Effects of the Aqueous Extract of Cnestis ferruginea Leaves on the Male Reproductive System in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Mice

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is the most common endocrine disease and one of the most common chronic disorders. Diabetes mellitus has been associated with impaired reproductive health, mainly in men. The present study aimed to evaluate effects of the aqueous extract of Cnestis ferruginea leaves on the male reproductive system in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The determination of phenolic compounds content in the aqueous extract was performed by conventional methods. Diabetes was induced in adult male mice by intraperitoneal injection with a single dose of 220 mg/Kg body weight of alloxan. Animal’s treatment with 100 and 200 mg/Kg of body weight of the aqueous extract was started 34 days after induction of diabetes. Sperm density, morphology and motility were assessed by standard methods. Serum levels of testosterone, FSH, and LH were measured. In addition, the testes were removed for histological study. Proportions of total polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins in the aqueous extract of Cnestis ferruginea were 5260.32 +/- 26 mg EAG /100g, 1384.43 +/- 4 mg EQ /100g and 7380.95 +/- 121 mg EC /100g respectively. 100 and 200 mg/Kg of body weight doses induced highly significant (P ˂ .001) reductions of 68% and 71% in blood glucose levels respectively, significant (P ˂ .05) increases in testes weight of 9% and 10% respectively, highly significant (P ˂ .001) increases in testosterone, pituitary gonadotropins and sperm parameter levels. In addition, regeneration of seminiferous tubules and interstitial cells was observed. Cnestis ferruginea leaves are rich in phenolic compounds. These compounds have anti-diabetic and fertilizing activities on the male reproductive system of diabetic mice.