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Ultrastructural changes in rat epididymides induced by cowpeas
E Umapathy1, B C Msamati, M Torode
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe, Harare.
Archives of Andrology
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Cowpea consumption in rats significantly reduced body and reproductive organ weights. This diet induced cellular changes in the epididymis, potentially causing infertility due to antinutritional factors like lectins.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Toxicology
- Animal Nutrition
Background:
- Cowpeas are a staple legume, but contain antinutritional factors.
- Epididymal function is crucial for sperm maturation and transport.
- Dietary components can impact male reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural effects of a cowpea-only diet on rat epididymides.
- To identify cellular changes and inclusions within the epididymal tubules.
- To explore potential mechanisms linking cowpeas to reproductive dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Rats were fed a cowpea-only diet from weaning (20-22 days) to 130 days.
- Ultrastructural analysis of caput and cauda epididymides was performed.
- Body weight and organ weights (testicular, epididymal) were measured.
Main Results:
- Significant decreases in body weight and epididymal weights were observed in cowpea-fed rats.
- Epididymal lumina contained cellular inclusions, including sperm trapped in cytoplasmic droplets.
- Degenerating sperm flagella, giant cells, lymphocytes, and amorphous bodies were noted.
Conclusions:
- Cowpea consumption induces significant ultrastructural changes in rat epididymides.
- Lectins in cowpeas may trigger an altered immune response, leading to epididymal dysfunction.
- These findings suggest cowpea-induced epididymal dysfunction could lead to male infertility.