Histopathogical and biochemical changes associated with experimental cyanide-induced testicular toxicity in rats administered extracts of macrofungi

Abstract

This study examined how a methanolic extract of the macrofungal Pleurotus ostreatus protected rats' testicles from the toxicity caused by potassium cyanide (KCN). For 60 days, KCN was taken orally at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg body weight, either with or without Pleurotus ostreatus methanol extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). Testicular histopathology, body and organ weight, organosomatic indices, serum testosterone, epididymal sperm count, testicular lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase and superoxide dismutase) were assessed. Lipid peroxidation was significantly increased by KCN intoxication, while antioxidant enzyme activities, serum testosterone levels, and the number of epididymal sperm were all significantly reduced. Additionally, testicular degenerations were noted. The co-administration of KCN and Pleurotus ostreatus extract resulted in a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation and an increase in antioxidant enzyme activities, serum testosterone concentration, epididymal sperm count, and testicular histology restoration. This finding implies that by strengthening the antioxidant defense system, Pleurotus ostreatus may be able to lessen the harmful effects of dietary cyanide toxicity on testicular function.