Expression of GDNF and AR in Testicular Peritubular Cells of Surgery-induced Cryptorchidism Mice / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo investigate the expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor （GDNF） and androgen receptor （AR） in testicular peritubular cells （TPCs） of cryptorchidism mouse models and explore the theoretical significance of cryptorchidism-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction. MethodsA total of 30 five-week-old male ICR rats were divided randomly by using random number table method into 6 groups. Cryptorchidism was surgically induced in 3 randomly selected groups and the other 3 groups underwent sham surgery as the control groups. On days 4， 7 and 14 after surgery， we harvested the mice testes of the 3 groups and their corresponding control groups， then measured the testicular volumes， analyzed the testicular histopathology and detected the mRNA and protein expression levels of AR and GDNF in TPCs by immunofluorescence， real-time PCR and Western blot. ResultsIn normal control groups， on days 4， 7 and 14 after surgery， the testicular volumes were （125.58±19.22） mm3，（123.45±20.12） mm3， （140.09±13.62） mm3 ， respectively. Clear layers of spermatogenic cells were well arranged and abundant sperm cells were found. Peritubular cells were morphologically homogeneous， with slim-spindle appearance and normal cell thickness. The mRNA expression levels of AR were 1.00±0.05， 1.06±0.07 and 1.19±0.13； GDNF mRNA 1.00±0.04， 1.09±0.05， and 1.10±0.07. The protein expression levels of AR were 1.01±0.01， 0.79±0.02 and 1.01±0.04； GDNF protein （18.68±0.43） pg/mL， （14.39±0.36） pg/mL and （16.88±0.37） pg/mL. In cryptorchidism groups， on days 4， 7 and 14 after surgery， the testicular volumes were （115.64±3.91） mm3， （69.51±14.97） mm3 and （44.86±5.56） mm3， respectively. Spermatogenic cells were disorganized， seminiferous tubules were disrupted， peritubular cells shrank， bent and fractured. The mRNA expression levels of AR were 0.76±0.06， 0.53±0.04， and 0.29±0.02； GDNF mRNA 0.72±0.05， 0.42±0.02 and 0.30±0.03. The protein expression levels of AR were 0.54±0.02， 0.98±0.04 and 0.31±0.01； GDNF protein （8.50±0.34） pg/mL， （17.44±0.32） pg/mL and （6.83±0.34） pg/mL. Statistically significant differences （P < 0.05） were found in 7-day and 14-day testicular volumes between control and cryptorchidism groups but not in the 4-day testicular volume （P > 0.05）. Testicular volumes， AR and GDNF mRNA and protein expression in control groups had no statistically significant difference （P > 0.05）， while those in cryptorchidism groups showed a trend of gradual decline in the amount and the differences between groups were statistically significant （P < 0.05）. ConclusionsIn surgery-induced cryptorchidism mice， after the induction， the expression of AR and GDNF in TPCs showed a gradual decrease over time. AR and GDNF play a major role in mediating the TPCs damage in cryptorchidism. This study provides a theoretical basis for mechanism researches of cryptorchidism-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction.

A rare case of multiple visceral vascular variations around the kidneys: morphological and clinical aspects / Um caso raro de múltiplas variações vasculares viscerais ao redor dos rins: aspectos morfológicos e clínicos

Abstract Knowledge of the anatomical variations of the visceral branches of the abdominal aorta is important information for planning any surgeries in the region. We present here a rare constellation of variations of visceral vessels around the kidneys with a brief review of the recent literature. On the right side, an accessory renal artery was observed originating just distal to the main renal artery. The middle suprarenal artery was absent on the right side and there were two inferior suprarenal arteries originating from a branch of the main right renal artery. On the left side, the testicular artery had an arched course anterior to the left renal vein mimicking an unusual variety of nutcracker phenomenon. The right kidney was drained by two renal veins into the inferior vena cava. Knowledge of the coexistence of such complex anatomical variations might be helpful for clinicians during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Resumo O conhecimento das variações anatômicas dos ramos viscerais da aorta abdominal é uma informação importante para o planejamento de qualquer cirurgia nessa região. Neste relato, apresentamos um raro conjunto de variações de vasos viscerais ao redor dos rins, bem como uma breve revisão da literatura recente. No lado direito, foi observada uma artéria renal acessória originando-se distal à artéria renal principal. Não havia artéria suprarrenal média no lado direito, e havia duas artérias suprarrenais inferiores originando-se de um ramo da artéria renal direita. No lado esquerdo, a artéria testicular apresentava um curso arqueado anterior à veia renal esquerda, simulando uma variedade incomum do fenômeno do quebra-nozes. O rim direito era drenado por duas veias renais para a veia cava inferior. O conhecimento da coexistência de tais variações anatômicas complexas pode ser útil para os clínicos durante os procedimentos diagnósticos e terapêuticos.

