Influence of different Azadirachta indica extracts on the structure of seminiferous tubules in Wistar rats
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51359/3086-0946.2025.268750Keywords:
phytotherapy, toxicity, male fertility, testicleAbstract
Introduction: Azadirachta indica is a plant widely used in traditional medicine, but its effects on male reproductive function remain controversial. Objective: To investigate the influence of eight extracts obtained from neem leaves and seeds on biometric and morphometric parameters of the testicles of adult Wistar rats. Methods: 60 animals were distributed into 9 groups. The extracts were administered by gavage for 30 days. After euthanasia, the testicles were collected, processed, and analyzed. The extracts exhibited distinct effects; the seed and leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica produced distinct effects on testicular morphometry. Results: In general, some seed extracts promoted a reduction in testicular weight, a decrease in the gonadosomatic index, and alterations in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules, indicating possible structural impairment. Leaf extracts also exerted a significant impact, especially on the height of the seminiferous epithelium and the tubular lumen, suggesting modulation of cellular dynamics within the tubules. Taken together, the results demonstrate that different chemical fractions of the plant can influence structural parameters related to spermatogenesis, albeit with varying intensities and directions depending on the plant part and the extraction solvent used. Conclusion: The results indicate that specific components of A. indica extracts can modulate testicular tubular architecture, suggesting a potential impact on spermatogenesis. The aqueous seed extract and ethyl acetate leaf extract showed greater structural interference and are recommended for future detailed analyses on reproductive function.
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