Cytoprotective and Genoprotective Effects of Satureja Khuzestanica Essential Oil against Busulfan-Induced Sperm Damage in Adult Male Mice: A Comprehensive Review
Cytoprotective and Genoprotective Effects of Satureja Khuzestanica Essential Oil against Busulfan-Induced Sperm Damage in Adult Male Mice: A Comprehensive Review
Maryam Alsadat Hashemi,1Hossein Khanafereh,2Parva Nasimi,3,*
1. Islamic Azad University, Abhar Branch, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Agricultural engineering, green space design engineering 2. Imam Jafar Sadegh Laboratory and Research Center 3. Regensburg University, Prof. Brembs Laboratory, Germany
Introduction: Infertility remains a pressing global issue, with chemotherapy-induced sperm damage being a significant contributor to male infertility. Satureja khuzestanica essential oil (SKEO), derived from an aromatic herb, has garnered increasing attention for its potential cytoprotective and genoprotective properties. This review aims to synthesize and critically evaluate the existing body of literature on the protective effects of SKEO against busulfan-mediated sperm damage and seminiferous tubules destruction in adult male mice.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, spanning studies from inception until September 2023. Eligible studies were selected based on their relevance to SKEO, busulfan-induced sperm damage, and male mice models. A systematic analysis of methodologies, including the administration of SKEO, busulfan dosage, treatment duration, and assessment tools, was performed to ensure the quality and comparability of the included studies.
Results: A multitude of studies have explored the impact of SKEO on busulfan-induced sperm damage. Findings consistently demonstrate that SKEO administration exerts cytoprotective effects, ameliorating sperm count reduction, motility impairment, and abnormal morphology caused by busulfan. Moreover, histopathological examinations revealed a marked decrease in seminiferous tubules destruction in SKEO-treated mice. These observations suggest that SKEO possesses the potential to mitigate busulfan-induced testicular toxicity through its antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, and genoprotective mechanisms.
Further investigation into the underlying mechanisms revealed that SKEO's protective effects are primarily attributed to its potent antioxidant properties. SKEO effectively scavenges reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing oxidative stress levels in testicular tissue. This antioxidant activity is closely associated with the preservation of mitochondrial function and the inhibition of apoptosis in sperm cells. Additionally, studies indicate that SKEO may modulate genes related to DNA damage and repair pathways, contributing to its genoprotective effects against busulfan-induced genotoxicity.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the evidence from the reviewed studies supports the notion that Satureja khuzestanica essential oil holds promise as a therapeutic agent for mitigating busulfan-induced sperm damage and seminiferous tubules destruction in adult male mice. Its cytoprotective and genoprotective effects, primarily mediated through antioxidative and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, make it a compelling candidate for future research and potential clinical applications in the field of male infertility.