Protective Effects of Mesembryanthemum Crystallinum Extract Against Cadmium-Induced Reproductive Oxidative Stress: Experimental and Docking Evidence for a Sustainable Therapeutic Strategy

Abstract

One hazardous heavy metal that causes oxidative stress is cadmium (Cd) and harms male reproductive function. Although various antioxidants have been explored for protection, the potential of Mesembryanthemum crystallinum (M. crystallinum) – a flavonoid and phenolic-rich halophyte- remains understudied in this context. According to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3 on Good Health and Well-Being and SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production this novel research evaluated the protective potential of M. crystallinum aqueous extract (MAE) to mitigate cadmium chloride (CdCl2)-testicular dysfunction. After acclimatization, Eight groups (n = 5) of forty male rats were allocated into groups: (1) control; (2) CdCl₂ (2 mg/kg); (3) MAE 200 mg/kg; (4) MAE 400 mg/kg; (5) CdCl₂ + MAE 200 mg/kg; (6) CdCl₂ + MAE 400 mg/kg; (7) MAE (200 mg/kg) pre-treatment + CdCl₂; (8) MAE (400 mg/kg) pre-treatment + CdCl₂. For 14 days, oral treatments were administered. HPLC profiling revealed eight major phenolic compounds in M. crystallinum like quercetin and ellagic acid. CdCl2 exposure impaired sperm indices, reduced serum LH and testosterone and induced oxidative and histological damage with elevated caspase-3 and TNF-α expression. MAE treatment especially at 400 mg/kg restored hormonal levels, improved sperm quality, normalized antioxidant defense, and preserved testicular architecture. Molecular docking confirmed binding of hesperidin, rutin, and ellagic acid to apoptotic and inflammatory proteins. MAE may exhibit potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic activity, protecting against CdCl₂-induced reproductive injury. M. crystallinum represents a sustainable, plant based therapeutic candidate aligned with SDG-driven strategies for combating environmental toxicity-related infertility.