Background: Aluminum (Al) considered the third most ground element present everywhere which is
nonessential and toxic metal to humans and accumulates in target organs causing serious effects on different
systems including male reproductive system. Arabic gum (AG) is a dried exudate obtained from the stems and
branches of Acacia Senegal tree and has antioxidant compounds that have ability to scavenging the free
radicals, activation of antioxidant enzymes and inhibition of oxidases.Aim: This study evaluates the modulating
effect of Arabic gum (AG)on fertility impairmentand oxidative stress-induced from exposure to aluminum
chloride (AlCl3) on adult male albino rats.Materials and methods:Thirty two male albino rats were divided
randomly into four equal groups. Group I: served as control received only oral distilled water. Group II: rats
were given AG by oral gavage (7.5 g/kg/day). Group III: received AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) orally. Group IV: received
oral AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) and AG (7.5 g/kg) simultaneously for 60 consecutive days. Blood samples were taken to
measure antioxidant state and testosterone level also semen samples were collected for semen
analysisandhistopathological study was also done.
Results:Simultaneous administration of AG with AlCl3 produced highly significant increase in plasma level of
GSH, SOD and CAT with highly significant decrease in plasma level of MDA when compared to the AlCl3
group. Fertility study regarding treatment of AlCl3intoxicated rats with AG showed improvementin
testosteronehormone level and semen analysis as there were highly significantincrease in testosterone hormone
level, sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viabilitywith highly significant decrease in total sperm abnormality
compared to AlCl3 group. Also, histopathological changes occurred in AlCl3 group were improved with
concomitant administration of AG with AlCl3.Conclusion: AG is an effective protective agent against AlCl3-
induced fertility impairment and oxidative stress due to its ability to decrease the oxidative stress and preserve
the activity of antioxidant enzymes |
