Effect of Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract on spermatogenesis in heat stress-induced mice

Abstract

Background: Gynostemma pentaphyllum is a precious medicinal herb used in traditional medicines. Male reproductive dysfunction is caused by many factors, including heat stress. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract on spermatogenesis in heat stress-induced mice. Materials and Methods: Male mice were exposed at 40°C and treated with Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. After 5 weeks of treatment, blood samples were collected to determine the concentration of Testosterone in blood plasma. The histological structure of the seminiferous tubules was investigated through HE histological staining. The spermatogenesis progress was assessed using the Johnson scoring system. Results: Heat stress exposed at 40°C for 5 weeks has strongly reduced the concentration of testosterone in blood plasma as well as spermatogenesis in the lumen of the seminiferous tubules of testicular tissue. Heat stress-induced mice treated with oral administration of Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract significantly improved blood testosterone levels. Histological analysis and Johnson scoring show that the Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract significantly improved the spermatogenesis process in stress-induced mice that received the extract. Conclusions: Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract attenuates the impact of heat stress on spermatogenesis in male mice by improving blood testosterone levels and spermatogenesis in the seminiferous tubules. Key words: Gynostemma pentaphyllum, herbs, heat stress, spermatogenesis.