Angiogenesis Inhibition Impairs Testicular Morphology in Experimental Left Varicocele Rat Model

Abstract

Introduction: It has been reported that varicocele might promote angiogenesis. However, it is not clearly identified how angiogenesis affect testicular morphology or spermatogenic activity. The objective of the study is to investigate the effect of spironolactone, as an angiogenesis inhibitor, on the ipsilateral testis morphology in left varicocele-induced rats.

Materials and methods: Twenty four adult (12-14 mo), male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n=6, for each): 1. Control group, 2. Sham-operated group, 3. Experimental left varicocele group and, 4. Spironolactone (20 mg/kg/day)-treated experimental left varicocele group. Histopathological findings in rat testis were investigated.

Results: Microvessel density increased in varicocele group and spironolactone inhibited angiogenesis neither by antimineralocorticoid, nor by antiandrogenic effect. However, spermatogenesis impaired in spironolactone treated varicocele group.

Conclusion: Angiogenesis seems to be a protective process in varicocele. Spironolactone treatment, probably by inhibiting angiogenesis, impairs testicular morphology. (C) 2013 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.