Tumor de Testículo

Introducción: los tumores testiculares representan el 4% de las neoplasias urogenitales, de las cuales el seminoma es el tumor maligno más frecuente del testículo en los varones jóvenes. El pronóstico es bueno con la orquiectomía total, llegando a una sobrevida del 95% en 10 años. Presentación de Caso: paciente de sexo masculino de 28 años con tumoración no dolorosa en región escrotal de 10 años de evolución, acude al servicio de urología por molestias y aumento importante de la tumoración en el último año. Conclusión: el tumor testicular tiene un muy buen pronóstico si es detectado a tiempo, teniendo en cuenta que con la exploración física ya se puede tener el diagnostico.

Introduction: testicular tumors represent 4% of urogenital neoplasms, of which seminoma is the most common malignant tumor of the testicle in young men. The prognosis is good with total orchiectomy, reaching a survival of 95% in 10 years. Case Presentation: a 28-year-old male patient with a non-painful tumor in the scrotal region of 10 years of evolution, went to the urology service due to discomfort and a significant increase in the tumor in the last year. Conclusion: the testicular tumor has a very good prognosis if it is detected in time, taking into account that with the physical examination the diagnosis can already be made.

Tumor de Testículo / Testicular tumor

Introducción: los tumores testiculares representan el 4% de las neoplasias urogenitales, de las cuales el seminoma es el tumor maligno más frecuente del testículo en los varones jóvenes. El pronóstico es bueno con la orquiectomía total, llegando a una sobrevida del 95% en 10 años. Presentación de Caso: paciente de sexo masculino de 28 años con tumoración no dolorosa en región escrotal de 10 años de evolución, acude al servicio de urología por molestias y aumento importante de la tumoración en el último año. Conclusión: el tumor testicular tiene un muy buen pronóstico si es detectado a tiempo, teniendo en cuenta que con la exploración física ya se puede tener el diagnostico.

Introduction: testicular tumors represent 4% of urogenital neoplasms, of which seminoma is the most common malignant tumor of the testicle in young men. The prognosis is good with total orchiectomy, reaching a survival of 95% in 10 years. Case Presentation: a 28-year-old male patient with a non-painful tumor in the scrotal region of 10 years of evolution, went to the urology service due to discomfort and a significant increase in the tumor in the last year. Conclusion: the testicular tumor has a very good prognosis if it is detected in time, taking into account that with the physical examination the diagnosis can already be made.

In vivo Gonadoprotective Effects of Myricetin on Cisplatin- Induced Testicular Damage via Suppression of TLR4/NF-kB Inflammation Pathway and Heat-Shock Response / Efectos Gonadoprotectores in vivo de la Miricetina sobre el Daño Testicular Inducido por Cisplatino Mediante la Supresión de la Vía de Inflamación TLR4/NF-kB y la Respuesta al Choque Térmico

SUMMARY: The aim of this study is to reveal the gonadoprotective effects of myricetin (MYC), which has many biological properties, on cisplatin (CP)-induced testicular damage in rats. For this purpose, 40 male Wistar albino rats were divided into 4 groups as Control (group given no treatment), MYC (group given 5 mg/kg/i.p myricetin for 7 days), CP (group given 7 mg/kg/i.p cisplatin at 7th day) and MYC + CP (group given 5 mg/kg/i.p myricetin for 7 days before 7 mg/kg/i.p cisplatin injection). After administrations, testicular tissues of animals were extracted and processed according to tissue processing protocol. Hematoxylin & Eosin staining were performed to evaluate the histopathological changes and Johnsen'sTesticular Biopsy Score (JTBS) was applied and mean seminiferous tubule diameters (MSTD) were measured to compare experimental groups in terms of histopathological changes. Moreover, TLR4, NF-kB, HSP70 and HSP90 expression levels were detected by immunohistochemical staining and the density of immunoreactivity were measured to determine the difference in the expression levels of these factors among groups. Additionally, testicular apoptosis was detected via TUNEL assay. JTBS and MSTD data were significantly lower in CP group compared to other groups and MYC administrations significantly protects testicular tissue against CP-induced damage. Moreover, TLR4, NF-kB, HSP70 and HSP90 expressions and apoptotic cells significantly increased in the CP group (p<0.05). However, MYC administrations exerted a strong gonadoprotective effect on testicular tissue in terms of these parameters in MYC+CP group (p<0.05). According to our results, we suggested that MYC can be considered as a protective agent against cisplatin-induced testicular damage.

