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[Morinda officialis how extract improves microwave-induced reproductive impairment in male rats]
Feng-Juan Wang1, Wei Wang, Rong Li
1Research Center of Neurobiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350108, China.
Objective:
To investigate the effects of different concentrations of Morinda Officialis How (MOH) extracts on microwave radiation-induced injury to the spermatogenic function of male rats.
Methods:
Forty SD male rats were equally divided into four groups: control, microwave injury model, aqueous extract of MOH treatment, and alcohol extract of MOH treatment. Models of microwave-induced injury were made by exposing the rats to microwave radiation from a microwave signal generator (900 MHz 1.0 W) at 218 microm/cm2, 12 h/d, for 2 weeks. The model rats of the two treatment groups were intragastrically given aqueous extract and alcohol extract of MOH, respectively, both at 20 g per kg per day for 2 weeks. Then we observed the growth, capture incubation period (CIP), capture times (CT), changes in testicular and epididymal weight and morphology, sperm concentration and malformation, and levels of serum testosterone.
Results:
Compared with the controls, the rats of the model group showed a slightly reduced body weight, markedly prolonged CIP and decreased CT (P < 0.05), significantly reduced sperm concentration (P < 0.05) and remarkably in- creased sperm malformation (P < 0.05), but no statistically significant differences in the testosterone level. The two treatment groups exhibited obviously decreased body weight, CIP and sperm malformation compared with the control group (P < 0.05) but markedly increased CT, sperm concentration and testosterone level as compared with the models (P < 0.05). The microwave radiation-induced testis injury was repaired perfectly in the two treatment groups, the epididymal ducts filled with sperm and cast-off cells.
Conclusion:
Both aqueous and alcohol extracts of MOH can promote spermatogenesis and repair of reproductive injury induced by microwave radiation.
Insights
Morinda Officialis How (MOH) extracts effectively repair microwave radiation-induced damage to male rat reproductive function. Both aqueous and alcohol extracts improved sperm quality and testosterone levels, promoting spermatogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Herbal Medicine Efficacy
- Environmental Health
Context:
- Microwave radiation poses a risk to male reproductive health.
- Morinda Officialis How (MOH) is a traditional medicinal herb.
- Investigating protective effects of natural compounds against environmental toxins.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of Morinda Officialis How (MOH) extracts.
- To assess the impact of MOH on microwave radiation-induced testicular injury.
- To determine the efficacy of aqueous and alcohol MOH extracts in male rats.
Summary:
- Male rats exposed to microwave radiation showed impaired spermatogenesis, reduced sperm concentration, and increased malformation.
- Treatment with aqueous and alcohol MOH extracts significantly improved sperm parameters and restored testosterone levels.
- MOH extracts demonstrated a protective and restorative effect on testicular function damaged by microwave radiation.
Impact:
- Highlights the potential of Morinda Officialis How as a natural countermeasure against radiation-induced reproductive harm.
- Provides evidence for the use of herbal remedies in mitigating environmental health risks.
- Supports further research into the specific compounds and mechanisms of action of MOH.