Enhanced Testicular Functional Indices In 2% Turmeric Supplemented Uv-Irradiated Rabbits

Abstract

Testicular function is modified by maturational gonadostatic control highly susceptible to negative physiologic niche-altering factors like UV-rays. We evaluated effects of UV irradiation and organic turmeric (T) on testicular functional indices in 40 rabbits. Study was for 85days (d) in three phased periods: 40d pre-irradiation, 5d irradiation and 40d post-irradiation in 40 acclimatized rabbits randomly assigned to 4 groups of 10 each, fed unsupplemented diet and forage (Tridax procumbens) – basal diet (BD) and BD supplemented with 2% pulverized crude T. Feed and water were available ad libitum. EDTA blood was collected on 86d from 0900h for estimation of indices of testicular function. Plasma (p) concentrations ( [ ]p ) of TE, LH, FSH and TCHOL were determined enzymatically. Data were analyzed by ANOVA. [TE]p and [FSH]p in T group was significantly higher than Control and other groups with % of Control (%C) values 170/120% : TE/FSH (p 0.05). UV significantly suppressed all measured plasma variables, %C values 24/80% : TE/FSH; 8/70% : LH/TCHOL (p 0.05). These results strongly suggest that UV severely impairs, while organic T amelioratively enhances testicular functional indices.