Effect of Saxagliptin on Oxidative Stress Parameters in Diabetes-Induced Testicular Damage

In our study, we aimed to investigate the effects and possible mechanisms of the Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor saxagliptin (Sax) on streptomizole (STZ)-induced testicular damage in rats. The animals were allocated into four groups: Control, Sax, DM, and DM+Sax. Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring MDA, AOPP, IMA and nitrate-nitrite levels. Antioxidant parameters, including GSH, ceruloplasmin levels and activities of SOD, CAT, and GPx, were assessed using the specified methods. In this study, the protective effects of saxagliptin against diabetes-induced testicular damage were evaluated by analysis of oxidative and nitrosative stress markers including SOD, CAT, GSH, ceruloplasmin, MDA, and nitrite/nitrate levels. Diabetes significantly decreased SOD, CAT, and GSH activities, while increased MDA, nitrite, and nitrate levels, indicating increased oxidative and nitrosative stress. Saxagliptin treatment restored SOD and CAT activities, increased GSH levels, and normalized ceruloplasmin concentrations, reflecting its capacity to support the antioxidant defense system. In addition, saxagliptin significantly decreased MDA levels and nitrite/nitrate concentrations, indicating its efficacy in reducing lipid peroxidation and nitrosative stress. Saxagliptin has demonstrated a protective effect against streptozotocin (STZ)-induced testicular damage by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing the antioxidant defense system. Studies suggest that saxagliptin can mitigate oxidative injury in testicular tissue, supporting cellular health through increased antioxidant enzyme activity in STZ-induced models.