Encéfalo e estresse oxidativo em ratos machos reprodutores

Abstract

Many changes occur as the result of reproduction, but little is known about how reproduction influences oxidative stress in the brains of male vertebrates. In the present study, reproductive activity was found to increases superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase antioxidant enzymes, yet increased oxidative damage in protein (carbonilation and nitration) and lipids peroxidation was still observed, compared to the naive group. The level of testosterone also increased, suggesting that metabolic rate is increased in reproductive males, leading to more oxidative damage and induction of antioxidant enzymatic defenses.