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Environmental exposure to endocrine disruptors, such as pesticides, could contribute to a decline of human fertility. Glyphosate (GLY) is the main component of Glyphosate Based Herbicides (GBHs), which are the most commonly herbicides used in the world. Various animal model studies demonstrated its reprotoxicity. In Europe, GLY authorization in agriculture has been extended until 2034. Meanwhile the toxicity of GLY in humans is still in debate. The aims of our study were firstly to analyse the concentration of GLY and its main metabolite, amino-methyl-phosphonic acid (AMPA) by LC/MS-MS in the seminal and blood plasma in an infertile French men population (n=128). We secondly determined Total Antioxidant Status (TAS) and Total Oxidant Status (TOS) using commercial colorimetric kits and some oxidative stress biomarkers including malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) by ELISA assays. We next analysed potential correlations between GLY and oxidative stress biomarkers concentration and sperm parameters (sperm concentration, progressive speed, anormal forms). Here, we detected for the first time GLY in the human seminal plasma in significant proportions and we showed that its concentration was four times higher than those observed in blood plasma. At the opposite, AMPA was undetectable. We also observed a strong positive correlation between plasma blood GLY concentrations and plasma seminal GLY and 8-OHdG concentrations, the latter reflecting DNA impact. In addition, TOS, Oxidative Stress Index (OSI) (TOS/TAS), MDA blood and seminal plasma concentrations were significantly higher in men with glyphosate in blood and seminal plasma, respectively. Taken together, our results suggest a negative impact of GLY on the human reproductive health and possibly on his progeny. A precaution principle should be applied at the time of the actual discussion of GLY and GBHs formulants uses in Europe by the authorities., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Despite the availability of sufficient data on the effects of individual metal exposure on living organisms, a critical knowledge gap still exists in predicting effects of multi-metals particularly on the pituitary-testicular axis. Thus, the aim of the present study was to check the effects of individual or combined (binary and ternary) exposure to aluminum, copper, and zinc on (i) sperm and testosterone levels (ii) oxidative stress and (iii) structural changes in testis of male Wistar rats. Animals were exposed to aluminum, copper, and zinc either individually (20   mg/kg, orally, once, daily), binary (10   mg/kg each, orally, once daily) or in ternary combination (5   mg/kg, each, orally, once daily) for 24   weeks. The exposure to aluminum, copper individually and in combination led to a significant decrease in sperm counts and an increased oxidative stress compared to the control group. Exposure to zinc caused significant decrease in oxidative stress and an increase in different sperm variables. The exposure to zinc with aluminum or copper had no toxic effects on testis while concomitant exposure to aluminum, copper, and zinc produced more pronounced testicular injury. In summary, while co-exposure to zinc with aluminum or copper produced reproductive toxicity the co-exposure to all the three metals may lead to a significant testicular toxicity and these changes were related to increase in oxidative stress in rats.

This study was aimed to determine the effects of boric acid on oxidative stress, testicular tissue and spermatozoon DNA. Experiments were performed with Swiss Albino mice divided equally into two groups based on the tratment period: one for 4 and the other for 6-week duration. These groups were further divided into subgroups as Control and those administered daily at oral doses of 115 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg and 450 mg/kg of boric acid. Then, testicular tissue were examined postmortem and analyzed using ex-vivo biochemical tools for oxidative stress, spermatozoon membrane integrity, sperm motility and live cell rate (%). In both 4 and 6-week groups, v. seminalis weight, membrane integrity, motility, live cells and GSH levels exhibited a decreasing trent compared to the controls. In addition, 6-week group had a decrease in SOD level. MDA level was higher in controls in both 4 and 6-week groups. Spermatozoon DNA was intact in the 4-week group, but damaged in the 6-week group, and the degree of the damage dependent on the administered dose. Boric acid induces oxidative stress in testicular tissue, and its long-term application (only 6 weeks) caused damage in spermatozoon DNA., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.)

The potential pharmaceutical application of nanoparticles has led to the toxicity within the male reproductive system. In the present study, the effects of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) on hematological parameters, free radical generation, antioxidant system, sperm parameters, and organ histo-morphometry in male rats were investigated. Ag-NPs were produced by the reduction of silver ions, while the formation of which was monitored by UV-visible spectrophotometry. Zeta potential, transmission, and scanning electron microscopies were applied for the characterization of AgNPs. A total of 30 rats were divided into 6 groups and were sub-dermally exposed to Ag-NPs at the dosage of 0 (control), 10, and 50 mg/kg bodyweight (bw) doses for either 7 or 28 days. Ag-NP administration altered hematological indices and caused dose-dependent decreases in sperm motility, velocity, kinematic parameters, concentrations of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone. In the epididymis and testis, the concentrations of malondialdehyde and peroxide increases while superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, and total thiol group decreases. These findings suggest that Ag-NP triggered hormonal imbalance and induce oxidative stress in testis and epididymis; which negatively affect sperm parameters of male rats.

Furan is a colorless toxic chemical produced in various food items during heat processing and in chemical industries. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have reported that it induces oxidative stress and endocrine disruption; however, limited data are available regarding the effects of furan on the reproduction of mammals. In the present study, an in vitro experiment was designed to investigate the direct effects of furan exposure on oxidative stress and testosterone concentration in rat testicular tissue. Furan not only generated high oxidative stress but also decreased antioxidant enzyme activity in the testicular tissue. On the basis of in vitro study results, an in vivo sub-chronic exposure study was performed. Male rats were orally exposed to different concentrations of furan (0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg kg -1 ). An increase (P < 0.05) of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and of the lipid profile (cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL) in higher dose treatment groups of furan was observed, while total protein content and antioxidant enzyme activity were considerably decreased after furan exposure. Also, plasma and intratesticular testosterone concentrations were reduced in high-dose treatment groups. Sperm parameters such as sperm viability, sperm count, and sperm motility showed a decrease (P < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological findings revealed significant alterations in testis and epididymis tissues. These results confirm that furan can induce toxic effects on the reproductive system of male rats., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The semen cryopreservation processes are associated with state of oxidative stress induced by high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing damage to functional spermatozoa. Whereby, antioxidants have been utilized to scavenge or neutralize the elevated levels of ROS. The aim of at the present study was to evaluate the effect of adding BHT to the freezing extenders on post-thaw characteristics of domestic cat spermatozoa. Semen samples were frozen in Tris-fructose-citric acid-based extender, supplemented with different concentrations of BHT (0.5 mM, 1.0 mM and 2.0 mM) and a control sample without antioxidant. After thawing, sperm samples were assessed for motility by computer-assisted sperm analysis and viability, acrosome integrity, superoxide anion production and membrane lipid peroxidation status by flow cytometry. In the study, the parameters of sperm motility and acrosome integrity were significantly higher in 2.0 mM BHT compared to sperm frozen in the extender with other concentrations and control (P < 0.05), in addition, this concentration reduced significantly the superoxide anion production and lipid peroxidation of the sperm. The results demonstrated that the supplementation of BHT to the freezing extender could protect the function and cellular structure of domestic cat sperm from cryoinjuries., (Copyright © 2019. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

