Protective effect of loboob (a Persian traditional remedy) on sexual hormones, antioxidant activities and stereological changes of testis tissue on busulfan induced oligospermia in rats

Loboob as a traditional drug in Iranis known for its beneficial effects on busulfan-induced oligospermia. In this experimental study, protective effects of loboob (a Persian traditional remedy) on sexual hormones, antioxidant levels and stereological changes of testis tissue were evaluated in an oligospermia rat model induced by busulfan. Fifty male rats were randomly divided into five different groups: control, received no treatments; and the other groups administrated with a single dose of busulfan (10 mg/kg body weight). After 30 days, these groups were treated with 0, 35, 70 or 140 mg/kg/day of loboob for 60 days. Blood samples were collected for hormone and antioxidant enzyme assays. Unbiased stereology was performed on testis tissues to evaluate the volume of different parts of the testis and the number of various testis cells. Data indicated that FSH, LH and MDA were increased, and testosterone, catalase, SOD were decreased in the busulfan group, while treatment with loboob at 70 and 140 mg/kg significantly improved these parameters (P <0.05). Treatment with 70 and 140 mg/kg of loboob ameliorated the germinal epithelium volume, types A and B spermatogonia, spermatocytes, elongated and round spermatids, and Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules (P <0.05). High concentration of loboob also improved testis weight and volume, and leydig cell number (P <0.05). Thus, loboob is more effective for the recovery of seminiferous tubules and their cells than for the interstitial tissue. Loboob with various antioxidants, minerals and vitamins could overcome the side effects of busulfan.

Gonadal differentiation during embryonic and fetal development of male New Zealand rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / Diferenciación gonadal durante el desarrollo embrionario y fetal de conejos machos neozelandeses (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

SUMMARY: The rabbit is considered an ideal animal model for studies that describe abnormalities in the testicles due to the similar morphogenetic mechanisms of sexual development and diseases commonly found in humans. The aim of this study was to determine the male sexual differentiation of the New Zealand rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) through development. The gestational age was estimated and classified as 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 23 and 28 gestational days. The morphological and sexual determination were performed by histological analysis of the reproductive tract in the embryos and fetuses (9-28 days) as well as by immunohistochemistry- Desert hedgehog-Dhh- (testis-specific protein on Y chromosome- 16, 20, 23 days and adult rabbits). Gonads were observed from the 14th day in an undifferentiated stage and with homogeneous aspect. Sexual differentiation was observed from the 16th day with presence of cells forming gonadal cords and Dhh+ cells in the gonadal parenchyma. From the 18th gestational day testicular cords were observed, which evolved into organized seminiferous tubules. The formation of the efferent ducts and ductus deferens and epididymis was observed on the 20th and 23rd days, respectively. The differentiation of the external genitalia occurred from the 23rd days from the anogenital distance and was identified to identify the penile structures. In summary, the features of the sexual differentiation were determined by observation of the Dhh+ protein in embryos from the 16th day to adulthood, and the morphological particularities observed from the 18th gestational day, determined by differentiation of the external genitalia from the 23rd day.

RESUMEN: El conejo se considera un modelo animal ideal para estudios que describen anomalías a nivel testícular debido a que presenta mecanismos morfogenéticos similares al desa- rrollo sexual y enfermedades que se encuentran comúnmente en los seres humanos. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la diferenciación sexual masculina del conejo de Nueva Zelanda (Oryctolagus cuniculus) a través del desarrollo. La edad gestacional se estimó y clasificó en 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 23 y 28 días gestacionales. La determinación morfológica y sexual se realizó mediante análisis histológico del tracto reproductivo en los embriones y fetos (9 - 28 días) así como mediante inmunohistoquímica -Desert hedgehog-Dhh- (proteína testicular específica en el cromosoma Y- 16, 20, 23 días y conejos adultos). Las gónadas se observaron a partir del día 14 en un estadio indiferenciado y con aspecto homogéneo. Se observó diferenciación sexual a partir del día 16 con presencia de células formadoras de cordones gonadales y células Dhh+ en el parénquima gonadal. A partir del día 18 de gestación se observaron cordones testiculares, que evolucionaron a túbulos seminíferos organizados. La formación de los conductos eferentes, deferentes y del epidídimo se observó a los 20 y 23 días, respectivamente. La diferenciación de los genitales externos ocurrió a partir del día 23 desde la distancia anogenital y se utilizó para identificar las estructuras del pene. En conclusión, las características de la diferenciación sexual se determinaron mediante la observación de la proteína Dhh en embriones desde el día 16 hasta la edad adulta, y las particularidades morfológicas observadas a partir del día 18 de gestación, determinadas por diferenciación de los genitales externos a partir del día 23.

