Radiation-induced Testicular Damage in Mice: Protective Effects of Apigenin Revealed by Histopathological Evaluation

Abstract

Background: Radiation exposure poses a significant threat to reproductive health, particularly the male reproductive system. The testes, being highly sensitive to radiation, are susceptible to damage that can impair fertility and overall reproductive function. The study aims to investigate the radioprotective effects of apigenin on the testis through histopathological evaluation. Materials and Methods: This research involved utilizing a total of 40 mice, which were randomly divided into eight groups of five mice each. The groups were categorized as follows: A) negative control group, B, C, and D) administration of apigenin at three different doses (0.3 mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, and 1.2 mg/kg) respectively, E) irradiation group, and F, H, and I) administration of apigenin at three different doses (0.3 mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, and 1.2 mg/kg) in combination with irradiation. The irradiation procedure involved exposing the mice to a 2Gy X-ray throughout their entire bodies. Subsequently, histopathological assessments were conducted seven days after the irradiation process. Results: The findings indicated that radiation exposure significantly impacted the spermatogenesis system. This research provides evidence that administering apigenin to mice before ionizing radiation effectively mitigated the harmful effects on the testes. Apigenin demonstrated radioprotective properties, positively influencing various parameters, including the spermatogenesis process and the presence of inflammatory cells within the tubular spaces. Conclusion: Apigenin can provide effective protection for spermatogenesis, minimize the adverse effects of ionizing radiation, and safeguard normal tissues.