In recent years, there has been significant increase in mobile phone users. With this, health concerns associated with the exposure to electromagnetic radiation are also increasing. Continuous exposure to electromagnetic (EM) radiation generated from mobile phone is one of the probable reasons behind increasing male infertility. EM radiations induce oxidative stress that leads to numerous changes in reproductive parameters. With this hypothesis, we studied the effect of 3G mobile phone radiations on the reproductive system of male Wistar rats. Adult rats were divided into two groups: control and radio frequency-exposed. The animals were exposed to 3G mobile phone radiation for 45 days (2 hr/day) in specially designed exposure setup under standard conditions. Various biochemical and physiological parameters such as sperm count, sperm morphology, mitochondrial activity, lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen species level and histopathological analysis were studied. Histopathological examination revealed a reduction in spermatogenic cells and alterations in sperm membrane. Significant increase in ROS and lipid peroxidation level with simultaneously decrease in sperm count, alterations in sperm tail morphology were observed in the exposed group. In conclusion, exposure to mobile phone radiations induces oxidative stress in male Wistar rats which may lead to alteration in sperm parameters and affects their fertility., (© 2018 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Cyclophosphamide is a drug used for chemotherapy and as an immune-suppressive in the organ transplantation. Despite its many clinical implications in the treatment of cancers, this drug has toxic effects on the reproductive system. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of ghrelin against the damages caused by cyclophosphamide. In this experimental study, 40 male mice were randomly divided into four groups: (i) control; (ii) cyclophosphamide; (iii) cyclophosphamide + ghrelin; and (iv) ghrelin. Cyclophosphamide (100 mg/kg body weight), once a week, and ghrelin (80 μg/kg body weight), daily, were administered intraperitoneally for 5 weeks. After 5 weeks, the epididymides were removed and the lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant capacity and sperm parameters were examined. The fertility rate was evaluated by performance in vitro fertilisation. In the mice exposed to cyclophosphamide, the number of spermatozoa and viability, as well as total antioxidant capacity, decreased significantly (p < .05). The increase in the abnormal sperm and MDA levels was observed (p < .05). In addition, the fertility rate decreased in this group, while the use of ghrelin significantly improved the above disorders in the treatment group (p < .05). The findings of this study showed that ghrelin attenuates negative effects caused by cyclophosphamide in the sperm parameters and enhances the fertility., (© 2017 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Evidence suggests that disturbing the balance between reactive oxygen species levels and antioxidant contents in seminal plasma leads to oxidative stress resulting in male infertility. This study was carried out to identifying clinical significance of seminal oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation in treatment strategies of male infertility in southwest Iran. Sperm parameters, lipid peroxidation and activity of antioxidant enzymes were assessed in fertile (n = 105) and infertile (n = 112) men. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in seminal plasma were found to be higher significantly (p < .001) in patients. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in seminal plasma were significantly (p < .001) lower in infertile men. Significant negative correlations were observed between MDA levels and sperm motility and normal morphology. Spermatozoa with fragmented DNA were higher (p < .001) in infertile men and significantly correlated with MDA levels and SOD and GPx activities. MDA of 4.2 nmol/ml, SOD of 4.89 U/ml and GPx of 329.6 mU/ml were optimum cut-off limits to discriminate infertile patients from fertile men. The results show the leading role of oxidative stress in aetiology of male infertility in southwest Iran and indicate that evaluation of seminal antioxidant status and DNA integrity can be helpful in men attending infertility clinics during fertility assessment., (© 2017 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

Stress is associated with detrimental effects on male reproductive function. It is known that stress increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in the male reproductive tract. High ROS levels may be linked to low sperm quality and male infertility. However, it is still not clear if ROS are generated by stress in the testis. The objective of this study was to characterize the role of oxidative stress induced by cold-water immersion stress in the testis of adult male rats and its relation with alterations in cauda epididymal sperm. Adult male rats were exposed to acute stress or chronic stress by cold-water immersion. Rats were sacrificed at 0, 6, 12, and 24 hours immediately following acute stress exposure, and after 20, 40, and 50 days of chronic stress. ROS production increased only at 6 hours post-stress, while the activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes, lipid peroxidation (LPO), and sperm parameters were not modified in the testis. Corticosterone increased immediately after acute stress, whereas testosterone was not modified. After chronic stress, testicular absolute weight decreased; in addition, ROS production and LPO increased at 20, 40, and 50 days. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) decreased throughout the duration of chronic stress and the activity of catalase (CAT) decreased at 40 and 50 days, and increased at 20 days. The expression of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and CAT were not modified, but the expression of phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (GPx-4) decreased at 20 days. Motility, viability, and sperm count decreased, while abnormal sperm increased with chronic stress. These results suggest that during acute stress there is a redox state regulation in the testis since no deleterious effect was observed. In contrast, equilibrium redox is lost during chronic stress, with low enzyme activity but without modifying their expression. In addition, corticosterone increased while testosterone decreased, this decrease is related to the negative effects seen in sperm.

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of antioxidants including cysteamine (2.5, 7.5 mm), hyaluronan (0.25, 1 mg ml(-1) ) and fetuin (5, 10 mg ml(-1) ) in the freezing of Brown Swiss bull semen. The best percentages of CASA motilities were achieved with 10 mg ml(-1) of fetuin and 2.5 mm of cysteamine. For sperm morphology, 10 mg ml(-1) of fetuin and 2.5 mm of cysteamine had better protective effects (P < 0.001). The results of hypo-osmotic swelling test showed that the percentage values of membrane integrity in all the groups, excluding that supplemented with 5 mg ml(-1) of fetuin, were higher than those of the control group (P < 0.001). Results obtained for the DNA damage of sperm cells demonstrated that 0.25 mg ml(-1) of hyaluronan, and 2.5 and 7.5 mm of cysteamine led to lower rates of spermatozoa with damaged DNA, compared with the control group (P < 0.001). The maintenance of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase antioxidant activities following freeze-thawing with 2.5 and 7.5 mm of cysteamine and 10 mg ml(-1) of fetuin was demonstrated to be at a higher level in comparison with the control group (P < 0.001). Malondialdehyde formation was found to be lower in the groups supplemented with 0.25 mg ml(-1) of hyaluronan and 7.5 mm of cysteamine after the freeze-thawing process (P < 0.001)., (© 2014 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

The protective effect of quercetin on cisplatin-induced renal and testicular tissue damage was investigated using biochemical, histopathological and histological approaches. A total of 40 male rats were divided into 5 groups as follows: control; cisplatin alone; quercetin alone; cisplatin + quercetin; and quercetin + cisplatin. Cisplatin was administered to rats at a single dose of 7 mg kg(-1) intraperitoneal. Quercetin was administered by gavage daily for 10 days at dosage 50 mg kg(-1) . At the end of the study serum, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels and total oxidant status (TOS) were determined. Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and xanthine oxidase (XO) were studied separately in serum, renal tissue and testicular tissue. Renal and testicular morphological alterations were assessed, histopathologically. Epididymal sperm concentration, motility and morphology were investigated. Testicular and renal TAC and TOS values did not alter significantly. Renal CAT levels were increased by cisplatin and cisplatin plus quercetin groups that is reversed by administration of quercetin before cisplatin. MDA, CAT, SOD ve XO levels of testicular tissue did not differ significantly. Cisplatin and cisplatin plus quercetin groups had decreased sperm motility ratio and increased abnormal spermatozoa. Quercetin partially reverses some of the cisplatin-related pathological effects on kidney and testis., (© 2013 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.)

This study evaluates silver-doped carbon dots (AgCDs) as a novel agent for chemical castration using a rat model. Six groups of rats (five males and ten females each, except for the surgical group which had only males) were utilized to compare the effects of different concentrations of AgCDs. The groups included control, sham, and three experimental groups injected with 1.25, 50, and 200 µg/mL AgCDs, respectively, along with a surgical castration group. Testosterone levels, sperm parameters, fertility index, oxidative damage, histopathological parameters, and gene expression of P53, Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3, AKT, and PI3K were analyzed. Results demonstrated that the high-dose AgCDs group significantly reduced testosterone levels, sperm concentration, and motility, resulting in a decreased fertility index. MDA and NO significantly increased, while CAT, SOD, GPx, and TAC significantly reduced in the chemically castrated groups. Histological and genes expression analysis also revealed apoptosis and testicular damage in the AgCDs groups, indicated by significant increases in P53, Bax, and Caspase-3 levels, and significant reductions in AKT, PI3K, and Bcl-2. Based on these findings, AgCDs could be considered a potent and efficient agent for chemical castration, offering a less invasive, cost-effective solution with potential applications for population control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study evaluates silver-doped carbon dots (AgCDs) as a novel agent for chemical castration using a rat model. Six groups of rats (five males and ten females each, except for the surgical group which had only males) were utilized to compare the effects of different concentrations of AgCDs. The groups included control, sham, and three experimental groups injected with 1.25, 50, and 200 µg/mL AgCDs, respectively, along with a surgical castration group. Testosterone levels, sperm parameters, fertility index, oxidative damage, histopathological parameters, and gene expression of P53, Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3, AKT, and PI3K were analyzed. Results demonstrated that the high-dose AgCDs group significantly reduced testosterone levels, sperm concentration, and motility, resulting in a decreased fertility index. MDA and NO significantly increased, while CAT, SOD, GPx, and TAC significantly reduced in the chemically castrated groups. Histological and genes expression analysis also revealed apoptosis and testicular damage in the AgCDs groups, indicated by significant increases in P53, Bax, and Caspase-3 levels, and significant reductions in AKT, PI3K, and Bcl-2. Based on these findings, AgCDs could be considered a potent and efficient agent for chemical castration, offering a less invasive, cost-effective solution with potential applications for population control.

