Acetamiprid-induced testicular toxicity in mice: ameliorative effect and potential mechanisms of morin

Abstract

Background: Acetamiprid (ACP) is a novel chloronicotinyl insecticide that has been extensively utilized in agricultural, domestic, and public health contexts for nearly two decades. However, its potential to induce organ damage, including reproductive toxicity in mammals, has emerged as a significant concern. Morin is a naturally occurring flavonol that has gained prominence as a food supplement in recent years due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of morin against testicular damage in mice subjected to ACP exposure. Methods: Thirty male Balb/c mice were randomly assigned to one of five groups, with the following treatment allocations: control, ACP (20 mg/kg), ACP + morin (15 and 30 mg/kg), and only morin (30 mg/kg). ACP and morin applications were conducted orally over a period of 14 days. Hormonal analyses were conducted on serum samples obtained from the mice, while biochemical and histological evaluations were performed on testicular samples. Results: The biochemical results demonstrated that ACP elevated oxidative stress, inflammation, and ER stress in testicular tissue by inhibiting the Nrf2 pathway, a finding that was corroborated by histopathological analyses. However, morin treatments eliminated ACP-induced Nrf2 inhibition and to activate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. These findings were also corroborated by the restoration of serum testosterone and inhibin B levels and the diminution of histopathological lesions. Conclusions: Overall, the findings indicated that morin may have potential protective properties against ACP-associated reproductive toxicity, however, further research is required to determine the detailed molecular mechanisms.