Testicular Rescue Following D-ribose L-cysteine Administration on Torsion-detorsion Injury

Abstract

Background: Testicular torsion is a urological emergency inducing irreversible ischemia and loss of organs. The damage intensity depends on the twisting severity and ischemia duration. Its treatment is surgery, after which 65% of its patients can still suffer from testes atrophy. Objectives: The study investigated the effect of D-ribose L-cysteine on the cytoarchitecture of the testes after Torsion-detorsion injury. The study also investigated the effect of D-ribose L-cysteine on serum Malondialdehyde, Glutathione and Albumin after Torsion-detorsion injury. Methodology: Thirty (30) adult male Wistar rats of about 180-220 g were procured from animal holding and divided into six groups (n=5). Group 1: control group, Group 2: negative control group and torsioned for one hour. Groups 3 to 6: treated groups induced with torsion for one hour and treated with Riboceine for different hours (Group 3: treated with Riboceine for one hour, Group 4: treated with Riboceine for one hour thirty minutes, Group 5: treated with Riboceine for two hours and Group 6: treated with Riboceine for two hours thirty minutes). All the experimental rats across the groups were sacrificed to determine the effect of torsion-detorsion injuries and check for ameliorative roles of d-ribose l-cysteine on the testes using biochemical tests (Serum Malondialdehyde, Glutathione and Albumin) and histological techniques (routine hematoxylin and eosin stain). Results: Torsion-detorsion increased serum Malondialdehyde levels causing accumulation of oxidative stress, decreased serum Glutathione and Albumin levels, and some testicular injuries such as damage to seminiferous tubules, interstitial oedema, and vascular congestion. The D-ribose L-cysteine reserved testicular atrophy following torsion detorsion injury. Conclusion/ Recommendations: D-ribose L-cysteine ameliorates increased serum Malondialdehyde an indicator of oxidative stress which affects sperm quality and function. Glutathione has a stimulatory effect on the male reproductive hormones and potentially boosts male fertility. This study recommends oral intake of D-ribose L-cysteine for restoring the cytoarchitecture of the testes after torsion-detorsion injury and increasing sperm quality.