Cadmium-induced lipid peroxidation and changes in antioxidant defense system in the rat testes: Protective role of coenzyme Q10 and Vitamin E

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective role of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, 20 mg/kg) and Vitamin E (Vit E, 20 IU/kg) alone or in combination against cadmium (Cd, 0.4 mg/kg) induced lipid peroxidation and changes in antioxidant defense system in the rat testes. The obtained results showed that Cd increased lipid peroxidation in the testes, suggesting that Cd-induced oxidative stress, while CoQ10 and Vit E treatment reversed this change to control values. Acute intoxication with Cd was followed by significantly decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, GR and GST). Vitamins C and E concentrations also significantly declined in Cd-exposed rat testes. Treatment with CoQ10 and Vit E reversed Cd-induced alterations of antioxidant defense system and significantly prevented Cd-induced testes damage. These results suggest that both CoQ10 and Vit E function as a potent antioxidant in protection of rats testes against the oxidative stress induced by Cd.