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In Vitro Combination of Ascorbic and Ellagic Acids in Sperm Oxidative Damage Inhibition
Filomena Mottola1, Concetta Iovine2, Maria Carannante1
1Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy.
Abstract:
It is known that an altered redox balance interferes with normal spermatic functions. Exposure to genotoxic substances capable of producing oxidative stress (OS) can cause infertility in humans. The use of antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress contributes to the improvement in reproductive function. This study focused on an antigenotoxic evaluation of ellagic acid (EA) and ascorbic acid (AA) in combination against benzene genotoxic action on human spermatozoa in vitro. In addition to the evaluation of sperm parameters, damage in sperm genetic material and intracellular ROS quantification were assessed after AA, EA and benzene co-exposure using the TUNEL technique and DCF assay. The results showed that the combination of the two antioxidants generates a greater time-dependent antigenotoxic action, reducing both the sperm DNA fragmentation index and the oxidative stress. The genoprotective effect of AA and EA association in sperm cells lays the foundations for a more in-depth clinical study on the use of antioxidants as a therapy for male infertility.
Insights
Ellagic acid (EA) and ascorbic acid (AA) combination effectively protects human sperm from benzene-induced DNA damage and oxidative stress. This antioxidant synergy offers a promising therapeutic strategy for male infertility caused by genotoxic agents.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Toxicology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Altered redox balance negatively impacts sperm function.
- Genotoxic substances causing oxidative stress are linked to human infertility.
- Antioxidants can mitigate oxidative stress and improve reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the antigenotoxic effects of ellagic acid (EA) and ascorbic acid (AA) combined.
- To assess their protective action against benzene-induced genotoxicity in human spermatozoa in vitro.
- To investigate the impact on sperm parameters, DNA integrity, and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Main Methods:
- Human spermatozoa were exposed in vitro to benzene, EA, and AA.
- Sperm parameters were evaluated.
- Sperm DNA fragmentation was assessed using the TUNEL technique.
- Intracellular ROS levels were quantified using the DCF assay.
Main Results:
- The combination of EA and AA demonstrated a time-dependent antigenotoxic effect.
- Sperm DNA fragmentation index was significantly reduced by the antioxidant combination.
- Intracellular ROS levels were decreased, indicating reduced oxidative stress.
- The combined antioxidants provided greater protection than individual treatments.
Conclusions:
- The association of ascorbic acid and ellagic acid exhibits a significant genoprotective effect on human spermatozoa.
- This antioxidant combination effectively reduces DNA damage and oxidative stress induced by benzene.
- The findings support further clinical research into antioxidant therapy for male infertility.
