L-Citrulline Supplementation Enhances Reproductive Functions of Lead Acetate Induced Testicular Toxicity in Male Sprague Dawley Rats
Tolunigba Abisola Kolawole
Department of Human Physiology, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Beatrice Olatundun Oluwatayo *
Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Madonna University, Elele, Rivers State, Nigeria and Federal College of Veterinary and Medical Laboratory Technology, Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria.
Ogadinma Ilochi
Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Madonna University, Elele, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Elizabeth Umoren
Department of Human Physiology, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Datonye Victor Dapper
Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Rivers State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Lead (Pb) is a transition metal and a known male reproductive toxicant that induces its effects mainly through oxidative stress. This study investigated the effects of L-Citrulline (Cit) supplement on reproductive functions and antioxidant activities in Lead acetate treated male rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty male rats (180-200 g) were grouped into four and treated as follows; Group 1 (Control), given distilled water, Group 2 was given Pb acetate (2.25mg/kg), Group 3 was co-treated with Pb acetate (2.25mg/kg) and Cit (900mg/kg) and Group 4 was given Cit (900mg/kg) only. All administrations were done orally for thirty days. Caudal sperm, serum hormone levels and testicular antioxidant activities and Nitric oxide levels were evaluated at the end administrations.
Results: Results showed decrease (p<0.05) in sperm morphology, count, viability, motility, FSH, LH, Testosterone, Catalase, Nitric Oxide and Super oxide dismutase in Group 2(Pb treated rats), when compared to Group 1(Control).However, in Group 3 (Pb acetate co-administered with Cit) the effect was significantly reversed (p<0.05) compared with Group 2 and significant increase was observed in Group 4 (Cit only group) compared with Group 2.
There was an increase (p<0.05) in Malondialdehyde level in Group 2 compared with (Group 1) Control while a significant decrease (p<0.05) was observed in Groups 3 and 4 compared with Group 2.
Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that L- Citrulline supplement has ameliorating capacity on the toxic effect of Lead acetate on sperm parameters.
Keywords: L- Citrulline, lead acetate, sperm parameters, reproductive hormones, antioxidants, rats.