A new study published in Reproductive Toxicology found that a CBD-rich nanoemulsion was able to reduce several long-term testicular and hormonal problems caused by prenatal exposure to valproic acid.
The study was conducted by researchers from Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco and the Federal University of São João Del Rei, and used an animal model.
Valproic acid is a widely used antiepileptic drug, but it has also been associated with developmental and reproductive toxicity. In the study, pregnant rats were given a single dose of valproic acid during a key stage of fetal development. Male offspring were later treated in adulthood with a CBD-rich corn oil nanoemulsion, given orally twice daily.
Researchers found that prenatal exposure to valproic acid caused persistent testicular and endocrine changes in adult male rats. These included a reduced number of Leydig cells, lower serum testosterone levels, reduced seminiferous epithelium height and increased seminiferous tubule diameter.
Leydig cells play a key role in producing testosterone, while changes to the structure of seminiferous tubules can reflect broader disruption to testicular function.
According to the study’s abstract, treatment with the CBD-rich nanoemulsion reversed the morphometric, hormonal and oxidative alterations caused by valproic acid exposure. The nanoemulsion also helped normalize antioxidant enzyme activity in testicular tissue.
“The results of this study indicate that CBDON treatment attenuated several testicular alterations induced by prenatal exposure to VPA in rats,” the researchers wrote, referring to the CBD-rich nanoemulsion. They noted that the response varied depending on the parameter measured, and that not all variables were fully restored to control levels.
In their conclusion, researchers said the findings provide preclinical evidence that chronic treatment with a CBD-rich corn oil nanoemulsion can attenuate several reproductive effects caused by prenatal valproic acid exposure in male rats.
The study does not establish that CBD can treat reproductive or hormonal issues in humans. However, researchers said the findings highlight the potential importance of formulation, including nanoemulsification, in determining the biological effects of cannabinoids on the male reproductive system.
