Background: Cadmium (Cd), is a toxic metal which affects various organs including testis.
It produces oxidative stress leading to male infertility. Moringa tree, is a natural plant with
a great therapeutic value and hence it is found to be effective both in prevention and treatment
of various conditions including reducing toxicity of hazardous materials. The aim of the
present study was to examine the effects of Pre-and Post-treatment with Moringa oliefera
leaf extract (MoE) on testis in cadmium exposed rats. Materials and Methods: The present
study was conducted at the Department of Physiology, Kasturba Medical College (KMC),
Mangalore, Manipal University (MU), Karnataka, India, between (2011-2013). This prospective
study consisted a total of 30 rats. These were divided into 5 groups with group I being
the control. Data were presented as mean ±SD. student’s t test was used as statistical tool,
p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Group IV and V were pre-and post-MoE treated
groups respectively. Serum testosterone and tissue lipid peroxidation levels were estimated.
Results: Treatment with MoE prior and after administration of cadmium, respectively showed
an increase significantly in the testosterone levels and a decrease in the tissue lipid peroxidation
as compared to the group treated with cadmium. However, the pre-treatment showed
better results in combatting the toxic effects of cadmium. Conclusion: This study shows that
Moringa olifera leaf extract altered the testosterone and tissue lipid peroxidation levels. Also,
pre-treatment showed better outcome.
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