre-Clinical Study of Hydro-Ethanol (60:40) Extract of &lt;i&gt;Areca catechu&lt;/i&gt; (L.) on Testicular Androgenesis in Albino Rat: An Approach for Herbal Male Contraceptive Development

The present study was designed to determine the anti-testicular activity of hydro-ethanol seed extract of Areca catechu (10, 20 and 40 mg) in dose-dependent fashion in albino rats. Seminal vesicular fructose (SVF), oxidative stress sensors, gene expression, somatic weight, reproductive organo-somatic indices, spermiological, hormonal profile, and testicular histological examination for qualitative and quantitative investigations of spermatogenesis were observed. In compared to the placebo treated control (PTC), the exposure of the said doses showed a statistical significant downward deviation in the spermiological, hormonal, SVF profile, kinetics of testicular key androgenic dehydrogenase enzymes, and diameters of seminiferous tubules. Anti-oxidant enzyme kinetics were reduced significantly against PTC, and the quantity of malondialdehyde in male gonad and sperm precipitate was elevated in significant level (p&lt;0.05). Expression of apoptotic promoting gene in testis was increased (p&lt;0.05) and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 gene expression exhibited a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) in treated group comparison to the PTC. The alterations in the activities of phosphatases in hepatic tissue was not significant from the background of PTC suggesting that the plant has no systematic undesirable effect in physiological processes. The observation highlighted that 10 mg dose as the threshold dose for imposition of such anti- testicular activity leading to male contraception.

Development Postnatal of the Kidney and Liver in Albino Rat Rattus Rattus, Histological and Biochemical Study

Objective: The primary goal of the current study was to look at histological, histochemical, and biochemical aspects of the development structure of rat's kidney and liver. Materials and Method: Seventy eight samples of kidney and liver were obtained from rats at days; 1, 5, 10, 15, 36 and 90 after birth and processed for histological, histochemical and biochemical techniques. Results: Up to the fifth day, new nephron anlages develop in the renal cortex. After ten days, the final anlages form into functional nephrons, and fifteen days after the corticis forms, the cortex seems mature. The collecting ducts and loops of Henle expand longitudinally to form the renal medulla. The immature medulla is structurally similar to the later inner stripe of the outer zone and cannot be split into distinct zones. Within ten days, the inner zone was developed, and within fifteen days, the outside zone's stripe. The kidney tubule's diameter increased with age, the renal medulla was mature at 36 days, the kidney was covered in a moderate amount of collagen fiber, and the henle loops were lengthy at certain ages, but short at adult age. Adults had larger corpuscle and nephron lumens. In contrast, the thick renal capsule at other ages contained less collagen fibers. A tiny renal gap encircling the glomeruli and a notably greater quantity of fibers were visible in adult Bowman's capsules. The liver was encased in a thin capsule on the first day of birth and a thick capsule between 36 and 90 days later. On day 15, the cells surrounding the central veins began to arrange themselves in a regular fashion. The hepatic parenchyma could be seen by symmetrical hepatic cords, which emerged from the central veins as radiating columns. After five days, Von Kuffer cells began to line the sinusoids next to the endothelial cells. On the tenth day, the hepatic sinusoids took on a more regular appearance, stretching between the hepatic cords and joining the central veins. The hepatic lobules with their central vein were visible at the age of 15 days. The capsule then thickened and elastic fibers started to show up. The reticular fibers also thickened and spread, and in 36 days, collagen fibers started to show up in the portal areas. Based on histochemical data, every PAS, AB, and PAS-AB stain was highly reacted with brush in renal and hepatic cells. In conclusion: The kidney and liver developed differently after birth and reached their mature, typical structures in 36 days.

Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) Seed on the Testis Histology (Mus musculus l.) Induced Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is a substance that is able to produce free radicals such as ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species), which can cause oxidative stress in the body and damage reproductive organs such as the testes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of avocado seed ethanol extract (Persea americana Mill.) on the histology of the testes of mice (Mus musculus L.) induced monosodium glutamate (MSG). This research is an experimental study that was conducted in October 2023 – January 2024 at Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Padang. The design used is a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 6 repeats. The data obtained were analyzed using the ANOVA test (Analysis of variance) using the SPSS 23 application. The results showed that the administration of avocado seed ethanol extract showed a noticeable effect on the diameter of the testes of male mice exposed to MSG. However, it showed no noticeable influence on testicular weight, seminiferous tubule diameter and Leydig cell count. Ethanol extract avocado seed dose 0.84 mg /g body weight / day (P1) was able to improve the diameter of mice testes that had been induced MSGKeyword: Avocado seed extract, Histology of testis, Mice, MSG

Aloperine protects the testis against testicular ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats.

Testicular torsion/detorsion can cause testis loss and infertility. Aloperine is a major active alkaloid extracted from Sophora alopecuroides Linn. It has been shown to have organ-protective effects. However, the effects of aloperine on the testis and its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the effect of aloperine on testicular torsion/detorsion injury in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to the sham-operated (sham), testicular I/R (TI/R), or aloperine preconditioning (ALOPre) or postconditioning (ALOPost) groups. All rats except for the sham-operated rats were subjected to 3h of right spermatic cord torsion (720°, clockwise), followed by 3h of detorsion. Aloperine (10mg/kg) was intravenously administered before testicular torsion (ALOPre) or at the onset of testicular detorsion (ALOPost). The therapeutic efficacy of aloperine was evaluated by histological analysis, oxidative stress evaluation, inflammatory response examination, apoptosis analysis, protein analysis, and immunohistological assessment. Compared with TI/R, aloperine protected both the ipsilateral and contralateral testes against unilateral testicular I/R, as evidenced by a reduced testicular weight to body weight (TW/BW) ratio (ALOPre: p=0.0037; ALOPost: p=0.0021) and volume (ALOPre: p=0.0020; ALOPost: p=0.0009), less structural damage with better Johnsen (ALOPre: p=0.0013; ALOPost: p=0.0021), and Cosentino scores (ALOPre: p<0.0001; ALOPost: p<0.0001), increased mean seminiferous tubule diameter and mean seminiferous tubule epithelial height, decreased testicular apoptosis, and less oxidative stress and inflammatory response. In addition, aloperine significantly stimulated the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3 in the ipsilateral testes following detorsion. Administration of Ag490 suppressed STAT-3 phosphorylation, thereby abrogating the protective effects exerted by aloperine on the ipsilateral testis. Aloperine has a strong testicular protective effect on the ipsilateral and contralateral testes after testicular torsion/detorsion. This aloperine-induced ipsilateral testicular protection is mediated via the STAT-3 signaling pathway.

Key role of CYP17A1 in Leydig cell function and testicular development in Qianbei Ma goats

Reproductive traits are vital economic parameters in goat production, and boosting the reproductive capacity of breeding rams is crucial for enhancing the profitability of goat farming. Currently, research on the reproductive performance of Qianbei Ma goats mainly centers on investigating mechanisms associated with prolificacy and estrous ovulation in ewes, with limited emphasis on ram reproductive aspects. This study used scanning electron microscopy and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to profile the morphology of testis and the dynamic changes of Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), and Testosterone (T) in serum at different developmental stages of Qianbei Ma goats. Meanwhile, transcriptome sequencing technology was used to investigate the mRNA expression patterns in testicular tissues at different developmental stages: newborn (0 M), puberty (6 M), sexual maturity (12 M), and physical maturity (18 M). The results showed that the diameter, circumference, and area of the testicular seminiferous tubules gradually increased with age. The levels of T and LH in serum significantly increased from 0 to 6 months after birth (p < 0.05), followed by a stabilization of T levels and a significant decrease in LH levels (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, FSH shows a decreasing trend between 0 and 18 months after birth. A total of 26,437 differentially expressed genes were identified in 6 comparison groups, which involve various biological processes such as immunity, growth, metabolism, development, and reproduction, and are significantly enriched in signaling pathways related to testicular development and spermatogenesis. WGCNA analysis identified 6 regions significantly associated with testicular development and spermatogenesis, and selected 320 genes for constructing a PPI network. Ten candidate genes related to testicular development and spermatogenesis were identified, including TP53, PLK4, RPS9, PFN4, ACTB, CYP17A1, GPX4, CLDN1, AMH and DHH. Of these, the CYP17A1 gene promotes interstitial cell proliferation, and promotes T synthesis. This study provides a theoretical basis and data support for promoting efficient breeding of goats and early breeding of excellent male goats.

