Work

Ameliorative effect of spirulina on methotrexate-induced male fertility and oxidative stress in rats

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Methotrexate is a chemotherapy drug that is used despite having several toxic effects. Spirulina is commonly consumed as a food supplement because of its antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and other beneficial effects. Aim: The present study was conducted to investigate the adverse effects of MTX on male sex hormones and subsequently its effects on oxidant/antioxidant status. The ameliorative effects of spirulina against such MTX-induced adverse effects were also evaluated. Methods: Forty male rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, spirulina, MTX, and MTX + spirulina groups. The levels of testosterone (free and total), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prolactin hormone were evaluated as biochemical markers of MTX-induced infertility. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels were assayed in liver tissue as oxidative stress markers. Results: The results obtained from the current study showed that Spirulina improved the adverse effects of MTX on testosterone (free and total), LH, FSH, MDA, and TAC. Conclusions: The current study indicated that spirulina can be used to ameliorate MTX-induced adverse effects on male infertility and oxidative stress.

Source: Open Veterinary Journal

DOI: 10.5455/ovj.2025.v15.i6.25

Authors: Noran Salah, Reda El-Aziz, Sameh Elnabtity, Wageh Darwish

Institution: Zagazig University

Language: English

Topic: Sperm and Testicular Function

Subfield: Reproductive Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $350