Safranal Alleviates Cyclophosphamide Induced Testicular Toxicity in Rats

Abstract

Safranal, the principal component of essential oil, is primarily responsible for the characteristic aroma and distinct odor of saffron. Cyclophosphamide (CP), a chemotherapeutic agent commonly used in the treatment of both malignant and non-malignant conditions, is known to induce cytotoxicity in various tissues, particularly within the male reproductive system. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of safranal against CP-induced reproductive toxicity in Wistar albino rats. CP was administered orally at a dose of 15 mg/kg once per week for 56 days to establish a model of testicular toxicity. In parallel, the treatment group received safranal via oral gavage at a daily dose of 200 mg/kg for the same duration. At the end of the treatment period, spermatological, biochemical, and histological analyses were performed on collected tissue samples. CP administration led to increased dead/live and abnormal sperm ratios, elevated levels of NF-κB, IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA, and a reduction in sperm motility and density, Nrf-2 expression, as well as GSH and GSH-Px activity. In contrast, safranal treatment significantly ameliorated these detrimental effects. In conclusion, safranal demonstrated protective and therapeutic effects against CP-induced reproductive toxicity, suggesting its potential as a supportive agent during chemotherapy.