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Published on: July 3, 2015
Spinacia oleracea Modulates Radiation-Induced Biochemical Changes in Mice Testis.
Rashmi Sisodia1, Ritu K Yadav, K V Sharma
1Radiation Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, India.
Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
|January 5, 2010
Summary
Spinach extract (SE) shows radioprotective effects by mitigating radiation-induced oxidative stress in mice testes. Continuous SE supplementation helps protect against biochemical damage caused by gamma radiation.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Radioprotection
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Oxidative stress from radiation exposure can cause significant cellular damage.
- Spinach is rich in antioxidants like carotenoids, proteins, minerals, and vitamin C, suggesting potential radioprotective properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the radioprotective efficacy of spinach extract against gamma radiation-induced oxidative stress in mice testes.
- To evaluate the biochemical changes in testicular tissue after spinach extract pre-treatment and radiation exposure.
Main Methods:
- Swiss mice were divided into four groups: normal, drug-treated, control (radiation only), and experimental (spinach extract + radiation).
- Spinach extract (SE) was administered orally at 1100 mg/kg daily for 15 days.
- Mice were exposed to a single dose of 5 Gy gamma radiation.
- Testicular tissues were analyzed for lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein, cholesterol, and glycogen levels at various intervals post-irradiation.
Main Results:
- Spinach extract pre-treatment significantly ameliorated radiation-induced increases in lipid peroxidation, glycogen, and cholesterol levels.
- SE supplementation also helped to counteract the radiation-induced deficit in protein content in testicular tissue.
- These protective effects were observed to some extent with continuous pre-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Spinach extract exhibits radioprotective potential against gamma radiation-induced biochemical alterations in mice testes.
- The synergistic effect of antioxidant constituents in spinach may contribute to its protective efficacy.
- Continuous consumption of spinach extract may offer protection against radiation-induced oxidative stress.
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