Evaluation of <i>Abrus precatorius</i> on reproductive function of male Wistar rat

Abstract

Background: In recent times, attention has been shifted from synthetic drugs to the use of medicinal plants and this has greatly improved reproductive functions. Abrus precatorious plant has different parts which are used as diverse sources of naturally occurring chemicals that have a variety of therapeutic effects on the body. However, in this present study, we consolidated the reproductive property of Abrus precatorius in paroxetine-induced male reproductive dysfunction. Methods: Twenty four (24) male rats were divided into four (4) groups each containing six animals was used for this experiment following paroxetine-induced erectile dysfunction. Group one, received 1ml of distilled water, Group two received 20mg/kg of Paroxetine and 50mg/kg of sildenafil, Group three received 20mg/kg of Paroxetine and 300mg/kg of A. precatorius extract, Group four received 20mg/kg of Paroxetine and 900mg/kg of A. precatorius extract for 21 days. Results: Results from the studies reveal that there was significant decrease in the sperm motility of the rats administered with Abrus precatorius when compared with control. Interestingly, the high dose extract increased the serum testosterone levels significantly while the low dose extract significantly reduce the level of testosterone when compared with the control. Histological examination of the testes of treated rats displayed noticeable atrophy, which was characterized by disruption of the seminiferous epithelium and reduction in cell population of the Leydig cells. Conclusion: It appears that very high dose of Abrus precatorius may induce infertility by increasing serum testosterone levels.