Testicular features of semi-confined Nellore bullssubjected to immunocastration / Características testiculares de touros Nelore semiconfinadossubmetidos a imunocastração

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of immunocastration on the scrotal circumference, as well as in the macroscopic and microscopic testicular features in Nellore bulls bred under a semi-confining system for 91 days. Sixty animals were divided into two groups: 30 intact animals (non-vaccinated) and 30 immunocastrated animals. The immunocastrated animals were treated with two anti-GnRH vaccine doses (BoprivaTM - Zoetis Australia Pty Ltd). The scrotal circumference (SC) was measured on days 0 and 56. Testicular parameters: biometry traits (length, width, and height ­ cm; volume ­ cm3) and weight (g) was measured on day 91. Three testicles from each group were histologically processed to find the seminiferous tubule diameter and epithelium thickness (µm). Data were analyzed in the Minitab® 19 statistical software. The macroscopic features (SC, and testes weight, volume, length, width, and height) and the microscopic features (seminiferous tubule diameter and epithelium thickness) were compared between the two groups through Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney test. All the values were lower (p<0.05) in animals immunized against GnRH, except for the right testis width and seminiferous tubule diameter. Results indicate that immunization against GnRH affected testicular development.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito da imunocastração no perímetro escrotal, assim como nas características testiculares macroscópicas e microscópicas de touros Nelore criados em um sistema de semiconfinamento por 91 dias. Sessenta animais foram divididos em dois grupos: 30 animais inteiros (não vacinados) e 30 imunocastrados. Os animais imunocastrados receberam duas doses de uma vacina anti-GnRH (Bopriva® - Zoetis Ltda). O perímetro escrotal (PE) foi mensurado nos dias 0 e 56. Parâmetros testiculares: atributos biométricos (comprimento, largura e altura ­ cm; volume cm3) e peso (g) foram medidos no dia 91. Três testículos de cada grupo foram processados para histologia clássica a fim de avaliar o diâmetro e a espessura do epitélio dos túbulos seminíferos (µm). Os dados foram analisados pelo software estatístico Minitab® 19. As médias das características macroscópicas (PE, peso, volume, comprimento, largura e altura dos testículos) e das microscópicas (diâmetro e espessura do epitélio dos túbulos seminíferos) foram comparadas entre os dois grupos pelos testes t de Student e Mann-Whitney. Todos os valores foram menores (p<0,05) em animais imunizados contra o GnRH, exceto a altura média do testículo direito e o diâmetro do túbulo seminífero. Os resultados indicam que a imunização contra o GnRH afeta o desenvolvimento testicular.(AU)

Effects of electromagnetic pulse on reproduction of adult male mice / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective To investigate the effects of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) on reproductive function of male adult mice.Methods A total of 48 healthy adult male BALB/c mice (8 weeks old) were randomly divided into sham group and EMP group with 24 animals in each group.The mice were wholebody exposed or sham exposed to EMP at 720 kV/m for 100 pulses with 1 Hz repetition rate and 40 ns pulse width.At 1,7,14 and 35 d after EMP exposure,the mice were anesthetized and the sperms were collected from the bilateral epididymal tail.After that,the sperm quality including the number of sperms,the ratio of abnormalities and the survival rate was evaluated.In addition,the morphology of testis was observed by HE staining and the diameter of seminiferous tubules was measured by Image J 1.43 u software.The protein level of stem cell factor (SCF) and glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in testis tissue were detected by ELISA and Western blot.Results The sperm quality and the morphology of testis did not change obviously at different times after exposing mice to EMP at 720 kV/m for 100 pulses,compared with sham group (P＞0.05).The diameters of seminiferous tubules at 1,7,14 and 35 d after exposure were (196.85+ 16.65),(196.79+ 14.33),(196.35±22.71) and (198.60±25.88) μm in exposed mice,respectively,while (204.31±27.13),(197.07± 18.11),(194.37±21.45) and (200.59± 19.36) Iμm in sham exposed mice,respectively.There was no significant difference between two groups (P＞0.05).Additionally,the levels of SCF and GDNF in testis tissue between EMP group and sham group had no statistically significant difference (P＞0.05).Conclusion Under this exposure condition,EMP couldn't affect the reproductive function of male adult mice.

Natural products in regulation of male fertility

Medicinal plants may prove useful in developing plant-based strategies for regulation of male fertility. The present review describes the antifertility potential of certain medicinal plants, viz. Azadirachta indica, Curcuma longa, Allamanda cathartica and Bacopa monnieri in Parkes (P) male mice. The results suggested that treatment with the aqueous extracts of these plants caused reversible suppression of spermatogenesis and fertility in P mice and that there were no signs of detectable toxicity in treated mice. Further research needs to be done to develop plant-based strategies for control of male fertility.

