Protective effects of n-acetyl serotonin against experimental testicular ıschemia–reperfusion ınjury: An experimental study

N-acetyl serotonin against testicular ischemia–reperfusion

Abstract

Testicular torsion (TT) is a urological emergency that occurs as a result of twisting of the spermatic cord, leading to reduced or completely obstructed blood flow and consequent testicular ischemia. Prolonged ischemia may result in germ cell loss and infertility, particularly due to oxidative stress induced during ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury. N-acetyl serotonin (NAS), a precursor of melatonin, is known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, the potential of NAS, which has strong antioxidant properties, to prevent oxidative stress occurring during testicular ischemia and the associated development of infertility was investigated. In this study, 24 adult male Wistar Albino rats (200–250 g) were randomly divided into three groups (n = 8): control, ischemia–reperfusion (I/R), and ischemia–reperfusion treated with NAS (I/R+NAS). Testicular torsion was induced for 2 h followed by detorsion, and NAS (10 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered after surgery. Testicular tissues were evaluated histopathologically and biochemically 24 h after reperfusion. Histopathological examination revealed that edema, congestion, and hemorrhage were significantly reduced in the NAS-treated group compared with the I/R group (P<0.05). Improvements in mean testicular biopsy score (MTBS) were accompanied by better organization of the spermatogenic cell layers and more regular seminiferous tubule contours. Biochemically, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was significantly increased, whereas total oxidant capacity (TOC) and protamine-2 (PRM2) levels were significantly decreased in the treatment group compared with the I/R group (P< 0.05). In addition, androgen-binding protein (ABP) levels were significantly higher in the NAS-treated group than in the I/R group (P<0.05). In conclusion, these findings suggest that NAS exerts protective effects against oxidative damage in testicular tissue exposed to ischemia–reperfusion injury and may serve as a potential therapeutic candidate for reducing I/R-associated testicular damage.