Down-regulation of steroidogenesis-related genes and its accompanying fertility decline in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male rats: ameliorative effect of metformin.

Diabetes mellitus is associated with dysregulation of steroidogenesis, abnormal spermatogenesis, and fertility decline. Controlling hyperglycemia is therefore crucial in preserving male reproductive function. Metformin not only regulates blood glucose level, but also preserves male fertility in diabetic state.