Protective Effect of Nerolidol on Paclitaxel-Induced Reproductive
Toxicity in Rats: Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Abstract
Paclitaxel (PAC), derived from Taxus brevifolia, is commonly used to
treat solid tumors but has significant adverse effects, including
reproductive toxicity, driven by oxidative stress. PAC can damage the
reproductive system, leading to histological changes and reduced sperm
quality. Nerolidol (NRL), a sesquiterpene alcohol with antioxidant
properties, has not been studied for its role in mitigating PAC-induced
reproductive damage. This study investigates NRL’s potential to
counteract PAC-induced reproductive toxicity in rats. Forty healthy
adult male Spraque Dawley rats were randomly divided into four equal
groups (Control, PAC, NRL, PAC+NRL). PAC was given intraperitoneally at
a dose of 2 mg/kg once a week for four weeks. NRL was given orally at a
dose of 100 mg/kg/day for four weeks. Control group received PAC and NRL
vehicles. After four weeks, testis tissue samples were collected, and
parameters, including oxidants, antioxidants, sperm motility, density,
abnormal spermatozoon ratios and cytokines were measured. PAC
administration increased oxidant levels and decreased antioxidant enzyme
activities. Nerolidol mitigated these alterations significantly.
Similarly, PAC elevated IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α levels and lowered IL-10
levels, these effects attenuated by nerolidol in the PAC+NRL group. In
conclusion, it was determined that PAC induces reproductive toxicity
through oxidative stress, and NRL demonstrates potential in ameliorating
these effects through its antioxidant activity.