L-Citrulline Supplementation Enhances Reproductive Functions of Lead Acetate Induced Testicular Toxicity in Male Sprague Dawley Rats

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.

Cabbage ( Brassica oleracea ) mitigates lead ( II ) acetate‐induced testicular dysfunction in Wistar rats via up‐regulation of Bcl‐2 protein expression, pituitary–testicular hormonal axis and down‐regulation of oxido‐inflammatory reactions

“…Some researchers have reported histopathological findings demonstrating structural changes in testis due to heavy metal toxicity such as lead acetate. Consistent with previous studies, our present study revealed testicular injury, tubule atrophy, and spermatid retention in animals treated with lead acetate (Farombi et al, 2007; Kolawole et al, 2020). However, following therapy with cabbage juice, these histological alterations were significantly reduced.…”

“…In this study, sperm function markers examined were affected negatively following exposure to lead acetate (Pb) (Figure 4a–c), which is consistent with earlier findings (Abdel‐Moniem et al, 2010; Elgawish & Abdelrazek, 2014; Sudjarwo & Sudjarwo, 2017). Lead has been shown to reduce sperm motility, viability and functional maturity in the past (Hernandez et al, 2005; Kolawole et al, 2020; Naha et al, 2005). Reports has linked decrease in sperm count and disruption of spermatogenesis in rats with lead exposure (Batra et al, 2001; Wadi & Ahmad, 1999).…”