The Possible Ameliorating Role of L-Carnitine on Furan-Induced Testicular Damage in Adult Albino Rats

Abstract

Introduction: Furan is a chemical found in some industrial products and naturally occurs in heat-processed foods. This study investigated whether L-carnitine (LC) could mitigate testicular tissue damage caused by oral furan administration in male albino rats.

Methodology: Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: Group I (negative control), Group II (L-carnitine-treated) received 350 mg/kg/day of LC orally, Group III (furan-exposed) received furan at 16 mg/kg daily for 35 days, and Group IV (furan+LC) received both LC and furan at the same doses as described. Biochemical, histopathological, and histomorphometric analyses were performed on testicular tissue.

Results: Furan caused vacuolations, reduced the thickness of the germinal epithelium, decreased the seminiferous tubule diameter. Degenerated and exfoliated spermatogenic cells were observed alongside degenerative changes in Sertoli cells. There was a significant decrease in serum testosterone and antioxidant markers, with a notable increase in the oxidant profile. However, LC alleviated furan-induced testicular toxicity by improving total antioxidant capacity (TCA) activities and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. It also increased the lowered levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone. Additionally, LC treatment effectively alleviated the histopathological damage.

Conclusion: Pretreatment with L-Carnitine reduced the damaging impact of Furan on spermatogenesis parameters in adult albino rats.