Background:
Radiation exposure poses a significant threat to reproductive health,
particularly the male reproductive system. The testes, being highly sensitive to radiation, are
susceptible to damage that can impair fertility and overall reproductive function. The study aims
to investigate the radioprotective effects of apigenin on the testis through histopathological
evaluation.
Materials and Methods:
This research involved utilizing a total of 40 mice, which were randomly
divided into eight groups of five mice each. The groups were categorized as follows: A)
negative control group, B, C, and D) administration of apigenin at three different doses (0.3
mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, and 1.2 mg/kg) respectively, E) irradiation group, and F, H, and I) administration
of apigenin at three different doses (0.3 mg/kg, 0.6 mg/kg, and 1.2 mg/kg) in combination
with irradiation. The irradiation procedure involved exposing the mice to a 2Gy X-ray
throughout their entire bodies. Subsequently, histopathological assessments were conducted
seven days after the irradiation process.
Results:
The findings indicated that radiation exposure significantly impacted the spermatogenesis
system. This research provides evidence that administering apigenin to mice before ionizing
radiation effectively mitigated the harmful effects on the testes. Apigenin demonstrated radioprotective
properties, positively influencing various parameters, including the spermatogenesis
process and the presence of inflammatory cells within the tubular spaces.
Conclusion:
Apigenin can provide effective protection for spermatogenesis, minimize the adverse
effects of ionizing radiation, and safeguard normal tissues.