Photobiomodulation Improves Testicular Structure and Antioxidant Defense in a Rat Model of Torsion/Detorsion

Introduction: Testicular torsion/detorsion (T/D) causes ischemia-reperfusion injury that disrupts spermatogenesis mainly through oxidative stress. Photobiomodulation (PBM), known for its antioxidant effects, may counteract such damage. However, its efficacy in T/D injury remains unclear. This study evaluated the potential of PBM to improve sperm quality, testicular structure, and redox balance. Methods: Twenty-four adult male rats were randomly assigned to three groups: Sham (scrotal incision without torsion), T/D (left testis rotated 720° for 2 hours followed by detorsion), and T/D+PBM (T/D followed by transscrotal laser therapy). PBM was administered using an 810-nm diode laser at 100 mW, delivering 2 J/cm² per session for 20 seconds daily over six consecutive days. Epididymal sperm and testicular tissues were collected to assess sperm parameters, histological features, and oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde. Results: T/D reduced sperm motility, viability (P<0.0001), and count (P<0.05). Histological analysis revealed decreased seminiferous tubule diameter and epithelial thickness. Moreover, antioxidant enzyme activities were diminished, whereas lipid peroxidation levels increased (P<0.001). PBM intervention improved sperm motility and viability, restored seminiferous tubule architecture, and re-established the testicular redox balance by enhancing antioxidant defense and reducing lipid peroxidation (P<0.001). Conclusion: Collectively, these findings indicate that PBM effectively attenuates testicular damage induced by T/D by enhancing antioxidant defenses and restoring redox homeostasis. PBM promoted spermatogenic recovery, improved sperm quality, and preserved seminiferous tubule architecture following ischemia-reperfusion injury. These results highlight PBM as a promising, noninvasive adjunctive strategy for protecting male reproductive function after testicular ischemia insults.