Effects of aqueous garlic (Allium sativum) extract on testicular morphology and function in lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2)-treated albino rats

This study investigated the effects of aqueous garlic extract (Allium sativum) on testicular morphology and function in lead nitrate (Pb(NO3)2)-treated albino rats. Twenty four male albino rats, divided randomly into four groups of six rats per group, were used. Group A rats served as the control and received neither Pb(NO3)2 nor aqueous garlic extract (AGE) treatment. The treatments to the remaining three rat groups were as follows: group B, 300 mg/kg body weight of AGE; group C, 2 mg/kg body weight of Pb(NO3)2; and group D, 2 mg/kg body weight of Pb(NO3)2, and 300 mg/kg body weight of AGE 2 h later. Both the AGE and Pb(NO3)2 were orally given to these rats every 48 h for a period of 6 weeks. The testicular and epididymal (left and right sides) sperm reserves and the histomorphological features of the testes of the rats in the treatment groups were compared to the control rats. Results showed that testicular and epididymal sperm reserves were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in rats that received only Pb(NO3)2 treatment. AGE ameliorated the changes in testicular morphology and function associated with Pb(NO3)2 treatment in group D rats. Garlic in this study enhanced spermatogenesis as evidenced from the significant (P < 0.05) increase in the epididymal (left and right sides) sperm reserves of the group B rats. This implies that garlic may serve as an agent that could be used in improving male fertility. © 2012 Springer-Verlag London Limited.