Pongamia pinnata Stem Bark Extract Induced Changes in Testicular Function in Male Wistar Rats

Background

Pongamia pinnata (Linn.) Pierre (Fabaceae), commonly known as Karanja, is widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various disorders and is known to possess diverse pharmacological activities.

Objectives

The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of a 50% ethanolic stem bark extract of Pongamia pinnata on testicular function in adult male Wistar rats, with the aim of exploring its potential for the development of a plant-based male antifertility agent.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-eight adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 7). Group I served as the control and received vehicle only, while Groups II, III, and IV were administered the stem bark extract orally at doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg body weight/day, respectively, for 60 days. At the end of the treatment period, testicular weights were recorded, testes were subjected to histopathological and histomorphometric analyses and serum testosterone levels were estimated.

Results

Administration of P. pinnata extract resulted in a significant, dose-dependent reduction in testicular weight and serum testosterone levels compared to controls. Histopathological examination revealed pronounced degenerative alterations in the seminiferous tubules, including disorganization of germinal epithelium, tubular shrinkage, reduced germ cell population, decreased luminal spermatozoa, and atrophy of Leydig cells.

Conclusion

Chronic oral exposure to the 50% ethanolic stem bark extract of P. pinnata adversely affects testicular structure and function in male rats, indicating its potential utility as a male antifertility agent.