Ameliorative effect of vitamin B12 on seminiferous epithelium of cimetidine-treated rats: a histopathological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural study / 대한해부학회지

Cimetidine is an H2 receptor antagonist that has an antiandrogenic effect. It intervenes with the conversion of testosterone into estrogen in the Sertoli cells with accompanying testicular structural changes. In the present study, the microscopic and the ultrastructural changes induced by cimetidine and the effect of vitamin B12 as a protective agent on rat testes were studied. Immunoexpression of estrogen receptor β (ERβ) in testes was evaluated. Twenty-four adult male rats were divided into four groups: control, cimetidine-treated, vitamin B12 treated, and combined cimetidine and vitamin B12 treated. The experimental rats were administered with cimetidine and/or vitamin B12 for 52 days. Group II rats showed marked atrophy of the seminiferous tubules with a significant increase in tubular diameter and decrease in the tubular luminal and epithelial areas. Ultrastructure of this group showed irregular Sertoli cells with basal cytoplasmic vacuolation and significantly thickened basement membrane. ERβ immunoexpression was similar to controls. Group III rats showed near normal seminiferous tubular structures with minimal cellular alterations and the immunoreactivity of the testicular sections was very close to normal. However, group IV rats showed markedly immunopositive detached cells, spermatids, and primary spermatocytes. Cimetidine interferes with the control of spermatogenesis as evidenced by microscopic and ultrastructural studies and affection of ERβ receptors and vitamin B12 has a protective action against this harmful effect.

Influence of prolonged flaxseed ( Linum usitatissimum ) consumption over epididymis and testicle histoarchitecture of Wistar rats / Influência do consumo prolongado de semente de linhaça ( Linum usitatissimum ) sobre a histoarquitetura dos testículo e epidídimo de ratos Wistar

Flaxseed is considered a functional food with several health benefits. However, because of its high phytoestrogen content, flaxseed influences hormone metabolism and affects the gonadal biomorphology. In this study, computerized histomorphometry was used to evaluate seminiferous and epididymal tubules, considering the different regions of the epididymis (head, body and tail) of rats subjected to a prolonged diet of flaxseed. Young adult male Wistar rats (n=20) were divided into 2 groups during their lactation period: Control Group (CG), fed casein-based meals and Flaxseed Group (FG), fed a 25% flaxseed meal. After 250 days of continuous ingestion, the animals were euthanized and a blood sample was collected. The testicles and epididymis were removed and fixed in buffered formalin solution. The samples were subjected to routine histological paraffin techniques and stained with hematoxilin and eosin. Immunostaining was performed using an antivimentin antibody for Sertoli cell identification. For morphometry, images of the slides were scanned and analyzed using Image J to determine the epithelial height, tubular and luminal diameter and tubular and luminal area. In the hormonal evaluation, FG had a higher serum concentration of estrogen (P=0.001), but no change was observed in the concentration of testosterone. The morphometric assay of seminiferous tubules and epididymal regions revealed no significant differences between the analyzed groups. Similarly, Sertoli cell quantification showed no significant differences in the FG (P=0.98). These results revealed that the continuous and prolonged intake of 25% flaxseed meals from gestation to 250 days of age, even with a significant increase in serum levels of estradiol, does not exert adverse effects on the testicular and epididymal structure or on the cells participating in the spermatogenesis of rats.(AU)

A semente de linhaça é considerada um alimento funcional com vários efeitos benéficos à saúde. Entretanto, devido ao seu elevado teor de fitoestrógenos, esta semente pode influenciar no metabolismo hormonal e interferir na biomorfologia gonadal. Neste estudo, utilizamos a histomorfometria computadorizada para avaliar os túbulos seminíferos e epididimários, considerando as diferentes regiões do epidídimo (cabeça, corpo e cauda) de ratos submetidos a uma dieta prolongada de semente de linhaça. Foram utilizados ratos Wistar machos adultos jovens (n=20) divididos em 2 grupos, durante o período de lactação: Grupo Controle (GC) a base de caseína e Grupo Linhaça (GL) alimentados com 25% de semente de linhaça. Ao final de 250 dias de ingestão contínua, os animais foram sacrificados e amostra de sangue foi coletada. Os testículos e epidídimos foram retirados e fixados em formol tamponado. As amostras foram submetidas ao processamento histológico de rotina para parafina e coradas em hematoxilina e eosina. Foi feita a imunomarcação com anticorpo antivimentina para identificação das células de Sertoli. Para morfometria, as imagens das lâminas foram digitalizadas e analisadas pelo software ImageJ para obtenção dos dados de altura epitelial, diâmetro e área tubular e luminal. Na avaliação hormonal o GL teve maior concentração de estrógeno sérico (p=0,001), mas nenhuma mudança na concentração de testosterona foi observada. Nos parâmetros morfométricos dos túbulos seminíferos e das regiões epididimárias, não houve diferenças significativas entre os grupos analisados. Da mesma forma, a quantificação das células de Sertoli não apresentaram diferenças significativas no GL (p=0,98). Estes resultados mostraram que o consumo contínuo e prolongado de 25% de semente de linhaça desde período gestacional até 250 dias de idade, mesmo com o aumento significativo nos níveis séricos de estradiol, não exerceram efeitos adversos sobre a estrutura testicular e epididimária, assim como nas células participantes da espermatogênese em ratos.(AU)

Aspects of spermatogenesis and microscopic testicular morphology in Greater Rhea, Rhea americana (Linnaeus, 1758) / Aspectos da espermatogênese e morfologia microscópica testicular em Emas, Rhea americana (Linnaeus, 1758)

