Modulatory Effect of Lycopene and Ellagic Acid on Inflammatory Response in Cadmium Chloride–Induced Testicular Toxicity

Objective Testicle tissue is part of the genital system that may be destroyed by chemical materials such as cadmium chloride (Cd). Lycopene (Lyc) and ellagic acid (EA) can reduce the destructive effects of chemical materials. This study investigated lycopene and EA’s protective effects on Cd’s toxic effects on testis tissue in 18th‐day neonates during rat pregnancy. Methods Twenty‐four female Wistar rats were randomly mated, and pregnancy was confirmed (Day 0) by the presence of vaginal plaques and sperm in vaginal smears. On Day 18 of pregnancy, rats received an intraperitoneally injection of cadmium chloride (1.5 mg/kg), followed by daily oral gavage of lycopene (20 mg/kg) and EA (10 mg/kg) until delivery. Then, rats were randomly divided into 4 groups, including cadmium chloride (Cd), cadmium–lycopene (Lyc), cadmium–EA, and cadmium–Lyc‐EA groups. After delivery, antioxidants, cytokines factors, and histomorphology of the testes of the neonates were evaluated by stereological procedures. Data were analyzed using one‐way ANOVA in GraphPad software. Results Spermatogonia, Sertoli, and Leydig cell counts, along with the number of seminiferous tubules, were lower in the Cd groups compared to the EA and Lyc‐EA groups. In contrast, MDA, FRAP, and cytokine levels were elevated in the Cd groups. These findings suggest that EA with Lyc‐EA can protect testis tissue and reduce Cd’s toxic effects. Conclusion The combined administration of lycopene and EA, through their antioxidant effects, reduced cadmium chloride–induced testicular tissue damage and increased the number of spermatogonia, Sertoli, and Leydig cells.