Protective effects of gilaburu (Viburnum opulus L.) fruit extract on testicular damage in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes the impairment of male reproductive functions by inducing oxidative stress and apoptosis in testicular tissues. Despite various therapeutic approaches, the need for effective strategies to reduce diabetes-related testicular damage remains a significant issue. In this study, the potential protective effects of Gilaburu fruit extract, known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, were investigated against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced testicular damage. Subjects were divided into control, diabetes (STZ, 50 mg/kg), and treatment (DM+Glb; 200 mg/kg Gilaburu) groups. While serum testosterone levels were measured, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1) levels, along with histopathological parameters and immunohistochemical markers (Bax, Bcl-2, PCNA, and Sirt6), were evaluated in testicular tissues. In the diabetes group, testosterone, SOD, and GPx1 levels significantly decreased, while MDA levels and the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio increased. These biochemical changes were accompanied by a narrowing of seminiferous tubule diameters and a decrease in PCNA and Sirt6 expressions. Gilaburu treatment significantly improved these impairments by reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting apoptosis, and increasing cellular proliferation and Sirt6 levels. In conclusion, Gilaburu extract may demonstrate potential as a supportive phytotherapeutic agent against diabetes-related testicular damage by regulating the oxidative stress-apoptosis-proliferation axis.