Gallic acid counteracts tartrazine-induced testicular dysfunction in rats: biochemical, histopathological and ultrastructural evidences

Abstract

Background Tartrazine (Tz) is one of the most commonly used colorants incorporated in the food manufacturing. Its toxicity is derived from metabolic byproducts representing health hazards to consumers. Gallic acid (GA) is known for its redox stabilizing, anti-apoptotic, and cytoprotective characteristics. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the possible defensive effect of GA against Tz-induced testicular dysfunction. To achieve this objective, 18 male Wistar adult rats were randomly and equally categorized into three groups for 30 days. The control group received no treatment. Tz at a dose of 30 mg/kg BW was administered to the Tz group. The Tz + GA group received GA at a dose of 200 mg/kg BW in concurrent with the previously described Tz dosage. Both Tz and GA were supplemented orally once daily by a stomach tube. Results The marked decline in luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone, and estradiol 17beta confirmed deviation in pituitary–gonadal axis of Tz-exposed rats. Imbalances in plasma redox equilibrium were evident, characterized by a notable increase in malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels, along with a decrease in reduced glutathione and total antioxidant capacity. Deteriorations in histopathological features, fibrosis in testicular tissue, abnormalities in Sertoli cell, and up-regulation in caspase-3 were observed. Conversely, GA administration successfully reversed these issues. Conclusion The ability of GA to counteract toxicological molecular targets in Tz-exposed testes is believed to be achieved through the restoration of oxidant/antioxidant balance and the prevention of the apoptotic cascade.