Effect of Azadirachta indica leaves on rat spermatozoa.

Histochemical studies and SEM observations on the morphological changes in the head of the spermatozoa in general, and the acrosome in particular, in A. indica treated rats are reported. In the treated rats change in the shape and size of the sperm head, with a dorso-ventral constriction of the middle region of the sperm head i.e., between the anterior and posterior regions was observed. It was rather difficult to differentiate the outer acrosomal and outer plasma membranes. A decrease in the perforatorium or sub-acrosomal material, post nuclear cap and the nuclear material near the basal plate at the base of the sperm head were also observed. The results suggest that the effects are probably due to androgen deficiency and a general disturbance in carbohydrates or polysaccharides located in the sperm head, caused by the antiandrogenic property of the leaves of A. indica.