Ameliorative Effect of Moringa oleifera Lam. Leaves Extract on the Sex Hormone Profile and Testicular Dysfunctions in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with reproductive impairment. Medicinal plants and herbs are the rich source of antioxidants which may ameliorate diabetes-induced male reproductive dysfunctions and could play an important role in the management of diabetes induced male infertility. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effects of 70% hydroalcoholic extract of Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves on sex hormone alterations and testicular dysfunction in diabetic rats. Materials and Methods: Diabetes mellitus (DM) in male rats was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg b.wt.). The induced diabetic rats were treated with three different doses (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg b.wt./day, orally for 60 days) of M. oleifera leaves extract. The results were compared with reference antidiabetic drug glibenclamide (5 mg/kg b.wt./day) treated diabetic rats. Reproductive hormones like testosterone, FSH and LH and oxidative stress parameters in the testicular tissues were determined. Histopathological and histomorphometric changes in the testis were also investigated. Results: Oral administration of three doses of M. oleifera leaves extract or glibenclamide in diabetic rats significantly improved serum sex hormones levels and restored histopathological and histomorphometric changes as compared to diabetic control rats. Furthermore, extract treatment in diabetic rats also reduced TBARS levels and improved the levels of antioxidant markers in the testicular tissue. These results were comparable with glibenclamide. Conclusion: Based on these results, it may be concluded that the extract of M. oleifera leaves possess significant antioxidant activities as well as play a pivotal role in modulating testicular dysfunction in diabetic rats.