Evaluation of Pituitary-Testicular Axis and Lipid Profile Levels in Male Wistar Rats Administered Extra Virgin Olive Oil Versus Oleic Acid with a Normal Diet

Abstract

Background: Dietary fats impact male reproductive functions. The effect of consumption of normal rat chow with the Mediterranean main fat, extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), and its major component, oleic acid (OA) in non-metabolic disease states on reproductive hormonal functions is however unknown. Objectives: This study investigated the effect of EVOO and OA in normal diet feeding on reproductive hormones and lipid profiles. Methods: Eighteen male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups and fed as follows: Group I (Control) fed the normal rat chow. Group II (extra-virgin olive oil: EVOO) fed the normal diet plus 1 ml/kg/day EVOO. Group III (oleic acid: OA) fed the normal diet plus 1 ml/kg/day OA as previously described. After 4 weeks of the experimental period, reproductive hormones, lipid profile, glucose, and total protein levels were assessed. Results: The serum luteinizing hormone (LH) level was significantly increased in both EVOO and OA groups, with no significant difference in serum testosterone (T) levels. The testicular T and serum oestradiol levels were significantly decreased in the EVOO groups but were significantly increased in the OA groups when compared to the control. There was a significant increase in the serum LDL-C in both EVOO and OA groups when compared to the control. The serum HDL-C levels were significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in both EVOO and OA groups when compared to control. Conclusion: The administration of EVOO and OA in normal diet feeding resulted in diminished serum testosterone levels and serum HDL-C levels.