El objetivo de este estudio es revelar los efectos gonadoprotectores de la miricetina (MYC), que tiene muchas propiedades biológicas, sobre el daño testicular inducido por cisplatino (CP) en ratas. Para este propósito, se dividieron 40 ratas albinas Wistar macho en 4 grupos: Control (grupo que no recibió tratamiento), MYC (grupo que recibió 5 mg/kg/i.p de miricetina durante 7 días), CP (grupo que recibió 7 mg/kg/i.p de cisplatino al séptimo día) y MYC + CP (grupo que recibió 5 mg/ kg/i.p de miricetina durante 7 días antes de la inyección de 7 mg/ kg/i.p de cisplatino). Después de las administraciones, se extrajeron y procesaron tejidos testiculares de animales según el protocolo de procesamiento de tejidos. Se realizó tinción con hematoxilina y eosina para evaluar los cambios histopatológicos y se aplicó la puntuación de biopsia testicular de Johnsen (JTBS) y se midieron los diámetros medios de los túbulos seminíferos (MSTD) para comparar los grupos experimentales en términos de cambios histopatológicos. Además, los niveles de expresión de TLR4, NF-kB, HSP70 y HSP90 se detectaron mediante tinción inmunohistoquímica y se midió la densidad de inmunorreactividad para determinar la diferencia en los niveles de expresión de estos factores entre los grupos. Además, se detectó apoptosis testicular mediante el ensayo TUNEL. Los datos de JTBS y MSTD fueron significativamente más bajos en el grupo CP en comparación con otros grupos y las administraciones de MYC protegen significativamente el tejido testicular contra el daño inducido por CP. Además, las expresiones de TLR4, NF-kB, HSP70 y HSP90 y las células apoptóticas aumentaron significativamente en el grupo CP (p<0,05). Sin embargo, las administraciones de MYC ejercieron un fuerte efecto gonadoprotector sobre el tejido testicular en términos de estos parámetros en el grupo MYC+CP (p<0,05). Según nuestros resultados, sugerimos que MYC puede considerarse como un agente protector contra el daño testicular inducido por cisplatino.

Efecto de la Vitamina E en Células Peritubulares de Testículos de Ratones Mus musculus Tratados con Ácido Valproico Durante el Estado Fetal y Pubertad / Effect of Vitamin E on Peritubular Cells from Testis of Mus musculus Mice Treated with Valproic Acid During the Fetal Stage and Puberty

El ácido valproico (VPA) es un fármaco antiepiléptico teratógenico que, al ser administrado durante etapas tempranas del embarazo, puede producir alteraciones en el desarrollo embriofetal, las que se manifiestan tanto a nivel del sistema nervioso como del testículo. No obstante, se ha reportado que la administración de vitamina E (VE) podría revertir dichas alteraciones. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar el efecto protector de la VE a nivel testicular en fetos y ratones púberes expuestos a VPA durante la fase embrionaria de su desarrollo. Se utilizó un total de 30 ratones hembra adultas gestantes (Mus musculus) cepa BALB/c, las cuales se dividieron en 6 grupos. El estudio contempló el análisis de fetos machos a los 17,5 días post-coital (dpc) y machos juveniles a las 6 semanas post-natal. A los grupos 1 y 4 se les administró 0,3 mL de solución fisiológica (grupos control para 17,5 dpc y 6 semanas postnatal, respectivamente). A los grupos 2 y 5 se les suministró la cantidad de 600 mg/kg de VPA (grupos VPA), en tanto que a los grupos 3 y 6 se les aplicó la misma dosis de VPA complementada con 200 UI de VE (grupos VPA+VE). Se describió la histología normal y patológica del compartimento peritubular del testículo. En los grupos VPA se evidenció una degeneración de la pared peritubular, y atrofia de túbulos seminíferos, así como exfoliación de las células germinales. Por el contrario, en los grupos VPA+VE tales signos no fueron observados y la morfología presentó aspecto normal solo con algunas alteraciones focales. Estos resultados corroboran el hecho que la administración de VE contrarresta en parte, los efectos deletéreos que ocasiona el VPA.