Context: In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic became a threat to human health and induced global concern. The SARS-CoV-2 virus causes various disorders in the body's systems, and the reproductive system is no exception. Further, the rate of infertile couples is increasing and part of this is related to male infertility. Aims: The aim of the present study was to investigate the impacts of COVID-19 infection history on semen quality in men referred to public and private infertility centres. Methods: In this research, patients were divided into two groups: 88 men with a history of COVID-19 (Covid+) and 51 men without (Covid−). After semen collection, sperm parameters, fertilisation rate and oxidative stress were investigated. Key results: Sperms with normal morphology and mature chromatin in patients with COVID-19 infection history decreased, and seminal oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation were increased; moreover, the fertilisation rate in the Covid+ group decreased in compare to the Covid− group. Conclusion: COVID-19 infection increases oxidative stress in the semen, so has a negative effect on some sperm parameters and fertilisation rate. Implications: COVID-19 infection impairs semen quality by increasing in oxidative stress, thus reducing the fertility potential. In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has been considered a threat to human health. The SARS-CoV-2 virus has caused various disorders in the body's systems and the reproductive system is no exception. Based on the result of present study, COVID-19 infection increases the oxidative stress and reduces the semen quality, thus reducing the fertility potential. Illustration by Sareh Karimi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hesperidin, a bioactive flavanone glycoside prevalent in citrus fruits, with remarkable therapeutic properties stands out as a formidable defender against the debilitating reproductive toxicity associated with Cyclophosphamide (CYP) chemotherapy. This study explores the protective potential of hesperidin (HSP@100 mg/kg b. wt PO daily) against CYP-induced (@ 40 mg/kg b. wt IP once in a week) reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats as several studies were documented on single dose toxicity of CYP. In this experiment, we chose multidosage drug effects, which are more relevant in chemotherapy. Twentyfour rats were divided into four groups: Group 1 (Control), group 2 (CYPtreated), group 3 (HSP-treated), and group 4 (CYP + HSP-treated) for 28 days. The experimental design included assessments of relative testicular weight, semen analysis, testosterone levels, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, gross and histopathological changes, and immunohistochemical evaluation. The results revealed that the administration of CYP led to a significant reduction in testicular weight, sperm count, motility, and testosterone levels, accompanied by increased oxidative stress and inflammatory response. Hesperidin co-administration demonstrated a protective effect by restoring these parameters to near-normal levels. Histopathological analysis revealed improved testicular architecture in the group 4 compared with the group 2. Oxidative stress indices indicated that hesperidin attenuated CYP-induced damage by reducing malondialdehyde levels, enhancing superoxide dismutase activity and maintaining glutathione levels. Similarly, inflammatory cytokine analysis demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects of hesperidin by reducing tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) and elevating interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels in the group 4. Immunohistochemical evaluation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) revealed increased inflammation in the CYP group, while hesperidin significantly reduced NF-κB expression, suggesting its anti-inflammatory properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Celiac disease is a common chronic inflammatory condition of the small intestine caused by permanentintolerance to gluten/gliadin. It has been demonstrated that oxidative stress is one of the mechanisms that is involvedin gliadin toxicity, and there is a correlation between oxidative damage with this disease. Similarly, increased oxidativestress was repeatedly reported in infertile men which led to low-quality of sperm function. Therefore, we aimed toassess sperm parameters and chromatin status in men with Celiac disease.Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, semen samples were collected from 11 fertile men without Celiacand 10 men with diagnostic Celiac disease. Basic semen analyses were performed according to the World HealthOrganization (WHO) 2010 protocol. The percentage of sperm with persistence histones, protamine deficiency, DNAfragmentation, malondialdehyde (MDA), and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed using anilineblue, chromomycin A3, sperm chromatin structure assay, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay, anddiacetyldichlorofluorescein staining, respectively.Results: Unlike the sperm parameters, which did not show significant differences between men with Celiac diseaseand fertile individuals, sperm chromatin maturation (persistence histones and protamine deficiency) and sperm DNAdamage in men with Celiac disease were significantly higher compared to fertile individuals (P0.05).Conclusion: Celiac disease affects sperm chromatin maturation and DNA fragmentation, emphasizing its impact onreproductive health.

