Evidence of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunctions in the testis of prepubertal diabetic rats

Earlier, we have shown the occurrence of oxidative impairments and their progression in the testis
of diabetic adult rats. This study investigated the vulnerability of immature testis to oxidative stress
and mitochondrial dysfunctions in a prepubertal (PP) diabetic rat model. PP male rats (4/6-weekold)
rendered diabetic by an acute dose of streptozotocin were monitored for induction of oxidative
stress in testis cytosol/mitochondria. Diabetic rats of both age groups showed severe hyperglycemia,
testicular atrophy and marked oxidative damage as evidenced by enhanced generation of reactive
oxygen species, hydroperoxide and malondialdehyde levels (4 week46 week). Mitochondrial
dysfunctionsmanifested as reduction in the activities of aldehyde dehydrogenase, tricarboxylic acid
cycle enzymes, enhanced activities of oxidative phosphorylation enzymes, perturbations in calcium
homeostasis and membrane potential. These evidences suggest that an immature testis is vulnerable
to oxidative stress under diabetes, which may play a significant role in the development of testicular
degeneration, leading to impaired fertility in adulthood.