SUMMARY: Valproic acid (VPA) is a teratogenic antiepileptic drug that, when administered during the early stages of pregnancy, can produce alterations in embryo-fetal development, which manifest both at the level of the nervous system and the testicle. However, it has been reported that the administration of vitamin E (VE) could reverse these alterations. The study aimed to determine the protective effect of VE at the testicular level in fetuses and pubertal mice exposed to VPA during the embryonic phase of their development. 30 pregnant adult female mice (Mus musculus) BALB/c strain were used, which were divided into 6 groups. The study included the analysis of male fetuses at 17.5 days post-coital (dpc) and juvenile males at 6 weeks post-natal. Groups 1 and 4 were administered 0.3 mL of physiological solution. Groups 2 and 5 were given 600 mg/kg of VPA (VPA groups), while groups 3 and 6 were given the same dose of VPA supplemented with 200 IU of VE (VPA+VE). The normal and pathological histology of the peritubular compartment of the testis was described. In the VPA groups, degeneration of the peritubular wall, and atrophy of the seminiferous tubules, as well as exfoliation of the germ cells, were evident. On the contrary, in the VPA+VE groups such signs were not observed and the morphology presented a normal appearance with only some focal alterations. These results corroborate the fact that the administration of VE partially counteracts the deleterious effects caused by VPA.

Linfoma de células T/NK primario de testículo. Caso clínico y revisión de la literatura

Natural killer/T cell lymphomas chiefly involving the midline facial structures including the nasal cavity or nasopharyns are a relatively rare type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Apart from the upper respiratory tract, the disease occasionally presents in certain extranodal sites, such as the central nervous system, skin, gastrointestinal tract, or testes. We report a case of natural killer NK/T cell lymphoma as a testicular tumor in a 36-year-old man with a history of progressive swelling of his right testicle. Histologically, the testicular mass showed a diffuse infiltrate of medium-sized and atypical large lymphoid cells with angiocentric infiltration and areas of coagulative necrosis. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated tumor cells staining positively with CD3, TIA-1, and Granzyme B. The Epstein-Barr virus genoma was detected by in situ hybridization. There were no abnormal findings in the nasal and nasopharyngeal regions. Classified as stage IEA, the patient received involved-field irradiation to contralateral testis (45 Gy), followed by systemic chemotherapy with a combination regimen ofL-asparaginase, methotrexate and dexamethasone. Relevant literature is reviewed, and the clinicopathologic features, natural history, and treatment options for primary testicular NK/T cell lymphoma are discussed.

Testicular Volume of Boys Aged 5-17 Years in Relation to Sexual Maturity Rating and Clinical Onset of Puberty in an Urban Setting in Gujarat, India

Background : Assessment of Sexual Maturity Rating and Testicular Volume are indispensable in the routine assessment of puberty in boys. There is paucity of data in Indian population for Testicular Volume particularly in early adolescence. Aims : The aims of the study were to collect data for testicular volume,correlate testicular volume with Sexual Maturity Rating (SMR) and the clinical onset of puberty; and to identify Testicular abnormalities in boys aged 5 to 17 years in an Urban setting in Gujarat, India. Materials and Methods : A prospective observational study was undertaken in boys aged5 to 17years of age from Gujarat from April, 2019 to August, 2019. Mean Testicular Volume was measured with a Prader抯 orchidometer. Parameters like Age, Weight and Height were also measured and Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated. Pubertal stage was categorized using Tanner staging. Data was statistically analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS software. Results : 977 boys were included in the study. Mean age at SMR stage 2 was 11.22 years. SMR stage 2 was earliest seen at 6 years and latest at 15 years of age. 15% of boys in pre-adolescence, 60% in early adolescence and 94% in middle adolescence showed changes of Puberty. Precocious puberty was detected in 33 boys (3.38%). Delayed Puberty was detected in 4 boys (0.4%) and Undescended Testes in 4 boys (0.4%). Testicular Volume showed positive correlation with Weight, Height and BMI.

Gonadal characterization of the Amazonian fish Serrapinnus kriegi (Characidae: Cheirodontinae) / Caracterização gonadal do peixe Amazônico Serrapinnus kriegi (Characidae: Cheirodontinae)

Abstract The knowledge of the testicular and ovarian morphology of a particular fish species is of paramount importance. Such analyze enables the development of studies and techniques aiming the improvement of their reproduction, management, commercialization and even their conservation. This study performed the ovarian and testicular characterization of the ornamental Amazon fish Serrapinnus kriegi. A total of three males and three females had their gonads analyzed by optical microscopy. Females present ovaries filled with oocytes in asynchronous development, indicating partial spawning in the species. Moreover, the micropyle and micropilar cell formation was observed in primary growing oocytes, representing a precocious oocyte development; and the zona radiata in the final vitellogenic oocytes is thicker than other related species, evidencing the development of a better protection to the embryos in function of the waters' turbulence that characterize it spawning sites in the Amazonian streams. The male specimens' present anastomosed tubular testes with unrestricted spermatogonia spread along the entire seminiferous tubules. The present data elucidate the dynamic of spermatogenesis and oogenesis of an ornamental Amazonian species, through the description of the male and female germ cells development.