Growth performance, biochemical outcomes, and testicular histological features in male Japanese quails supplemented with milk thistle seeds

BackgroundDue to its rich content of active phytochemicals, milk thistle is regarded as a promising nutritional supplement for quails, particularly in regions with limited financial resources. Thus, our study aimed to evaluate the possible beneficial impact of aqueous extract of milk thistle seeds (MTS) at two graded concentrations (10 and 20 ml/L of drinking water) on male Japanese quails during their reproductive period.ResultsThe phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of 29 active compounds, including nine flavonoids and ten phenolic compounds. The supplemented groups showed significant improvements in body weight gain. MTS1 group exhibited a notable decrease in daily feed consumption, while MTS2 group showed a significant increase in daily water consumption. There was a dose-dependent increase in cecum length. The total count of intestinal bacteria decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Incorporating aqueous extract of MTS at concentration of 10 ml /L resulted in a significant increase in total protein and packed cell volume. Similar increases in globulin and decreases in the albumin/globulin ratio and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were observed with both doses of supplementation. A significant decrease in total cholesterol and AST was observed in the high-dose group. Significantly higher plasma testosterone and triiodothyronine levels were observed only in the high-dose group, while plasma thyroxine levels were similarly increased in both supplemented groups. Intervention with MTS resulted in dose-dependent increases in cloacal gland index and cloacal foam production. Both supplemented groups showed significant increases in the diameter of seminiferous tubules and the number of Sertoli cells.ConclusionMarked growth-promoting, antibacterial, and reproductive-enhancing effects were observed when incorporating aqueous extract of MTS into the quails’ drinking water, particularly at a dosage of 20 ml/L.

Developmental variations of the reproductive organs of ganders from different goose breeds and the underlying mechanisms

A deep understanding of the dynamics and mechanisms of male reproductive tract development is necessary for adoption of either genetic techniques or environmental management practices for improving fertility and hatchability in poultry. However, compared with other poultry such as chickens and ducks, less is known about the age- and breed-related changes in the reproductive tract development of domestic goose ganders exhibiting relatively poor reproductive performance as well as the regulatory mechanisms. In the present study, by taking 2 Chinese domestic goose breeds (Sichuan White goose, SW and Gang goose, GE; Anser cygnoides) and one European goose breed (Landes goose, LD; Anser anser) as the experimental objects, we comprehensive analyzed the morphological, histological, and genome-wide transcriptomic variations in their testicular and external genital development during the period from hatching to sexual maturity. Results from histomorphological analysis demonstrated that the reproductive tract of all goose breeds developed in both age- and breed-dependent manners, and the left and right testis developed asymmetrically throughout posthatch development. The tenth week posthatch was a critical developmental stage for all goose ganders, because both the testicular and external genital histomorphological parameters significantly changed before and after this period. During the first 10 wk posthatch, the weight, organ index, or size of male reproductive organs developed more rapidly in SW than in LD, and so were the testicular parenchymal-to-interstitial ratio and the external genital lymphatic lumen diameter. However, the testicular seminiferous epithelium thickness, seminiferous tubule diameter, and Leydig cell number, as well as the external genital keratinized epithelium thickness were significantly higher in LD than in SW at 10 wk of age. Through comparative transcriptomics analysis and RT-qPCR validation, several pathways related to germ and somatic cell function, organ remodeling, and energy metabolism were thought to be responsible for the developmental variations in the early testicular development between Chinese and European domestic ganders, where 10 hub genes involved in the cell cycle, RNA polymerase II-dependent transcription, and mitotic cell division pathways might play essential roles. These data shed new light on the interbreed differences in the male goose reproductive tract development and the molecular mechanisms regulating male goose testicular functions and fertility.

Effects of in utero benzo[a]pyrene exposure on the testis of rats during puberty and the protective effect of atorvastatin.

Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) is a contaminant that is generated in the environment through processes such as smoke, incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, vehicle exhaust emissions, entry into the body is through inhalation, and consumption of contaminated food. It is an omnipresent environmental pollutant with unavoidable exposure. BaP metabolites are observed in the male reproductive system, especially in the testes and epididymis of animals, and are responsible for reduced testicular and epididymal function. The protective effect of atorvastatin (ATV) on testicular damage was investigated previously. The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of ATV on testicular toxicity induced by benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) during pregnancy in Wistar rats. This experimental laboratory study involved 40 adult rats, divided into seven groups and maintained under standard environmental conditions. The groups received different diets [control, corn oil, ATV (10 mg/kg), BaP (10 and 20 mg/kg), and ATV + BaP (10 and 20 mg/kg)] at gestation Days 7-16, orally. Male offspring were examined 10 weeks after birth. Testis and serum samples were collected, and testosterone level, malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) were measured. Histological and immunohistochemical assays were performed under a light microscope. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, with analysis of variance and Tukey tests to assess significant differences between groups. ATV significantly reduced MDA, a marker of lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress in rat testes following BaP administration. Treatment with ATV at doses of 10 mg/kg increased GSH levels, correcting disruptions in the antioxidant system caused by BaP. Testosterone concentration in rats treated with ATV and BaP substantially prevented the decrease induced by BaP. Histomorphometry revealed that ATV significantly prevented the detrimental effects of BaP on the thickness of spermatogenic epithelium and the diameter of seminiferous tubules. Under ATV treatment, testicular tissue histopathology improved, and spermatogenesis returned to a almost back to normal state. Caspase-3 expression decreased, and apoptosis activity in testicular tissue improved under ATV treatment, indicating a positive effect of ATV in reducing apoptotic damage caused by BaP. In conclusion, exposure to BaP can induce oxidative stress-related damage to testicular tissue, as evidenced by an increase in MDA levels, which ATV treatment can mitigate. Additionally, ATV enhances intracellular antioxidant GSH and protects the testes against BaP-induced damage while increasing testosterone levels, which are reduced due to exposure to BaP.

Efficacy of propolis and royal jelly in attenuating cadmium-induced spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis dysregulation, causing infertility in rats.

Bee-derived pharmaceutical products, including propolis (PRO) and royal jelly (ROJ), possess outstanding pharmacological properties. However, their efficiency in counteracting the deleterious influences of cadmium (Cd) in testes and the relevant mechanisms entail further investigations. Therefore, this study sheds light on the therapeutic efficacy of PRO and ROJ against testicular dysfunction and infertility induced by Cd. Toward this end, 30 mature male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into six groups (5 animals/group), including (I) control, (II) Cd, (III) PRO, (IV) ROJ, (V) PRO + Cd, and (VI) ROJ + Cd groups. Furthermore, antioxidant factors, semen quality, hormonal levels, steroidogenic enzymes, and genotoxicity were assessed. Moreover, histopathological and ultrastructural attributes and offspring rates were investigated. The Cd-treated group revealed marked reductions in reduced glutathione (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) with an amplification of lipid peroxidation in testes, indicating disruption of the antioxidant defense system. Furthermore, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and DNA damage were significantly heightened, implying inflammation and genotoxicity, respectively. Moreover, steroidogenic enzymes, including 17β-Hydroxy Steroid Dehydrogenase 3 (HSD17b3), 3β-Hydroxy Steroid Dehydrogenase 2 (HSD3b2), 17α-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP17A1), and steroid 5α-reductase 2 (SRD5A2) were markedly diminished accompanied with disorders in luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone. Besides, spermatozoa quality was reduced, associated with a diminution in the diameter of seminiferous tubules. By contrast, PRO or ROJ significantly protected and/or counteracted the Cd-induced pathophysiological consequences, ameliorating antioxidant and inflammatory biomarkers, steroidogenic enzymes, hormonal levels, and sperm properties, along with lessening DNA impairments. Critically, histological and ultrastructural analyses manifested several anomalies in the testicular tissues of the Cd-administered group, including the Leydig and Sertoli cells and spermatozoa. Conversely, PRO or ROJ sustained testicular tissues' structure, enhancing spermatozoa integrity and productivity. Interestingly, treatment with PRO or ROJ improved fertility indices through offspring rates compared to the Cd-animal group. Our data suggest that PRO is a more effective countermeasure than ROJ against Cd toxicity for securing the delicate testicular microenvironment for spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis.

