Modulatory Effect of Jatropha tanjorensis Ethanol Leaf Extract and Vitamin E on Some Reproductive Hormone in Lead-Treated Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Heavy metals such as Lead (Pb) in the environment could pose serious reproductive health issues resulting in infertility. Jatropha tanjorensis (JT) from previous studies has been proven to enhance reproductive parameters. This study examined the effects of Jatropha tanjorensis alongside vitamin E on some reproductive parameters in male rats. 40 rats male rats were assigned into 8 groups (n=5): Control, Lead treated group, low dose JT, high dose JT, Vitamin E control, lead + low dose JT, lead + high dose JT, lead + vitamin E groups. Administration was done for 14 days. Mean testosterone level was seen to significantly increase (p<0.05) in all treated groups and vitamin E group in combination with lead when compared to normal control group and Pb control. FSH levels was seen to increase significantly (p<0.05) in all JT treated groups and vitamin E treated group when compared to Pb control but no significant difference was observed when all treated groups was compared to normal control. Also from the study, LH level increased significantly (p<0.05) in high dose JT when compared with every other treated groups. JT and vitamin E administration was able to reduce the negative effect exerted by lead on the various reproductive parameters analyzed.