Resveratrol protects against isoflurane-induced testicular injury: a stereological and molecular study in mice

Zahra Mohammadi1, Sanaz Alaee2, Majid Kamali-Dolat Abadi3

  • 1Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.

Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
|February 19, 2026
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Resveratrol protects mouse testes from isoflurane damage. This antioxidant compound improved testicular structure and gene expression, offering a potential therapy against anesthetic-induced toxicity.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Toxicology
  • Anesthesiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Isoflurane, an inhalation anesthetic, can induce testicular toxicity.
  • Resveratrol exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Investigating resveratrol's protective effects against isoflurane-induced testicular damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the therapeutic potential of resveratrol in mitigating isoflurane-induced testicular toxicity in mice.
  • To assess the impact of resveratrol on testicular structure and gene expression following isoflurane exposure.

Main Methods:

  • Adult male C57BL/6 mice were divided into six groups, including control, isoflurane-only, and isoflurane with varying doses of resveratrol (RSV).
  • Mice were treated for 35 days, followed by testicular harvesting for stereological analysis and assessment of antioxidant and apoptotic markers.
  • Gene expression analysis focused on apoptotic markers (Bcl2l1, Bax, Caspase-3) and antioxidant genes (GPX1, Sod1, catalase).

Main Results:

  • Isoflurane exposure decreased seminiferous tubule volume and length, while increasing interstitial tissue volume.
  • Resveratrol co-treatment, particularly at high doses, attenuated isoflurane-induced testicular structural damage.
  • Resveratrol modulated apoptotic gene expression and upregulated antioxidant gene expression in isoflurane-exposed mice.

Conclusions:

  • Resveratrol effectively counteracts isoflurane-induced testicular damage.
  • The compound enhances testicular tubular integrity and bolsters antioxidant defense mechanisms.
  • Resveratrol presents a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing isoflurane-related testicular toxicity.