Hesperidin Mitigates Bleomycin-Induced Testicular and Spermatological Damage in Rats

Abstract

Bleomycin (BLM), a chemotherapeutic agent commonly used in cancer treatment, is associated with oxidative stress and testicular toxicity, leading to impaired reproductive health. Hesperidin (HES), a citrus-derived flavonoid with strong antioxidant properties, has the potential to counteract these adverse effects. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of HES against the reproductive toxicity induced by BLM, focusing on oxidative stress, sperm characteristics and histological changes in the male reproductive system. Thirty-two rats were divided into four groups: Control, BLM, HES and BLM + HES. BLM was administered intraperitoneally at 10 mg/kg twice a week, while HES was given orally at 50 mg/kg/day for 30 days. The findings revealed that BLM induced significant oxidative stress by promoting lipid peroxidation and impairing antioxidant defence mechanisms in the testis. Additionally, BLM treatment caused a marked decline in sperm motility, an increase in abnormal sperm rates and severe histopathological damage in testicular tissue. However, co-administration of HES significantly mitigated these adverse effects by improving oxidative balance, restoring sperm quality and reducing histopathological injuries. In conclusion, HES demonstrated potential in alleviating BLM-induced reproductive toxicity, suggesting its therapeutic role in protecting against chemotherapy-induced male infertility.