The study aimed to determine the in-vitro effect of metformin on total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of seminal samples of infertile male subjects. It was conducted from January to June 2022 on forty-four seminal plasma samples collected from male infertile patients, age ranging from 18 to 55 years. All 44 semen samples were treated as three distinct groups: (i) a control group (ii) a study group subjected to oxidative stress (OS) induction and (iii) a test group exposed to OS induction and subsequent treatment with metformin. OS was introduced by using commercially available 100μM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and incubated for twenty-four hours at 37ºC. After that 1 ml of 100 mmol/l concentration of commercially available Metformin (PHR 1331, CAS: 461-58-5) was administered to test group samples for additional 24h at 37ºC. Low levels of TAC were observed after OS induction in comparison to the control group (p=0.01). In test samples (after treatment with Metformin), a positive correlation of TAC with sperm count, normal sperm morphology and sperm motility were observed however, results were not significant. The antioxidant effect of Metformin was shown to improve the antioxidant capacity of OS induced samples and their sperm parameters in seminal plasma of infertile male subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Celiac disease is a common chronic inflammatory condition of the small intestine caused by permanent intolerance to gluten/gliadin. It has been demonstrated that oxidative stress is one of the mechanisms that is involved in gliadin toxicity, and there is a correlation between oxidative damage with this disease. Similarly, increased oxidative stress was repeatedly reported in infertile men which led to low-quality of sperm function. Therefore, we aimed to assess sperm parameters and chromatin status in men with Celiac disease. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, semen samples were collected from 11 fertile men without Celiac and 10 men with diagnostic Celiac disease. Basic semen analyses were performed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2010 protocol. The percentage of sperm with persistence histones, protamine deficiency, DNA fragmentation, malondialdehyde (MDA), and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed using aniline blue, chromomycin A3, sperm chromatin structure assay, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay, and diacetyldichlorofluorescein staining, respectively. Results: Unlike the sperm parameters, which did not show significant differences between men with Celiac disease and fertile individuals, sperm chromatin maturation (persistence histones and protamine deficiency) and sperm DNA damage in men with Celiac disease were significantly higher compared to fertile individuals (P<0.05). In addition, the percentage of sperm viability in these individuals was significantly lower than that in the fertile individuals (P<0.05). We did not observe any significant differences in sperm lipid peroxidation and intracellular ROS levels between the two study groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: Celiac disease affects sperm chromatin maturation and DNA fragmentation, emphasizing its impact on reproductive health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semen quality represents a compelling factor for fertility, and delineating the normal values has proven difficult. In the last four decades, several authors have reported a noticeable decline in sperm parameters. Also, studies investigating 'time to pregnancy' have shown that fecundity begins to be reduced when sperm numbers decrease below 30 million, even though according to the 6th edition of the WHO manual, the normal value is currently 16 million/mL or 39 million per ejaculate. There exists sufficient data to suggest a decline in sperm counts over time, even though the clear reason for this adverse trend is not well established, but some associations have been hypothesised, such as maternal smoking during pregnancy. Additional potential factors have yet to be fully illustrated but involve poor diet, increased obesity, and exposure to environmental toxins. Moreover, the change in environmental conditions and more common exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as pesticides and herbicides, as well as bisphenol A, phthalates, polychlorinated biphenyls, and heavy metals, starting from prenatal life and continuing into adulthood, may exhibit probable features explaining the reduction in sperm parameters. Therefore, the main goal of this narrative review is to furnish an overview of the possible effects of exposure to EDCs on testicular function and spermatogenesis and, also, to summarise the evidence regarding a decrease in sperm quality and examine its potential consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP)-administration was found to be toxic in mammalian systems and also known to affect the male reproduction in rats. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of DEHP on the male reproductive system in a rat model. Three groups of six rats each, i.e. first group control (corn oil administered), second group DEHP administered at the rate of 850 mg/kg BW/day, whereas third group DEHP administered at the rate of 950 mg/kg BW/day for a period of 30 days, consecutively. Initially, final testes weights and sperm quality parameters of testes were evaluated. Oxidative stress markers, lysosomal enzyme activities and inflammatory cytokine levels in testicular tissue were analysed. Sex hormones and haematological parameters were also analysed in control and experimental groups of rats. The results obtained for Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) administered rats were compared with its respective controls with relevance to sperm count, sperm motility and daily sperm production rates, which were significantly decreased due to DHEP administration, whereas oxidative stress indicators were found to be significantly increased. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and decreased activity of the antioxidant enzymes as super oxide dismutase (SOD), reduced levels of catalase (CAT) and glutathione content (GSH) recorded under DEHP administration. While testicular enzymes like γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities were found to be significantly elevated during DEHP administrated rats. Oxidative marker enzyme succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activity was found to be significantly decreased. β-Glucuronidase activity was significantly increased and acid phosphatase activity was significantly decreased, in response to DEHP administration into rats. Pro-inflammatory cytokinines such as tumour necrosis factor-1 α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) levels were significantly increased. Serum testosterone levels decreased, serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and leutinizing hormone (LH) levels increased. Due to DEHP administration leucocytes, monocytes, neutrophils/granulocytes, erythrocytes and haemoglobin contents were significantly decreased, whereas lymphocytes, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), haematocrit, mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) levels were found to be increased. Results obtained in the present study suggest that DEHP affecting the process of spermatogenesis through changing the activities of the enzymes responsible for the maturation of the sperm. The rate of production of sperm numbers from testes may be responsible for the antifertility effects of DHEP. The results obtained clearly suggests that disruption of cellular energetics in the testes may be responsible for the reported infertility on male rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A variety of pathologic conditions may increase oxidative stress in semen resulting in structural modifications to spermozoa’s plasma membrane that interfere with sperm motility, morphology, and count. Antioxidants are currently being marketed to treat male infertility. In semen, antioxidants may decrease oxidative stress and potentially improve sperm parameters. In this narrative, mini-review we evaluated the effectiveness of antioxidants in infertility. Methods: This mini-review of the current literature has been carried out through searching of the PubMed and Google scholar databases. Results and conclusions: The literature review suggests that there is evidence that oral antioxidants such as selenium, carnitine, zinc, coenzymeQ10, vitamins E and C, etc. alone or in combinations, improve sperm count, motility, morphology as well as pregnancy rates in infertile men with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia. Unfortunately, most of these studies are poorly designed, limited by sample size, varying in dosage, differing in primary end points, and most notably lacking live birth data. Importantly, large randomized, well-designed, placebo-controlled trials are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hesperidin, a bioactive flavanone glycoside prevalent in citrus fruits, with remarkable therapeutic properties stands out as a formidable defender against the debilitating reproductive toxicity associated with Cyclophosphamide (CYP) chemotherapy. This study explores the protective potential of hesperidin (HSP@100 mg/kg b.wt PO daily) against CYP-induced (@ 40 mg/kg b.wt IP once in a week) reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats as several studies were documented on single dose toxicity of CYP. In this experiment, we chose multidosage drug effects, which are more relevant in chemotherapy. Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups: Group 1 (Control), group 2 (CYP-treated), group 3 (HSP-treated), and group 4 (CYP + HSP-treated) for 28 days. The experimental design included assessments of relative testicular weight, semen analysis, testosterone levels, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, gross and histopathological changes, and immunohistochemical evaluation. The results revealed that the administration of CYP led to a significant reduction in testicular weight, sperm count, motility, and testosterone levels, accompanied by increased oxidative stress and inflammatory response. Hesperidin co-administration demonstrated a protective effect by restoring these parameters to near-normal levels. Histopathological analysis revealed improved testicular architecture in the group 4 compared with the group 2. Oxidative stress indices indicated that hesperidin attenuated CYP-induced damage by reducing malondialdehyde levels, enhancing superoxide dismutase activity and maintaining glutathione levels. Similarly, inflammatory cytokine analysis demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects of hesperidin by reducing tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and elevating interleukin-10 (IL-10) levels in the group 4. Immunohistochemical evaluation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) revealed increased inflammation in the CYP group, while hesperidin significantly reduced NF-κB expression, suggesting its anti-inflammatory properties.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of carvacrol and treadmill exercise on oxidative stress and testis structure in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, the diabetes was induced using a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of STZ (50 mg/kg). The rats were assigned to five groups, namely a control group, a diabetic control group, a diabetic group receiving daily carvacrol at a dose of 75 mg/kg, diabetic groups performing treadmill exercise, and a diabetic group performing daily treadmill exercise and receiving carvacrol. After covering the treatment period, all rats were anesthetized and their blood sample were taken. Then the serum levels of oxidative stress markers were measured, the testicles and epididymis were removed, and the sperm parameters were assessed. Results: The treatment of diabetic rats with carvacrol and treadmill exercise effectively improved testis tissue damage, sperm parameters, glucose, and insulin plasma levels (P=0.001). In diabetic rats, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) increased while the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes decreased in the testes tissue (P=0.001). However, when carvacrol administration (75 mg/kg) was combined with treadmill exercise, these parameters were significantly rectified (P

In recent decades, industrialization, intensive agriculture, and urban development have severely impacted marine environments, compromising the health of aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Inadequate disposal results in hundreds of tons of plastic products released annually into the environment, which degrade into microplastics (MPs), posing health risks due to their ability to biomagnify and bioaccumulate. Among these, polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) are significant pollutants in marine ecosystems, widely studied for their reproductive toxicological effects. This research aimed to evaluate the reproductive cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of PS-MPs on sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) spermatozoa in vitro. Results showed that PS-MPs significantly reduced sperm viability and motility without altering morphology, and induced sperm DNA fragmentation mediated by reactive oxygen species production. Furthermore, head-to-head agglutination of the spermatozoa was observed exclusively in the sample treated with the plastic agents, indicating the ability of microplastics to adhere to the surface of sperm cells and form aggregates with microplastics on other sperm cells, thereby impeding movement and reducing reproductive potential. These findings suggest that PS-MPs can adversely affect the quality of sea urchin sperm, potentially impacting reproductive events.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of orally administered Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles on reproductive health in rats. A total of 20 rats, aged 2 to 3 months, were divided into two groups. One group (n=10) received a dosage of 250mg/kg bw TiO2 (15 nm particle size) daily for 28 days, while the other group (n=10) received only tap water as a control. At the end of the study, rats were euthanized, epididymal sperm samples were collected and testicular tissues were examined using both hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemical techniques to assess the levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1a (HIF-1a). Oxidative stress levels were measured by Total Antioxidant Status (TAS), Total Oxidant Status (TOS), Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity. The results indicated that the oral administration of TiO2 nanoparticles significantly impaired sperm quality parameters (P<0.01). In the TiO2-treated group, seminiferous tubule diameter and epithelial height were lower compared to control group (P<0.05). Furthermore, the levels of 8-OHdG, indicating DNA damage, and HIF-1a, a marker of tissue hypoxia, were increased in the testicular tissue. Additionally, the levels of oxidants (TOS and MDA) were increased, while antioxidant markers (TAS and GSH-Px) were decreased in TiO2-treated group. In conclusion, oral administration of TiO2 nanoparticles induces DNA damage, adversely affects epididymal semen quality, and elevates oxidant levels in testicular tissue. These results underscore the detrimental effects of TiO2 nanoparticles (<100nm, especially <25nm) on reproductive health and highlight the importance of further investigation into their potential adverse effects in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of crocin and treadmill exercise on oxidative stress, sperm parameters, and testis structure in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 64 diabetic rats induced by a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of STZ (50 mg/ kg) were assigned to the following groups (n=8/each): healthy control group, diabetic control group, diabetic group treated daily with crocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg, and one healthy group receiving daily crocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 56 days. Some groups such as the controls and diabetics exercised with treadmill, as well as the healthy and diabetic groups performed daily exercise with treadmill and crocin. After crocin treatment, all rats were anesthetized, their blood samples were taken, and the serum level of insulin, glucose, and oxidative stress markers were measured. Finally, the testicles and epididymis were removed and sperm parameters were assessed. Results: Treatment of diabetic rats with crocin along with treadmill exercise significantly replaced the testicular tissue damage, sperm parameters, glucose, and insulin plasma levels (P=0.001). In diabetic rats, moreover, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was increased and the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes activity were reduced in the testicular tissue (P=0.001). Crocin administration (50 mg/kg BW) and exercise significantly improved these parameters (P

