Vulnerability of Prepubertal Mice Testis to Iron Induced Oxidative Dysfunctions In Vivo and Functional Implications

prooxidant induced oxidative impairments both under in vitro and in vivo exposure conditions.
Materials and Methods: Following in vitro exposure to iron (5,10 and 25 μM), oxidative response
measured in terms of lipid peroxidation and hydroperoxide levels in testis of pre pubertal mice (4
wk) was more robust compared to that of pubertal mice (6 wk).
Results: Further, in an in vivo study, pre pubertal mice administered (i.p) sub lethal doses (12.5,
25 and 50mg/100g bw/d, 5d) of Iron dextran, showed significant induction of oxidative stress
response in testis cytosol and mitochondria manifested as lipid peroxidation, generation of reactive
oxygen species, hydroperoxide levels and enhanced protein carbonyl levels (a measure of protein
oxidation). Diminished levels of GSH and total thiols in both cytosol and mitochondria of testis
suggested an altered redox state. Significant perturbations in the activities of antioxidant enzymes
such as glutathione transferase, glutathione peroxidase and SOD were discernible suggesting the
ongoing oxidative stress in vivo. These oxidative impairments were accompanied by functional
implications in testis as reflected in the altered activities of dehydrogenases and reduced activities
of both 3 β- and 17 β-hydroxysteriod dehydrogenase.
Conclusion: Collectively, these data provide an account of the susceptibility of prepubertal testis
to iron-induced oxidative stress, associated functional consequences and this model is being further
exploited for understanding the implications on the physiology of testis and consequent effect on
fertility.