Different types of bisphenols alter ovarian steroidogenesis: Special attention to BPA.

Endocrine disruptors such as bisphenol A (BPA) and some of its analogues, including BPS, BPAF, and BPE, are used extensively in the manufacture of plastics. These synthetic chemicals could seriously alter the functionality of the female reproductive system. Although the number of studies conducted on other types of bisphenols is smaller than the number of studies on BPA, the purpose of this review study was to evaluate the effects of bisphenol compounds, particularly BPA, on hormone production and on genes involved in ovarian steroidogenesis in both in vitro (human and animal cell lines) and in vivo (animal models) studies. The current data show that exposure to bisphenol compounds has adverse effects on ovarian steroidogenesis. For example, BPA, BPS, and BPAF can alter the normal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis by targeting kisspeptin neurons involved in steroid feedback signals to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) cells, resulting in abnormal production of LH and FSH. Exposure to BPA, BPS, BPF, and BPB had adverse effects on the release of some hormones, namely 17-ß-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), and testosterone (T). BPA, BPE, BPS, BPF, and BPAF are also capable of negatively altering the transcription of a number of genes involved in ovarian steroidogenesis, such as the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR, involved in the transfer of cholesterol from the outer to the inner mitochondrial membrane, where the steroidogenesis process begins), cytochrome P450 family 17 subfamily A member 1 (Cyp17a1, which is involved in the biosynthesis of androgens such as testosterone), 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme (3ß-HSD, involved in the biosynthesis of P4), and cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 (Cyp19a1, involved in the biosynthesis of E2). Exposure to BPA, BPB, BPF, and BPS at prenatal or prepubertal stages could decrease the number of antral follicles by activating apoptosis and autophagy pathways, resulting in decreased production of E2 and P4 by granulosa cells (GCs) and theca cells (TCs), respectively. BPA and BPS impair ovarian steroidogenesis by reducing the function of some important cell receptors such as estrogens (ERs, including ERα and ERß), progesterone (PgR), the orphan estrogen receptor gamma (ERRγ), the androgen receptor (AR), the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), the FSHR (follicle-stimulating hormone receptor), and the LHCGR (luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor). In animal models, the effects of bisphenol compounds depend on the type of animals, their age, and the duration and dose of bisphenols, while in cell line studies the duration and doses of bisphenols are the matter.

The Effects of Clove Oil on The Biochemical and Histological Parameters, and Autophagy Markers in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome-Model Rats.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to determine whether syzygium aromaticum (clove) could help polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this experimental study, forty adult female Wistar rats (weighing 250 ± 10 g) were divided randomly into five groups; G1: control, G2: PCOS group, G3: PCOS+clove (30 mg/kg/ orally/daily) group, G4: PCOS+clove (60 mg/kg/orally/daily) group, and G5: PCOS+gonadectomy group. The PCOS was induced by a single dose injection of estradiol valerate (16 mg/kg/IM). Following PCOS induction, the rats were treated for 14 days. Histological parameters, follicle apoptosis, mRNA expression of autophagy markers (Lc3, Beclin1), oxidative stress markers, insulin and blood glucose levels, as well as serum levels of aromatase and testosterone were evaluated in these rats. Finally, the ratio of serum luteinizing hormone (LH) to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels was also calculated. RESULTS: The autophagy markers (Lc3, Beclin1), histological parameters, oxidative stress, insulin, and hormone levels changed significantly in the PCOS rats (G2). In G3 and G5 groups, it was observed that the levels of LH/FSH and testosterone decreased significantly in comparison to the PCOS group, and inhibition of autophagy was also observed in these groups. Treatment with cloves in the G3 group significantly improved oxidative stress, histological parameters, and insulin levels. CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrated that oxidative stress, apoptosis, and excessive autophagy could be improved by treatment with low doses of clove and gonadectomy. Cloves may help to improve these parameters by regulating and inhibiting excessive autophagy. However, discovering the direct role of this extract in regulating the parameters such as oxidative stress, insulin, and androgens requires further investigation. In the present study, P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

The Impact of Chrysin on The Folliculogenesis and Ovarian Apoptosis in Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in The Rat Model.

