Protective Effect of Aloe vera Extract against Bisphenol A Induced Testicular Toxicity in Wistar Rats.

OBJECTIVES

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine-disrupting chemical, has been considered as a possible risk factor for fertility because it induces testicular toxicity. Thus, we sought to analyze the effect of Aloe vera as plant with antioxidant properties on tissues and oxidative stress parameters in male rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, 50 adult male Wistar rats (200 ± 20 g) have been used in this 56 day study. Animals were completely randomized and divided into five groups: A (control), A (vehicle control), A (Aloe vera gel 300 mg/kg), B (BPA 20 μg/kg bw) and B (Aloe vera gel+ BPA). At the end of the study, the rats were anesthetized and 2 ml blood samples were obtained for evaluation of oxidative stress markers. Also, both testes were collected for histological examinations.

RESULTS

BPA significantly decreased (P<0.05) body and testis weights. Seminiferous tubule diameter (STD) and height of seminiferous epithelium (HSE), were significantly decreased (P<0.05) in the groups receiving BPA as compared to the control. There was also a reduction in the quantity of spermatocyte and spermatids. Moreover, malondialdehyde (MDA) increased and thiol protein (G-SH) decreased. But, co-administration of Aloe vera with BPA accelerated the total antioxidant capacity and testicular tissue structure healing.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our findings, Aloe vera gel extract can overcome the damaging effects of BPA on the reproductive system of rats and protects rats' testes against BPA-induced toxicity.