The purpose of this study was to study the microscopic morphology of the testicular parenchyma of Rhea americana birds. Fifty-four 2.5±0.5 year-old male adults bred in captivity. were used. During commercial slaughter, samples of testis were collected in November/2005, December/2006 and May/2007, in order to compare possible differences. The samples underwent optical microscopy analysis and measurements of seminiferous tubule (ST) total diameters, lumen, epithelium thickness and the relative volume of parenchyma. The ST had circular form in transverse cross sections. November/2005 and December/2006 samples had many types of germinative cells and spermatozoa in lumen, but in May/2007 the samples of epithelium were poor regarding meiotic and mitotic pictures, and it was difficult to find any spermatozoon; in many tubules the lumen was inexistent or diminished. In December/2006 and May/2007 the averages were: tubule diameter 110.3 and 5.3mµ, lumen 52.4 and 4.5mµ, epithelium thickness 57.8 and 0.7mµ respectively. The volumetric proportions were: seminiferous epithelium 75.6 and 75.9, cysts in epithelium 2.1 and 1.0, ST 93.3 and 84.0, interstitium 6.2 and 15.6 respectively. The sperm reserves were: 19.7±2 and 0±0 x109 sperm cells in December 2006 and May 2007 respectively. Microscopic measures of seminiferous tubules, spermatic cells and diameter of the nuclei were presented. These data confirm reproductive seasonality, with breeding season in spring-summer with sperm production. A great variation n parenchyma, when compared breeding was noticeable.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi estudar a morfologia microscópica do parênquima testicular de emas (Rhea americana). Foram utilizados 54 machos adultos criados em cativeiro de 2,5±0,5 anos de idade. Durante o abate comercial foram coletadas amostras de testículos em novembro/2005, dezembro/2006 e maio/2007, para efeitos de comparação. As amostras foram processadas e para microscopia ótica de rotina para análise. Foram medidas diâmetro total de túbulos seminíferos (ST), lúmen, espessura do epitélio e a proporção volumétrica dos componentes do parênquima. O ST apresentou forma circular nas seções transversais. Em novembro/2005 e dezembro/2006, se observaram os tipos de células germinativas e espermatozoides no lúmen. Em maio/2007, as amostras de epitélio se observaram escassas meioses e imagens de mitose e era difícil de ver qualquer espermatozoide, em muitos dos túbulos o lúmen era inexistentes ou diminuído de tamanho. Em dezembro/2006 e maio/2007, as médias das características estudadas foram: diâmetro dos túbulos 110,3 e 5,3 mµ, lúmen 52,4 e 4,5mµ, espessura do epitélio 57,8 e 0,7mµ, respectivamente. As proporções volumétricas foram: epitélio seminífero 75,6 e 75,9, cistos no epitélio 2,1 e 1,0, túbulos seminíferos 93,3 e 84,0, interstício 6,2 e 15,6, respectivamente. Foram apresentadas medidas microscópicas de túbulos seminíferos, diâmetro dos núcleos das espermátides. Estes dados confirmam a sazonalidade reprodutiva, com época de reprodução na primavera - verão, com a produção de esperma. Foi perceptível uma grande variação nas medidas do parênquima testicular, quando se comparou a estação reprodutiva.(AU)

Protein restriction during intrauterine and lactation periods: effects on testicular development in pre-puberty rats / Restrição proteica durante os períodos intrauterino e lactacional: efeitos no desenvolvimento testicular de ratos pré-púberes

Current study investigates the effects of maternal protein restriction during pregnancy and lactation on the testis of immature rats. Female Wistar rats were mated and, after confirming pregnancy, they were divided into two groups: undernourished group (UG) fed on a diet with casein 8%, and control group (CG) fed on a diet with casein 17 %, during pregnancy and lactation. After weaning, male offspring from the two experimental groups were fed on normal diet up to 35 days old when they were euthanized. Body and testicular weights decreased in UG when compared to those in CG. Volumetric density of seminiferous tubules was higher in CG whilst intertubular space increased in UG. The number of lumenated seminiferous tubules was higher in CG than in UG. Tubular diameter, seminiferous epithelium height and total length of seminiferous tubules were lower in UG. Round spermatids were frequently found in seminiferous tubules cross-section of CG. On the other hand, spermatocytes I in prophases was the germ cell commonly found in seminiferous tubules cross-sections of UG. Undernutrition during pregnancy and lactation period of the male Wistar rats altered the morphometric testicular parameters related to tubular compartment and delayed the onset of spermatogenesis.

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o efeito da restrição proteica materna durante prenhez e lactação no testículo de ratos imaturos. Fêmeas de ratos Wistar foram acasaladas e, uma vez confirmada a gestação, foram divididas em dois grupos e alimentadas durante a prenhez e a lactação: grupo desnutrido (GD), dieta com caseína 8%, e grupo controle (GC), dieta com caseína 17%. Após o desmame, os machos de ambas as proles receberam a dieta normal até os 35 dias de idade, quando ocorreu a eutanásia. O peso corporal e o peso testicular diminuíram no GD com relação ao GC. A densidade volumétrica dos túbulos seminíferos foi maior no GC, assim como o espaço intertubular aumentou no GD. O número de túbulos seminíferos luminados foi maior no GC comparado ao GD. Diâmetro tubular, altura do epitélio seminífero e comprimento total dos túbulos seminíferos diminuíram no GD. Espermátides arredondadas foram frequentemente encontradas nas seções transversais do GC. Por outro lado, espermatócitos I em prófase foram o tipo celular mais frequentemente encontrado no GD. A desnutrição durante a gestação e a lactação em ratos Wistar machos alteraram parâmetros morfométricos testiculares relacionados ao compartimento tubular e atrasou o início da espermatogênese.

