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Recurrent Exposure to Amoxicillin Impairs Male Reproductive Function by Enhancing Oxidative Stress and DNA
Nabila Akhtara1, Manuj Kr Bharali1, Mrinmoy Chakraborty1
1Cell & Molecular Biology Section, Dept of Zoology, Gauhati University, Guwahati, Assam, India.
Abstract:
The present study was designed to investigate the impact of recurrent exposure to amoxicillin on the male reproductive system by employing a multi-parametric approach in a mouse model. Animals (n = 20) were randomly assigned into two groups: Group I served as a negative control while Group II was treated with amoxicillin every alternative week for 10 weeks. At the end of the experiment period, five animals (n = 05) from each group were euthanised, blood and tissue samples were utilised for further analysis, and the remaining five (n = 05) animals per group were utilised to assess the fertility index. Ultrastructural and sperm parameter analyses and histomorphology assessment of the testis revealed significant impairments (p < 0.05) following amoxicillin exposure. Amoxicillin exposure also caused significant elevation of oxidative stress and double strand DNA breaks in testicular cells as demonstrated by increased level of 8-OHdG and γ-H2AX positive cells in the testis (p < 0.001). To summarise, this study indicated that recurrent exposure to amoxicillin can induce reproductive toxicity through oxidative stress and genotoxic mechanisms, compromising sperm integrity and fertility potential in male mice. This work highlights the need for evaluation of antibiotic safety concerning male reproductive health, with implications for clinical practice, environmental exposures and the development of strategies to mitigate fertility risks.
Insights
Recurrent amoxicillin exposure harms male fertility in mice. This antibiotic causes reproductive toxicity via oxidative stress and DNA damage, impacting sperm and fertility potential.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Genetics
Background:
- Antibiotic use is widespread, necessitating safety evaluations.
- Potential impacts of antibiotics on male reproductive health require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effects of repeated amoxicillin exposure on male mouse reproductive parameters.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying amoxicillin-induced reproductive toxicity.
Main Methods:
- A 10-week study in mice with cyclical amoxicillin administration.
- Multi-parametric analysis including sperm parameters, testicular histomorphology, oxidative stress markers (8-OHdG), and DNA damage (γ-H2AX).
- Fertility index assessment.
Main Results:
- Amoxicillin exposure significantly impaired testicular structure and sperm parameters (p < 0.05).
- Elevated oxidative stress and double-strand DNA breaks were observed in testicular cells (p < 0.001).
- Reduced fertility potential was noted in amoxicillin-treated mice.
Conclusions:
- Recurrent amoxicillin exposure induces male reproductive toxicity through oxidative stress and genotoxicity.
- Antibiotic safety evaluations must consider male reproductive health implications.
- Findings suggest potential risks for clinical and environmental exposures, requiring mitigation strategies.
