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Effect of ghrelin on the biochemical and histopathology parameters and spermatogenesis cycle following experimental

Nematollah Asadi1,2, Arash Kheradmand3, Mohammadreza Gholami4

  • 1Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.

Andrologia
|July 14, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Ghrelin administration significantly improved antioxidant enzyme activity and sperm parameters in rats with induced varicocele. This suggests ghrelin

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive biology
  • Endocrinology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Varicocele is a primary cause of male infertility, leading to progressive testicular damage.
  • Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of varicocele.
  • Understanding protective mechanisms against varicocele-induced testicular dysfunction is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the therapeutic potential of ghrelin in a rat model of varicocele.
  • To evaluate ghrelin's impact on key markers of oxidative stress and testicular function.
  • To assess ghrelin's effects on spermatogenesis in the context of varicocele.

Main Methods:

  • Induction of varicocele in Wistar rats, followed by administration of ghrelin or saline.
  • Measurement of antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase, SOD, GPx) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels.
  • Histopathological examination, Johnsen's scoring, and evaluation of sperm parameters (count, viability).

Main Results:

  • Ghrelin treatment significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC).
  • Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, an indicator of lipid peroxidation, were significantly reduced by ghrelin.
  • Ghrelin administration led to significant improvements in Johnsen's score, sperm count, and sperm viability.

Conclusions:

  • Ghrelin demonstrates significant antioxidant and protective effects against varicocele-induced testicular damage in rats.
  • Ghrelin enhances the activity of key antioxidant enzymes and improves spermatogenesis.
  • Ghrelin holds promise as a therapeutic agent for managing male infertility associated with varicocele.
Keywords:
ghrelinhistopathologyspermatogenesis cyclevaricocele

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