The Effect of Diplotaenia turcica Root Extract on Sperm Parameters and Antioxidant Parameters in Doxorubicin-administered Rats

Creative Commons License

Belhan S., özdek u.

Türk Tarım - Gıda Bilim ve Teknoloji dergisi, cilt.14, sa.6, ss.1736-1740, 2026 (TRDizin)

Özet

This experimental study was designed to evaluate the potential toxic effects of Doxorubicin (DOX), a commonly used antineoplastic agent, on sperm parameters and antioxidant markers in rats, as well as the potential protective role of the root extract of Diplotaenia turcica, an endemic plant species native to Türkiye. A total of 21 male Wistar albino rats, divided into three groups of seven animals each, were used in the study. The experimental period lasted 7 days. The control group received only physiological saline solution. In the DOX group, a single intraperitoneal dose of DOX (15 mg/kg) was administered. In the DOX + Diplotaenia turcica root extract group, the animals received the plant extract orally at a dose of 150 mg/kg daily following DOX administration. Within 24 hours after the final treatment, the rats were anesthetized with ketamine, and testicular tissues were collected for analysis. Sperm concentration and the percentage of abnormal sperm were evaluated using samples obtained from the cauda epididymis. Additional testicular tissue samples were preserved for biochemical analysis. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT) activity were measured using commercial ELISA kits. All animals were humanely sacrificed at the end of the experiment in accordance with ethical guidelines. The findings of this study demonstrated that DOX induced significant impairments in both sperm parameters and antioxidant status, as evidenced by a marked decrease in sperm concentration, GSH levels, and CAT activity, along with a significant increase in the percentage of abnormal sperm and MDA levels. However, co-administration of Diplotaenia turcica root extract appeared to mitigate these adverse effects, suggesting a protective role in preserving testicular function. These results highlight the potential biomedical value of endemic plant species and underscore the importance of further research into their therapeutic applications.