BACKGROUND: The ovarian Ischemia/reperfusion is one of the gynecological emergency concerns that may lead to the ovary damage and folliculogenesis. The present research aimed to evaluate the impact of the Chrysin (CH) on the ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in the rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this experimental research, 48 adult female rats, 8 weeks age and 180-200 g weight, have been categorized into 6 equal groups (n=8) including one sham and 5 ovarian torsion groups (OT+CH groups) that received different treatments. Each group has been treated 30 min before detorsion with gavage of CH or normal saline for 1 week and pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) has been injected on the day 5 for initiating folliculogenesis. Finally, bio-chemical, molecular, histopathological, apoptotic and hormonal evaluations were performed. RESULTS: The anti-oxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, ameliorated in the ovarian tissues of the OT+CH groups in comparison with the OT group (P<0.001). Moreover, the level of serum Luteinizing hormone considerably declined and estradiol level (P<0.001), partly enhanced in the rats treated with CH in comparison with the ones in the OT group (P<0.05). In addition, histopathological scores of the OT+CH groups ameliorated in comparison with the OT group scores (P<0.05). Furthermore, the expression Caspase-3 and Bax genes were significantly increased while the expression of Bcl-2 was notably decreased in the OT group in comparison with the sham group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Here, it seems that CH is possibly beneficial for the protection of ovaries against reperfusion injury and ischemia.

COVID-19 and Endocrine System: A Cross-Sectional Study on 60 Patients with Endocrine Abnormality.

Objective: COVID-19 is an infectious disease that has become pandemic with a high mortality rate. This study aims to provide new insight into the relations between SARS-CoV-2 and the Endocrine system. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we have hospitalized 60 patients with a positive SARA-CoV-2 PCR test. The information of complete blood count and endocrine hormones was obtained when the patients were admitted to the hospital or for a maximum of 4 days onset the hospitalization. Results: Of 60 patients with COVID-19, forty-four (73.33%) had at least one abnormality mean item >×3. In total, 26 (43.33%), 21 (35%), 18 (30%), 13 (21.67%), 31 (51.67%), 12 (20%), 30 (50%), 25 (41.67%) patients having estradiol, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) abnormal test results, respectively. There was no change in creatinine levels. FSH has shown drastic changes in both sexes' intensity (F: 769, P<0.0001). Although TSH had many abnormalities in women, analysis has shown no significant P value (P=0.4558). Furthermore, prolactin and testosterone mean level in men and the estradiol mean level in women have shown no significant P value (P=0.2077, P=0.1446, P=0.1351, respectively). Conclusion: Results suggest that COVID-19 affects directly or non-directly glands and related hormones.

The effect of Fumaria parviflora on the expression of sexual hormones along with their receptors in testicles of adult rats induced by varicocele.

Varicocele (VCL) is a pathological dilation of the venous pampiniform plexus of the spermatic cord and is also classified as male factor infertility. The current experiment aimed to examine the protective effect of Fumaria parviflora (FP), as a powerful antioxidant, against reproductive damage induced by VCL. In this experimental study, 32 male rats were randomly allocated into four groups, namely sham (simple laparotomy without additional intervention), FP (healthy rats administered 250 mg/kg FP), VCL + FP (underwent VCL and received 250 mg/kg FP), VCL (underwent VCL without receiving any treatment). The results showed that the number of Sertoli and germ cells were markedly reduced in the VCL group in comparison to the FP-treated and sham groups. The VCl + FP group had significantly higher serum levels of testosterone (T), FSH, and LH hormones than the VCL group. The quality and motility of spermatozoa were reduced in the VCL group compared with other groups (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, our findings demonstrated that the administration of FP considerably enhanced the mRNA levels of CatSper-1 and -2, SF-1, 3ß-HSD, 17ß-HSD3, LHCGR, and FSHR (p ≤ 0.05). Based on the obtained results, treatment with FP is capable of preventing testicular dysfunction and elevating the concentration of hormones and some crucial genes, such as CatSper1 and 2, SF-1, 3ß-HSD, 17ß-HSD3, LHCGR, and FSHR that contribute to the spermatogenesis process.

