Naringenin upregulates the expression of CYP17 and CYP19 in the rats' testes: any effects on sperm functionality?
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Date
2020
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Taylor & Francis Group
Abstract
Background: CYP17A1 and CYP19A1, are members of the cytochrome P450 superfamily which are monooxygenases
that catalyze many reactions involved in steroidogenesis. In humans, the gene CYP17, located on chromosome 10q24.3
, encodes the 17 alpha-hydroxylase while CYP19 gene which resides on chromosome15q21.1 encodes aromatase
enzyme . They are both expressed in the gonads. Optimal spermatogenesis has been shown to be dependent on the
expression of these genes. They are known to be crucial for germ cell development and functionality. This research
studied the expression of these genes in the rats' testes and investigated the effects of Naringenin, a bioactive
flavonoid on their expression.
Methods: Thirty male rats weighing 200-220g, were randomly assigned into 3 treatment groups- DW: Distilled water,
N40: Naringenin, 40 mg/kg, N80: Naringenin, 80 mg/kg. Treatment lasted for a period of 70 days. Rats were then
sacrificed, blood samples collected for hormonal assay, testes were harvested and semen were analysed. Expressions
of CYP 17 and CYP 19 genes were done via real-time PCR. The Animal Research Ethical Committee, UKZN, South Africa
approved this research (reference: AREC/046/016D).
Results: The animals in groups N40 and N80 displayed significantly higher expression of CYP 17 and CYP 19 genes when
compared to controls. Serum testosterone and LH levels were also significantly higher. However, no significant
differences in the sperm count and percentage of abnormal sperms observed across the groups. But there were
significantly lower progressive sperms in group N40 when compared to control.
Conclusion: The study suggests that even though Naringenin displayed increased expression of CYP 17 and CYP19 genes
in the testes, there was no significant impact on the semen parameters and no effects on the overall testicular function.
Naringenin, a bioflavonoid may be able to protect against testicular toxicity but does not improve the function of an
otherwise healthy testes.
Description
Keywords
antiretroviral therapy, semen parameters, male infertility, CYP17A1, CYP19A1