Minocycline improves sperm parameters and hormonal receptor expression
in varicocele-induced rat model
Abstract
Background and Purpose: This study investigated the potential
antioxidant effects of minocycline on sperm parameters and hormonal
receptor expression in male rats. Experimental Approach: A total of 32
male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: Sham,
Varicocele induced (VC) group, VC+Mino group (Varicocele induction with
minocycline treatment), and Mino group (only treated with minocycline).
The researchers measured serum levels of “testosterone”, “luteinizing
hormone” (LH), and “follicle-stimulating hormone” (FSH) and examined
“sperm parameters”, “histopathological” analysis, and expressions of
“hormonal receptor genes” among the different groups. Results: The
outcomes showed that VC meaningfully improved serum levels of FSH and LH
compared to the sham group (P < 0.05). Additionally, VC led to
a reduction in sperm parameters, serum “testosterone” level, number of
germ cells, and expression of hormonal receptor genes (P <
0.05). However, treatment with minocycline improved sperm quality and
prevented testis tissue damage caused by VC. Conclusion: These findings
suggest that minocycline treatment can be protective against testis
tissue damage induced by VC.