Nigella Sativa and L-carnitine can Improve Dietary-Induced Metabolic Disturbances and Their Impact on Fertility

Abstract

Introduction: Metabolic risk factors such as obesity and hyperlipidemia can promote oxidative stress and inflammation, which are associated with various health issues, including impaired fertility. Nigella sativa (NS) oil and L-carnitine (LC) supplements are known to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, making them possible therapies for various disorders. Thymoquinone is the major ingredient of the volatile oil, along with thymol and carvacrol, which together exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study investigated the potential protective role of NS and LC against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced impaired fertility, focusing on testicular antioxidant capacity, mRNA expressions of organic cation transporter 2 ((OCTN2) Solute Carrier Family 22-member (SLC22A5), HMG-CoA reductase (HMG-CoAR), carnitine acyltransferases (CAT), and androgen receptor in male rats with low fertility, as measured by low serum total testosterone levels. Methods: 40 male Wistar rats were divided into four equal groups (n=10). At the end of the study, we measured the serum levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), and total testosterone. Additionally, we performed quantitative PCR for testicular tissue. Results: The HFD-induced changes in lipid profile and testosterone levels were reduced by both the NS and LC treatments. Moreover, both treatments enhanced testicular androgen receptor mRNA levels, as well as HMG-CoA reductase, CAT, and OCTN2, while reducing lipid peroxidation. Discussion: Increased expression and function of OCTN2 were recognized as a potential treatment for improving male fertility. Conclusion: NS and LC treatments suggest potential benefits for male fertility.