Nutritional dietary supplementation of d-ribose-l-cysteine ameliorates altered sperm parameters, hormone profile and testicular histomorphology in highly active antiretroviral therapy induced toxicity in adult male Wistar rat

Abstract Background Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) in associated with several health conditions including testicular toxicity. This study investigated the nutritional importance of d -Ribose- l -Cysteine (DRLC) supplement in HAART induced testicular toxicity in adult male wistar rat. Materials and methods Thirty two (32) adult male Wistar rats (120 g–150 g) were divided into 4 groups (n = 8). Group A received normal saline as placebo; Group B received 2.3 mg/mL of HAART only (Lamivudine, Zidovudine and Nevirapine combination therapy); Group C received 2.3 mg/mL of HAART and 100 mg/kg BW of DRLC (low dose) and Group D received 2.3 mg/mL of HAART and 300 mg/kg BW of DRLC (high dose). All administrations were done through oral gavage for 42 days after which serum was obtained for analysis; sperm collected from the caudal epididymis was analyzed, and testis removed for antioxidant assay and histomorphology. Results The results showed significant alterations in sperm parameters, oxidative markers, hormone profiles and defective testicular morphology in HAART only group when compared to the control. However, significant improvements were noticed after DRLC administration with restored sperm characteristics, increased antioxidant levels, restored hormonal assessments and preserved testicular structures. Conclusion Nutritional attributes of DRLC attenuates HAART induced testicular toxicity through preservation of testicular function, morphology and semen characterization.