Effects of the Ethanol Extracts of Ficus deltoidea leaves on the Reproductive Parameters in Male Mice

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Indonesia, and in particular East Kalimantan, has a very high diversity of flora that has the potential to be used as traditional medicine. One type of flora is the leaves of Ficus deltoidea Jack. At present, there are no available data about the impact of F. deltoidea leaf ethanol extract on the male reproductive system. AIM: The present study aims to investigate the effect of F. deltoidea leaf ethanol extract on several parameters of reproductive function in male mice, including changes in testicular biochemistry, reproductive hormones profile, and histopathology of the testes after subchronic exposure. METHODS: In total, 25 male mice were divided into five groups: The control group and four treatment groups that received extract doses of 125, 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kgbw for 28 days, respectively. At the end of the treatment, surgery was performed, weight of body and reproductive organs (testis, epididymis, and seminal vesicles) were measured, and testicular biochemistry, reproductive hormone profile, antioxidant activity, and testes histopathology were analyzed. RESULTS: In the subchronic toxicity test, there were no significant changes in body weight or in weight and relative weight of reproductive organs. Levels of testosterone, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, protein, cholesterol, and activity of enzymes in the testes (alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, and glutamyltransferase) and activity of the enzyme superoxide dismutase increased significantly in the treated mice when compared to control mice (p < 0.05). Glycogen levels were not significantly different, but lipid peroxide (MDA) decreased significantly, though it did not change the histological structure of the testes. CONCLUSION: Ethanolic extract of the leaves of F. deltoidea Jack does not cause toxic effects and even has a beneficial effect on the reproduction of male mice by increasing fertility, reproductive hormones, and antioxidant activity, and it does not change the histological structure of the testes.