The effect of Laminaria japonica polysaccharides on the recovery of the male rat reproductive system and mating function damaged by multiple mini-doses of ionizing radiations.

To evaluate the radiation-protect effects of Laminaria japonica polysaccharides (LJP) on male reproductive system damage and mating dysfunction induced by multiple mini-dose ionizing radiations, male rats were administrated with radiation and/or LJP. Results showed that mating function (such as erection, mount and ejaculation), sperm count and survival rate in LJP group were significantly better than the corresponding model group after the radiation. The testis organ coefficient, GSH (glutathione) content, serum sex hormones (luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone and estradiol) levels improved while MDA (malondialdehyde) content decreased. In addition, SOD (superoxide dismutase), GSH-PX (glutathione peroxidase), LDH (lactate dehydrogenase) activities were enhanced while testicular tissue damage was reduced, 14 days after the cessation of radiation; all indicators in the LJP group were similar to the control group. Our results suggest that, LJP has some promoting effects on the recovery of the reproductive system and mating dysfunction induced by radiation.