Protective effects of tadalafil and N-acetyl cysteine therapy on cisplatin-induced testicular toxicity

Purpose: To investigate whether tadalafil (TAD) and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) can prevent cisplatin (CIS)-induced testicular toxicity.

Methods: Forty Wistar-Albino rats were divided into five groups: Control group, CIS group, TAD group, NAC group and TAD + NAC group. All groups were compared regarding body and testicular weights, testicular volumes, blood testosterone levels, testicular tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, histopathological features, and testicular Cosentino and Johnsen scores.

Results: There was no significant difference between the groups regarding body weights and Johnsen scores. It was observed that TAD and NAC affected the apoptotic index, and Cosentino scores were lower in these groups than in the control group. This effect was most prominent in the TAD + NAC group. The CIS treatment led to a decrease in serum testosterone levels. While testosterone levels were higher in the TAD Group, no statistically significant difference was found between the groups. Combination therapy and NAC did not affect blood testosterone levels.

Conclusions: Cisplatin has adverse effects on the testicular tissue. The histopathological changes caused by this agent can be prevented by TAD + NAC combination therapy.