Publication:

The protective effect of Withania somnifera against oxidative damage caused by ethanol in the testes of adult male rats

Background To investigate the effect of Withania somnifera (WS) in preventing the damage caused by alcohol on testis.

Methods Adult male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups. Group A - control, Group B - WS200 mg orally, Group C - alcohol 4 g/kg orally, and Group D - WS + alcohol. The sperm parameters were examined. Testicular tissues were examined for biochemical (glutathione [GSH] peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde [MDA]) analysis, and histopathological changes.

Results Biochemical parameters revealed tissue oxidative stress in alcohol group which was evidenced as increase in MDA level and reduction in CAT and GSH activities in testes which was reduced in co-treatment group. WS significantly reduced alcohol-induced sperm shape abnormality and sperm count. The alcohol-induced changes in histopathologic findings were partially reversed by treatment with WS.

Conclusion These observations suggest that the antioxidant property of WS might have contributed for its ability to ameliorate the testicular toxicity caused by alcohol.