Evaluation of Ameliorative Role of Coconut Oil on Lead Acetate-Induced Testicular Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background and Aim: lead is an environmental and industrial contaminant that affects the male reproductive system. The aim of this study is to study the Ameliorative role of coconut oil on the testes of wistar rats with lead acetate induced testicular toxicity. Methodology: Forty eight (48) adult male Wistar rats weighing 180-200g were divided into eight groups of 6 rats each. Group A received normal saline. Groups B, E, F, G, and H received 0.52ml/kg of lead acetate through oral gavage. Group B served as untreated. Group C and D received 0.18ml/kg and 0.72ml/kg of coconut oil only. Group E, F and G were given lead acetate and then treated with 0.18ml, 0.28ml/kg and 0.72ml/kg of coconut oil. Group H received 0.52ml/kg lead acetate and was treated with 0.11ml/kg of Vitamin E. The experiment lasted for 58 days. After the treatment sexual behavioral test was carried out and the animals were subsequently sacrificed and testes harvested. Blood was collected for hormonal assay. The testes was processed using normal histological techniques and stained with H&E. Results: The result demonstrated that lead acetate had no significant effect on the concentration of gonadotropins and but affected testosterone level. Sperm analysis result showed a decrease in sperm count, motility and viability in coconut oil group, while morphology was not affected. Data from sexual behavior study showed that coconut oil affected sexual behavioral parameters and antioxidant activities and altered the microanatomy of the testes. Conclusion: Coconut oil enhances sexual behavior, while lead acetate showed no significant effect.