Effect of Psidium Guajava Extract on Cadmium-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Owoade Philip Adelowo¹, Akintunde Olalekan Wasiu¹

1. Department of Anatomy, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria. 

ABSTRACT

The effect of Psidium guajava extract on cadmium-induced toxicity in the testes of adult Wistar rats was investigated. Five groups of Wistar rats were administered distilled water, cadmium (10 mg/kg) and one of two doses of Psidium guajava (500, 1000 mg/kg) for 28 days. On day 29, animals were weighed and sacrificed via cervical dislocation. Semen from the caudal epididymis was used for sperm count analysis. The testes were dissected, weighed and fixed in Bouin’s fluid for general histological evaluation. Fresh tissues of testes were homogenized for assessment of Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione (GSH) and Malondialdehyde (MDA). Sperm count analysis showed a significant decrease in group B and no significant difference in C, D and E compared to control. Superoxide dismutase activity decreased in group B and increased C compared to control. Levels of GSH and MDA did not differ significantly in any of the groups compared to control. Histomorphology showed luminal spermatogenic arrest characterized by degenerating sperm cell nuclei, scanty luminal content and absence of basement membrane in group B compared with other treated groups (C, D and E) and control. While array of interstitial cells and seminiferous tubules appeared intact with full lumen, Sertoli cells. Intact basement membrane was observed in groups C, D and E. In conclusion, cadmium administration had a degenerative effect on the testes and decreased sperm count while extract of Psidium guajava leaves ameliorated the testicular damage. However further research is needed to demonstrate the effectiveness of this plant in treating testicular problem.

KEYWORDS: Antioxidants, Cadmium, Psidium Guajava, Reproductive toxicity, Testes