Protective effect of rutin on mercuric chloride‐induced reproductive damage in male rats

摘要

Abstract This study investigated the effects of rutin against reproductive damage caused by toxic mercury in male rats. Thirty‐five Sprague Dawley rats were used. Control group was injected with saline for 7?days. The rutin‐100 group received 100?mg/kg/b.w. rutin for 7?days. Mercuric chloride (HgCl 2 ) group received 1.23?mg/kg/b.w. of HgCl 2 for 7?days. Mercury chloride?+?rutin‐50 group received 50?mg/kg/b.w. rutin and HgCl 2 1.23?mg/kg/b.w. for 7?days. HgCl 2 ?+?rutin‐100 group received 100?mg/kg/b.w. rutin and HgCl 2 1.23?mg/kg/b.w. for 7?days. It was detected that HgCl 2 treatment increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expressions, necrosis and degeneration of spermatogonium, dead and abnormal sperm percentages; tubular walls thinning; and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and sperm motility. It was determined that rutin application reduced testicular damage caused by HgCl 2 . In conclusion, rutin administration may treat HgCl 2 toxicity in testes.