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of carvacrol and treadmill exercise on oxidative stress and testis structure in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, the diabetes was induced using a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of STZ (50 mg/kg). The rats were assigned to five groups, namely a control group, a diabetic control group, a diabetic group receiving daily carvacrol at a dose of 75 mg/kg, diabetic groups performing treadmill exercise, and a diabetic group performing daily treadmill exercise and receiving carvacrol. After covering the treatment period, all rats were anesthetized and their blood sample were taken. Then the serum levels of oxidative stress markers were measured, the testicles and epididymis were removed, and the sperm parameters were assessed. Results: The treatment of diabetic rats with carvacrol and treadmill exercise effectively improved testis tissue damage, sperm parameters, glucose, and insulin plasma levels (P = 0.001). In diabetic rats, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) increased while the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes decreased in the testes tissue (P = 0.001). However, when carvacrol administration (75 mg/kg) was combined with treadmill exercise, these parameters were significantly rectified (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In sum, administering carvacrol and performing treadmill exercise were effective in improving the sperm parameters and testicular oxidative damage caused by diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In this research, we evaluated the protective effect of hydroalcoholic extracts of Galega officinalis and Cornus mas on spermatogenesis and oxidative stress associated with diabetes in the testes of adult rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, a total of 64 adult male Wistar rats were divided into eight equal groups (n=8 in each) as follows: (1) control group, (2) diabetic control group, (3) diabetic group receiving Galega extract daily at a dose of 50 mg/kg, (4) healthy group receiving Galega extract daily at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 14 days, (5) diabetic group receiving Cornus mas extract daily at a dose of 100 mg/kg, (6) healthy group receiving Cornus mas extract daily, (7) diabetic group receiving Cornus mas and Galega daily, and (8) healthy group receiving Galega and Cornus mas extract daily. Diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). At the end of treatment period, all animals were anesthetized and blood samples were taken to measure the serum levels of insulin, glucose, and oxidative stress markers. Finally, the testicles and epididymis were removed and sperm parameters were assessed. Results: Galega and Cornus mas extract significantly reduced the oxidative stress, sperm parameters, glucose, and insulin plasma levels (P=0.001). Furthermore, the malondialdehyde (MDA) level was increased in diabetic rats. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes decreased in testicular tissue (P=0.001). Administering Galega and Cornus mas extract significantly improved these parameters (P

