PM2.5 from automobile exhaust induces apoptosis in male rat germ cells via the ROS-UPRmt signaling pathway.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To explore the underlying mechanism behind the fine particulate matter's (PM2.5)-mediated regulation of reproductive function in male rats, and to determine the role of vitamins in this process.

Methods

In all, 32 male SD rats were randomized to a control cohort (normal saline), a Vit cohort (vitamin C at 100 mg/kg +  vitamin E at 50 mg/kg), a PM2.5 cohort (PM2.5 10 mg/kg), and a PM2.5 + Vit cohort (PM2.5 exposure +  vitamin C at 100 mg/kg +  vitamin E at 50 mg/kg), with eight rats in each cohort. After four weeks of exposure, mating experiments were carried out. Thereafter, rats were euthanized, and the testis and epididymis tissues were excised for hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and sperm quality analysis. Apoptosis of testis tissues was quantified via a termina

SUBMITTER: Wang C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11964221 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature