Efficacy ofCrocus sativusL. on reduction of cadmium-induced toxicity on spermatogenesis in adult rats

Abstract

Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal element, which probably cause infertility by impairment in spermatogenesis. The present work aimed (i) to study the toxic effect of cadmium on spermatogenesis in rat, as well as (ii) the protective effect of Crocus sativus L. on cadmium-intoxicated rats. Cadmium chloride was administered intraperitoneally during 16 days at intervals of 48 h between subsequent treatments. Crocus sativus L. was pre-treated in both of control and cadmium-injected rats. Animals were sacrificed on day 17 after the first treatment. The left cauda epididymis was removed and immediately immersed into Hank's balanced salt solution for the evaluation of sperm count and viability, and left testis was fixed in 10% formalin for histological evaluation. Following contamination with cadmium, a decrease was observed in the number and viability of cauda epididymis sperm, which were increased by Crocus sativus L. pre-treatment (P < 0.05). In addition, cadmium decreased both cell proliferation and Johnsen Scores in the seminiferous tubules, which were reversed by Crocus sativus pre-treatment (P < 0.05). Furthermore, cadmium-induced decrease in the amount of free serum testosterone as well as an increase in lipid peroxidation activity in the testicular tissue was reversed by Crocus sativus L. (P < 0.05). These findings may support the concept that Crocus sativus L. can improve the cadmium toxicity on spermatogenesis.

Exposure to Cadmium Impairs Sperm Functions by Reducing CatSper in Mice

“…A recent report used the measurement of semen quality as a marker of environmental pollution due to cadmium [12]. However, previous studies on cadmium-induced toxicity in the male reproductive system focused more on the interference with spermatogenesis [13], damage to nuclear DNA [14], and causes of apoptosis [15], while the toxicity and mechanisms of cadmium in mature spermatozoa are still unclear.…”

Sulforaphane Prevents Testicular Damage in Kunming Mice Exposed to Cadmium via Activation of Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathways

“…Natural antioxidants such as onion and garlic extracts [6], Solanum nigrum [7], quercetin [8], curcumin [9], grapeseed oil [10], saffron [11], and crocus [12] may ameliorate the reproductive toxicity of cadmium.…”

Profertility effects of Shilajit on cadmium-induced infertility in male mice

“…For this purpose, we have selected a well‐known male reproductive toxicant, viz. cadmium which enters the body via a number of routes including food, water and air (WHO, ; Manfo, Nantia & Mathur, ; Yari et al., ). We have evaluated the efficacy of Shilajit, following cadmium exposure on daily sperm production, serum testosterone level, testicular steroidogenic enzymes (Δ 5 3β‐HSD and 17β‐HSD), epididymal spermatozoa, secretory functions of the epididymis and seminal vesicle, and on fertility to ascertain its efficacy as a natural medicine for male infertility management.…”