Effect of electromagnetic irradiation produced by 3G mobile phone on male rat reproductive system in a simulated scenario.

Reports of declining male fertility have renewed interest in assessing the role of electromagnetic fields (EMFs). Testicular function is particularly susceptible to the radiation emitted by EMFs. Significant decrease in sperm count, increase in the lipid peroxidation damage in sperm cells, reduction in seminiferous tubules and testicular weight and DNA damage were observed following exposure to EMF in male albino rats. The results suggest that mobile phone exposure adversely affects male fertility.

Histomorfometria testicular do morcego Phyllostomus discolor (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) em áreas de Mata Atlântica de Pernambuco / Histomorphometry Testis the bat Phyllostomus discolor (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae) in areas of Atlantic Forest of Pernambuco

Este estudo analisou a condição reprodutiva, por meio da histomorfometria, de P. discolor coletados em fragmentos de Mata Atlântica do litoral sul de Pernambuco, durante as estações seca e chuvosa. Os animais são de coleção e foram classificados de acordo com a posição testicular (descendentes e não descendentes). Para as análises histomorfométricas, foram selecionados aleatoriamente 18 espécimes durante as estações seca e chuvosa, dos quais (n = 11) com testículos descendentes e (n = 7) com testículos não descendentes. Os resultados demonstraram que as maiores médias da área de ocupação dos túbulos seminíferos foram na estação chuvosa, independente dos espécimes apresentarem os testículos descendentes ou não. Isso pode estar relacionado a um maior investimento em produção espermática, já que na estação chuvosa, existe uma maior disponibilidade de alimentos devido às precipitações pluviométricas.

This study analyzed the reproductive condition, by histomorphometry, of P. discolor collected in forest fragments of the South Coast of Pernambuco during the dry and rainy seasons. The animals are Collection and were classified according to the position testicular (descendants and not descendants). For histomorphometric analysis, 18 were randomly selected specimens during the rainy and dry seasons, being (n = 11) with descendant testicles and (n = 7) with testicles no descendant. The results showed that the highest area average occupancy of the seminiferous tubules were in the rainy season, regardless of the present specimens the testes descendant or not. This may be related to a greater investment in sperm production, since the rainy season, there is a greater availability of food due to rainfall.

Long term evaluation of morphometric and ultrastructural changes of testes of alloxan-induced diabetic rats

PURPOSE: To evaluate in a long term the morphometric and ultrastructural changes in seminiferous tubules (ST) of normal and diabetic rats, and to correlate any changes with animal age and diabetes duration. METHODS: Sixty male Wistar rats, three months-old, were randomly divided into two groups: 30 non-diabetic controls (N) and 30 alloxan untreated diabetic (D). After one, six and 12 months of follow-up or diabetes induction rats were sacrificed and the testes examined. Morphometric measures of the ST were performed by digital imaging analysis. ST ultrastructure was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: Sustained hyperglycemic state was observed in all diabetic rats throughout the study. Serum testosterone was also significantly decreased in these animals. The diameter, total area, epithelium area and epithelium thickness of ST were lower and tubular density was higher in diabetic animals. Diabetic rats also showed ultrastructural changes compromising the whole testis including germ-, Sertoli-, and Leydig cells, and also the mithocondria and cellular nuclei. Most frequent of these consisted of vacuolization and/or accumulation of lipid droplets and electron dense dark material in cell cytoplasm and/or in membranes, cellular degeneration, and apoptosis. Non-diabetic control rats also showed testicular lesions that resemble to the diabetic lesions, although much less severe and with later onset in life of these animals. CONCLUSION: Histopathological changes observed in testes of normal and diabetic rats are closely related to the animal age and/or duration of the hyperglycemic state, being progressively more severe in animals sacrificed belatedly. These changes may play an important role in male infertility observed in diabetic subjects.

The effect of cannabis sativa hydroalcoholic extract on sperm parameters and testis histology in rats / Efecto del extracto hidroalcohólico de cannabis sativa sobre los parámetros espermáticos e histología testicular en ratas

Cannabis Sativa is a multiuse herb in traditional medicine, its hydroalcoholic extract (10, 50, and 100 mg/kg) administered interaperitoneally for 14 consequent days to Wistar male rats resulted in significant decrease in progressive motility of sperm. Sperm count and seminiferous tubules diameter decreased significantly in comparison with control group. Also decrease in animal body weight in doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg was observed. Changes in testes weight and serum testosterone were not significant. Cannabis sativa extract has negative effect on sperm parameters such as motility, sperm count, and seminiferous tubules diameter.

