Gender Differences in the Effect of Ascorbic Acid against petroleum fume-induced Oxidative Stress and Reproductive Toxicity in Rats

Abstract

Background: Biological factors affecting the therapeutic doses of ascorbic acid (AA) against xenobiotic-induced oxidative stress (OS) and reproductive toxicity have been established, however, the effect of gender is yet to be thoroughly researched and ascertained. The present study aimed to assess gender disparities in the effect of AA against gasoline vapor (GV)-induced reproductive toxicity in rats.Methods: Thirty-five matured male and female Wistar Albino rats weighing between 200 and 250g were divided into 5 groups (n=7per group). Group 1 served as unexposed control, groups 2, 3, 4, and 5 were exposed to GV for 6 weeks. Groups 3, 4, and 5 in addition to being exposed to GV were treated with low, medium, and high doses of AA for 2 weeks of the 6 weeks of exposure and treatment. Animals were sacrificed and blood samples and reproductive organs were obtained for analysis and histopathological examination respectively.Results: Exposure to GV alone significantly P<0.05 decreased serum estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels. Serum levels of estrogen and progesterone were significantly (P<0.05) higher in the low-dose AA-treated female animals, whereas the highest serum level of testosterone was found in the high-dose AA treated male animals. A corresponding significant decrease in serum FSH and LH levels were also found in the low and high doses of AA treated female and male groups respectively. Conclusion: There is a gender difference in the effect of AA against GV-induced OS and reproductive toxicity. Therefore, gender-related dose adjustment should be considered when using AA to manage OS-related male or female reproductive disorders.