Comparative histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical effects of three orally administered fluoroquinolones in rats

Fluoroquinolones (FQs) are potent, broad-spectrum bactericidal antibiotics commonly used to treat infections in both humans and animals. Despite their therapeutic efficacy, their potential reproductive toxicity remains a concern. This study aimed to evaluate the histological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical effects of three FQ derivatives-ciprofloxacin (CIP), levofloxacin (LVX), and moxifloxacin (MXF)-on the testicular tissue of rats over different time intervals. Seventy-two male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 18): Control, CIP (80 mg/kg), LVX (40 mg/kg), and MXF (40 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally, and testicular samples were collected at three time points (Day 1, 7, and 14). Histopathological evaluation was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression was assessed immunohistochemically. Biochemical analyses included measurements of malondyaldehyde (MDA), adenosine deaminase (ADA), and acetylcholine esterase (AChE) levels. FQ exposure led to variable degrees of testicular degeneration and significantly increased COX-2 expression in the testis. MXF administration caused a time-dependent reduction in MDA levels. ADA activity was significantly elevated in the CIP group on Day 1 and in the LVX group on Day 14. AChE levels were notably increased in both the LVX and MXF groups on Day 1 compared to controls. These findings suggest that FQ derivatives may exert time-dependent degenerative and inflammatory effects on testicular tissue, highlighting their potential risk for male reproductive toxicity.