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Possible mechanisms involved in the protective effect of lutein against cyclosporine-induced testicular damage in rats

  • 0Department of Human Physiology, Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.
Heliyon +

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February 5, 2024

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February 5, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Lutein protects against cyclosporine-induced reproductive damage by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This study highlights lutein

Area Of Science

  • Reproductive Biology
  • Toxicology
  • Biochemistry

Background

  • Cyclosporine impairs reproductive function via oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents may counteract cyclosporine's adverse effects.
  • Lutein possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but its protective role in cyclosporine-induced reproductive impairment is not fully understood.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the protective effects of lutein against cyclosporine-induced reproductive impairment in male Wistar rats.
  • To elucidate the role of the nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor-2 (Nrf2)/heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1)/connexin-43 (Cx-43) signaling pathway in lutein's protective mechanism.

Main Methods

  • Male Wistar rats were administered cyclosporine (40 mg/kg) and/or lutein (30 mg/kg) daily for four weeks.
  • Assays were performed to measure testicular antioxidant markers, inflammatory cytokines, apoptotic proteins, and other relevant biochemical parameters.
  • Specific focus was placed on evaluating the Nrf2/HO-1/Cx-43 and NOX-1 signaling pathways.

Main Results

  • Cyclosporine significantly increased oxidative stress markers (e.g., TBARS, MPO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β).
  • Lutein treatment reversed cyclosporine-induced increases in oxidative stress and inflammation, and reduced apoptosis (caspase-3, -9).
  • Lutein upregulated the Nrf2/HO-1/Cx-43 pathway and downregulated NOX-1 signaling, restoring antioxidant enzyme levels (SOD, CAT, GSH) and testicular function.

Conclusions

  • Lutein demonstrates significant protective effects against cyclosporine-induced reproductive impairment.
  • These protective mechanisms involve lutein's antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Upregulation of the Nrf2/HO-1/Cx-43 pathway and downregulation of NOX-1 signaling are key to lutein's beneficial effects.

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