Role of stromal derived factor-1a (SDF-1a) for spermatogenesis of busulfan-injured rats

•Busulfan impairs spermatogenesis in the seminiferous tubules leading to significant decrease in sperm count, sperm viability, and testis weight.•Stromal derived factor-1a administration cause high levels of expression for spermatogenic markers including DAZL, DDX4 and TP2.•Stromal derived factor-1a administration cause high levels of expression for cell proliferation markers such as PCNA and BrdU.•SDF-1a may act as positive regulator for testicular recovery and fertility in male rat after busulfan-induced spermatogenic depletion.

SDF-1a is a member of CXC chemokine family that plays a crucial role in stem cell migration, cell apoptosis and development. The role of intra-scrotal administration of SDF-1a in spermatogenesis of busulfan-treated rats was investigated in this study. Two injections of busulfan (15 mg/kg) with a 14 days interval between were given intraperitoneally to male Wistar rats. Rats were then treated for seven days with 500 ng/mL SDF-1a. Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry were performed for evaluation of various cell markers for proliferation and spermatogenesis, and sperm parameters were assessed. In the SDF-1a group, there was a significant increase in testis weight, sperm count and viability. DAZL, DDX4, and TP2 showed increased expression levels in the SDF-1a group. PCNA and BrdU revealed highest expression rates in the SDF-1a group (p ≤ 0.0001). These findings showed the protective role of SDF-1a in busulfan-induced testis injury most likely through stimulation of SSCs proliferation.