Protective effects of grape seed extract on cadmium-induced testicular damage, apoptosis, and endothelial nitric
Mehmet Fatih Sönmez1, Simge Tascioglu2
1Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey drmfatihsonmez@hotmail.com.
Abstract:
This study aims to evaluate the protective effect of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) on cadmium (Cd)-induced testicular apoptosis, endothelial nitric oxide synthases (eNOS) expression, and toxicity in rats. A total of 24 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups, namely, control, Cd (2.5 mg/kg), Cd + GSPE (100 mg/kg/day), and GSPE. Spermatogenesis and mean seminiferous tubule diameter were significantly decreased in the Cd groups. Furthermore, the GSPE-treated animals showed an improved histological appearance in the Cd group. The immunoreactivity of eNOS and the number of apoptotic cells were increased in Cd group. Our data indicate a significant reduction of terminal deoxynucleotide transferase-mediated 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate nick end-labeling staining and a decrease in the expression of eNOS in the testes tissue of the Cd group treated with GSPE therapy. Therefore, our results suggest that GSPE acts as a potent protective agent against Cd-induced testicular toxicity in rats.
Insights
Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) protects against cadmium-induced testicular toxicity in rats. GSPE reduced apoptosis and improved testicular function by decreasing endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Reproductive Biology
- Natural Product Chemistry
Background:
- Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal known to induce oxidative stress and damage to reproductive organs.
- Testicular toxicity, including apoptosis and impaired spermatogenesis, is a significant concern associated with cadmium exposure.
- Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) plays a complex role in testicular function and may be affected by cadmium toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the protective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) against cadmium-induced testicular toxicity in a rat model.
- To evaluate the impact of GSPE on testicular apoptosis, spermatogenesis, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression following cadmium exposure.
- To assess the potential of GSPE as a therapeutic agent for mitigating cadmium-induced reproductive damage.
Main Methods:
- Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, cadmium (Cd) exposure, Cd + GSPE treatment, and GSPE only.
- Cadmium-induced testicular toxicity was established using a specific dosage of Cd (2.5 mg/kg).
- Histopathological examination, assessment of spermatogenesis, measurement of seminiferous tubule diameter, and evaluation of apoptotic cells (TUNL staining) and eNOS expression were performed.
Main Results:
- Cadmium exposure significantly decreased spermatogenesis and mean seminiferous tubule diameter.
- GSPE treatment in cadmium-exposed rats improved histological appearance and ameliorated the reduction in spermatogenesis.
- GSPE administration significantly reduced the number of apoptotic cells and decreased the expression of eNOS in testicular tissue of the cadmium-exposed group.
Conclusions:
- Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) demonstrates significant protective effects against cadmium-induced testicular toxicity in rats.
- GSPE mitigates cadmium-induced testicular apoptosis and improves testicular function, potentially by modulating eNOS expression.
- These findings suggest GSPE holds promise as a natural therapeutic agent for preventing or treating cadmium-related reproductive damage.
