Protective effects of L-Carnitine and kiwifruit extract against benzo[a]pyrene-induced testicular toxicity in Sprague-Dawley rats

Abstract

Objective: Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) is a widespread environmental pollutant known to impair testicular structure and function. This study evaluates whether L-carnitine and kiwifruit extract can protect against BaP-induced testicular toxicity in adult male albino rats.

Methods: Forty adult male albino rats (160–225 g) were randomly divided into five groups (n=8 each): control (corn oil), BaP (10 mg/kg), BaP plus L-carnitine (200 mg/kg), BaP plus kiwifruit extract (500 mg/kg), and BaP plus combined treatment. Treatments were administered three times per week for 90 days. Serum testosterone, FSH, and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities, as well as malondialdehyde (MDA), IL-1β, and TNF-α levels, were measured. Testicular histology was examined by H&E staining.

Results: Benzo[a]pyrene exposure significantly decreased Testosterone, FSH, and GPX levels and increased MDA, IL-1β, and TNFα levels compared to the control group (p < 0.05). L-carnitine and kiwifruit treatments ameliorated these changes, while combined therapy showed less marked improvement. Histological evaluation revealed severe testicular damage in the Benzo[a]pyrene group, with notable recovery in groups treated with either L-carnitine or kiwifruit, particularly the latter.

Conclusion: Kiwifruit extract confers stronger protection than L-carnitine against BaP-induced testicular toxicity; combined therapy does not yield additional benefit.