Line and birth season effects on oxidative stress parameters in testis of maturing rabbits.

Oxidative stress is a factor related to the male reproductive function. Differences between breeds have been found for testis size, seminiferous tubule diameter, number and size of interstitial and germ cells, etc. Traits related to the redox system could also be affected by genetic factors. The existence of differences between lines for these traits could lead to differences in reproductive maturation and fertility. The present paper has investigated the age-related changes of the superoxide anion (O2· ) radical formation, superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), catalase activity (CAT) and thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARs) level in testis of rabbits. The existence of differences between lines selected for different aptitudes (Caldes for growth rate and Prat for litter size) and the effect of birth season for these traits were assessed. Major changes in the oxidative metabolism were observed at an early age and could be explained by the concomitant changes in testicular structure and function. Both lines showed similar developmental profiles and levels for all the variables studied. Environmental conditions affected both lines in the same manner. Significant seasonal variations were found in O2· , SOD and CAT. Future studies should take into account differences between seasons for a more precise analysis.