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Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract alleviates high-fat diet induced testicular toxicity in rats
Er Hui Wang1,2, Zeng Li Yu1, Yong Jun Bu1
1Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, College of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University Xinxiang 453003 China weh1985@126.com.
Abstract:
The present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) on high-fat diet (HFD) induced testicular damage, oxidative stress, and apoptotic germ cell death. Male rats (n = 40) were randomly divided into four groups: the control group (treated with physiological saline), HFD group, HFD + GSPE (100 mg kg-1) group and HFD + GSPE (300 mg kg-1) group. Compared with the HFD group the rats of the GSPE-treated group showed improved serum testosterone levels, sperm quality and histological appearance of the testis tissue. Significant elevation of antioxidant enzyme (SOD, GSH, and GSH-Px) activities and remarkable reduction in MDA were also observed by GSPE administration, indicating that GSPE can decrease testicular oxidative stress. Finally, a significant reduction in spermatogenic cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. In summary, these results indicated that GSPE can suppress testicular dysfunction and this effect may be attributed to its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. The current study indicates that GSPE can be considered a promising candidate for use as a drug or a food supplement to alleviate HFD-induced testicular dysfunction.
Insights
Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) protects against high-fat diet induced testicular damage by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis. GSPE shows promise as a supplement to improve male reproductive health.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Toxicology
- Nutraceuticals
Background:
- High-fat diets (HFD) can induce testicular damage, oxidative stress, and germ cell apoptosis.
- Understanding protective agents against HFD-induced testicular dysfunction is crucial for male reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the protective effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) against HFD-induced testicular damage.
- To evaluate GSPE's impact on oxidative stress and germ cell apoptosis in male rats.
Main Methods:
- Male rats were divided into control, HFD, and HFD + GSPE (two doses) groups.
- Evaluated serum testosterone, sperm quality, testicular histology, antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, GSH, GSH-Px), MDA levels, and germ cell apoptosis (TUNEL assay).
Main Results:
- GSPE treatment improved serum testosterone, sperm quality, and testicular histology compared to the HFD group.
- GSPE administration elevated antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced MDA, indicating decreased oxidative stress.
- GSPE significantly reduced spermatogenic cell apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- GSPE exhibits protective effects against HFD-induced testicular dysfunction.
- These benefits are attributed to GSPE's antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties.
- GSPE is a potential candidate for use as a drug or food supplement to mitigate HFD-induced testicular issues.