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of crocin and treadmill exercise on oxidative stress, sperm parameters, and testis structure in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 64 diabetic rats induced by a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of STZ (50 mg/kg) were assigned to the following groups (n=8/each): healthy control group, diabetic control group, diabetic group treated daily with crocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg, and one healthy group receiving daily crocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 56 days. Some groups such as the controls and diabetics exercised with treadmill, as well as the healthy and diabetic groups performed daily exercise with treadmill and crocin. After crocin treatment, all rats were anesthetized, their blood samples were taken, and the serum level of insulin, glucose, and oxidative stress markers were measured. Finally, the testicles and epididymis were removed and sperm parameters were assessed. Results: Treatment of diabetic rats with crocin along with treadmill exercise significantly replaced the testicular tissue damage, sperm parameters, glucose, and insulin plasma levels (P = 0.001). In diabetic rats, moreover, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was increased and the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes activity were reduced in the testicular tissue (P = 0.001). Crocin administration (50 mg/kg BW) and exercise significantly improved these parameters (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Our results confirm the antioxidant role of crocin and the positive role of treadmill exercise in improving the sperm parameters and testicular oxidative damage caused by diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main environmental toxins that pose a risk to human health is cadmium (Cd) which especially affected human fertility. This investigation aimed to study whether the Stem Enhancer® was able to treat cadmium chloride-evoked testicular toxicity or not. About 36 male rats were divided into 6 groups equally: the control group, tween80 group, and StemEnhance® group received 198mg/kg b. w. /days orally, cadmium chloride group (Cdcl2) received 15 mg/kg b.w. / day orally for 45 consecutive days, Cdcl2+distilled water group received Cdcl2 15mg/kg/day orally for 45 days, and then it received distilled water orally for another 45 days and Cdcl2+ StemEnhance®group received Cdcl2 15mg/kg/day orally for 45 days, and then it received StemEnhance® 198 mg/kg body weight /days orally for another 45 days. The results demonstrated that CdCl2 reduced sperm motility, count, and relative weight of testes and increased the percentage of dead sperm and sperm abnormalities and caused histopathological alterations. CdCl2 and decreased level of testosterone, FSH and testicular total antioxidant level in serum. However, the sperm profile of rats in the StemEnhance® treated group was improved, as the testosterone, FSH and total antioxidant capacity increased. So by inhibiting oxidative stress and acting as a bone marrow stem cell mobilizer, StemEnhance®, according to our findings, may be able to treat testicular damage caused by cadmium chloride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In medicine, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are employed often. They do, however, have negative impacts, particularly on the reproductive organs. This research aimed to assess AgNP impact on the testis and the possible intracellular mechanisms to induce testicular deteriorations in rats at various concentrations and different time intervals. Sprague Dawley rats (n = 40) were allocated into four equal groups: the control one, and three other groups injected intra-peritoneally with AgNP solution 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg b.w. respectively for 15 and 30 days. Our findings revealed that AgNPs reduced body and testicular weights, estradiol (E2) and testosterone (T) hormone levels, and sperm parameters while elevating the nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels with inhibition of reduced glutathione contents in testicular tissue. Interestingly, AgNPs significantly upregulated the testicular inducible nitric oxide synthase, B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X, transforming growth factor, and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression levels. However, apurinic/apyrimidinic endo deoxyribonuclease 1 (APE1), NAD (P) H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1), and Bcl-2 expression levels were all downregulated indicating exhaustion of body antioxidant and repairing defense mechanisms in testicles in comparison with the control rats. Various histological alterations were also detected which dramatically increased in rats sacrificed after 30 days such as loss of the lining cells of seminiferous tubules with no spermatozoa and tubular irregularities associated with thickening of their basement membranes. Immunolabeling implicated in the apoptotic pathway revealed a negative expression of Bcl-2 and marked immunoreactivity for caspase-3 after 30 days of AgNP treatment in comparison to the control rats. To our knowledge, there have been no previous publications on the role of the α-SMA, APE1, and NQO1 genes in the molecular pathogenesis of AgNP testicular cytotoxicity following AgNP acute and chronic exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In this research, we evaluated the protective effect of hydroalcoholic extracts of Galega officinalis and Cornus mas on spermatogenesis and oxidative stress associated with diabetes in the testes of adult rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, a total of 64 adult male Wistar rats were divided into eight equal groups (n=8 in each) as follows: (1) control group, (2) diabetic control group, (3) diabetic group receiving Galega extract daily at a dose of 50 mg/kg, (4) healthy group receiving Galega extract daily at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 14 days, (5) diabetic group receiving Cornus mas extract daily at a dose of 100 mg/kg, (6) healthy group receiving Cornus mas extract daily, (7) diabetic group receiving Cornus mas and Galega daily, and (8) healthy group receiving Galega and Cornus mas extract daily. Diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). At the end of treatment period, all animals were anesthetized and blood samples were taken to measure the serum levels of insulin, glucose, and oxidative stress markers. Finally, the testicles and epididymis were removed and sperm parameters were assessed. Results: Galega and Cornus mas extract significantly reduced the oxidative stress, sperm parameters, glucose, and insulin plasma levels (P=0.001). Furthermore, the malondialdehyde (MDA) level was increased in diabetic rats. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes decreased in testicular tissue (P=0.001). Administering Galega and Cornus mas extract significantly improved these parameters (P<0.05). Conclusions: Our results confirmed the antioxidant effect of administering Galega extract and Cornus mas extract on improving the sperm parameters and testicular oxidative damage caused by diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol A (BPA) as an endocrine‐disrupting chemical (EDC) with low estrogenic activity increases oxidative stress and testicular damage. Bromelain is a mixture of different thiol endopeptidases and other components with many uses as a natural anti‐inflammatory enzyme. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of bromelain on male reproductive failure induced by BPA. A total of 60 healthy adult male mice were randomly divided into six groups (n = 6), including control, bromelain (70 mg/kg), BPA (5 and 600 mg/kg), and BPA (5 and 600 mg/kg) + bromelain. BPA and bromelain were administrated orally for 35 days. Then, the epididymis and testes were removed to evaluate sperm parameters, oxidative stress markers, serum levels of testosterone concentrations, and oestrogen receptors expression. The BPA significantly (P < 0.05) decreased sperm count, motility, viability, and normal sperm morphology, as well as testosterone levels, oestrogen receptors alpha (ERα) and beta (ERβ), GPx, CAT, and SOD activity than control. Also, BPA significantly (P < 0.05) increased the sperm anomalies, and MDA concentration. Co‐administration of bromelain + BPA caused a significantly (P < 0.05) increase sperm count, normal sperm morphology, testosterone levels, expression of ERα and ERβ, and GPx, CAT, and SOD activity than the BPA group (P < 0.05). Also, Bromelain significantly (P < 0.05) decreased sperm anomalies and MDA concentration than control. Based on the results of this study, it appears that BPA causes side effects on male reproduction. While, bromelain has the potential to reduce the side effects of BPA on the male reproductive system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxic compounds in crude oil vapor (COV), including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are associated with adverse effects on reproduction in living organisms. Quercetin (QT) is the most plentiful flavonoid in vegetables and fruits, with antioxidant activities. This study aimed to evaluate the protective role of QT on testicular toxicity induced by COV. Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6) including control, quercetin (QT) (50 mg/kg), crude oil vapors (COV), and COV + QT. The inhalation method was used to expose the rats to crude oil vapors for 5 h daily, and QT was administered orally. After 30 days, the rats were euthanized, then, the testes were removed for gonadosomatic index (GSI), sperm parameters, H&E staining, the activity of the antioxidant enzymes, and apoptotic gene expression assessments. The COV statistically significantly (P < 0.05) reduced GSI, sperm count, motility, viability, and sperm normal morphology, histological indexes, and antioxidant enzyme activities than control. Also, COV statistically significantly (P < 0.05) increased the expression of caspase-3, p-53, and Bax genes and decreased Bcl-2 gene expression. Co-administration of QT + COV caused a statistically significant (P < 0.05) decrease in Bax gene expression and increased antioxidant enzyme activities, Bcl-2 gene expression, and reproductive parameters than the COV group. Based on the results of this study, it appears that crude oil vapor causes side effects on male reproduction. Yet, quercetin has the potential to reduce the side effects of crude oil vapor on the male reproductive system. [Display omitted] • Crude oil vapor induces histopathological changes and apoptosis in rat testis. • Crude oil vapor causes sperm abnormalities and induces oxidative stress in the male reproductive system. • Quercetin prevents the adverse effects of crude oil on the male reproductive system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quetiapine is one of the most commonly prescribed antipsychotics to treat schizophrenia in adults, in particular. In this study, quetiapine's effects were assessed on healthy sperm production in rats at repeated-pharmacological doses. Additionally, the effects of quetiapine on oxidative status and hormonal balance were also evaluated in rats. Quetiapine was administered to rats orally at 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg body weight doses for 28 days. At the end of this period, body and organ weights were measured, sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were determined, sperm damage was assessed, and histopathological analysis of testicular tissue was performed. Additionally, serum FSH, LH, and testosterone levels as male reproductive hormones were measured. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and malondialdehyde levels were determined for evaluating the oxidative status of testicular tissue. The findings obtained in this study showed that relative epididymis weights and sperm concentration decreased and abnormal sperm morphology increased in quetiapine-administered rats. Irregularity of typical architecture of the seminiferous tubules and germinal cell disorganization was observed in testicular sections of 20 and 40 mg/kg quetiapine-administered rats. Further, serum LH and testosterone levels decreased in 20 and 40 mg/kg quetiapine-administered rats. Additionally, decreased catalase and superoxide dismutase activities in testicular tissue of quetiapine-administered rats and increased malondialdehyde levels in testicular tissue of 40 mg/kg quetiapine-administered rats were measured. In conclusion, quetiapine treatment decreased sperm quality, altered hormone levels, and induced oxidative stress may be considered potential contributors to this adverse effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Infertility affects about 15% of couples in reproductive age worldwide. Male factors are the main causes for this condition. Antioxidants have long been used for infertility treatment as they are easily available with a low cost. In this systematic review, we focused on the relation between antioxidant supplementation and sperm DNA fragmentation and other sperm parameters. Material and methods: An online search from PubMed and ScienceDirect databases was conducted by 2 reviewers. We reviewed full-text articles to obtain detailed information. Results: Nine articles were included in this study. Four studies revealed a statistically significant reduction of sperm DNA fragmentation and five studies revealed an insignificant decrease of sperm DNA fragmentation. Sperm concentration, sperm motility, and morphology were also increased after antioxidant supplementation. Pregnancy rates were reported in 3 studies; the rates increased in 2 studies, and similar rate to placebo group was observed in 1 study. Conclusion: Antioxidant supplementation can counteract against oxidative stress and improve spermatogenesis process reflected by decrease of DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI), improvement of sperm parameters, and elevation of pregnancy rates confirmed by those included studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Ethephon is an organophosphorus that used to stimulate plant growth. Royal Jelly is a substance with antioxidant properties and is effective for strengthening the immune system. This study aimed to determine the effect of Royal Jelly on sperm parameters, in vitro fertilization, and oxidative stress indicators in mice. Material & Methods: In this experimental study, 20 adult male mice (NMRI strain) were divided into four control and experimental groups. The experimental group received Ethephon at 480 mg/kg. Royal Jelly was then administered orally and daily at a concentration of 200 mg/kg alone and in combination with Ethephon. After treatment, sperm samples were collected from the tail of epididymis to investigate sperm parameters and in vitro fertilizing potential; moreover, the testis tissue was taken for oxidative stress examination. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. (Ethic code: IR-UU_AEC-811/پد/3) Findings: A decrease in the sperm motility and viability, fertilization rate, blastocyst, and hatching embryos, as well as an increase in DNA damage, lack of nuclear maturation, and blocked embryos was observed in the experimental groups, compared to the control group. Moreover, Total Antioxidant Capacity and Malondialdehyde in the groups receiving Ethephon decreased and increased, respectively. However, Royal Jelly can prevent the adverse effects of oxidative stress (P