La Cannabis Sativa es una hierba de múltiples usos en la medicina tradicional. Su extracto hidroalcohólico (10, 50, y 100 mg/kg) administrado intraperito-nealmente durante 14 días consecutivos a ratas Wistar macho produjo una disminución significativa en la motilidad progresiva de los espermatozoides. El recuento de espermatozoides y el diámetro de los túbulos seminíferos se redujo significativamente en comparación con el grupo control. También se observó disminución del peso corporal de los animales en dosis de 50 y 100 mg/kg. Cambios en el peso de los testículos y la testosterona sérica no fueron significativos. El extracto de Cannabis sativa tiene un efecto negativo sobre los parámetros seminales tales como la motilidad, conteo espermático, y el diámetro de los túbulos seminíferos.

(-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate Modulates the Differential Expression of Survivin Splice Variants and Protects Spermatogenesis During Testicular Torsion

The anti-apoptotic effect of (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) during unilateral testicular torsion and detorsion (TT/D) was established in our previous study. In mice, the smallest inhibitor of apoptosis, survivin, is alternatively spliced into three variants, each suggested to have a unique function. Here, we assessed how EGCG exerts its protective effect through the expression of the different survivin splice variants and determined its effect on the morphology of the seminiferous tubules during TT/D. Three mouse groups were used: sham, TT/D+vehicle and TT/D treated with EGCG. The expression of the survivin variants (140 and 40) and other apoptosis genes (p53, Bax and Bcl-2) was measured with semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Histological analysis was performed to assess DNA fragmentation, damage to spermatogenesis and morphometric changes in the seminiferous tubules. In the TT/D+vehicle group, survivin 140 expression was markedly decreased, whereas survivin 40 expression was not significantly different. In parallel, there was an increase in the mRNA level of p53 and the Bax to Bcl-2 ratio in support of apoptosis induction. Histological analyses revealed increased DNA fragmentation and increased damage to spermatogenesis associated with decreased seminiferous tubular diameter and decreased germinal epithelial cell thickness in the TT/D+vehicle group. These changes were reversed to almost sham levels upon EGCG treatment. Our data indicate that EGCG protects the testis from TT/D-induced damage by protecting the morphology of the seminiferous tubules and modulating survivin 140 expression.

Reproduction of the greater bulldog bat Noctilio leporinus (Chiroptera: Noctilionidae) in a mangrove area in southern Brazil / Reprodução do morcego-pescador Noctilio leporinus (Chiroptera: Noctilionidae) em uma área de manguezal no Sul do Brasil

The reproductive pattern of the greater bulldog bat (Noctilio leporinus) was studied in southern Brazil from January to December 1999. The morphological characteristics of their reproductive organs were recorded monthly, through histological analysis of testes and ovaries. Those data were correlated with forearm size and body mass, as well as with external reproductive characteristics. The diameter of the seminiferous tubule increased proportionately to testis mass and body weight, and larger males had greater testis mass. Sexually mature males were recorded throughout the year. Ovary histology revealed that females ovulate between July and December. Lactating females were recorded in nearly every month of the year. Noctilio leporinus has a bimodal polyestrous pattern, with an increase in the recruitment of juveniles between January and May.

Entre janeiro e dezembro de 1999 foi estudado o padrão reprodutivo do morcego-pescador (Noctilio leporinus) no sul do Brasil. Foram registradas mensalmente as características morfológicas de seus órgãos reprodutivos, através da análise histológica de testículos e ovários. Estes dados foram correlacionados com o tamanho do antebraço e a massa corporal, bem como as características reprodutivas externas. O diâmetro dos túbulos seminíferos dos machos aumentou proporcionalmente à massa dos testículos e à massa corporal, e machos maiores também apresentaram maior massa de testículos. Machos sexualmente maduros foram registrados ao longo de todo o ano. A histologia dos ovários revelou que as fêmeas ovulam entre julho e dezembro. Fêmeas em lactação foram registradas em quase todos os meses do ano. Este estudo revelou que Noctilio leporinus tem um padrão reprodutivo poliestral bimodal, com um maior recrutamento de jovens entre janeiro e maio.

Desenvolvimento corporal e testicular em machos de codornas de corte e de postura de 25 a 360 dias / Body and testicular development in males of meat- and egg-type quails of 25 to 360 days

Codornas do tipo carne e tipo ovos foram analisadas para determinar o desenvolvimento reprodutivo, a puberdade e o início da senilidade. Para tal, 288 codornas (144 codornas de corte e 144 de postura) foram acompanhadas desde a eclosão até os 360 dias de idade. As aves foram distribuídas por idade em 18 grupos, sendo 8 codornas/grupo/tipo de codorna. Após 35 dias as codornas foram mantidas em condições de fotoperíodo de dias longos (17luz: 7escuro). O peso vivo e os valores morfométricos e histológicos testiculares foram determinados em cada período. Os dados obtidos foram analisados para determinar a curva de crescimento e o comportamento dos parâmetros analisados. O modelo que mais se adequou aos dados foi o modelo não linear de Gompertz (Y=A exp [-B e (-kt)]). O peso vivo e as características testiculares macro e microscópicas apresentaram comportamento alométrico entre si, sendo que, aproximadamente aos 60 dias os machos apresentaram-se sexualmente desenvolvidos, e estabilizaram o peso corporal por volta dos 100 dias. O testículo direito é mais cranial que o esquerdo e diferem em relação a comprimento e largura, porém não foi observada diferenças (P>0,05) para peso testicular. As codornas de corte apresentaram peso corporal e peso testicular maiores que as codornas de postura, porém as codornas de postura apresentaram peso relativo testicular maior. Durante todo o período analisado os machos puderam ser considerados sexualmente aptos. Os reprodutores apresentaram características sexuais ativas até os 360 dias de idade, representadas pelo tamanho testicular e pela atividade celular nos túbulos seminíferos.