Minocycline can reduce testicular apoptosis related to varicocele in male rats.

The current research aimed to assess the impacts of Minocycline on varicocele-induced regulation of apoptotic-related genes and oxidative stress in the testis of adult Wistar rats. Thirty-two rats were divided into 4 groups: sham, varicocele (VcI), varicocele treated with Minocycline (VcI + Mno) for 56 days and healthy rats treated with minocycline (Mno). After 8 weeks, the oxidative stress markers levels in serum were investigated, afterwards, the level of Bax and Bcl-2 expression were assessed through 'immunocytochemistry' and RT-qPCR assays. Also, the rate of apoptosis was evaluated through the TUNEL method. Johnson's score, 'the width of epithelium' and 'seminiferous tubules diameter' were ameliorated in the VcI + Mno group in comparison with the Vcl group. Administration of Minocycline raised the 'Glutathione peroxidase' and 'Superoxide dismutase' levels in serum and declined the Malondialdehyde level in serum (p = 0.001). Furthermore, current study represented that minocycline reduced Bax and enhanced the expression of Bcl-2 gene and protein in comparison with the Vcl group (p < 0.05). In addition, Minocycline administration significantly declined the rate of apoptosis in germ cells (p < 0.05). Our study demonstrated that the administration of Minocycline could improve testicular injury in varicocele-induced rats by its antioxidant activity.

Protective Effect of Minocycline on Bax and Bcl-2 Gene Expression, Histological Damages and Oxidative Stress Induced by Ovarian Torsion in Adult Rats.

BACKGROUND: Minocycline is a widely used bacteriostatic antibiotic with various functions. The aim of this study was to investigate impact of apoptotic genes in ovary of the torsion/detorsion treated rat model by minocycline. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This experimental study was performed in 32 female Wistar rats classified in four groups, including: i. sham, ii. TD: torsion/detorsion group received normal saline, iii. TDM: torsion/detorsion group treated with 40 mg/kg Minocycline, and iv. MC: healthy group received 40 mg/kg Minocycline. After treatment period (7 days), histoplogical parameters, oxidative stress markers and hormone profile of serum as well as the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 genes were measured in the ovary of rats. RESULTS: Levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and estrogen were decreased in the TD group and significantly increased in the treated groups (P=0.001). Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and testosterone were increased in the TD group and decreased in the treated groups (P=0.001). Expression level of Bax was elevated in the TD group, while it was attenuated in the treated groups (P=0.001). Expression level of Bcl-2 was significantly increased in treated groups (P=0.001). CONCLUSION: Minocycline can repair oxidative damage in ovarian tissue and regulate apoptotic-related gene expressions.

Eugenol improves tissue damage and oxidative stress in adult female rats after ovarian torsion/detorsion.

