Insulin-like 3 expression and fibrosis induction after intra-testicular injection of magnetic nanoparticles in rat testis and the ameliorative role of Echinacea purpurea extract

The World Health Organization has approved magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) for use as a contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging or tumor hyperthermia treatment. MNP are toxic over time after intra-testicular injection. A clear strategy to ameliorate the toxic side effects of MNP in normal tissues after medical application has not yet been developed. We used an extract of Echinacea purpurea (EP) as a natural source of antioxidant and free radical scavenging product for detoxification of MNP in testicular tissues. MNP localization in the interstitial area of testicular tissue reduced the expression of insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) proteins as well as serum testosterone levels. Further, MNP caused accumulation of both collagen and elastin in the interstitial area and increased the thickness of the tunica albuginea. Injection of MNP during administration of EP extract for short periods slightly reduced the toxic side effects of MNP. After extended exposure to EP extract, INSL3 expression and testosterone returned to near control levels. Also, collagen and elastin accumulation caused by MNP was reduced after extended exposure to EP extract. We believe that the ameliorative effect of EP extract is due to its antioxidant properties.