Many authors described negative but reversible effects of high-altitude hypoxic exposure on animal and human fertility in terms of sperm concentration, function, and biochemical alterations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute and chronic effects of high-altitude exposure on classical sperm parameters, redox status, and membrane composition in a group of travellers. Five healthy Italian males, all lowlanders not accustomed to the altitude, were evaluated after 19 days-trekking through low, moderate, and high altitudes in the Himalayas. Sperm samples were collected before (Pre), 10 days after (Post), and 70 days after the end of the expedition (Follow-up). Sperm concentration, cholesterol and oxysterol membrane content, and redox status were measured. Hypoxic trek led to a significant reduction in sperm concentration (p < 0.001, η2p = 0.91), with a reduction from Pre to Post (71.33 ± 38.81 to 60.65 ± 34.63 × 106/mL) and a further reduction at Follow-up (to 37.13 ± 39.17 × 106/mL). The seminal volume was significantly affected by the hypoxic trek (p = 0.001, η2p = 0.75) with a significant reduction from Pre to Post (2.86 ± 0.75 to 1.68 ± 0.49 mL) and with partial recovery at Follow-up (to 2.46 ± 0.45 mL). Moreover, subjects had an increase in ROS production (+86%), and a decrease in antioxidant capacity (−37%) in the Post period with partial recovery at Follow-up. These results integrated the hormonal response on thyroid function, hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal axis, and the prolactin/cortisol pathways previously reported. An uncontrolled ROS production, rather than a compromised antioxidant activity, was likely the cause of impaired sperm quality. The reduction in fertility status observed in this study may lie in an evolutionary Darwinian explanation, i.e., limiting reproduction due to the "adaptive disadvantage" offered by the combined stressors of high-altitude hypoxia and daily physical exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Testicular torsion/detorsion triggers tissue ischemia/reperfusion, leading to reactive oxygen species overgeneration and apoptosis. The saliva of leeches is full of anti-inflammatory, anticoagulants, antioxidants, and antimicrobial agents. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the protective mechanism of leech therapy on testicular ischemia/reperfusion damage. Methods 18 adult male rats were randomly divided into three groups: 1-Sham-operated group (SO). 2-Torsion/detorsion (T.D) group: two hours of testicular torsion with two hours of testicular detorsion was performed. 3-Torsion/detorsion + Leech therapy (TDL) group. Sperm parameters (motility, vitality, morphology, and concentration), oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, CAT, GPx, and TAC), histopathological factors (Mean seminiferous tubular diameter, Germinal epithelial cell thickness, Testicular capsule thickness, Johnson’s score, and Cosentino’s score), and immunohistochemical markers for apoptosis detection (Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3) were measured. Results There was a significant difference for all sperm parameters in the T. D group compared to the sham group. Leech therapy significantly increased progressive motility and normal morphology and reduced non-progressive motility. In the TDL group, MDA concentration significantly reduced, and levels of GPx, TAC, and CAT remarkably increased. All evaluated histopathological parameters in the TDL group significantly increased compared to the T. D group except for the testicular capsule thickness. T. D notably increased the expression of Bax and Caspase-3, while the treatment group slowed the rate of apoptosis compared to the control group. Bcl-2 expression in the T. D group was significantly lower than that in the sham group. Leech therapy increased the Bcl-2 expression. Conclusion Leech therapy attenuates damages to testicular tissue following torsion/detorsion due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. Hence, it can be considered as an effective remedy for testicular ischemia/reperfusion. Graphical abstract

Background and Objectives: Varicocele is the abnormal dilation and twisting of the veins of the pampiniform network, the spermatic cord of the testis. This event is associated with increased oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant capacity. The consequence of varicocele is a reduction in the quality of sperm parameters and defects in spermatogenesis. Curcumin has been introduced as an antioxidant with multiple and modulating potentials in biological activities. This study investigates the effect of curcumin on sperm parameters and the histological status of testicular tissue in rats with varicocele. Methods: For this study, 50 male Wistar rats were examined in 5 different groups: control, sham, varicocele, varicocele treated with curcumin 50 mg/kg, and varicocele treated with curcumin 100 mg/kg. Varicocele was induced through partial occlusion of the left renal vein. Then, sperm parameters and histological status of testicular tissue were assessed and analyzed using ANOVA test after 2 months of curcumin administration in varicocele rats. Results: This study showed that varicocele led to a significant decrease in motility percentage (P= 0.007), sperm concentration (P= 0.036), and a significant increase in abnormal sperm morphology (P≥0.05) compared to the control group. Although administration of curcumin in varicocele rats with concentrations of 50 and 100 mg/kg led to an improvement in sperm parameters, only in varicocele rats received 100 mg/kg curcumin, the concentration (P= 0.032) and total sperm motility (P= 0.04) significantly improved compared to varicocele group. In addition, curcumin improved the tissue damage caused by varicocele and increased the spermatogenesis index. Conclusion: The present study showed that curcumin improves the low quality of sperm parameters and can be a treatment strategy for future male infertility.

Chronic alcohol or coffee/caffeine consumption has been associated with negative effects on male reproductive system. The present study evaluated the possible interaction (combination treatment) of coffee/caffeine and alcohol and its resultant consequence on sperm parameters in rats. Ten groups of adult Sprague Dawley rats (n = 5 per group) were orally gavaged with different quantities of coffee (≈5, 10, and 20 mg/kg caffeine); 30% v/v ethanol (0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg); coffee + ethanol or vehicle (distilled water) daily for 60 days. Sperm parameters, serum sex hormone levels, together with antioxidants and lipid peroxidation status of testis homogenate were evaluated. Single and combined administration of coffee/caffeine and ethanol caused a reduction in sperm count dose-dependently (p = 0.0002), but this effect was highest in the combined treatment. Sperm viability, motility, and morphology were unaffected by coffee or ethanol administration, but the combination produced detrimental effects on them. While changes in follicle stimulating hormone were not significant, testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels were decreased significantly and dose-dependently in all experimental groups (p < 0.05–0.0001). This effect was most pronounced in the groups that received the combination. Testicular superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, and reduced glutathione and malondiadehye (MDA) levels were not affected by coffee/caffeine, but ethanol decreased (p < 0.05) the antioxidants and elevated MDA levels mostly at 2 g/kg. The combination reduced (p < 0.0001) the antioxidants and increased MDA levels in testis homogenates at all doses. Combination of coffee/caffeine and ethanol potentiates their detrimental effects on sperm quality and reproductive hormones via reduction in testicular antioxidants activities and elevation of lipid peroxidation in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review analyzes studies on the negative effects of antibiotics on reproductive organs and their function. Many experimental studies record the negative effect of certain antibiotics, depending on the dose applied, on spermatogenesis. Unlike drugs of other groups, in which a direct cytotoxic effect on the testicular tissue occurs through a change in the level of hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis or through a direct effect on the testicle itself, when using some antibiotics, most often against the background of the inflammatory process, oxidative stress occurs in the testicular tissues, which leads to dystrophic lesions and violations of spermatogenesis indicators.