Resumo O conhecimento da morfologia testicular e ovariana de uma determinada espécie de peixe é de suma importância, pois através destas análises é possível o desenvolvimento de estudos e técnicas visando o melhoramento de sua reprodução, manejo e comercialização e até mesmo auxiliar em sua conservação. Este estudo realizou a caracterização ovariana e testicular do peixe Amazônico ornamental Serrapinnus kriegi. Um total de três machos e três fêmeas tiveram suas gônadas analisadas através de microscopia óptica. As fêmeas apresentam ovários preenchidos por oócitos em desenvolvimento assincrônico, indicando desova parcelada da espécie. Além disso, observou-se a formação de micrópila e célula micropilar em oócitos em crescimento primário, representando o desenvolvimento precoce do oócito; a zona radiata nos oócitos vitelogênicos finais é mais espessa em comparação a outras espécies relacionadas, evidenciando o desenvolvimento de uma melhor proteção aos embriões, em função das águas turbulentas que caracterizam seu local de desova nos córregos amazônicos. Os machos apresentam testículos do tipo tubular anastomosado com espermatogônias irrestritas, espalhadas por todo o túbulo seminífero. Os dados apresentados elucidam a dinâmica da espermatogênese e oogênese de uma espécie de peixe ornamental amazônica, por meio da descrição das células germinativas masculinas e femininas.

Effects of 21-hydroxylase deficiency on male fertility / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia(CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders caused by deficiency of specific enzymes in the adrenocortical hormone synthesis pathway, resulting in impaired corticosteroid synthesis. 21-hydroxylase deficiency is the most common type of CAH, and the disorder can lead to impaired fertility in patients. Most current studies have focused on fertility problems in female CAH patients. The most common causes of impaired fertility in men with 21-OHD include testicular adrenal rest tumors(TART), low gonadotropin secretion, and inappropriate glucocorticoid therapy. This article reviews the causes of impaired fertility and its treatment in male patients with 21-OHD, with the aim of providing guidance for improving the fertility of male patients with 21-OHD.

Value of multiparametric ultrasonography in the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant testicular lesions / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To explore the value of multiparametric ultrasonography consisting of gray-scale ultrasound(US), color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI), real-time strain elastography(RTE), and contrast-enhanced ultrasound(CEUS) in the differential diagnosis of testicular lesions.Methods:Forty patients (40 lesions) detected by ultrasonography examination at the Ultrasound Medical Center of Lanzhou University Second Hospital from June 2020 to June 2022 were retrospectively analyzed, and further the CDFI, CEUS and RTE were performed. The presence of vascularization in the lesion was determined by CDFI and CEUS, avascular lesions were defined as benign, vascularization lesions were defined as malignant. The lesion tissue elasticity was assessed by real-time strain elastography, tissue stiffness was encoded as red(soft), green(intermediate), and blue(hard), and the hard lesions were defined as malignant, soft lesions were defined as benign. All lesions were subjected to pathological histologic examination after surgical resection or puncture biopsy as a reference standard. The correct classification rate, sensitivity, specificity and likelihood ratio of the multiparametric ultrasonography imaging for the diagnosis of benign and malignant testicular lesions were analyzed by ROC.Results:Of 40 testicular lesions, 24 (60.0%) were benign and 16 (40.0%) were malignant. The sensitivity of CDFI, CEUS and RTE in the diagnosis of testicular lesions was 0.875, 1.000 and 1.000, and the specificity was 0.833, 0.750 and 0.708, respectively. The correct classification rate was 85.0%, 85.0% and 82.5%, and the positive likelihood ratio was 5.24, 4.00 and 4.42, respectively. AUC was 0.781, 0.802, 0.771, respectively. By combining RTE and CDFI, a sensitivity of 1.000 and specificity of 0.875 and correct classification rate of 92.8% and positive likelihood ratio of 8.00 and AUC of 0.915 ( P<0.001) were achieved in differentiating testicular lesions. And combining RTE and CEUS, achieved sensitivity of 1.000 and specificity of 0.917 and correct classification rate of 95.0% and positive likelihood ratio of 12.0 and AUC of 0.958( P<0.001). Conclusions:Multiparametric US is of great value in the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant testicular lesions.

