Examination of the Toxicity Pattern and Influence of <i>Azadirachta indica</i> on Testicular Function and Expression of Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen in <i>Plasmodium berghei</i>-Infected Mice
| Author | Adefunke Olukemi Opajobi | en |
| Author | Evelyn Terela Ojugbeli | en |
| Author | Jemima Simisola Olorunyomi | en |
| Author | Cyril Dunkwu | en |
| Author | Joy Acha | en |
| Author | Kingsley Enyi | en |
| Author | Innocent Onyesom | en |
| Orcid | Jemima Simisola Olorunyomi [0009-0009-9700-6698] | en |
| Orcid | Joy Acha [0009-0009-8930-437X] | en |
| Issued Date | 2024-12-31 | en |
| Abstract | Background: Malaria, a parasitic disease caused by a single-celled parasite called Plasmodium, poses a significant global health burden, especially in tropical regions such as Africa. The impact of malaria on human health is well-documented; however, its effects on the male reproductive system and the impact of herbal extracts remain underexplored. Objectives: This study aims to investigate Azadirachta indica's toxicity and its antimalarial potency's influence on testicular function and expression of proliferating cells nuclear antigen (PCNA). Methods: The antimalarial activity of Azadirachta indica was determined using standard procedures. Thirty male mice were used and grouped into six. Group 1 (normal control), group 2 (P. berghei infected only - negative control), group 3 (Plasmodium berghei infected + lonart - standard drug), group 4 (P. berghei infected + 100 mg/kg BWT crude ethanol extract), group 5 (P. berghei infected + 200 mg/kg BWT crude ethanol extract), group 6 (P. berghei infected + 400 mg/kg BWT crude ethanol extract). Administration of A. indica leaf extract to infected mice for four consecutive days demonstrated promising results. Results: The extract significantly suppressed parasite multiplication, ameliorated testicular damage, and improved sperm quality. The non-toxic extract also reduced oxidative stress in the testes, suggesting its potential effectiveness as phytotherapy against malaria-induced male reproductive impairments. Conclusions: The beneficial effects of A. indica emphasize its potential as a natural remedy for malaria-induced reproductive complications, offering a new avenue for therapeutic intervention in malaria-endemic regions. This study contributes to our knowledge of the intricate relationship between malaria and male reproductive health and provides valuable insights for future research and clinical applications. | en |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.5812/jrps-148534 | en |
| Keyword | Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen | en |
| Keyword | Malaria | en |
| Keyword | Reproductive Health | en |
| Keyword | <i>Azadirachita indica</i> | en |
| Keyword | <i>Plasmodium</i><i>bergei</i> | en |
| Publisher | Brieflands | en |
| Title | Examination of the Toxicity Pattern and Influence of <i>Azadirachta indica</i> on Testicular Function and Expression of Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen in <i>Plasmodium berghei</i>-Infected Mice | en |
| Type | Research Article | en |