Cadmium Toxicity in the Seminal Vesicles and Lipid Profile of Wistar Rats: Can Uvaria chamae Ameliorate the Effect?

Abstract

This research investigated the capacity of Uvaria chamae in alleviating cadmium-induced toxicity in the seminal vesicles and lipid profile of Wistar rats, addressing a critical gap in current knowledge. Cadmium, a hazardous heavy metal, poses substantial risks to male reproductive health. Conducted with 25 Wistar rats under controlled conditions, the study involved local sourcing of Uvaria chamae, extracting its bioative ingredients through alcohol maceration. Dosages for cadmium and the extract were meticulously determined for five experimental groups including the control group, with rats acclimatized for two weeks before a 28-day experiment. Seminal vesicle underwent detailed processing, and histological analysis, including dehydration, clearing, infiltration, embedding, sectioning, staining using hematoxylin/eosin and microscopic examination. Statistical analysis employed one-way ANOVA through GraphPad Prism (version 8.0.2), ensuring a concise and accurate data interpretation approach. Histological examinations revealed cadmium-induced damage, including epithelial degeneration and altered luminal structures etc. These structural changes were mitigated by Uvaria chamae in a dose-dependent manner. The study also assessed the impact of cadmium on lipid profiles, showing adverse changes, but counteracted by Uvaria chamae, signifying its role in preserving lipid homoeostasis. The findings underscore reproductive health risks from cadmium exposure and highlight Uvaria chamae's therapeutic potential, which is attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This research offers valuable scientific insights on the plant and thereby urging further investigations into molecular mechanisms, clinical trials, public awareness, environmental regulations, and nutritional guidance for enhanced reproductive health amid cadmium exposure.