Protective effect of rutin on mercuric chloride‐induced reproductive damage in male rats

This study investigated the effects of rutin against reproductive damage caused by toxic mercury in male rats. Thirty‐five Sprague Dawley rats were used. Control group was injected with saline for 7 days. The rutin‐100 group received 100 mg/kg/b.w. rutin for 7 days. Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) group received 1.23 mg/kg/b.w. of HgCl2 for 7 days. Mercury chloride + rutin‐50 group received 50 mg/kg/b.w. rutin and HgCl2 1.23 mg/kg/b.w. for 7 days. HgCl2 + rutin‐100 group received 100 mg/kg/b.w. rutin and HgCl2 1.23 mg/kg/b.w. for 7 days. It was detected that HgCl2 treatment increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expressions, necrosis and degeneration of spermatogonium, dead and abnormal sperm percentages; tubular walls thinning; and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and sperm motility. It was determined that rutin application reduced testicular damage caused by HgCl2. In conclusion, rutin administration may treat HgCl2 toxicity in testes.