Abstract
Objectives
Lead exposure seriously impairs male reproductive function. The protective capacity of Pedalium murex leafy stem and fruit aqueous extracts against lead testicular toxicity is evaluated to find herbals drugs able to improve semen quality.
Methods
Phytochemical screening were performed according to classical methods. Twenty four male rats were divided into four groups of six rats each and received the following treatments via oral route: distilled water; 0.2% lead acetate in drinking water; 0.2% lead acetate in drinking water with 400 mg/kg P. murex aqueous leafy stem extract; 0.2% leaded water with 400 mg/kg P. murex aqueous fruit extract. Treatments were administered for 70 days. Body and reproductive organs weights, sperm parameters and testicular histological sections of each group were examined.
Results
Flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, alkaloids, and lignans were found in both extracts. Lead intoxication reduced sperm motility and count but increased the percentage of morphologically abnormal sperms. The germinal epithelium of seminiferous tubules histoarchitecture was disorganized by lead. The leafy stem extract was effective in reducing lead induced testicular disruption whereas fruit has not shown any beneficial effect.
Conclusions
P. murex leafy stem aqueous extract is effective against semen alterations caused by lead.
Acknowledgment
Authors want to thank Honoré da-Zocanclounon for its invaluable help in the histological analysis.
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Research funding: None declared.
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Author contributions: All the authors have accepted responsibility for the entire content of this submitted manuscript and approved submission.
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Competing interest: The funding organization(s) played no role in the study design, in the collection, analysis and interpretation of data; or in the decision to submit the report for publication.
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Ethical approval: The research related to the animals use has been complied with all the relevant national regulations and institutional policies for the care and use of animals.
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