Lycopene prevents DEHP-induced testicular endoplasmic reticulum stress via regulating nuclear xenobiotic receptors and unfolded protein response in mice

Lycopene (LYC) is a potent antioxidant synthesized by red vegetables or plants. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is frequently detected in many diverse agricultural environments and considered a reproductive toxicant. The present research was designed to assess the potential mechanisms of DEHP-induced testicular toxicity and the treatment efficacy of LYC. In this study, after oral administration of LYC treatment at the dose of 5mg/kg b.w./day, mice were given 500 or 1000 mg/kg b.w./day of DEHP. This research suggested that LYC prevented DEHP-induced disorder in levels of activity and content of CYP450 enzymes. LYC attenuated DEHP-caused enhancement in nuclear xenobiotic receptors (NXRs) and the phase I metabolizing enzymes (CYP1, CYP2, CYP3, etc.) levels. Furthermore, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was induced by DEHP and triggered unfolded protein response (UPR). Interestingly, LYC could effectively ameliorate these “hit”. The present study suggested that LYC prevents DEHP-induced ER stress in testis via regulating NXRs and UPRER.