İdris AYHAN

and 3 more

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.