Histomorphological changes and alterations in the reproductive parameters of male wistar rats following exposure to ethanolic leaf extract of Datura stramonium (GEGEMU)

Abstract

Datura stramonium is commonly called Jimson weed, thorn apple, or Gegemu. It is a medicinal plant that is utilized traditionally for various therapeutic purposes. Its potential health benefits have attracted attention in recent years, thus the increased exploration of its pharmacological properties. Though Gegemu holds lots of promise in traditional medicine, its effect on reproductive organs is relatively understudied. A key component of the male reproductive system is the testis which is responsible for androgen production and spermatogenesis. Any disruptions in the histological structure of the testis can profoundly impact male reproductive health. This study was carried out to elucidate the possible effects of Gegemu on the histological architecture of the testis in male Wistar rats. A total of twenty adult male Wistar rats that weighed between 200 - 250 g were used for this study. The animals enjoyed natural light and dark cycles; food and water were available ad libitum. The animals were divided into four (4) groups (A-D) of five rats each. Group A served as control and was given 1ml of distilled water, while groups B, C, and D were given 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 150 mg/kg of the extract per os, daily for six weeks. The body weight of the animals was taken before and at the end of the experiment. The animals were then sacrificed, and blood and testicular tissue were taken for analysis. The results obtained from this study showed significant (p<0.05) increases in weight across the treated groups and a reduction in the population of luminal spermatozoa with evident spermatogenic arrest. There were significant (p<0.05) decreases in the levels of the hormones assayed in this study. These findings collectively highlight the adverse impact of Gegemu on testicular histomorphology and hormonal balance, implicating potential reproductive toxicity.