[Tongjingling improves sperm DNA integrity and reduces oxidative stress in the testis of experimental varicocele rats].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the protective effect of Tongjingling (TJL) against sperm DNA damage and oxidative stress in the rat model of experimental varicocele (EVC).

METHODS

We randomly divided 75 Wistar male rats into five groups of equal number: sham operation, EVC model, high-dose TJL, mid-dose TJL, and low-dose TJL. The EVC model was established in the rats by partial ligation of the left renal vein, followed by 8 weeks of medication from the 4th week after modeling. Then we observed the general status of the rats, detected the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) in the epididymis by sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), and measured the content of hydroperoxide (H2O2) and the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the testis by colorimetry.

RESULTS

Compared with the sham operation group, the EVC models showed significantly increased sperm DFI in the epididymis (P <0.01) and elevated level of H2O2 and activities of CAT and SOD in the testis (P <0.01). In comparison with the EVC models, the rats of the TJL groups exhibited remarkably reduced sperm DFI and H2O2 content, but increased activities of SOD and CAT.

CONCLUSIONS

TJL can improve sperm DNA integrity by increasing the activities of SOD and CAT and reducing the H2O2 level and hence oxidative stress in the testis tissue.