Modulatory effects of aqueous rhizome extract of Zingiber officinale on oxidative stress, inflammation, and steroidogenesis in alcohol-induced testicular damage in Wistar rats

Abstract

Background and aim: Male reproductive health is increasingly compromised by environmental and lifestyle factors, with chronic alcohol consumption being a major contributor to testicular dysfunction. Alcohol-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and disruption of steroidogenesis play key roles in reproductive toxicity. Zingiber officinale (ginger) has been widely reported for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and steroidogenic properties. This study investigated the modulatory effects of aqueous rhizome extract of ginger on oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, and steroidogenic enzymes in alcohol-induced testicular damage in Wistar rats.

Methodology: Thirty male Wistar rats, weighing 100-160 g, were randomly assigned into six groups (n=5/group). Group A received sterile water, while Group B was administered 40% alcohol (3.50 g/kg body weight) for 14 days. Group C received only ginger extract (750 mg/kg body weight) for 14 days. Groups D, E, and F were treated with alcohol for 14 days, followed by low (250 mg/kg body weight), medium (500 mg/kg body weight), and high (750 mg/kg body weight) doses of ginger for another 14 days. Biochemical assays assessed antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, MDA), inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, IL-4), and steroidogenic enzyme levels (3β-HSD, 17β-HSD).

Results: Alcohol exposure significantly increased oxidative stress markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines while reducing antioxidant enzyme activities and steroidogenic enzyme levels. Ginger administration led to a dose-dependent restoration of antioxidant defenses, reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, and improvement in steroidogenic enzyme activities. Notably, lower doses of ginger were more effective in restoring normal testicular function compared to higher doses.

Conclusion: Aqueous rhizome extract of Zingiber officinale demonstrates potential as a therapeutic agent in mitigating alcohol-induced reproductive toxicity through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and steroidogenic properties. These findings suggest its possible application in male fertility preservation.