Cynomorium songaricum induces spermatogenesis with glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) enhancement in rat testes

Aim of the studyCynomorium songaricum Ruprecht has been used in traditional Korean medicine to treat male infertility, including sexual dysfunction, by improving kidney function. Glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) produced by Sertoli cells induces the proliferation of undifferentiated spermatogonia. We investigated the effects of Cynomorium songaricum on sperm parameters and GDNF expression in rat testes.Materials and methodsSperm analysis, RT-PCR, and Western blotting assays were performed after administration of CS to 8-week-old male Wistar rats for 56 consecutive days (1.0 g/kg/day, p.o.), the period of sperm formation in the rat.Results and conclusionsThe CS-treated animals showed significant increases in epididymal sperm count and absolute testes weights compared to the control group. CS also increased the expression of GDNF at both the mRNA and protein levels. These results suggest that CS may improve male fertility by enhancing spermatogenesis and GDNF expression.

Graphical abstractCynomorium songaricum (CS) treatment induces sperm count and GDNF expression in rat testes. After 56 days of treatment with CS, the epididymal sperm counts were significantly higher than those in the control group. The testes of rats treated with CS exhibited a significant increase in GDNF mRNA levels compared to the control group, and Western blotting revealed a significant increase in the GDNF-immunoreactive band in CS-treated rats compared to the control group.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide