MALE WISTAR RATS

ASSESSMENT OF SPERM QUALITY AND QUANTITY IN MALE WISTAR RATS SUPPLEMENTED WITH AN HERBAL DRUG (LONG JACK XXXL) USED AS SPERM ENHANCER

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The World Health Organization reported that over 186 million couples in developed countries suffered from infertility a condition that is more worrisome in the so-called infertility belt of sub- Saharan Africa and about 40-50 % of the problem is attributed to men. Long Jack XXXL Sperm Enhancer an herbal supplement containing long jack (Eurycoma longifolia) commonly referred to as Tongkat Ali, siberian ginseng, maca extract, fenugreek extract and horny goat weed. It has been revered for its aphrodisiac and fertility-enhancing properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Long Jack sperm enhancer supplementation on the sperm quality and quantity in male Wistar rats. The rats were grouped into five and administered varying concentration of Long Jack XXXL excluding the control group for 28 days. Group 1 was given commercial rat feed and water, group 2 received 10 mg/kg Long Jack dissolved in 2 mL distilled water, group 3 received 20 mg/kg Long Jack dissolved in 2 mL distilled water, group 4 received 40 mg/kg Long Jack dissolved in 2 mL distilled water and group 5 received 80 mg/kg Long Jack dissolved in 2 mL distilled water orally by gavage. On day 29 the rats were sacrificed and the caudal epididymis was excised for semen analysis. The Sperm count increased from the control group 1(8.57±2.0), to 9.6±1.9 group 2, to 9.2±2.5 (group 3), to 9.9±2.2 (group 4), to 10.1±1.2 (group 5). The differences in the means were however not statistically significant (p>0.5) when compared with control. There was no difference in the mean progressive motility, non- progressive motility, immotile form, normal morphology and abnormal morphology when compared with control. Long Jack sperm enhancer did not significantly increase sperm quantity and quantity of male Wistar rat.
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APHRODISIAC PROPERTIES OF EXTRACT AND FRACTONS OF VERNONIA AMYGDALINA (ASTERACEAE) IN MALE WISTAR RATS

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Phytochemicals constituents were screened for using different reagent to test for the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, saponins, anthraquinones, reducing sugars and flavonoids. Diverse ethno medical applications exist for Vernonia amygdalina. However, the plant has only been the subject of a limited number of pharmacological research, and there hasn't been a thorough scientific investigation of its aphrodisiac properties. As a result, this study examined the aphrodisiac potential of extract and fractions of Vernonia amygdalina leaves utilizing physical and behavioral sexual parameters as well as in-vitro tests of the plant's effects on the corpus cavernosum muscles in male Wister rats. The powdered plant material was extracted with ethanol and the extract was subjected various solvent fractionation to obtain n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and residual aqueous fractions. After 2 weeks of acclimatization, oestrus was induced in the female rats by giving them 100mcg of ethinyl oestradiol orally and 1mg of progesterone subcutaneously, respectively, 24 hours and 3 hours before mating. The 35 male wister rats were randomly divided into 7 groups of 5 animals each, while 10 female rats were also obtained for the study. Animals in group 1 received 0.5mL of distilled water and each animal in this group received 20% Tween 80 (0.5mL) and this served as the negative group. Animals in groups 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 received 50 mg/kg of the ethanolic extract, n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions of V. amygdalina respectively in each group. Group 7 animals were given sildenafil 100mg/kg and served as the positive control. All administrations were done orally, and the physical parameters of aphrodisiac activity were measured. Also, the Corpus cavernosum smooth muscle was obtained from intact male rat and mounted in a 10 mL organ bath chamber containing Kreb's solution to evaluate the effects of the plant extract and fractions on the muscle. The direct effects of cumulative plant fractions concentrations were examined after tissue equilibration and response recording for 15 minutes without flushing. The plant fractions were utilized at doses of 0.78, 1.56, 3.125, 6.25, 12.5, and 25 mg/ml. In the presence of potassium, a pre-contractile agent, the identical process was done for the plant fractions. On a computer, the changes in isometric tension were monitored and noted. Following the administration of each concentration, a contact period of five minutes was permitted. The tissues were then cleansed three times and given 30 minutes to equilibrate before the next round of administration. The measurement of sexual behavior parameters, such as anogenital grooming, genital sniffing, mounting frequency, intromission frequency, ejaculatory frequency, mounting latency, intromission latency, and ejaculatory latency, showed a significant improvement in sexual activities. The plant fractions also generated a similar amount of relaxation of the corpus cavernosum smooth muscle to that brought on by the reference medication. In conclusion, the results of this study showed that the ethyl acetate and aqueous fraction of V. amygdalina leaves have strong aphrodisiac qualities and can relax the corpus cavernosum smooth muscle.
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CO-ADIMINISTRATION OF LEAD ACETATE AND CADMIUM CHLORIDE ON ERYTHROCYTE MORPHOLOGY AND BONE MARROW CYTOLOGY IN MALE WISTAR RATS

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Heavy metals are metallic elements that have a relatively high density compared to water. Some examples are lead and cadmium. These metals distributed into the body through ingestion or through inhalation of air. Fifteen (15) Adult male Wistar rats weighing between 100-130g were used for this study. They were assigned into three (3) groups of (n=5) in each group. Group 1 served as (control Group) while Group 2 and 3 serve as experimental group. Group 1: (control group) were give pellet and distilled water. While the group 2 and 3 were administered CdCl2 and pb(C2H3O2)2 100ppm for 14 days and 28 days respectively. After four weeks of administration, the blood collection was through orbital sinus using heparinized capillary tube into EDTA bottles. Thin blood smear from the EDTA bottles was placed on microscope slide. The slide was allowed to air dry after that it was subsequently fixed with absolute methanol for about 15 mins staining for 20 mins each and were viewed understand microscope. The bone marrow was experimented using flushing techniques. The result actualized from this study shows in the erythrocyte morphology, lead acetate and cadmium chloride affect the shape (slightly rounded or blunted) and color (faded) of the cells and there are microcytes which are unusual red blood cells which are seen scattered in the entire field.the bone marrow cytology shows abundant erythroid series in the treatment groups, also lymphoid cellular series recruitment interspersed by the other reticulocyte of the bone marrow when compared with the control. In conclusion, it was observed from this study that acute co-exposure to lead acetate and cadmium chloride affect the erythrocyte morphology of Wistar rats, this effects may result in a condition called poikilocytosis . The resulting effects on the bone marrow may eventually lead to anemia.
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EFFECT OF ACANTHUS MONTANUS LEAF EXTRACT ON KIDNEY FUNCTION IN MALE WISTAR RATS.

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This study investigated the effects of Acanthus montanus leaf extract on kidney function in an experimental animal model. The research also aimed to scientifically validate the ethnomedicinal use of the plant in managing renal disorders. Fresh leaves of Acanthus montanus were collected, authenticated, air-dried, and extracted using distilled water. The animals (Male Wistar rats) were divided into control and treatment groups, respectively. The extract was administered at graded doses, and serum biochemical parameters, including Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, urea, and creatinine, were measured. Results indicated significant (p<0.05) dose-dependent reductions in elevated serum enzyme levels and improved renal function markers among treated groups compared to the control. The study provides scientific support for the traditional use of Acanthus montanus in managing kidney disorders. The results highlight its potential as a natural source of therapeutic agents for oxidative stress-related organ damage.
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ACUTE TOXICITY STUDIES OF MAX GLUCAGON LIKE PEPTIDE (MAX GLP-1) ON MALE WISTAR RATS

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Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone with potential therapeutic applications in metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes mellitus. While its pharmacological effects have been extensively studied, data on its acute toxicity profile remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the acute oral toxicity of a MaxGLP-1 supplement in male Wistar rats using the Lorke method. Experimental animals were administered single oral doses of 10, 100, 1000, 1600, 2900, and 5000 mg/kg and monitored continuously for 24 hours and subsequently for 14 days to detect immediate, persistent, or delayed toxic effects. Observations included clinical signs, mortality, feed and water consumption, body weight changes, and external and internal organ examinations, supplemented by histopathological evaluation of the liver and spleen. No mortality occurred at any dose, establishing an LD₅₀ greater than 5000 mg/kg. Immediate effects were mild and transient, including slight restlessness at 1000 mg/kg and mild sedation at higher doses, which resolved within hours. Delayed adverse effects were limited to intermittent mild irritation or itching in animals exposed to doses ≥1000 mg/kg. Feed and water intake, relative weight gain, feed efficiency, and body weight progression were not significantly altered (p>0.05) across all groups. External and internal examinations revealed no gross pathological changes, and histopathological analysis of liver and spleen at 1600 mg/kg showed no lesions. These findings indicate that MaxGLP-1 possesses low acute oral toxicity, with a conservative No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of 100 mg/kg in male Wistar rats. This study provides foundational safety data supporting the further preclinical development of MaxGLP-1 and shows the need for subsequent subacute and chronic toxicity evaluations to establish long-term safety profiles.
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BIOCHEMICAL EFFECT OF VIT C ON ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLES INDUCED TOXICITY IN TESTIS AND EPIDIDYMIS OF MALE WISTAR RATS

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Zinc oxide nanoparticles are commonly used in many technologies. However, they are believed to have negative effects on the reproductive system. This research aims to explore how vitamin C can help protect the testis and epididymis of Wistar rats from the harmful effects of ZnO Nps. A total of 30 rats were separated into 5 groups of 6 and given different doses of ZnO Nps and Vitamin C for two weeks. In the ZnO group, malondialdehyde levels in the testis increased. On the other hand, the ZnO only group showed a decrease in gene expression and antioxidant enzyme activities compared to the control group. However, oxidative markers were significantly mitigated after combined treatment of ZnO Nps and Vit C compared to the rats given ZnO Nps (p < 0.05). This study demonstrate the ameliorating role of vitamin C on toxicity of ZnO Nps. In there epididymis, significant increase were observed in the SOD, MDA, CAT, and GPX of the ZnO NPS and combined treatment of ZnO Nps and vit c when compared to the control ( p> 0.05). The study found that there was a noticeable drop in the number of live sperm cells when exposed to ZnO alone and ZnO with Vit C, compared to the control group. On the other hand, there was a notable increase in the number of dead sperm cells when exposed to ZnO Nps alone and ZnO Nps with Vit C. Additionally, there was a decrease in the movement of sperm cells when exposed to ZnO Nps alone and ZnO Nps with Vit C, in comparison to the control group. This research shows that ZnO Nps have a negative impact on sperm quality, as well as the functioning of the testis and epididymis
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INVESTIGATING THE EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF PICRALIMA NITIDA FRUIT ON ALPHA GLUCOSE ENZYME IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-INDUCED DIABETIC MALE WISTAR RATS

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Persistent hyperglycemia is a hallmark of diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic condition that increases the risk of major vascular problems such neuropathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular disease. Inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, especially α-glucosidase, has become an effective therapeutic method for controlling postprandial blood glucose. Despite the availability of synthetic α-glucosidase inhibitors like acarbose, their usage is frequently restricted due to gastrointestinal side effects, which has sparked interest in safer, plant-based substitutes. Although the leaves and seeds of the traditional West African medicinal plant Picralima nitida have been shown to have antidiabetic qualities, nothing is known about how its fruit extract affects α- glucosidase. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of aqueous Picralima nitida fruit extract on α-glucosidase activity in male Wistar rats with diabetes induced by streptozotocin. Rats were given graded doses of the fruit extract after being acclimated to controlled laboratory conditions and grouped based on body weight. A colorimetric assay based on the hydrolysis of p- nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside was used to test serum α-glucosidase activity. The enzyme activity was determined spectrophotometrically at 405 nm. Tukey's post hoc test and one-way ANOVA were used to examine the data, which were presented as mean ± SEM. The study's findings are still awaiting. It is anticipated that the study would shed light on whether Picralima nitida fruit extract inhibits α-glucosidase to produce antihyperglycemic effects. It may also help develop safer plant-based medicines for the treatment of diabetes.
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INVESTIGATING THE EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF Picralima nitida ON SERUM AMYLASE IN STREPTOZOTOCIN INDUCED DIABETIC MALE WISTAR RATS

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Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, or elevated blood glucose levels, resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. This study focused on the severe metabolic imbalance caused by Streptozotocin (STZ) induction in male Wistar rats . Diabetes mellitus was induced in male Wistar rats by a combination of a 2-week high-carbohydrates diet, followed by double doses (60 and 40 mg/kg respectively) of intraperitoneal injection of STZ. Diabetic rats were then treated for two weeks with either distilled water (control), Glibenclamide (5 mg/kg, positive control), or picralima nitida extract at two doses (200 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg). The findings revealed that all groups treated with Picralima nitida showed a decrease in α-amylase levels compared to the diabetic group that received no treatment. However, this reduction was not sufficient to bring the enzyme activity back to the levels observed in non-diabetic (control) rats. Among the doses tested, the low dose produced the most stable regulatory effect, showing results that were comparable, though slightly less effective, than glibenclamide
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INVESTIGATION OF THE MECHANISM OF EFFECT OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF BEETROOT ON THE LUNGS’ iNOS (INDUCIBLE NITRIC OXIDE SYNTHASE) AND NITRIC OXIDE LEVELS OF ADULT MALE WISTAR RATS EXPOSED TO HEAT AND BIOMASS SMOKE

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Beetroot makes an excellent dietary supplement as it is not only rich in minerals, vitamins and nutrients but it also has unique Phytochemical compounds (carotenoids, phenolic acids, ascorbic acid) which have many medicinal uses. Heat is an environmental and occupational hazard. The effects of heat on human health are further exacerbated by environmental, socioeconomic, demographic, physiological and behavioural factors. Biomass fuel is any living or recently living plant or animal-based material that is burned by humans as fuels, such as dried animal dung, charcoal and grass. Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous molecule that has a central role in signalling pathways involved in numerous physiological processes such as vasodilation, neurotransmission, inflammation, apoptosis and tumour growth. Hence, the study was designed to investigate the mechanism of effect of ethanolic extract of Beetroot on the lungs’ iNOS and nitric oxide levels of adult male Wistar rats exposed to heat and biomass smoke. Forty-nine (49) adults male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into seven (7) groups of seven (7) rats per cage. Group A served as the control; group B were exposed to smoke only; group C were exposed to heat only; group D were exposed to smoke and heat; group E were exposed to smoke with Beetroot; group F were exposed to heat with Beetroot; group G were exposed to smoke, heat with Beetroot. At the end of the twenty–eight (28) days experimental period, the rats were sacrificed under chloroform anaesthesia. Lung tissues were collected in plain bottles with formol saline and taken to the laboratory for nitric oxide and inducible nitric oxide synthase assay.
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THE EFFECT OF MIRACLE SEED ULTIMA® ON KIDNEY FUNCTION PARAMETERS, HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS, AND GLUCOSE LEVELS IN MALE WISTAR RATS

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Herbal medicines are increasingly used globally, yet comprehensive safety data for many traditional preparations remain limited. This study evaluated the sub-acute toxicity of Miracle Seed Ultima® (MSU), a commercially available herbal product, on kidney function, hematological parameters, and glucose metabolism in male Wistar rats. Twenty male Wistar rats weighing 120-170g were randomly divided into four groups (n=5): Group 1 (control) received distilled water, while Groups 2, 3, and 4 received MSU at 100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 1000 ix mg/kg body weight respectively via oral gavage daily for 28 days. Blood samples were collected at the end of the study for assessment of renal function markers (urea, creatinine, electrolytes), complete blood counts, red cell indices, and fasting blood glucose levels. Key findings revealed significant reductions in plasma urea concentrations in groups receiving 300 mg/kg (74.85±6.3 mg/dL) and 1000 mg/kg (68.62±2.9 mg/dL) compared to controls (102.72±5.7 mg/dL), with p < 0.05. Plasma creatinine showed significant differences in the 100 mg/kg group (2.12±0.1 mg/dL) compared to controls (2.79±0.1 mg/dL). However, all electrolyte parameters (sodium, potassium, chloride) remained within normal physiological ranges across all groups. Non-statistically significant differences were observed in all hematological parameters (p > 0.05). Fasting blood glucose levels remained normal across all treatment groups. The findings indicate a relatively favorable safety profile for MSU at the tested doses, with no evidence of overt nephrotoxicity, hematotoxicity, or metabolic disturbances. The observed reductions in plasma urea and creatinine may reflect enhanced renal clearance rather than toxicity. These results support the short-term safety of MSU at therapeutic doses.
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