The current study was designed to investigate the effect of eugenol on histopathological changes and oxidative stress caused by torsion/detorsion in the ovary of adult female rats. In this study, forty-eight female Wistar rats were classified into six groups; Sham and 2 healthy group receiving 30, 60 mg/kg eugenol; ovarian torsion/detorsion; and 2 experimental groups receiving 30, 60 mg/kg eugenol. After ten days, the plasma levels of oestrogen, testosterone, and some oxidative stress markers were assessed. also, the histomorphometric study was performed. A marked degenerative changes in the TD group was observed (p < .001). The oestrogen, GPX, and SOD levels were remarkably declined in the G2 group, while they were reversed to the baseline values in groups receiving eugenol. The concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) was remarkably increased during the ischaemia (p < .001). The treatment with eugenol significantly diminished MDA levels in different groups (p < .001). Our finding indicated that eugenol could protect the ovarian tissue against oxidative stress and tissue injury induced by torsion/detorsion.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known about this subject? Ovarian torsion is one of the commonest gynecological emergencies in all age groups of the female gender. Timely diagnosis and management of ovarian torsion are crucial, especially for women of reproductive age. Detorsion is one of the interventions used for the prevention of ovarian tissue damage. Ovarian ischaemia/reperfusion is a pathophysiological condition in which decreased blood flow, and oxygen deficiency (ischaemia) are observed in ovarian tissues as a result of ovarian torsion. Following torsion, the inflammatory response induced by detorsion (reperfusion) leads to vascular endothelial cell apoptosis and microcirculation abnormalities, which are responsible for the cause of ovarian tissue damage.What do the results of this study add? This study found that eugenol, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, could be used experimentally to diminish the I/R damage in the ovary through the attenuation of detrimental histological events, decreasing the serum level of MDA and testosterone, and increasing the level of SOD and GPX enzymes. To date, there is no report on the application of eugenol for diminishing T/D-induced oxidative stress in the ovary.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice? Eugenol has been shown to possess therapeutic properties in patients with ovarian torsion. Further clinical studies are necessary to prove the beneficial effect of eugenol on the prevention of I/R-induced ovarian damage.

The effect of clomiphene citrate, herbal mixture, and herbal mixture along with clomiphene citrate on clinical and para-clinical parameters in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the effect of a herbal mixture (i.e., Mentha spicata, Zingiber officinale, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, and Citrus sinensis) alone and in combination with clomiphene citrate (CC) compared to CC on the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: This single-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 60 infertile participants with PCOS who were randomly divided into three groups. After spontaneous or progestin-induced withdrawal bleeding, group 1 (n = 20) received routine treatment with CC (50-150 mg) for three menstrual cycles from the 3rd to 5th day of menstruation for 5 days while group 2 (n = 20) and group 3 (n = 20) received herbal mixture capsules 700 mg/day and the herbal mixture along with CC for 3 months, respectively. Finally, several related parameters were measured, including the level of sex steroids, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profile (primary outcomes), thyroid hormones, and clinical features. The analysis was based on intention-to-treat analysis. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of socio-demographic characteristics. However, after adjustment for baseline, luteinizing hormone (aMD = 4.9; 95% CI: 3.7-6.2), luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone (aMD = 0.9; 95% CI: 0.7-1.2), total testosterone (aMD = -0.12; 95% CI: -0.2 to -0.01) in group 2 and free testosterone (aMD = -6.0; 95% CI: -9.7 to -2.3) in group 3 revealed a significant difference compared to group 1. In addition, HOMA-IR in group 2 (aMD = -1.3; 95% CI: -2.4 to -0.2) decreased significantly compared to group 1. Further, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased significantly in group 2 (aMD = -21.8; 95% CI: -31.5 to -12.1; aMD = -29.9; 95% CI: -47.9 to -12.0; aMD = -21.2; 95% CI: -31.3 to -11.1; aMD = -5.1; 95% CI: -7.5 to -2.7) and group 3 (aMD = -18.3; 95% CI: -27.4 to -9.2; aMD = -26.9; 95% CI: -43.8 to -9.9; aMD = -21.4; 95% CI: -31.1 to -11.7; aMD = -5.9; 95% CI: -8.3 to -3.6) compared to group 1, respectively. However, high-density lipoproteins cholesterol in group 2 (aMD = 6.8; 95% CI: 2.9-10.7) and group 3 (aMD = 10.7; 95% CI: 7.2-14.7) increased remarkably compared to group 1. Overall, clinical outcomes improved significantly in all groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In general, the herbal mixture along with CC was found to improve free testosterone, HOMA-IR, lipid profile, and clinical features of PCOS women.