Improvement effects and its mechanism of catalpol on testicular lesions in KK-Ay spontaneous diabetic mice by regulating glycolysis / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To study the improvement effects and its mechanism of catalpol on testicular lesions in KK-Ay spontaneous diabetic mice on the basis of glycolysis process mediated by advanced glycation end products （AGEs） and their receptors （RAGE）. METHODS KK-Ay spontaneous diabetic mice fed with high-fat diet were used as diabetic model， and then randomly divided into model group， catalpol group （100 mg/kg）， aminoguanidine group （AGEs inhibitor， 100 mg/kg） and FPS- ZM1 group （RAGE inhibitor， 1 mg/kg）， and C57BL/6J mice fed in the same period were set as normal group， with 6 mice in each group. The catalpol group and aminoguanidine group mice were given relevant medicine intragastrically， normal group and model group mice were given constant volume of normal saline intragastrically， and FPS-ZM1 group mice were given relevant medicine 1 mL/g intraperitoneally， for consecutive 8 weeks. After the last administration， the body mass， fasting blood glucose， 24-hour food intake， water consumption， urine volume， testicular organ coefficient， and sperm motility of the mice were measured； pathological morphology and ultrastructural structure of testicular tissue were observed； the levels of reduced glutathione （GSH）， superoxide dismutase （SOD）， lactate dehydrogenase （LDH） and sugar metabolites in testicular tissue of mice were detected； pathway enrichment analysis was performed； the level of AGEs in serum and testicular tissue， protein expressions of RAGE， B-cell lymphoma-2 （Bcl-2） and Bcl-2-associated X protein （Bax）， and mRNA expressions of key rate-limiting enzymes [hexokinase （HK）， phosphofructose kinase （PFK）， pyruvate kinase （PK）， LDH] in testicular tissue were alldetected. RESULT S Catalpol could significantly improve the general symptoms， testicular organ coefficients and motility ofsperm in KK-Ay spontaneous diabetic mice （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. The morphology and ultrastructure of spermatogenic cells in each layer of the seminiferous tubules were all improved. The levels of GSH， SOD and LDH in testicular tissue，the levels of the metabolic product glucose fructose-1，6-diphosphate， 3-phosphate glycerate， 3-phosphate glyceraldehyde， lactic acid and pyruvate， the expressions of HK， PFK， PK and LDH mRNA were all significantly increased（P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）； the levels of AGEs in serum and testicular tissue， the expression of RAGE protein and the ratio of Bax to Bcl-2 in testicular tissue were significantly decreased（P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. Aminoguanidine and FPS-ZM1 could significantly improve the levels of most of above indicators in mice（P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. CONCLUSIONS Catalpol shows significant improvement effects on testicular lesions of KK-Ay spontaneous diabetic mice， and its mechanism of action was associated with upregulation of AGEs/RAGE signaling pathway- mediated glycolysis.

Comparison of therapeutic effects by testis sparing surgery and radical orchiectomy for benign testicular tumors / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To explore the surgical treatments and therapeutic outcomes for benign testicular tumor. 【Methods】 Clinical data of 53 patients with benign testicular tumor treated with surgery during May 2004 and Jul.2021 were retrospectively analyzed. 【Results】 The postoperative pathological diagnosis of 53 patients included 33 patients with epidermal cysts, 12 with mature teratomas, 2 with bilateral testicular tumors (one of them was epidermal cysts in the left and mature teratoma in the right, and the other was bilateral leiomyomas), and 6 benign cases. Testis sparing surgery (TSS) group had 23 patients and radical orchiectomy (RO) group had 30 patients. There were no significant differences in patients’ age, tumor location, disease course, and ultrasound examination results between the two groups (P>0.05). The tumor size of the RO group was (2.60±0.94) cm, which was larger than that of the TSS group (1.55±0.52) cm (P0.05). A total of 15 patients (13 with TSS and 2 with RO) underwent intraoperative frozen rapid pathological examination (FSA), which was consistent with post-operative paraffin pathological results. Durign the follow up of 2-219 months,median 38 months, there was no recurrence in either groups. 【Conclusion】 Testis sparing surgery is a reliable treatment modality for benign testicular tumor, which may also decrease the level of androgen and incidence of asthenozoospermia. It can be considered for tumors less than 2 cm with benign tendency or uncertain nature.

Diagnosis and treatment of testicular mixed germ cell tumor: a report of 11 cases / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To explore the diagnosis and treatment of mixed germ cell tumor (MGCT). 【Methods】 Clinical data of 11 confirmed MGCT cases treated in our hospital during Mar.2017 and Aug.2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The clinical characteristics, treatment methods and therapeutic effects were analyzed. The relevant literature and guidelines were discussed. 【Results】 MGCT cases accounted for 18.3% (11/60) of testicular cancer(TC) cases and 21.2% (11/52) of germ cell tumor (GCT) cases treated in our department during the same period. All 11 MGCT cases had unilateral lesions, which were on the left side in 7 cases, and on the right side in 4 cases, with a ratio of left to right side of 1.75∶1. The age of onset ranged from 21 to 52 years, average (29.8±8.7) years. All cases received unilateral radical orchiectomy(RO), 7 received retroperitoneal lymph node dissection(RPLND) (1 robotic RPLND), 6 received postoperative chemotherapy, and 1 received postoperative radiotherapy. During the follow-up of 2 to 66 [average (31.9±20.9)months] , no recurrence or metastasis were observed. 【Conclusion】 MGCT is a relatively rare malignant tumor in clinical practice, with worse prognosis than seminoma germ cell tumor (SGCT). Standardized diagnosis and treatment based on the special characteristics of each pathological type can improve the survival.

