Effect of monensin on the enzymes of oxidative stress, thiamine pyrophosphatase and DNA integrity in rat testicular cells in vitro

Monensin, a sodium specific ionophore was evaluated for its in vitro effects on rat testis by studying changes at biochemical parameters as well as at the DNA level. It was observed that monensin produced marked alterations in the activities of various enzymes associated with the testicular functions. The significant inhibition of different enzymes of oxidative defense system points toward the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by monensin treatment. The significant depletion of reduced glutathione and elevation in the level of lipid peroxidation further support the above findings. The significant inhibition of the activities of lactate dehydrogenase and adenosine triphosphatase shows the interference of monensin with the normal energy supply in spermatogenesis. Moreover, the significant increase in the activities of acid phosphatase and thiamine pyrophosphatase demonstrates the interference of monensin with the Golgi-lysosomal complex of the rat testis. Induced DNA fragmentation indicates towards the impact of monensin on the DNA integrity and apoptosis. Further studies are needed to understand the important molecular mechanisms responsible for these effects.