Consumption of high sucrose and/or high salt diet alters sperm function in male Sprague–Dawley rats

Publication date: Available online 7 April 2016 Source:Egyptian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences Author(s): D.A. Adekunbi, O.A. Ogunsola, O.T. Oyelowo, E.O. Aluko, A.A. Popoola, O.O. Akinboboye Diets laden with salt and refined sugar have been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetes and hypertension. However, few studies have investigated the impact of such diets on reproductive functions, hence, the present study. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (100–120 g, n = 24) were randomly divided into four groups designated control (standard chow), sucrose (30% w/v as drinking water), salt (8% salt diet) and sucrose + salt (30% w/v as drinking water + 8% salt diet). After 6 weeks, rats were euthanized by cervical dislocation. Sperm function was assessed post mortem. Blood sample was drawn via the retro-orbital sinus for estimation of serum levels of corticosterone, testosterone, LH and FSH using ELISA kit and electrolytes using flame photometer. Oxidative analyses of testes homogenate were carried out using previously described methods. Values are means ± SEM, compared by ANOVA. Sperm concentration, motility, viability and morphology were significantly altered in sucrose, salt, and sucrose + salt fed rats. In addition, the serum level of testosterone was significantly reduced in the treated rats compared with control. Sucrose, salt and sucrose + salt feeding resulted in increased level of serum corticosterone when compared with control. ...
Source: Egyptian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences - Category: Science Source Type: research