Histologic, Progestational and Antiestrogenic Effects of Methanolic Extract of Asparagus pubescens (Roots) on the Male Reproductive Organs of Rabbit

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of methanolic root extract of Asparagus pubescens on the male reproductive system in rabbits. Male reproductive organs is essential for producing and maintaining sperm, secreting testosterone, and transporting sperm to the female reproductive tract, include the testicles and accessory organs such as the epididymis, vas deferens, and prostate gland. The testicles, being the primary site of sperm and testosterone production, play a critical role in male fertility. Experimental animals were divided into four treatment groups and corresponding control groups. The plant extract was administered at low (250 mg/kg) and normal (500 mg/kg) doses for 14 and 21 days, respectively. Control groups, which received no treatment, showed no abnormal physical observations. Fertility assays included female rabbits, all of which became pregnant, confirming the fertility of the male rabbits used. Post-mortem analysis of testes from treated groups revealed no gross pathological changes. Histological examination indicated no disruptions in spermatogenesis across all treated groups, comparable to controls. The absence of pathological changes suggests that Asparagus pubescens does not exhibit visible contraceptive effects on male reproductive organs based on histological techniques. Estrogen’s role in regulating fluid reabsorption in the male reproductive tract suggests that the extract’s antiestrogenic activity might produce a contraceptive effect. Further research is necessary to explore its potential as a male contraceptive.