Potential effect of cerium oxide nanoparticles against boldenone-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and reproductive dysfunction in male albino rats

Abstract

Anabolic-androgenic steroids such as boldenone (BOL) are used in veterinary medicine to improve growth, food conversion in food-producing animals, and recently utilized by bodybuilders to increase muscle mass and enhance physical performance. Additionally, they have serious adverse effects on various organs, mostly the testicular tissues. In this context, the purpose of this study was to assess BOL-induced testicular damage and the potential protective benefits of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeNP). Twenty-four adult male rats were randomly allocated into 4 equal groups: Control, BOL (5 mg/kg), CeNP (100 μg/kg), and a combination of BOL and CeNP-treated groups. All of the treatments were administered intraperitoneally to the rats, twice a week for 8 consecutive weeks. Hematological parameters, oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and hormonal profiles were measured using standard biochemical and immunoassay techniques, as well as histopathological changes in the testicular tissue. The results showed that BOL markedly increased testicular oxidative damage as demonstrated by a drastic elevation of lipid peroxidation marker (MDA), NO levels, with a notable decline in GSH concentration, as well as SOD and CAT enzyme activity. Additionally, inflammation has also been elicited, evidenced by elevated levels of testicular proinflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α and IL-6, along with a marked decrease in serum levels of LH, FSH, and testosterone. Interestingly, CeNP diminished the detrimental effects of BOL on testicular tissue by reducing lipid peroxidation, inflammation, and enhancing antioxidant activity. The present findings indicated that CeNP may serve as a promising protective agent against BOL-induced reproductive damage in male rats.