Abstract:

Objective: To investigate the possible protective role of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) on cisdiamminedichloroplatinum
(CDDP)-induced spermiotoxicity. Methods: A total of 40 rats were randomly divided into
4 groups: blank control group, CDDP model group, and low-dose GSPE + CDDP group, high-dose GSPE + CDDP group
(orally administered at doses of 200 mg/(kg·d) and 400 mg/(kg·d), respectively, daily for 15 days), each group containing ten
rats. After 10 days of administration, the blank control group was given normal saline by intraperitoneal injection, while a
single intraperitoneal injection of CDDP (7 mg/kg) was carried out in the remaining groups. At the end of the administration
period, all rats were sacrificed to determine testicular and epididymal weights, epididymal sperm count and motility, GSH-Px
and SOD activities, and GSH contents. Apoptosis rates of testicular cells were tested by flow cytometer, and histopathological
characteristics were observed under a microscope. Results: Testicular and epididymal weights, epididymal sperm count and
motility, GSH-Px and SOD activities, and GSH levels were significantly decreased whereas the level of MDA and apoptosis
rates were significantly increased in rats from the CDDP group. GSPE treatment significantly attenuated the CDDP-induced
loss of testicular and epididymal weights and the dysfunction of reproductive organs, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation and
cell apoptosis. Conclusion: GSPE has a dose-dependent protective effect against CDDP-induced testicular toxicity in rats.
This protective effect seems to be closely associated with the suppression of oxidative stress and cell apoptosis.

Key words: cisplatin, grape seed proanthocyanidin extracts, testicular toxicity, oxidative stress, apoptosis