Effects of Silymarin on immunohistochemical Bax and 8-Ohdg expression, biochemical markers and sperm parameters in an experimental varicocele model in rats

In this study, the effects of silymarin on immunohistochemical Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and 8-hydroxy-2’- deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) expression, biochemical markers and sperm parameters were investigated with an experimentally induced varicocele model in rats. The study was conducted on 36 Wistar albino rats. The distribution of rats within the group was made in an equal number. Rats in the control group were administered physiological saline daily via oral gavage. In the sham group, an incision was made on the midline and the renal vein (located on the left) was made visible. A probe was placed on this vein. The probe was coiled with the vein but not ligated. In the silymarin group, silymarin was administered by oral gavage at a dose of 75 mg/kg 3 times a week for 8 weeks. Ligation was performed on rats in the varicocele group, unlike the sham group. Varicocele was created in the varicocele+silymarin groups (50 mg/kg, 75 mg/kg). Silymarin application was started 8 weeks after varicocele induction and was applied 3 days a week for 8 weeks. After the analysis, it was seen that sperm parameters were negatively affected in the varicocele group. Additionally, severe caspase 3, 8-OHdG and Bax expressions were detected. Silymarin administration reduced the intensity of expression and had positive effects on spermatology. These positive effects were even more pronounced with the 75 mg dose. Based on the results obtained, silymarin may have the potential to reduce both clinical and pathological symptoms in varicocele cases.