The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of in vivo and in vitro treatments of oxytocin (OT) on the testis of pre-pubertal mice. The OT treatment produced significant changes in the spermatogenic and steroidogenic activity by increasing expression of OT-receptor in the testis of pre-pubertal mice. Treatment with OT showed increased proliferation of germ cells as indicated by increased number of spermatocytes and round spermatids. Dose-dependent increase in expression of PCNA, Bcl-2 and AR proteins was observed in the testis of OT-treated mice as compared with the control and further supports the role of OT in germ cell proliferation and survival. The pre-pubertal mice treated with increasing dose of OT showed significant increase in testosterone synthesis due to dose-dependent stimulatory effects on 3β-HSD activity and increased expression of STAR, LH-receptor (LH-R) and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRH-R) proteins in the testis. The in vitro study has confirmed in vivo finding showing direct action of OT on testicular steroidogenesis. Thus, OT stimulates testicular spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis by directly acting on testis in mice.

BACKGROUNDInfertility has been defined as the inability of sexually active couple to achieve pregnancy despite of unprotected intercourse for a period of greater than 12 months. The failure of pituitary to secrete FSH and LH will result in disruption of testicular function resulting infertility. Analysis of semen and hormone evaluation are essential parameters in giving a definitive diagnosis in infertile males. The aim of the present study was to evaluate FSH and LH levels and correlate with sperm count, smoking, and alcohol intake in infertile men. MATERIALS AND METHODAll the necessary formalities were taken in maintaining the confidentiality of the patient's samples and ethical clearance from the Ethical Committee of Seven Hills Hospital, Visakhapatnam and NRIIMS, Sangivalasa, was taken. The present study was a prospective cross-sectional one carried out in Seven Hills Hospital and NRI Institute of Medical Sciences, Sangivalasa, Visakhapatnam. FSH, LH, Sperm analysis were done in 50 infertile males (38 were azoospermic and 12 were oligospermiac). RESULTSThe association of smoking and alcohol with infertility showed statistical insignificance. There was significant increase in serum concentrations of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Levels (P=0.001) and serum concentrations of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) Levels (P=0.004). CONCLUSIONThe present study showed that the high level of gonadotropins is an indication of testicular problems as the cause of infertility.