Fumaria parviflora regulates oxidative stress and apoptosis gene expression in the rat model of varicocele induction.

Varicocele is one of the leading causes of male infertility in which oxidative stress induces DNA damages in spermatozoa of patients with varicocele. Recent studies indicated that the treatment with antioxidant agents has protective effects against the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our research aimed to evaluate the impact of Fumaria Parviflora (FP) on the varicocele-induced testicular injury. For this purpose, 32 adult male Wistar rats (n = 8 per group) were randomly assigned to four groups as follows: sham group, varicocele group, varicocele treatment group and the control treatment group. The experimental groups daily received FP (250 mg/kg) for 8 weeks. The induction of varicocele was conducted by partial occlusion on the left renal vein. The diameter of seminiferous tubules, Johnsen's score and the epithelium thickness improved in the treated-varicocele group as compared to the varicocele group. FP extract could increase the biochemical parameters including superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and also decrease malondialdehyde level in the varicocele group. Furthermore, varicocele markedly increased both mRNA and intensity of Bax, while treatment with FP could alleviate them. We concluded that FP could alleviate varicocele, possibly by lowering oxidative stress and testicular damage.

Upregulation of FSHR and PCNA by administration of coenzyme Q10 on cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian failure in a mouse model.

Cyclophosphamide (CTX) has been broadly used in the clinic for the treatment of autoimmune disorders and ovarian cancer. The process of chemotherapy has significant toxicity in the reproductive system as it has detrimental effects on folliculogenesis, which leads to an irreversible premature ovarian failure (POF). Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has positive impacts on the reproductive system due to its antioxidant properties, protecting the cells from free-radical oxidative damage and apoptosis. However, little is known about the possible synergistic effect of CTX and CoQ10 on the expression of genes involved in folliculogenesis, such as proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR). A total of 32 NMRI mice were applied and divided into four groups, including healthy control, CTX, CTX + CoQ10, and CoQ10 groups. The effects of CoQ10 on CTX-induced ovarian injury and folliculogenesis were examined by histopathological and real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analyses. The rates of fertilization (in vitro fertilization), embryo development, as well as the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in metaphase II (MII) mouse oocytes after PMSG/HCC treatment were also assessed. Results showed that the treatment with CTX decreased the mRNA expression of PCNA and FSHR, IVF rate, and embryo development whereas the application of CoQ10 successfully reversed those factors. CoQ10 administration significantly enhanced histological morphology and decreased ROS levels and the number of atretic follicles in the ovary of CTX-treated mice. In conclusion, it seems that the protective effect of CoQ10 is exerted via the antioxidant and proliferative properties of this substance on CTX-induced ovarian damage.

The effect of clomiphene citrate and human chorionic gonadotropin on the expression of CatSper1, CatSper2, LHCGR, and SF1 genes, as well as the structural changes in testicular tissue of adult rats.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of clomiphene citrate and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) on the structural changes, as well as the evaluation of the expression of cation channel sperm-associated protein 1 (CatSper1), cation channel sperm-associated protein 2 (CatSper2), luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR), and steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1) genes in testicular tissue of rats. All rats divided into five groups as follows; G1 as the control group that received normal saline, G2 received olive oil, G3 received 100 IU/kg HCG, G4 received 5 mg/kg clomiphene citrate, and G5 received 5 mg/kg clomiphene citrate and 100 IU/kg HCG. At the end of the experiment period, Day 56, blood samples were taken and the serum was isolated. Then, histomorphometric analysis, hormonal assess, and real-time polymerase chain reaction to measure the expression of CatSper1, CatSper2, LHCGR, and SF1 genes were performed. The results showed that the concentrations of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone were decreased in the G4 group, whereas these parameters were increased in the G3 group. A comparison of the sperm quality indicated a significant reduction in the quality of sperm cells in the G4 group compared with other groups. The quality of sperm was significantly enhanced in the G3 and G5 groups in comparison with the G1 group. Also, our findings demonstrated that the expression of CatSper1, CatSper2, LHCGR, and SF1 genes were significantly elevated in the G3 group when compared with other experimental groups. According to the obtained results, it seems that clomiphene citrate reduces the process of spermatogenesis and the detrimental impacts of this compound would be neutralized by the administration of HCG.

Panax ginseng Extract Improves Follicular Development after Mouse Preantral Follicle 3D Culture.

OBJECTIVE: Panax ginseng is a popular traditional herb that has been used in complementary and alternative medicine in eastern Asia, and it possesses pharmacologically active compounds like ginsenosides (GSs). This study aimed to investigate the impact of Panax ginseng extract (PGE) at different concentrations on in vitro follicular function and development in a three-dimensional (3D) culture system fabricated using sodium alginate after 12 days of culture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this experimental study, preantral follicles (n=661) were mechanically isolated from the ovaries of 14-day-old female NMRI mice using 29-gauge insulin syringes. Follicles were individually capsulated within sodium alginate, and divided into four groups including control and experimental groups 1, 2, and 3. Then, they were cultured for 12 days in the medium supplemented with different concentrations of PGE (0, 50, 100, and 500 µg/ mL, for control groups and groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively). At the end of the culture period, the mean diameter and maturation of follicles, follicular steroid production, mRNA expression level of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSH-R), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in collected metaphase-II (MII) oocytes were determined. RESULTS: The mean diameter of follicles in group 2 was significantly increased as compared to other groups (P<0.001). The percentages of the survival and maturation rate and levels of secreted hormones were higher in group 2 than the other groups (P<0.05). Follicles cultured in the presence of PGE 100 µg/mL had higher levels of proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSH-R) mRNA expression in comparison to other groups (P<0.05). Moreover, oocytes collected from groups 2 and 3 had lower levels of ROS as compared to other groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that PGE at the concentration of 100 µg/mL induces higher follicular function and development in the 3D culture system.

Hesperidin improves the follicular development in 3D culture of isolated preantral ovarian follicles of mice.

IMPACT STATEMENT: It has been stated that hesperidin has many pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, antimicrobial activity, and anti-carcinogenic activity; but hesperidin and its derivatives have been under investigation as anti-fertility factors for a very long time. However, our results show that hesperidin can improve mice follicular growth and maturation during in vitro 3D culture. Hesperidin as an antioxidant factor could enhance the mRNA expression levels of two important genes involved in folliculogenesis, PCNA, and FSH-R. Our results prove for the first time that hesperidin not only has deleterious effects on follicular development but can also increase rates of in vitro fertilization and embryo development.

The ameliorative effect of carvacrol on oxidative stress and germ cell apoptosis in testicular tissue of adult diabetic rats.

BACKGROUND: Diabetes is one of the most chronic and widespread diseases causing the damages to the male reproductive system. Nowadays, several studies have been performed to show the role of phenolic compounds in reducing the complications of diabetes. Carvacrol is a phenolic monoterpene which has been shown to have much therapeutic efficacy in various diseases. METHODS: Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats (n = 8 in each group) were used in this experimental study. The induction of diabetes was performed using a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of STZ (50 mg/kg). Rats were assigned into the following groups: control group, diabetic group, diabetic group daily fed with carvacrol at a dose of 75 mg/kg for 8 weeks, and the control group daily fed with carvacrol at a dose of 75 mg/kg for 8 weeks. RESULTS: Treatment with carvacrol significantly improved the histological morphology of the testis, reduced the tissue activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) enzymes, and diminished the elevated levels of tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.05). Moreover, our results showed that carvacrol significantly decreased Bax and increased Bcl-2 at the levels of gene and protein expression. It also significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the rate of germ cell apoptosis. CONCLUSION: It seems that the treatment with carvacrol mitigates testicular tissue damage in diabetic rats possibly through its antioxidant properties.