An SEM study on the effect of 9.3-µm CO2 laser on dentinal tubules for hypersensitivity treatment.

In-vitro studies were performed on dentin of extracted human molars to investigate the effectiveness of 9.3μm CO2 laser irradiation to occlude dentinal tubules. The observed occlusion of dentinal tubules with the irradiation was compared with application of three reagents: 2% Sodium Fluoride gel, an aqueous solution of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and an equal mix of the two. We show that 9.3μm CO2 laser irradiation occludes dentinal tubules, and the use of laser irradiation produces better occlusion of the opened tubules compared to the use of topical reagents. Nine extracted and cleaned human molars were cut to obtain dentin disks of thickness of 3-5mm. Each disc was divided into four quarters, and each quarter served as two samples corresponding to irradiated and non-irradiated group counterparts. Five disks were used to study the effect of various laser irradiation energies on the dentinal tubules to find a good pulse fluence for occlusion of the dentinal tubules, and four disks were used for studying the effects of reagents and irradiation at the pulse fluences found in the first part of the study. The samples were irradiated with a beam diameter of 1mm (1/e2) at 15Hz pulse repetition rate, scanned automatically using a set of scanning mirrors. Samples were imaged using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) which were processed to determine tubule diameter. Safety of the irradiation treatment was investigated on 6 samples by measuring pulpal temperature rise. The effect of three topical reagents corresponding to 2% Sodium Fluoride gel (F), Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HA) and an equal mix of F and HA (HAF) on dentinal tubule occlusion was evaluated and compared with the laser irradiation. In all examined cases, laser irradiation at a fluence of 0.81J/cm2 resulted in a temperature increase less than 3°C which is safe, and no surface cracking was observed. There is a threshold pulse fluence of 0.27J/cm2 above which, laser produced surface melting. At a pulse fluence of 0.81J/cm2 a layer of recast of melted dentin was formed. Under this layer, peritubular dentin melting and occluding of the dentinal tubules was observed. Application of either F or HA or HAF did not produce visible occlusion effect on open tubules after washing and microbrushing with excess distilled water. 9.3μm CO2 laser irradiation on extracted human molar dentin at pulse fluence of 0.81J./cm2 resulted in tubule area reduction by 97% without rising pulpal temperatures to unsafe levels.

Maternal exposure to phenanthrene induces testicular apoptosis and Sertoli cell dysfunction in F1 adult male mice: a histological and molecular study.

Phenanthrene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, is found in abundance in environmental pollutants, food, and drinking water. This substance can accumulate in body tissues and exert harmful effects. Moreover, phenanthrene can cross the placental barrier, potentially impacting fetal development. We aimed to explore the impacts of maternal exposure to phenanthrene on testicular tissue and Sertoli cell function in F1 mice. Female rats with vaginal plugs were randomly assigned to one of three groups: control, sham, or phenanthrene. The control group received no intervention during pregnancy. In the sham and phenanthrene groups, corn oil and a phenanthrene solution, respectively, were administered via gavage once every 2 days. Offspring were separated by sex 21 days after birth. At 56 days postnatal, male F1 offspring were euthanized, and their testes were harvested for histological and molecular analyses. Phenanthrene exposure was associated with a lower testicular weight and volume, a smaller diameter of the seminiferous tubules, and a relative thinning of the germinal epithelium. These changes were associated with increased cellular apoptosis, as shown by the upregulation of caspase 3 expression. Additionally, we observed an increase in vacuolization and residual bodies within the tissue. Conversely, the number of Sertoli cells and expression levels of Sox9, as well as the Ocln and Itgb1 genes, were found to be lowered. Maternal exposure to phenanthrene impacts both germ cells and Sertoli cells, disrupting their function and leading to fertility disorders in male F1 offspring mice.