Testicular infarction due to polyarteritis nodosa: a case report and literature review / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To report a case of testicular infarction due to polyarteritis nodosa (PAN), and to discuss its clinical diagnosis and treatment based on relevant literatures at home and abroad, so as to have a better understanding of this rare disease. 【Methods】 Clinical data of a case complaining of scrotal pain who was initially diagnosed as testicular torsion and later confirmed to be testicular infarction due to PAN were retrospectively analyzed, and relevant literatures were reviewed. 【Results】 With glucocorticoid, vasodilator and antioxidant treatment, the patient’s testicular blood flow was improved. 【Conclusion】 Testicular infarction due to PAN is a rare disease which is difficult to diagnose timely. The diagnosis depends on biopsy and the standards formulated by American College of Rheumatology (ACR). Good prognosis can be achieved with timely diagnosis and correct treatment.

Clinical efficacy of minimal hydrocelectomy with the aid of scrotoscope in the treatment of testicular hydrocele / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To explore the application value of scrotoscopy in the treatment of testicular hydrocele. 【Methods】 The clinical data of 27 patients with testicular hydrocele who were successfully treated with minimal hydrocelectomy with the aid of scrotoscope (MHS group) and 32 patients with traditional open surgery (TH group) during Dec.2017 and Dec.2021 were retrospectively analyzed and compared. 【Results】 Compared with TH group, the MHS group needed shorter average operation time [(32.22±5.25) min vs.(57.34±8.71) min, P<0.01], shorter incision length [(0.95±0.15) cm vs.(5.09±0.55) cm, P<0.01], shorter hospital stay [(3.63±0.97) d vs.(4.72±0.89) d,P<0.01] and lower postoperative incision visual analogue scale (VAS) (P<0.01), and milder degree of edema on the 3rd and 7th day after operation (P<0.05), but higher recurrence rate (14.81% vs.3.13%, P=0.256) 24 weeks after operation. 【Conclusion】 Scrotoscopy is safe in the treatment of testicular hydrocele, which has the advantages of short operation time, small incision, mild postoperative incision pain, mild scrotal edema and short hospital stay, but the recurrence rate tends to be higher than that of traditional open surgery.

Research progress on the genetic etiology and treatment of nonobstructive azoospermia / 现代泌尿外科杂志

Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a disease with complex etiology, genetic heterogeneity and phenotypic heterogeneity caused by multiple factors, including chromosome abnormalities, Y chromosome microdeletions, gene mutations and epigenetic modifications. At present, there is no unified and effective treatment strategy to restore spermatogenesis. The current treatment options include preoperative hormone optimization therapy, changing the testicular spermatogenesis microenvironment, and stem cell therapy. This article reviews the existing genetic etiology of NOA and related treatment methods, in order to provide reference for the clinical treatment.

Sperm retrieval rate of microdissection testicular sperm extraction in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia based on different causes / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the sperm retrieval rate (SRR) of microdissection testicular sperm extraction (M-TESE) in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) caused by different causes. 【Methods】 A retrospective analysis was performed on 225 NOA patients during Jan.2020 and Dec.2022. The relation between SRR and patients’ age,body mass index (BMI),testicular volume,endocrine hormones and different etiological classifications were analyzed. 【Results】 According to whether sperm was obtained by surgery,the patients were divided into two groups,including 107 cases in the sperm group and 118 cases in the non-sperm group. There were no significant differences in patients’ age,testicular volume and levels of endocrine hormones between the two groups (P>0.05). According to the different causes,NOA patients with mumps history,cryptorchidism history,AZFc deletion or Klinefelter syndrome (KS) had higher SRR,while idiopathic NOA patients had the lowest SRR (P<0.05). 【Conclusion】 M-TESE is an effective treatment of NOA. There is no correlation between SRR and patients’ age,MBI,testicular volume and levels of endocrine hormones. NOA caused by different etiological classifications may have different SRR.

