Protective effects of celecoxib on inflammatory cytokine levels and testis indices after induction of varicocele

Introduction: Varicocele is a pathological dilation of spermatic cord vein plexus, and celecoxib, an inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase-2, is widely used in the treatment of chronic inflammation. So, we examined the effects of celecoxib on inflammatory cytokines, testicular Sertoli and spermatogonial cells number, seminiferous tubule diameter, and sperm indices in immature male rats with induced varicocele. Methods: Twenty four immature Wistar male rats (100-120 gr) were randomly assigned into four groups (sham, varicocele, celecoxib sham and celecoxib varicocele). The sham group underwent sham operation, and the varicocele group underwent partial ligation of the renal vein to induce experimental varicocele. In the celecoxib group 30 mg/kg celecoxib was administrated for 5 weeks (8-13 weeks) by gavage. Serum, testis and sperm samples were collected at the end of 13 weeks for evaluation of celecoxib effects. Histological evaluation of the testis was made by periodic acid Schiff staining. Levels of cytokines IL-6 and INF- γ in serum and testis were assessed by ELISA kits. Sperm indices, seminiferous tubule diameter, and cell counts were evaluated. Results: Celecoxib caused a significant decrease in concentration of serum and testis inflammatory cytokines, compared to the varicocele group (P< 0.05). Celecoxib also significantly increased testicular cell numbers (Sertoli cells and spermatogonia), seminiferous tubule diameter and sperm motility compared to the varicocele group (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Varicocele has a detrimental effect on fertility by increasing cytokines levels and decreasing cell numbers, seminiferous tubule diameter and sperm indices, and celecoxib may be beneficial for treatment of varicocele by improving varicocele side effects.