Meat- and egg-type quails were analyzed to determine reproductive development, puberty and the onset of senility. For this purpose, 288 quails (144 meat- and 144 egg-type quails) were followed from hatch to 360 days old. The birds were distributed by age in 18 groups, 8 quails/group/type of quail. After 35 days quails were maintained under long daylength conditions (17L: 7D). The live weight and the macro and microscopical testicular characteristics were determined in each period. The data were analyzed to determine the growth curve and the behavior of parameters. The model that best fits the data was the non-linear Gompertz model (Y = A exp [-B and (-kt)]). Live weight and testicular morphometric parameters had an allometric behavior among themselves, and at approximately 60 days the males had sexually development, and body weight stabilized at about 100 days. The right testicle was more cranial than the left, differing in the length and width, but no difference in testicular weight (P>0.05) was observed. The meat quails had a larger body weight and testicular weight than the egg quails, but the egg-quail had a higher percentage of testes in relation to body weight. During the whole adult period the males could be considered sexually fit. Breeders had active sex characteristics until 360 days of age, represented by testicular size and by cellular activity in the seminiferous tubules.

Stereological analyses of the annual variation of captive bullfrogadult testes (Lithobates catesbeianus, Shaw 1802)

The occurrence of seasonality in bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) spermatogenesis was analyzed by quantifying germ cell populations throughout the year, which were divided into bimesters, from November 2001 to October 2002. Body weight, liver weight, fat body weight and gonadal weight were taken and bimonthly grouped. Using these data, the gonadosomatic, hepatosomatic, and liposomatic indexes were calculated. All animals were kept in the same cement cages in a frog farm, and sampled every month. The cages were underthe influence of climate variables changes, such as photoperiod, temperature, rainfall and relative humidity.Body weight was higher during Spring and Summer, and a significant reduction has occurred between Julyand August. The highest gonadosomatic index values were registered from May to October, coinciding withthe period of gonadal preparation for reproduction. Also, the reproduction of bullfrog is directly related toenvironmental factors, mainly due to Summer and Winter humidity variations.

Morfologia testicular de ratos wistar obesos sedentários e submetidos a treinamento físico / Testicular morphology in obese and sedentary wistar rats submitted to physical training

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar morfologicamente os efeitos da dieta de cafeteria e o treinamento físico em esteira sobre o testículo de ratos Wistar. Ratos machos adultos foram divididos em grupos (sedentário-controle; sedentário-cafeteria; treinado-controle; e treinadocafeteria). Para comprovar a instalação da obesidade calculou-se o índice de Lee e o peso dos tecidos adiposos periepididimal e retroperitoneal. A análise testicular envolveu o peso da gônada e após processamento histológico e coloração por Hematoxilina-Eosina, os parâmetros de diâmetro tubular, altura do epitélio seminífero, identificação dos tipos celulares presentes nos túbulos seminíferos, contagem de células e rendimento geral da espermatogênese. O aumento significativo do Índice de Lee e do peso dos tecidos adiposos, nos grupos que receberam dieta de cafeteria, comprovou a instalação da obesidade e indicou ser este um modelo adequado para induzir obesidade experimental. Não houve efeito da dieta ou do treinamento sobre o peso testicular, diâmetro tubular e altura do epitélio seminífero não havendo também diferenças na organização histológica dos testículos e túbulos seminíferos. Após quantificação celular e cálculo dos índices mitótico e meiótico e da capacidade total de suporte das células de Sertoli, verificamos efeito positivo do treinamento físico, independente da dieta recebida, sobre o rendimento geral da espermatogênese.

The aim of this study was to morphologically evaluate the effects of the cafeteria diet and physical training on the testicles of adult Wistar rats. Adult male rats were divided into groups (sedentary-control, sedentary-cafeteria, trained-control, and trainedcafeteria) In order to state the obesity condition both the Lee index and the weight of retroperitoneal and periepididymal adipose tissues were calculated. The testicular analysis involved the gonad weight and after the histological processing the Hematoxylin-Eosin staining parameters of tubular diameter, height of seminiferous epithelium, identification of the cellular sorts in the seminiferous tubules, counting of cells and overall output of spermatogenesis were done. The significant increase in the Lee index and the adipose tissue weight, in groups which received the cafeteria diet, stated the obesity condition indicating that this model is adequate to induce experimental obesity. There was no effect either from diet or training on the testicular weight, tubular diameter and height of seminiferous epithelium and also no difference in the histological organization of testicles and semineferous tubules. After cellular quantification and being calculated both mitotic and meiotic index and total capacity of Sertoli cells, it was verified a positive effect of the physical training, regardless of diet, on the overall output of spermatogenesis.

