Study of the Protective Effect of Coenzyme Q10 on in Vitro Fertilization and Oxidative Stress Characteristics in Mice Treated with Silver Nanoparticles

Coenzyme Q10 has potent antioxidant properties and is involved in the redox cycle as an energy carrier. Silver nanoparticles increase the potential hazards on the reproductive system by producing reactive oxygen species and reduce sperm quality and fertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of silver nanoparticles on in vitro fertilizing potential and oxidative stress indices in mice.

In this study, 20 adult male mice were divided into 5 control and experimental groups. The control group did not receive any substances. In the experimental groups, silver nanoparticles were fed at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg. In one group, coenzyme Q10 was given at a dose of 200 mg/kg alone. In the last group, the animals received silver nanoparticles + coenzyme Q10 together. After the treatment period, the mice were euthanized. For testosterone investigation, blood sampling and then for IVF evaluation, sperms from the tail of the epididymis were taken. Testicular tissue was sampled to assess TAC, and MDA and were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and then Tukey test (p<0.05).

IVF results showed that the quality of the fetus and its growth stages in the experimental groups were significantly diminished compared to the control group (p<0.05). Also, malondialdehyde level and total antioxidant capacity in experimental groups increased and decreased significantly compared to the control group, respectively.

The present results exhibited that coenzyme Q10 was able to improve the adverse effects of silver nanoparticles on the reproductive system, sperm quality, and fertility.