Lycium barbarum polysaccharide alleviates nonylphenol exposure induced testicular injury in juvenile zebrafish

Nonylphenol is an endocrine disrupting chemicals that can disrupt the organisms' reproductive system, and exists widely in rivers and lakes. Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP) is the main active constituent (about 10%) in Lycium barbarum, which is used to protect reproductive health. In this study, we investigated whether LBP can alleviate nonylphenol exposure induced testicular injury in juvenile zebrafish. We detected histological alteration, anti-oxidant enzyme profile and P450 gene transcription to assess LBP effect on testicular development. The GSI reduced significantly due to nonylphenol exposure, while LBP can improve the GSI. The densities of sperms increased and non-celluar zone decreased after LBP treatment. Meanwhile, Cyp11b gene was up regulated to NP group, and cyp19a gene was down regulated to NP group. In sum, the LBP could repair the testicular injury in zebrafish. This findings provide a basis research to remit the estrogen effect of artificial endocrine disruptor.