Effect of Chrysin on Inflammatory Gene Expression, Testis Structure, and Oxidative Stress in Adult Rats With Varicocele

Objectives: Varicocele is a major cause of male infertility, primarily driven by oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis within testicular tissue. Chrysin, a natural flavonoid with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown potential benefits in reproductive disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of chrysin in an experimental rat model of varicocele. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two adults male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups: Sham, Chrysin (50 mg/ kg/d), Varicocele, and Varicocele + Chrysin. Varicocele was induced by partial ligation of the left renal vein. After eight weeks of treatment, sperm parameters, testicular histopathology, serum oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, GPx, TAC), and testicular expression of TNF α, IL 1β, Bax, and Bcl 2 (RT qPCR) were assessed. Statistical analyses included Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) or Kruskal–Wallis tests with appropriate post hoc comparisons. Results: Induction of varicocele markedly decreased testicular mass and compromised sperm parameters—including concentration, motility, and morphology—while also producing pronounced structural damage within the seminiferous tubules and lowering Johnsen scores. Oxidative stress was markedly elevated, as indicated by increased MDA and reduced SOD, GPx, and TAC levels. Additionally, varicocele upregulated TNF α, IL 1β, and Bax while downregulating Bcl 2, resulting in an increased Bax/Bcl 2 ratio. Chrysin treatment significantly ameliorated these changes by improving sperm parameters, preserving testicular architecture, reducing lipid peroxidation, restoring antioxidant capacity, and modulating inflammatory and apoptotic gene expression. Conclusions: Chrysin exerts strong protective effects against varicocele induced testicular dysfunction through antioxidant, anti inflammatory, and anti apoptotic mechanisms. These findings support its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate for managing varicocele-associated male infertility.