Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of aqueous seed extract of Parkia biglobosa on the micro-anatomy of the testis and sperm profile of adult Wistar rats. Twenty-one male Wistar rats weighing between 96 and 120 g were assigned into three groups A, B, and C (n=7). Group A was the control and received normal saline, while the animals in groups B and C were treated with 300 and 500 mg/kg body weight (Bwt) aqueous seed extract of P. biglobosa  orally and daily for 30 days. The animals were sacrificed via cervical dislocation at the end of the administration, and the testes were extracted for micro anatomical and histochemical studies. The Makler counting chamber was used for semen analysis while the Hematoxylin and Eosin (H and E) stain was used to assess the microstructure of the testicular tissues. The result from semen analysis showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in sperm motility, vitality, and morphology in the group treated with 300 mg/kg Bwt when compared with the control. The group treated with 500 mg/kg Bwt, showed a significant decrease in sperm motility, vitality, and morphology when compared with the control. H and E studies revealed the increased thickness of the germ cell layers of the seminiferous tubules (ST), with an increased number of spermatozoa in the lumen of ST in the group treated with 300 mg/kg bwt compared to the control group. This is a biomarker for improved spermatogenic activity in testicular tissues. Ingesting of P. biglobosa in the conditions used in this study seems to be safe and improves sperm parameters at a low dose (300 mg/kg Bwt).

Key words: Semen analysis, epididymis, male fertility, Parkia Biglobosa, Wistar rats.