Varicocele is one of the most important causes of infertility in men which gradually leads to testicular dysfunction. Testicular heat stress‐induced oxidative stress is considered the main cause of pathology in these individuals. In this study, the effects of curcumin and nano‐curcumin, as natural antioxidants, were investigated on spermatogenesis and sperm function in varicocele‐induced rats. Seventy Wistar rats were randomly divided into seven groups; sham, control, varicocele, varicocele + curcumin 50 mg, varicocele + curcumin 100 mg, varicocele + nano‐curcumin 4 mg and varicocele + nano‐curcumin 8 mg. After 2 months of antioxidant therapy, all the rats were sacrificed. The results demonstrated that the mean sperm concentration and motility were significantly lower while the mean of abnormal morphology, lipid peroxidation, intracytoplasmic ROS and DNA damage was significantly higher in varicocelised rats compared to control and sham groups (p <.05). Both doses of curcumin and also nano‐curcumin were significantly effective in improving the aforementioned parameters except for abnormal sperm morphology, and motility where nano‐curcumin (4 mg) was significantly more effective than other groups (p <.05). The results of the current study suggest the application of nano‐curcumin is more preferable to curcumin in infertile individuals with varicocele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchitis as inflammation of testis occurs following traumatic injuries such as testicular torsion leading to high levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. Rosmarinus officinalis is a herb with anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study assessed therapeutic effects of rosemary following testicular torsion. A total of 36 male mice were categorised; control, torsion, rosemary (100 and 200 mg/kg) and torsion+rosemary groups. Torsion was induced surgically, and rosemary was gavaged. Total antioxidant capacity of extract was approved by Ferric Reducing Ability of Plasma. Malondialdehyde and Griess protocols were hired to assess oxidative stress. Finally, sperm parameters and testosterone levels were analysed. Immunofluorescent (of Tumour Necrosis Factor Alpha), hematoxylin and eosin stainings and expression of inflammatory genes (Interleukin‐1α, Interleukin‐1β, Interferon‐γ) were also assessed. Data were analysed using SPSS (v. 19), and graphs were drawn by GraphPad Prism (v. 9). Significantly (p <.05), oxidative stress indices and inflammatory genes expression were increased in torsion group, and total antioxidant capacity was increased in rosemary groups. In torsion+rosemary groups, total antioxidant capacity, sperm parameters and testosterone levels were increased, and inflammatory gene expression decreased significantly (p <.05). Rosemary with anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties accelerates testicular healing in torsion cases, especially in therapeutic dose of 200 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to investigate the protective effects of Lepidium draba L. (L. draba) extract on oxymetholone (OM)‐induced testicular injury in rat. Six groups of n = 5 adult male rats were used as; 1: control, 2: OM (5 mg/kg OM orally), 3, 4 and 5: L. draba extract (100, 200 and 400 mg kg−1 day−1) +OM (5 mg kg−1 day−1 OM) and 6:400 mg/kg/d L. draba extract for 30 days. Serum testosterone (T), follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH), inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐10, TNF‐α, IL‐1β), oxidative stress (OS) indicators [superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and nitric oxide (NO)], apoptotic related genes (Bcl‐2, p53, caspase‐3 (c3) and Bax) were investigated. OM significantly increased the serum levels of T, proinflammatory cytokines and pro‐apoptotic genes expression. Also, it decreased LH and FSH, sperm viability, count and motility. L. draba extract especially could markedly normalise the serum levels of LH and FSH, and T, restore serum antioxidant enzymes and suppressed the pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Also, germ cells apoptosis was inhibited against via downregulating the p53, c3, Bax and upregulating Bcl‐2. It concluded that L. draba extract could protect the function and structure of testis against OM‐induced testicular toxicity via its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Objective. The aim was to assess the effect of oxidative stress parameters on sperm count, motility, and morphology of spermatozoa, and the influence of different semen parameters on the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure – the number of fertilized oocytes, fertilization, and pregnancy rate of female partners. Method. In 52 male patients superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and sulfhydryl (-SH) groups were determined in serum, before beginning the IVF cycle. Semen samples were collected after 2–3 days of sexual abstinence. Results. Patients were divided into two groups, the normozoospermic, and those with pathological sperm findings. The second group was divided into oligozoospermic, asthenozoospermic, and teratozoospermic groups. SOD activity was lower, while MDA and -SH groups, while not significantly, was higher in groups with sperm parameter disorders. Fertilization rate was significantly lower in the group of asthenozoospermia and teratozoospermia (p = 0.034), as well as delivery rate (p = 0.020). The group with oligozoospermia had significantly lower delivery rate (p = 0.013). Conclusion. Our study found higher fertilization and delivery rate in men with normozoospermia. However, no significant correlation between OS markers and semen parameters was found. [Project of the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Grant no. III46009]

Background and purpose: Melissa officinalis (MO) is a medicinal plant and is a rich source of antioxidant and phenolic compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of Melissa officinalis against ethanol induced sub-chronic testicular toxicity in male Wistar rats. Materials and methods: Ethanol extract of MO was prepared and total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined. The Animals were divided into seven groups: control (treated with normal saline), ethanol (10 mg/kg,ip), ethanol and MO extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), MO extract alone (400 mg/kg), and ethanol+ Vit C (positive control). After 56 days, the rats were sacrificed and testis and epididymis were harvested. Oxidative stress markers including: level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PC), and glutathione (GSH), and also nitric oxide (NO) as an inflammatory factor were assayed in testis tissue. Moreover, sperm parameters analysis and histopathological evaluation of testis tissue were performed. Results: Ethanol increased reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, carbonyl protein, and nitric oxide and decreased glutathione in testicular tissue. Pathological lesions, decrease in motility, count and normal morphology of sperm were also observed in ethanol-treated groups. Melissa officinalis inhibited ethanolinduced oxidative stress in testicular tissue and improved sperm abnormalities and pathological lesions. Conclusion: Melissa officinalis showed protective effect against ethanol-induced testicular toxicity which may be attributed to its antioxidant activity. So, it can be considered as an effective supplement against oxidative stress induced by chronic ethanol exposure in testis tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Testicular torsion/detorsion triggers tissue ischemia/reperfusion, leading to reactive oxygen species overgeneration and apoptosis. The saliva of leeches is full of anti-inflammatory, anticoagulants, antioxidants, and antimicrobial agents. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the protective mechanism of leech therapy on testicular ischemia/reperfusion damage. Methods: 18 adult male rats were randomly divided into three groups: 1-Sham-operated group (SO). 2-Torsion/detorsion (T.D) group: two hours of testicular torsion with two hours of testicular detorsion was performed. 3-Torsion/detorsion + Leech therapy (TDL) group. Sperm parameters (motility, vitality, morphology, and concentration), oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, CAT, GPx, and TAC), histopathological factors (Mean seminiferous tubular diameter, Germinal epithelial cell thickness, Testicular capsule thickness, Johnson's score, and Cosentino's score), and immunohistochemical markers for apoptosis detection (Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3) were measured. Results: There was a significant difference for all sperm parameters in the T. D group compared to the sham group. Leech therapy significantly increased progressive motility and normal morphology and reduced non-progressive motility. In the TDL group, MDA concentration significantly reduced, and levels of GPx, TAC, and CAT remarkably increased. All evaluated histopathological parameters in the TDL group significantly increased compared to the T. D group except for the testicular capsule thickness. T. D notably increased the expression of Bax and Caspase-3, while the treatment group slowed the rate of apoptosis compared to the control group. Bcl-2 expression in the T. D group was significantly lower than that in the sham group. Leech therapy increased the Bcl-2 expression. Conclusion: Leech therapy attenuates damages to testicular tissue following torsion/detorsion due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. Hence, it can be considered as an effective remedy for testicular ischemia/reperfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Testicular torsion/detorsion is one of the important emergencies that requires fast surgical intervention. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza hydroalcoholic extract combined with verapamil on testicular ischaemia/reperfusion damage in Wistar albino rats. All animals were distributed in 3 groups (n = 8), including the sham‐operated group, torsion/detorsion (TD) group and torsion/detorsion + pretreatment with 200 mg/kg Salvia miltiorrhiza extract combined with 0.3 mg/kg verapamil (SMV) group. Oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, GPx, CAT and TAC) both in plasma and testicular tissue, sperm parameters (motility, vitality, concentration and morphology) and histopathological parameters (MSTD, GECT, Johnson's score, Cosentino's score and testicular cell thickness) were assessed in all groups. Ischaemia/reperfusion significantly increased MDA and decreased GPx, CAT and TAC levels (p <.05). Pretreatment with SMV significantly increased GPx, CAT and TAC levels (p <.05). SMV group increased progressive sperm motility and vitality and reduced non‐progressive motility of spermatozoon (p <.05). Testicular torsion significantly decreased all histopathological parameters compared to the sham group (p <.05). SMV pretreatment remarkably increased MSTD, GECT and Cosentino's score in comparison with the TD group (p <.05). A combination of Salvia miltiorrhiza with verapamil could reduce damages triggered by testicular torsion detorsion and improve sperm functionality parameters and oxidative stress defence systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]