Protective effects of 20(R) ginsenoside Rg3 on DBP-induced reproductive injury in mice through Nrf2/ARE pathway

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Toxicology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) is an environmental endocrine disruptor linked to male reproductive dysfunction.
• Understanding protective mechanisms against DBP-induced damage is crucial for male fertility preservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the protective mechanism of ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) against DBP-induced damage to spermatogenic function.
• To explore the role of the Nrf2/antioxidant response element (ARE) signaling pathway in Rg3's protective effects.

Main Methods:

• Mice were treated with DBP and Rg3.
• Sperm quality, reproductive hormone levels, and testicular tissue expression of Nrf2, NQO1, and StAR (mRNA and protein) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Rg3 treatment restored DBP-induced reproductive damage, improving testicular structure, sperm count, and motility.
• Rg3 upregulated Nrf2, NQO1, and StAR mRNA expression and increased protein phosphorylation in testicular tissue.
• Rg3 activated the Nrf2/ARE pathway, upregulating NQO1 and regulating StAR protein expression.

Conclusions:

• Ginsenoside Rg3 demonstrates a relieving effect on DBP-induced reproductive dysfunction in mice.
• Rg3 activates the Nrf2/ARE pathway, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for male infertility caused by environmental toxicants.