The role of probiotics in the regulation of expression of genes supporting antioxidant status and functionality of mouse testes in LPS-induced inflammatory processes.

Abstract

Systemic lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation has a significant impact on various organs, including the male reproductive system. In this study, we have demonstrated that LPS-induced inflammation causes oxidative stress in mouse testes, reduces expression of genes encoding the catalytic subunit of glutamate-cysteine ligase (Gclc) and superoxide dismutase 2 (Sod2). Inflammation suppressed transcription of genes involved in differentiation and metabolic regulation of testicular cells and sperm maturation: in the LPS group, the expression of the Amh, Lepr, Eif2b4 genes was approximately 3 times lower compared to the control group. The intake of probiotic microorganisms caused a decrease in the intensity of lipid peroxidation, which was manifested in a decrease in the level of conjugated dienes (CD) compared to the LPS group, contributed to maintaining the level of expression of genes supporting the antioxidant status, as well as genes supporting the functionality of the mouse testes. The data obtained suggest that probiotics may be considered as potential tools for maintaining male reproductive function under conditions of inflammatory processes.