Morphological analysis of testes from post-hatch chicks submitted to temperature variation during incubation / Análise morfológica dos testículos de pintainhos recém-eclodidos submetidos à variação de temperatura durante a incubação

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of temperature variation during incubation on testicular morphology of post-hatch chicks. We utilized 60 eggs incubated under different temperatures: Group 1 ­ 37.5°C; Group 2 ­ 39.5°C; and Group 3 ­ 34°C. Chicks were weighted and the testes were histologically analyzed. All eggs from Group 3 showed embryonic death. There were no significant differences in body weight and testicular morphology between Groups 1 and 2; however, there was a difference in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules (p < 0.001). The increase in temperature to 39.5°C during incubation causes a decrease in diameter of the seminiferous tubules.

Este estudo objetivou avaliar os efeitos da variação de temperatura durante a incubação na morfologia testicular de pintainhos recém-eclodidos. Foram utilizados 60 ovos incubados em diferentes temperaturas: Grupo 1 ­ 37,5°C; Grupo 2 ­ 39,5°C; e Grupo 3 ­ 34°C. Os pintainhos foram pesados e seus testículos analisados histologicamente. Todos os ovos do Grupo 3 apresentaram morte embrionária. Não houve diferenças significativas no peso e na morfologia testicular entre os Grupos 1 e 2, porém, houve diferença no diâmetro dos túbulos seminíferos (p < 0,001). A elevação da temperatura para 39,5°C durante a incubação causa a redução do diâmetro dos túbulos seminíferos.

Alterações testiculares no diabetes aloxânico no rato. Estudo morfométrico e ultraestrutural dos túbulos seminíferos / Testicular alterations in diabetic rats alloxan: ultrastructural and morphometric study of seminiferous tubules

Este estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar, no longo prazo, os parâmetros morfométricos e ultraestruturais dos tubulos seminíferos dos testículos de ratos diabéticos aloxânicos. 60 ratos Wistar, machos, pesando de 250 a 280 gramas foram divididos em 2 grupos experimentais: N ou grupo normal, constituído de 30 animais sadios, nãodaibéticos; D ou grupo diabético, constituído de 30 animais diabéticos sem qualquer tratamento da doença. Cada grupo experimental foi posteriormente dividido, por sorteio, em 3 subgrupos de ratos, com 10 animais cada um, para serem avaliados e sacrificados com 1, 6 e 12 meses de seguimento. O diabetes experimental foi induzido pela administração endovenosa de aloxana 2%, na dose de 42 mg/kg de peso corporal. Somente animais com sinais clínicos evidentes de diabetes grave e com glicemia >250 mg/dl e glicose urinária > 3000 mg/dl foram utilizados neste experimento. Com 1, 6 e 12 meses de seguimento o peso corporal, a ingestão hídrica, a ingestão alimentar, a diurese e os níveis de glicose sanguínea foram avaliados em todos os animais. Com 1 e 6 meses de seguimento também foram analisados os níveis de insulina plasmática, hemoglobina glicosilada (HbA1C) e de testosterona sérica Após os sacrifício dos animais, ambos os testículos foram removidos, sendo o testículo esquerdo preparado para a microscopia ótica e o direito para a microscopia eletrônica. As medidas morfométricas à M.O. e M.E. foram realizadas por análise digital de imagens utilizando o software Quin Lite 2.5 - LEICA . A ultraestrutura dos túbulos seminíferos foi analisada ao microscópio de transmissão PHILIPS, pela análise descritiva comparativa.(...)

This study was conducted to evaluate, in the long term, ultrastructural and morphometric parameters of seminiferous tubules of the testis of diabetic rats alloxan. 60 male Wistar rats weighing 250-280 grams were divided into two groups: group N or normal, consisting of 30 healthy animals, non-daibetics; D or diabetic group, consisting of 30 diabetic animals without in treatment. Each experimental group was then divided in three subgroups of rats with 10 animals each to be evaluated and sacrificed at 1, 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Experimental diabetes was induced by intravenous administration of alloxan 2% at a dose of 42 mg / kg body weight. Only animals with obvious signs of severe diabetes and blood glucose> 250 mg / dl and urine glucose> 3000 mg / dl were used in this experiment. At 1, 6 and 12 months of follow-up body weight, water intake, food intake, diuresis and blood glucose levels were evaluated in all animals. At 1 and 6 months of follow-up were also analyzed the levels of plasma insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C) and serum testosterone after the animal sacrifice, both testis were removed, the left was prepared for light microscopy and the right to the electron microscopy. Morphometric measures at M.Õ. and ME were performed by using digital image analysis software Quin Lite 2.5 - LEICA. The ultrastructure of the seminiferous tubules was analyzed by transmission microscope PHILIPS, by comparative descriptive analysis.(...)