Protective role of propolis against reproductive toxicity of triphenyltin in male rabbits

Triphenyltin (TPT) is known to cause endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity and a decrease in testosterone production. It is involved in the production of reactive oxygen species. Propolis has been reported to be an important antioxidant. Therefore, the present study aimed to elucidate the possible protective effects of propolis in alleviating the toxicity of triphenyltin chloride (TPTCI) on reproductive performance, testosterone levels, lipid peroxidation and enzyme activities in seminal plasma of male New Zealand white rabbits. Animals were orally administered the doses of propolis, TPTCI and propolis plus TPTCI every day for 12 weeks. Results showed that semen quality was deteriorated following treatment with TPTCI. Also, testosterone levels, body weight (BW), relative weights of testes (RWT) and epididymis (RWE) were decreased. Thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances and lactate dehydrogenase were increased, while glutathione S-transferase, transaminases and phosphatases were decreased in seminal plasma of rabbits treated with TPTCI compared to control. Propolis alone significantly increased testosterone levels, BW, RTW, REW, semen characteristics and seminal plasma enzymes, and decreased the levels of free radicals and lactate dehydrogenase. Furthermore, the presence of propolis with TPTCI alleviates its toxic effects. From the present study, it can be concluded propolis can be effective in the protection of TPTCI-induced reproductive toxicity. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.