Reproductive impacts of Launaea angustifolia methanol extract on male rats

Abstract

This study explores the chemical screening of Launaea angustifolia methanol extract and its impacts on the reproductive function of male rats. Two samples of methanol extract from Launaea angustifolia leaves were analyzed by GC-MS for the chemical profiles. Twenty-five male rats were divided separately into five groups. The G-control was without any dosage, while the G-negative control was treated by oral gavage with DEMSO. The G-10, G-50, and G-100 were given 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg bw/day respectively of L. angustifolia extract for two weeks. The L. angustifolia extract chemical analysis revealed the existence of Oleic acid, Linoleic acid, n-Hexadecanoic acid, and Octadecanoic acid, along with various other phytochemicals present in minimal quantities. After 14 days of exposure, there were no alterations observed in the rats body weights, testicle weights, and testosterone levels of the male rats that received the extract. The findings demonstrated a significant increase in malondialdehyde concentrations among the control, DEMSO, and 100mg groups, as compared to the 10mg and 50mg groups. Furthermore, the levels of glutathione exhibited a significant increase in the 10mg and 50mg groups when compared to the control, DEMSO, and 100mg groups. In conclusion, L. angustifolia methanol extract enhances the oxidative status of male rats. The antioxidant impact of this extract encourages further investigations to isolate the bioactive agents for nutraceutical utilization.