Effects of deep-frying sunflower oil on sperm parameters in a mouse model: Do probiotics have a protective effect?

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary sunflower oil and fried sunflower oil on reproductive sperm parameters, blood lipid profiles, lipid peroxidation and to additionally investigate the protective effects of probiotics. Five experimental groups were established using BALB/c type mice (n=8). A standard pellet mouse feed for the Control group was used. The pellet feed was fortified with sunflower oil (Oil Group), oil and probiotic (Oilpro), fried oil (Fryoil), fried oil and probiotic (Fryoilpro). At the end of the sixty-three-day feeding period, blood samples were collected via cardiac venipuncture, mice were euthanized and testis tissue samples were collected for analyses. Consumption of sunflower oil, natural or fried, decreased seminiferous tubule score (P<0.01) and increased plasma MDA levels (P<0.05) when compared with the control group. Nevertheless, the probiotic use appeared to prevent side effects. Probiotics also increased sperm motility (P<0.01). Prolonged exposure to high fat and fried oil diets would increase oxidative stress levels and have negative effects on fertility levels. Probiotic use may ameliorate such adverse effects. Additionally, this study model may lead to a better understanding of the effects of fast-food dietary habits on global fertility rates.