Homeostasis of the First Generation of Offspring (Males) Whose Parents Were Exposed to Hexavalent Chromium and Gamma Radiation (Experiment)

Background: Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] and gamma radiation are environmental toxicants that cause DNA damage, oxidative stress, and endocrine disruption, with transgenerational impacts on offspring health. Preventive strategies against inherited toxic effects are lacking, prompting research into protective interventions such as phytopreparations. Methods: Adult male rats were exposed to Cr(VI) (180 mg/L in drinking water for 14 days) and/or a single gamma irradiation (0.2 Gy), with subgroups receiving stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) or burdock (Arctium lappa) seed oil (0.5 mL/day) prophylaxis before irradiation. After exposure, rats were bred and male first-generation (F1) offspring were evaluated at 16 months for serum testosterone and thyroxine (T4), oxidative stress markers (MDA, catalase, SOD), sperm concentration/morphology, and testicular histology. Group differences were analyzed via one-way ANOVA (p<0.05). Results: Parental exposure to Cr(VI) and gamma radiation caused significant reproductive and endocrine impairment in F1 males: testosterone and sperm concentration decreased, abnormal sperm morphology increased, and T4 levels were disrupted compared to controls. However, parental supplementation with nettle or burdock oil significantly mitigated these effects, improving offspring hormone levels and sperm quality. Notably, burdock oil co-treatment restored testosterone and T4 toward control values and reduced sperm abnormalities in the combined Cr(VI)+γ group, indicating preserved spermatogenesis. Conclusions: Phytopreparation prophylaxis (nettle and burdock oils) in exposed parents partially normalized hormonal and reproductive parameters in F1 offspring and preserved testicular structure. These findings highlight the potential of phytoprotective interventions to attenuate transgenerational toxicity from Cr(VI) and radiation, thereby safeguarding future generations.