Taraxasterol Exerts Cytoprotective Effects Against Nicotine Toxicity in Leydig (TM3) and Sertoli (TM4) Cell Lines

Rationale — The male reproductive system is an organ sensitive to toxins, and nicotine exposure is recognized as a detrimental factor for male sexual function. Taraxasterol, a bioactive compound with antioxidant and antiapoptotic properties, has potential protective effects against cytotoxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of taraxasterol against nicotine toxicity in murine Leydig (TM3) and Sertoli (TM4) cell lines. Methods — Prior to the experiment, TM3/4 cells were treated with taraxasterol extract as a protective agent for 24 h. Cytotoxicity was then induced by exposure to nicotine for 24 h. Finally, cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, and oxidative stress biomarkers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and reactive oxygen species (ROS), were quantified using commercial kits. The expression of steroidogenic and antioxidant enzyme genes was assessed using quantitative real-time PCR, while apoptosis was measured by assessing the DNA fragmentation rate. All experiments were performed in triplicate, and statistical data processing included analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by a Tukey’s post-hoc test (p