Assessment of the toxicity effects of nicotine on sperm and IVF and the potential protective role of silymarin—an experimental study in mice

Abstract Background Male infertility is usually caused via the inability to produce adequate quantities of healthy and active sperms. Nicotine (NIC) is an alkaloid organic compound, predominantly found in the leaves of the tobacco plant. The major part of the nicotine is not ionized, so it can easily pass through cell membranes. Meanwhile, most of the disorders are caused by oxidative stress due to oxygen free radicals and other reactive species. Antioxidant supplements and antioxidant-rich foods can reduce induced oxidative stress without becoming destabilized themselves. This study aimed to examine spermato-protective potential of silymarin (SIL), on sperm and in vitro fertility (IVF) rate in nicotine-treated mice. Results Our results show a significant increase in the number of abnormal sperm morphology after nicotine exposure, when compared to control groups (p p p Conclusions In conclusion, SIL could support prevention of the adverse reproductive effects of nicotine. Moreover, SIL200 mg/kg may be therefore considered as a spermato-protective agent in dietary and herbal supplements.