Protective Effects of Matricaria chamomilla Extract on Torsion/ Detorsion-Induced Tissue Damage and Oxidative Stress in Adult Rat Testis.

BACHGROUND: There is some evidence indicating that Matricaria chamomile (MC) had protective effects on ischemiareperfusion. In the present study, a rat model was used to investigate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of MC on torsion/detorsion-induced testis tissue damage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this experimental study, 28 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups as follows: G1, Sham operated; G2, testicular torsion/detorsion (T/D); G3, rats with testicular torsion/detorsion that received 300 mg/kg of MC extracts 30 minutes before detorsion (T/DMC); and G4, healthy rats that received 300 mg/kg of MC extracts (MC). Also, the reperfusion period was 24 hours. After blood sampling, the oxidative stress marker [e.g. superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels], blood levels of testosterone, and anti-oxidant enzyme levels [e.g. glutathione peroxidase (GPx)] were assessed by ELISA methods. Serum activity of malondialdehyde (MDA) was evaluated by spectrophotometry. Another assessment was carried out by histomorphometry, 24-hour post-procedure. The histological parameters investigated by Johnson's scores (JS), also the seminiferous tubule diameter (STD) and the height of the germinal epithelium (HE) measured using the linear eyepiece grids using light microscopy. RESULTS: Histological features significantly differed between sham and the other groups. The levels of SOD, GPx, and testosterone hormone were significantly decreased in T/D group as compared to sham group, while these parameters increased in T/DMC group as compared to T/D group. During ischemia, the MDA levels increased; however, treatment with MC extract decreased the MDA levels in G3 and G4 groups. CONCLUSION: Results of the present study demonstrated that MC can protect the testis tissue against torsion/detorsioninduced damages by suppressing superoxide production.

Protective effect of tadalafil and verapamil on testicular function and oxidative stress after torsion/detorsion in adult male rat.

OBJECTIVE: This study used a rat model to investigate the protective effect of tadalafil and verapamil on testicular function and oxidative stress after torsion/detorsion. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Animals were randomly divided into five groups: G1, Sham group; G2, testicular torsion followed by detorsion (TD); G3, testicular torsion/detorsion received 0/4 mg/kg of tadalafil (TDT); G4, testicular torsion/detorsion received 0/1 mg/kg of verapamil (TDV); and G5, testicular torsion/detorsion received 0/1 mg/kg of verapamil and 0/4 mg/kg of tadalafil (TDTV). All treated groups were received the treatment 30 min before detorsion. Also, after reperfusion period (24 hr), the parameters of spermatozoa were assayed, and blood was measured for oxidative stress markers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), activity of malondialdehyde (MDA) and blood levels of testosterone. The histological parameters investigated by Johnson's scores (JS), and also the seminiferous tubule diameter (STD) and the height of the germinal epithelium (HE) were measured using the linear eyepiece grids on the light microscope. RESULTS: Between Sham and other groups were observed a significant change in histological parameters. Also, the levels of SOD, GPx and testosterone hormone were significantly decreased in TD while these increased in therapeutic groups. In the duration of ischaemia, the MDA level increased. Treatment with tadalafil and verapamil decreased the MDA level in treatment groups and also observed a significant change in sperm parameters between Sham and other groups. CONCLUSIONS: Tadalafil and verapamil can be protected the testis tissue damage and replaced the testicular function by suppressing oxidative stress after testicular torsion.

