No abstract

Methotrexate is widely used in treatment of cancer, psoriasis, and rheumatic diseases but it can be induce reproductive toxicity. Mulberries have been reported to be important antioxidant. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the protective effects of ethanolic leaf Mulberry extract against reproductive toxicity of Methotrexate in male rats. Twenty male albino rats were divided into four equal groups (n=5), the first served as negative control, the second received mulberry extract (100 mg/kg b.wt), the third group received Methotrexate (20mg/kg) the fourth received Methotrexate after one week of treatment with mulberry extract (100 mg/kg b.wt.). Treatment was continued for 4 weeks. Results of the study displayed that Methotrexate caused a significantly decrease in Gonadisomatic index weights, testosterone, LH and FSH in serum as compared with normal control. Mulberry extract protection against MTX-induced reproductive injury was reflected by significantly increased serum testosterone, LH and FSH levels compared to those in MTX treated Rats (P < 0.05). Histological observations also revealed that damages within the seminiferous tubules and vascular degeneration of the germ cells and Sertoli cells cytoplasm were observed apparent in rats after MTX administration. In contrast, the damage was markedly attenuated in the mulberry treated group. In conclusion, treatment with mulberry leaf extract alleviates Methotrexate-associated hazards and protects the testicular tissues.