Evidence of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunctions in the testis of prepubertal diabetic rats

Earlier, we have shown the occurrence of oxidative impairments and their progression in the testis of diabetic adult rats. This study investigated the vulnerability of immature testis to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunctions in a prepubertal (PP) diabetic rat model. PP male rats (4/6-week-old) rendered diabetic by an acute dose of streptozotocin were monitored for induction of oxidative stress in testis cytosol/mitochondria. Diabetic rats of both age groups showed severe hyperglycemia, testicular atrophy and marked oxidative damage as evidenced by enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species, hydroperoxide and malondialdehyde levels (4 week>6 week). Mitochondrial dysfunctions manifested as reduction in the activities of aldehyde dehydrogenase, tricarboxylic acid cycle enzymes, enhanced activities of oxidative phosphorylation enzymes, perturbations in calcium homeostasis and membrane potential. These evidences suggest that an immature testis is vulnerable to oxidative stress under diabetes, which may play a significant role in the development of testicular degeneration, leading to impaired fertility in adulthood. International Journal of Impotence Research (2009) 21, 198-206; doi:10.1038/ijir.2009.9; published online 12 March 2009