Comparative investigation of methionine and novel formulation Metovitan protective effects in Wistar rats with testicular and epididymal toxicity induced by anti-tuberculosis drugs co-administration

- Anti-tuberculosis drugs (ATD) repeated co-administration in rats caused testicular and epididymal disturbances.
- Methionine and novel formulation «Metovitan» regulated CYP2E1 and CYP3A2 mRNA expression in testes of ATD-treated rats.
- Methionine unaffected testicular CYP2C23 mRNA levels, while «Metovitan» normalized this parameter.
- Methionine and «Metovitan» prevented imbalance in testicular CYP2E1 enzymatic activity and pro/antioxidant parameters.
- Methionine and «Metovitan» application resulted in improvement of spermatogenesis parameters, sperm count and fertility.

Despite clear beneficial effects, studies on the efficacy of different formulations of micronutrients and vitamins in the treatment of male infertility are still very limited. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of methionine and novel formulation Metovitan based on the combination of methionine, thiamine, nicotinamide, α-tocopherol acetate and zinc salt as remedies for prevention of anti-tuberculosis drugs (ATD) anti-fertility effects in male rats. ATD co-administration resulted in testicular CYP2E1, CYP2C23 and CYP3A2 transcriptional activation. Methionine and Metovitan regulated the level of CYP2E1 and CYP3A2 mRNA expression. Methionine unaffected CYP2C23 mRNA level, while Metovitan effectively normalized this parameter. The use of methionine did not allow normalizing of DNA fragmentation processes in testes, while Metovitan provided decrease in the number of DNA fragments to the control level. Both substances significantly decreased p-nitrophenol hydroxylase activity and prevented pro/antioxidant parameters imbalance in testes of ATD-treated rats. The end results of methionine and Metovitan application were partial or complete restoration of altered spermatogenesis parameters with subsequent increase in sperm count and fertility. Ameliorating effects may be attributed to antioxidant properties and modulating effects on testicular CYPs. More pronounced beneficial Metovitan effects might be due to synergic effects of its components.