Effects of Azanza Garckeana Fruit Extract on Reproductive Hormone and Ovarian Morphology in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Female Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that can disrupt reproductive hormone balance and ovarian function in women, leading to menstrual irregularities and infertility. Azanza garckeana, an edible fruit used traditionally in Northern Nigeria, has demonstrated antidiabetic and bioactive properties, but its effects on female reproductive function remain poorly understood. This study investigated the effects of Azanza garckeana fruit (AGF) extract on reproductive hormone levels and ovarian histology in alloxan-induced diabetic female Wistar rats. Methods: Thirty adult female Wistar rats were randomly assigned into six groups (n = 5): non-diabetic control, diabetic untreated, diabetic + AGF (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg), and diabetic + glibenclamide (10 mg/kg). Diabetes was induced with a single intraperitoneal injection of alloxan (150 mg/kg). AGF and glibenclamide treatments were administered orally for 28 days. Serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, and progesterone were measured using ELISA kits. Ovarian tissues were collected for histological evaluation using standard hematoxylin and eosin staining. Data were analysed using SPSS (version 27.0). Results: Alloxan-induced diabetes significantly reduced FSH (0.33 ± 0.06 vs 0.69 ± 0.17 mIU/ml) and increased progesterone (35.16 ± 8.48 vs 16.62 ± 5.32 ng/ml) compared with controls (p < 0.05). AGF treatment at 250 and 500 mg/kg partially restored FSH (0.50 ± 0.10 and 0.49 ± 0.11 mIU/ml) and markedly increased LH (1.00 ± 0.17 and 1.19 ± 0.11 mIU/ml), while progesterone was normalised across all AGF doses (16.32–17.96 ng/ml). The highest AGF dose (1000 mg/kg) and glibenclamide produced FSH lower than control, with LH varying by treatment. Estradiol levels did not differ significantly between groups. Histology showed disrupted ovarian architecture in untreated diabetic rats, whereas AGF-treated groups, particularly 250 and 500 mg/kg, exhibited improved follicular integrity and reduced cellular degeneration. Conclusion: Azanza garckeana fruit extract mitigated diabetes-induced reproductive hormonal imbalances and preserved ovarian histology in female Wistar rats, highlighting its potential as a complementary intervention for reproductive dysfunction in diabetes.