Age-related decrease in aromatase and estrogen receptor (ERalpha and ERbeta) expression in rat testes: protective effect of low caloric diets.

Aim: To examine the effects on rat aging of caloric restriction (CR1) and undernutrition (CR2) on the body and on testicular weights, on two enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase and catalase), on lipid peroxidation and on the expression of testicular aromatase and estrogen receptors (ER).

Methods: CR was initiated in 1-month-old rats and carried on until the age of 18 months.

Results: In control and CR2 rats an age-related decrease of the aromatase and of ER (alpha and beta) gene expression was observed; in parallel a diminution of testicular weights, and of the total number and motility of epididymal spermatozoa was recorded.