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Evaluation of Genistein as a Mitochondrial Modulator and Its Effects on Sperm Quality.

Authors :
Ferigolo M
Nardi J
Freddo N
Ferramosca A
Zara V
Dallegrave E
Macedo MB
Eller S
de Oliveira AP
Biazus IC
Amaral FUI
Rossato-Grando LG
Source :
International journal of molecular sciences [Int J Mol Sci] 2023 Sep 19; Vol. 24 (18). Date of Electronic Publication: 2023 Sep 19.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Phytoestrogens, such as isoflavones, are bioactive compounds found in plants with defense and protection functions. In the human body, they simulate the behavior of the hormone estradiol and can modulate the function of the male hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This study aims to describe the effects of genistein on sperm quality of Wistar rats (male/adult) after a short oral administration protocol (50 mg/day, for 5 days), focusing on mitochondrial function. No signs of toxicity were observed in the animals during the period. The testicular mass of rats from the genistein-treated group was lower than that from the control group. Isoflavone increased the number of viable Leydig and Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, and primary spermatocytes in the treated group. The rounded spermatid count was similar to the control group, and a decrease in elongated spermatids was observed in the treated group. Genistein treatment increased plasma testosterone levels in the treated group. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an in vivo short protocol demonstrating that genistein administration stimulates the overall oxygen consumption in rat seminal samples. Therefore, genistein induced a pro-spermatogenesis effect, enhanced plasma testosterone levels, and increased oxygen consumption, improving sperm mitochondrial efficiency. Similar protocols can be explored in animal and human infertility issues.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1422-0067
Volume :
24
Issue :
18
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
International journal of molecular sciences
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
37762565
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241814260