Changes in epididymal structure and function of albino rat treated with Azadirachta indica leaves

The histological and biochemical changes in the caput and cauda epididymis of albino rat treated with 20, 40 and 60 mg dry powder of the leaves of A. indica per day for 24 days are reported. In the treated rats, the height of the epithelium and the diameter of the nucleus in both the regions were reduced. The lumen of the caput was packed with lymphocytes. Biochemically, a decrease in the protein content and acid phosphatase activity and an increase in the alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase activities were observed in both the regions. The effect was dose dependent. Further, serum testosterone concentration in the higher dose treated animals decreased significantly. The results suggest a possible antiandrogenic property of the leaves of A. indica.