Effects of Matricaria chamomilla Extract on Growth and Maturation of Isolated Mouse Ovarian Follicles in a Three-dimensional Culture System.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to design and assess the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Matricaria chamomilla (MC) on preantral follicle culture of mouse ovaries in a three-dimensional culture system. METHODS: Isolated preantral follicles were randomly divided into three main groups: the control group containing 10% fetal bovine serum without MC extract (G1), the first experimental group supplemented with 25 µg/ml hydroalcoholic extract of chamomile (G2), and the second experimental group supplemented with 50 µg/ml hydroalcoholic extract of chamomile (G3). RESULTS: After 12 days of culture, the survival rate (P < 0.05), antrum formation (P < 0.01), metaphase two oocytes (P < 0.01), and the expression of PCNA (P < 0.05) and FSHR (P < 0.05) genes significantly decreased in G3 as compared with G1. On the other hand, at the last day of culture (day 12), the mean diameter of follicles cultured in the medium which was supplemented with 50 µg/ml hydroalcoholic extract of chamomile significantly decreased as compared with the G1 (P < 0.05). In addition, the levels of progesterone and dehydroepiandrosterone hormones significantly increased in the medium of G3 relative to G1 (P < 0.01), while in the medium of G1, the level of 17ß-estradiol was significantly higher than that of other groups (P < 0.01). Reactive oxygen species levels of metaphase II oocytes were significantly decreased in G2 as compared with G1 (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Adding chamomile extract to culture media appeared to decrease follicular function and development.

Effect of vitamin C on tissue damage and oxidative stress following tunica vaginalis flap coverage after testicular torsion.

AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim was to investigate the protective effect of vitamin C on tissue damage and oxidative stress following tunica albuginea incision with tunica vaginalis flap coverage for testicular torsion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two experimental groups. The first group experienced 5h of testicular torsion followed by treatment with vitamin C alone, with tunica vaginalis flap coverage alone, and with both vitamin C and tunica vaginalis flap coverage along with a control group subjected to a sham procedure. The second group experienced 9h of testicular torsion followed by the same treatment options as described for the 5h group. The oxidative stress and testosterone levels were measured 24h posttreatment. The Johnsen score, diameter of the seminiferous tubules, and thickness of the seminiferous tubule epithelium were recorded 30days following the treatment. RESULTS: The Johnsen score, diameter of the seminiferous tubules, and thickness of the seminiferous tubule epithelium significantly increased in the 5h testicular torsion group receiving treatment with vitamin C and tunica vaginalis flap coverage compared with the group receiving tunica vaginalis flap alone. The level of testosterone decreased significantly in all groups except for the 5h testicular torsion group receiving treatment with vitamin C and tunica vaginalis flap coverage. The MDA level also decreased in the group receiving treatment with vitamin C and tunica vaginalis flap coverage compared with the group receiving tunica vaginalis flap coverage alone. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that the histological parameters and testosterone levels improved with the administration of vitamin C before tunica vaginalis flap coverage in the group experiencing 5h of torsion. This may be a result of the antioxidant effect of vitamin C. No advantage was observed for the 9h group, possibly because the dosage of vitamin C was inadequate.

A variation of Musculocutaneous nerve without piercing the coracobrachialis muscle while communicating to the median nerve: A case report and literature review.

INTRODUCTION: Anatomical variations of the peripheral nervous system may have not any clinical signs and symptoms. One of these variations belongs to the Musculocutaneous nerve. However, a good knowledge of nerve pathways and their variations is very important for surgeons in post-traumatic evaluations, exploratory interventions, and/or administration of neuromuscular blocks in axillary region in order to surgical therapies. PRESENTATION OF CASE: This report describes a case of variation of the musculocutaneous nerve which was observed in an old Iranian male cadaver during routine educational dissection (Fig. 1). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Anatomically, in the axilla region, the Musculocutaneous nerve is originated of the lateral cord of brachial plexus, then, by piercing the coracobrachialis muscle arrives enters to anterior compartment of the arm. But, in the present report, we observed that the Musculocutaneous nerve without piercing the coracobrachialis muscle has arrived in the left arm, then communicated to the Median nerve. To exploratory interventions of the arms for peripheral nerve repair and surgical therapies, a good knowledge of nerve pathways helps to surgeons for preventing possible mistakes during surgery.