Lead (Pb)-induced reproductive toxicity is a well-characterized adverse effect associated with this heavy metal. It has been found that Pb exposure is associated with altered spermatogenesis, increased testicular degeneration, and pathological sperm alterations. On the other hand, it has been reported that Pb-induced reproductive toxicity is associated with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and diminished antioxidant capacity in the reproductive system. Hence, administration of antioxidants as protective agents might be of value against Pb-induced reproductive toxicity. This study was designed to investigate whether carnosine (CAR) and histidine (HIS) supplementation would mitigate the Pb-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. Animals received Pb (20 mg/kg/day, oral, 14 consecutive days) alone or in combination with CAR (250 and 500 mg/kg/day, oral, 14 consecutive days) or HIS (250 and 500 mg/kg/day, oral, 14 consecutive days). Pb toxicity was evident in the reproductive system by a significant increase in tissue markers of oxidative stress along with severe histopathological changes, seminal tubule damage, tubular desquamation, low spermatogenesis index, poor sperm parameters, and impaired sperm mitochondrial function. It was found that CAR and HIS supplementation blunted the Pb-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in the rat reproductive system. Thereby, antioxidative and mitochondria-protective properties serve as primary mechanisms for CAR and HIS against Pb-induced reproductive toxicity.
Keywords: Heavy metals; Infertility; Oxidative stress; Peptide; Protective.