Effects of Ethanol Extract of Secamone afzelii (Schult) K. Schum (Asclepiadceae) Leaves on Aluminum Chloride-induced Reproductive Toxicity in Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: The local use of medicinal plants in the management of reproductive abnormalities is a common practice in Africa. One prominent plant used in Nigeria for such purpose is Secamone afzelii. Aim and Objectives: To investigate the effects of Ethanol Extract of Secamone afzelii (EESA) on reproductive dysfunction induced by Aluminum Chloride (AlCl3) in male rats. Material and Methods: Thirty matured male Wistar rats equally divided into six groups were used for this study. Group I served as control, group II received AlCl3 (35 mg/kg bw), groups III and IV received 35 mg/kg bw and 100 and 200 mg/kg EESA respectively. Groups V and VI received 100 and 200 mg/kg EEESA respectively. Doses were given once daily via oral route for 14 consecutive days. Results: The results revealed that, AlCl3 caused significant decrease in final body weight, sex organs relative weight, sperm concentration, motility and viability, serum follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone concentration and Glutathione (GSH) activity, accompanied with significant increase in sperm abnormalities. AlCl3 also induced apparent alteration in the histoarchitecture of the testis and epididymis. Treatment with EESA modulated the harmful effects of AlCl3. This was proved by improvement in the gross anatomical, hormonal and antioxidant activity of treated rats. There was a noticeable improvement in the histopathology of testicular and epididymal tissues. EESA significantly increased serum testosterone in a dose dependent manner. Conclusion: EESA is a possible ameliorative agent in AlCl3-induced reproductive toxicity and oxidative stress in male rat.

Keywords

• secamone afzelii
• sperm
• testosterone
• testes
• epididymis