The Effects of Vitamin C on the Quality of Semen, Testicular Tissue, and Apoptosis in Mice Exposed to Sodium Arsenite

Abstract

Background: Arsenic is a heavy metal that causes malformation. It affects the reproductive system of men by induction of oxidative stress. Objectives: This study investigated the effect of Vitamin C (Vit C), as a potent antioxidant, on sperm quality and testicular tissue in mice that received sodium arsenite. Methods: A total of 28 adult male NMRI mice were divided into four groups: control, sodium arsenite (7 mg/kg/d), Vitamin C (Vit C; 150 mg/kg/d), and sodium arsenite+Vit C (with previous doses). Gavage treatments were administered for 35 days. At the end of the treatments, the right testis was used for histopathological observations and apoptosis assessment, and the left testis to evaluate sperm parameters. Results: Sperm parameters such as count, motility, viability, morphology, tail length, Daily Sperm Production (DSP), the diameter of seminiferous tubules, the height of the germinal epithelium, and the number of germ cells and Sertoli cells were significantly decreased in the sodium arsenite group compared to the control group (P<0.05). Malondialdehyde levels were significantly increased, and serum testosterone levels were significantly reduced in the sodium arsenite group. The mentioned parameters were compensated for in the sodium arsenite+Vit C group compared to the sodium arsenite group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Vitamin C can decrease the undesired changes induced by sodium arsenite in the male reproductive system.