Cadmium-Induced Testicular and Spermatogonial Damage Ameliorated by Bryonia laciniosa Linn. Seeds in Wistar Rats: An...

Cadmium (Cd) is a ubiquitous occupational pollutant that has been extensively studied for its detrimental effects on male reproductive function, primarily through the induction of oxidative stress, which compromises both sperm quality and sperm DNA integrity. This study aimed to evaluate the protective efficacy of Bryonia laciniosa Linn., a phytochemically rich medicinal plant, against cadmium-induced reproductive toxicity in Wistar rats. Twenty-four healthy adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6 per group): a control group, a B. laciniosa extract-treated group, a Cd-treated group, and a combination group that received both Cd and B. laciniosa extract. Rats exposed to Cd exhibited significantly reduced relative testicular weights, accompanied by impaired sperm parameters and altered spermatogonial morphology. Furthermore, Cd exposure led to significantly decreased serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone compared to the other groups. Oxidative stress biomarkers revealed that Cd exposure significantly lowered the concentrations of enzymatic antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), while increasing levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in testicular tissue. Histopathological examination of testicular cross-sections revealed considerable degeneration of spermatogenic cells, characterized by necrotic atrophy and increased eosinophilic fluid discharge in the seminiferous tubules, ultimately impairing reproductive function. Morphometric analysis was conducted using light microscopy. In contrast, treatment with B. laciniosa extract significantly reduced oxidative stress and restored enzyme levels. This restoration facilitated the regeneration of primary spermatids and spermatogonial cells in the combination treatment group, which was attributed to the extract's antioxidant-rich properties, offering protection against free radical-mediated damage and mitigating Cd-induced sperm DNA damage. The observed protective effects were primarily attributed to the synergistic antioxidant activity of B. laciniosa extract.