Protective role of Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) against doxorubicin-induced testicular damage: A comprehensive study of short- and long-term effects

Background Doxorubicin (DOX) is a potent chemotherapeutic drug used against cancer but is known to have adverse effects on male reproductive health. Objective This study investigated the protective effects of aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) against DOX-induced testicular damage in male rats, examining both short-term (2 weeks) and long-term (9 weeks) exposure. Methods In this study, 36 male Wistar albino rats were divided into two main groups: short-term (ST) and long-term (LT). Each group was further subdivided into three groups: control, DOX, and DOX + Aronia, with 6 rats per group. The control and DOX groups received tap water, while the DOX + Aronia group received tap water mixed with Aronia fruit juice. DOX was administered to the DOX and DOX + Aronia groups to assess the protective effects of Aronia fruit juice against DOX-induced toxicity. Biochemical assays, histopathological analyses, and immunohistochemical staining were performed to assess testicular health and apoptotic activity. Sperm quality parameters were also evaluated. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine significant differences among groups. Results In the long-term DOX group, significant decreases in sperm motility and plasma membrane integrity were observed. However, aronia supplementation with DOX improved these parameters. Biochemical analyses indicated variations in antioxidant response. Histopathological changes were found in the long-term DOX group but were accentuated with aronia co-administration. Caspase-3 immunopositivity showed no significant differences between groups. The decline in sperm quality in the DOX group compared to the DOX + Aronia group suggested potential subclinical effects of DOX and protective effects of aronia. Conclusions Aronia appeared to benefit sperm quality and antioxidant markers, especially in long-term exposure. This study suggests that aronia supplementation may mitigate DOX-induced testicular damage, particularly concerning sperm quality and antioxidants. However, additional investigations are necessary to fully explore its potential as a protective agent against DOX-induced reproductive toxicity.