[The effects of equol on enzymes related to testosterone synthesis and vimentin in the testis of perinatal mice by organ culture in vitro].

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Equol on genes and protein expression of testosterone synthesis related enzymes and Vimentin in testis of perinatal mice in vitro. METHODS: Testes were isolated and cultured in infiltrating type rotating device for 72 h. The testes were randomly divided into five groups and treated with Equol (DMSO control, 0.01, 0.10, 1.00, 10.00 µmol/L Equol). Morphological changes were observed by HE staining under optical microscope. Expressions of 3ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3ß-HSD),P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), Vimentin were detected by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: No apparent morphological change in testes was observed compared to control group. The mRNA expression of 3ß HSD, P450Scc, Vimentin show no statistical significance(P> 0. 05) in all Equol group, while the protein expressions of 3ß-HSD, Vimentin, P450scc increased in 0. 10 µmol/L and decreased in 10.00 µmol/L Equol group. CONCLUSION: Equol exposure can affect 3ß-HSD, P450Scc, Vimentin expression in testes in vitro, means Equol may have potential adverse effects on testosterone production and spermatogenesis.