Hesperidin Mitigates Bleomycin-Induced Testicular and Spermatological
Damage in Rats
Abstract
Bleomycin (BLM), a chemotherapeutic agent commonly used in cancer
treatment, is associated with oxidative stress and testicular toxicity,
leading to impaired reproductive health. Hesperidin (HES), a
citrus-derived flavonoid with strong antioxidant properties, has the
potential to counteract these adverse effects. This study aimed to
evaluate the protective effects of HES against the reproductive toxicity
induced by BLM, focusing on oxidative stress, sperm characteristics, and
histological changes in the male reproductive system. Thirty-two rats
were divided into four groups: Control, BLM, HES, and BLM+HES. BLM was
administered intraperitoneally at 10 mg/kg twice a week, while HES was
given orally at 50 mg/kg/day for 30 days. The findings revealed that BLM
induced significant oxidative stress by promoting lipid peroxidation and
impairing antioxidant defense mechanisms in the testis. Additionally,
BLM treatment caused a marked decline in sperm motility, an increase in
abnormal sperm rates, and severe histopathological damage in testicular
tissue. However, co-administration of HES significantly mitigated these
adverse effects by improving oxidative balance, restoring sperm quality,
and reducing histopathological injuries. In conclusion, HES demonstrated
potential in alleviating BLM-induced reproductive toxicity, suggesting
its therapeutic role in protecting against chemotherapy-induced male
infertility.