Alteration in CatSper1 and 2 genes expression, sperm parameters and testis histology in varicocelized rats

Background: CatSper gene, a member of cation channel sperm family, has anessential role in sperm motility and male fertility. Following varicocele, spermparameters especially sperm movement decreases. For this reason, we hypothesizedthat CatSper gene expression might be reduced after varicocele induction in ananimal model.Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of CatSper 1 and 2genes, sperm parameters and testis histology following varicocele induction.Materials and Methods: A total of 30 Wistar male rats were randomly divided intothree following groups (n=10/ each): control, sham, and varicocele group.Experimental varicocele was induced by partial ligation of the left renal vein. Theepididymal sperm parameters, CatSper1 and 2 genes expression, and testes histologywere studied two months after varicocele induction.Results: Our results revealed that motility (32.73±16.14%), morphology(48.80±17%) and viability (31.23±9.82%) of sperms significantly reduced followingvaricocele induction. In addition, we showed a significant decrease in the number ofspermatogonia (43.63±5.31) and seminiferous tubules diameters (190.51±19.23 mm)in experimental varicocele rats. The level of CatSper1 and 2 genes expressionevaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction was significantlydownregulated 2 months after varicocele induction.Conclusion: Our data indicated that experimental varicocele has deleterious effectson sperm parameters, testis structure as well as the expression of CatSper 1 and 2genes.