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Protein vs. Energy Restriction Impact on Rat Testis' Function, Redox Status, and Histomorphometry
Meddah Benabbou1, Amine Allaoui2,3, Aït Kaci Meriem Zahzeh1
1Molecular Microbiology Proteomics and Health Laboratory, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of Sidi Bel Abbes, Sidi Bel Abbès 22000, Algeria.
Preventive Nutrition and Food Science
|April 17, 2023
Summary
Protein and energy restriction in rats reduced body weight and altered reproductive function, potentially by affecting testosterone production. These dietary changes also modified oxidative stress markers in the testis.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Nutritional Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Dietary interventions like protein restriction (PR) and energy restriction (ER) can impact physiological functions.
- Understanding their effects on male reproductive health is crucial for public health and clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of PR and ER diets on male rat reproductive function.
- To evaluate anthropometrical, histological, hormonal, and oxidative stress parameters in response to these diets.
Main Methods:
- Wistar rats were divided into control, PR (10% casein), and ER (50% calorie reduction) groups for five months.
- Evaluations included body weight, organ weights, serum hormone levels (testosterone, LH, FSH), and testicular oxidative stress markers.
Main Results:
- Both PR and ER significantly reduced body weight and serum testosterone levels.
- PR and ER altered testicular and seminal vesicle weights and induced histological changes in testes and epididymis.
- Oxidative stress markers (TBARS, carbonyls) decreased, while antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase, SOD) increased in the testis.
Conclusions:
- ER and PR diets can modulate oxidative stress markers in rat testes.
- These dietary strategies may negatively impact male reproductive activity, likely through alterations in testosterone production.