Effects of flurochloridone on apoptosis and Nrf2/HO-1 and NFκB signaling pathways in mouse testis and TM4 cells / 环境与职业医学

Background Flurochloridone (FLC) is toxic to male reproduction and can induce apoptosis of testicular tissue and supporting cells under oxidative stress. Of particular concern is whether nuclear factor-erythrocyte 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 (Nrf2/HO-1) signaling pathway and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) signaling pathway participate this process. Objective To observe apoptosis of testicular tissue and sertoli TM4 cells and alterations of Nrf2/HO-1 and NFκB signaling pathways in mice treated with FLC in vivo/in vitro. Methods (1) Animal experiment. Testis samples were harvested from male C57BL/6 mice after 28-day FLC (0, 3, 15, 75, and 375 mg·kg−1 per day) exposure via oral route. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in homogenate of testicular tissue were measured by colorimetry. Apoptosis of testicular tissue was evaluated by TUNEL staining. Expression and distribution of Nrf2 and NFκB were detected by immunohistochemistry. Protein expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), NFκB, inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase subunit beta (IKKβ), and phosphorylated recombinant inhibitory subunit of nuclear factor kappa-B alpha (P-IκBα) in testicular tissue homogenate were determined by Western blotting. (2) Cell experiment. TM4 cell lines were treated with 40, 80, 120, 160, and 200 μmol·L−1 FLC for 6 h, and cell viability was detected by CCK-8. After 6 h exposure to 40, 80, and 160 μmol·L−1 FLC, the apoptosis rate was detected by flow cytometry, and the protein expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, NFκB, IKKβ, and IκBα were detected by Western blotting. Results (1) Animal experiment. Apoptosis occurred in the interstitial and basal parts of spermatogenic tubules in male C57BL/6 mice after 28 days of oral FLC exposure. Compared with the control group, the MDA level in testicular tissue of the 375 mg·kg−1 FLC-treated group was significantly increased (P<0.05), and the SOD activity was significantly decreased (P<0.05). After 375 mg·kg−1 FLC exposure, apoptosis occurred in the interstitial and basal parts of spermatogenic tubules. The results of immunohistochemistry showed the expression of Nrf2 and NFκB in the interstitium and basal part of spermatogenic tubules of the treated groups. Compared with the control group, the protein levels of Nrf2, NQO1, P-IκBα, NFκB, and IKKβ in the 15, 75, and 375 mg·kg-1 groups were significantly increased (P<0.001), and the HO-1 protein level was significantly increased in the 375 mg·kg−1 group (P<0.001). (2) Cell experiment. Compared with the control group, the TM4 cell viabilities in the 40, 80, 120, 160, and 200 μmol·L−1 FLC-treated groups significantly decreased (P<0.01). The apoptosis rates were significantly increased (P<0.05), and the apoptosis rates increased from 5.7% in the control group to 7.4%, 9.4%, and 11.7% in the 40, 80, and 160 μmol·L−1, respectively. The Nrf2 protein level in the 40 μmol·L−1 group was significantly increased (P<0.01), while the levels significantly decreased in the 80 and 160 μmol·L−1 groups (P<0.01). The HO-1 protein levels in the 40, 80, and 160 μmol·L−1 groups were significantly increased (P<0.01). The level of NQO1 protein in the 40 μmol·L−1 group was significantly increased (P<0.01). The NFκB protein levels were significantly increased in the 80 and 160 μmol·L−1 groups (P<0.001). The IκBα protein levels were significantly decreased in all treated groups (P<0.001). The IKKβ protein had no significant change. Conclusion FLC induces testicular tissue apoptosis, and the process affects Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway and NFκB signaling pathway. The in vitro study confirms that FLC could induce apoptosis of TM4 cells and activate Nrf2/HO-1 and NFκB signaling pathways.

Current status and reflections on stem cell transplantation in the treatment of testicular aging / 器官移植

Testicular aging is mainly characterized by a gradual decline in the capability of testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis, which not only affects male fertility, but also correlates with aging-related chronic diseases intimately. Therefore, delaying testicular aging plays a significant role in improving the health and quality of life of middle-aged and elderly men. Stem cells are a cell group with potent self-renewal capability and multi-directional differentiation potential. In recent years, the research of stem cells in basic and clinical application has been carried out in-depth, which has accelerated the development of cell therapy. Currently, stem cell transplantation has been employed to treat multiple diseases, which has captivated widespread attention in the field of aging and regenerative medicine. Stem cell transplantation has demonstrated promising prospects in the treatment of testicular aging. In this article, research profile and progress of stem cell transplantation in the treatment of testicular aging were reviewed, and bottleneck issues encountered in clinical translation and strategies for optimizing clinical efficacy were discussed, aiming to provide novel ideas for the research and development and clinical translation of stem cell therapy for testicular aging.