Effects and mechanism of thymoquinone on nandrolone-induced abnormal spermatogenesis, testicular oxidative stress, and tissue alterations in rat
摘要
The impact of nandrolone decanoate (ND) on male reproductive health has been the subject of research. However, thymoquinone (TQ) may offer a potential modifier. This study aimed to explore the effects of TQ on rats subjected to ND. To this end, adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups over a 12-week period: the control group received no treatment, the ND group was administered ND at a dosage of 9 mg/kg/weeks, the ND + TQ group received both ND at 9 mg/kg/week and TQ at 50 mg/kg orally, and the TQ group received TQ at 50 mg/kg orally. Histomorphometric examination of the testes demonstrated damage resulting from ND, which was characterized by degenerated seminiferous tubules and affected lining cells. This was demonstrated by a decrease in seminiferous tubular diameter, epithelial height, and Johnsen scores. Nevertheless, TQ could improve these structural changes. Additionally, testes weight, sperm parameters, total antioxidant capacity, microRNA (miR)-202-5p expression, and the exhibited immuno-expressions of DDX4, SYCP3, and SOX9 were decreased in the ND group. Testosterone levels were lower in rats exposed to ND, accompanied by a rise in luteinizing hormone levels; however, TQ was able to alter this hormonal imbalance. Furthermore, ND exposure was related to increased levels of miR-122, malondialdehyde (MDA), and abnormal sperm morphology, while co-administration of TQ improved these changes. TQ rebalanced MDA and microRNA levels. Overall, TQ normalized ND-induced testicular damage probably through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, miR altering, and enhancing germ cell activity.