Shilajit Mitigates Chemotherapy‑Induced Testicular Toxicity

publication on shilajit protets fertility by vca healthcare
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Concise R&D summary — preclinical study evaluating VCA Shilajit for protection against cyclophosphamide (CPA) testicular toxicity.

Authors : Arti Rajpoot, Kiran Yadav, Anupam Yadav, Raghav K. Mishra

Background

Chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, CPA) causes oxidative stress and impairs spermatogenesis leading to infertility. Shilajit is a herbomineral antioxidant traditionally used in Ayurveda; VCA’s purified Shilajit (40% fulvic acid; 5% dibenzo‑pyrones) was tested for protective effects.

Objective

Evaluate whether oral Shilajit (100 & 200 mg/kg) restores germ cell dynamics, steroidogenesis, antioxidant defenses (Nrf‑2/Keap‑1), and sperm quality in CPA‑exposed mice.

Methodology (brief)

  • Model: Adult male Parkes mice; groups: Control, CPA, CPA+Shilajit 100, CPA+Shilajit 200 (n=10/group)
  • Treatment: Single IP CPA (200 mg/kg) on day 1; Shilajit orally for 35 days (one spermatogenic cycle)
  • Endpoints: sperm parameters, testis histology, flow cytometry (germ cell DNA content), Western blotting (PCNA, Nrf‑2, Keap‑1, steroidogenic & apoptotic markers), oxidative stress assays, hormone ELISAs

Key Findings

Restored Sperm Health

↑ motility & viability, ↓ abnormal morphology, ↑ daily sperm production

Steroidogenesis

↑ 3β‑HSD & 17β‑HSD, ↑ CYP11A1, ↓ aromatase (CYP19) — leading to ↑ serum testosterone

Oxidative Defense

↑ Nrf‑2, ↓ Keap‑1, ↑ SOD activity, ↓ lipid peroxidation

Cell Survival & Support

↓ Bax/Caspase‑3, ↑ Bcl‑2; improved Sertoli markers (N‑cadherin, β‑catenin), improved PCNA expression

Conclusion

VCA Shilajit (particularly 200 mg/kg) protects against CPA‑induced testicular damage by restoring antioxidant pathways, steroidogenesis, Sertoli cell support, and germ cell proliferation — indicating potential as a fertility‑protective adjunct during chemotherapy (preclinical evidence).

Study Design & Dosing — click to expand

Dosing: CPA single IP dose 200 mg/kg (Day 1). Shilajit orally 100 or 200 mg/kg daily for 35 days. Endpoints measured 24 h after final dose.

Quick facts

Test material: Purified Shilajit (Batch: 20201001) — fulvic acid 40%, DBPs 5% (VCA Healthcare Pvt Ltd)Study Metrics

  • Animals: 40 male Parkes mice (14–15 weeks)
  • Group size: n=10 per group
  • Primary assays: Flow cytometry, Western blot, IHC, ELISA, biochemical antioxidant assays

Impact Statement

Preclinical evidence supports further translational research into Shilajit as an adjunct to preserve male fertility in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Clinical studies are recommended.

Raghav Mishra PaperDownload