Effects of papaya seeds extract on the sperm characteristics of dogs.
The effect of chloroform extracts from seeds of the papaya plant (Carica papaya) on the spermatic characteristics of dogs was evaluated at doses of 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg, Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Structural and ultrastructural changes in sperm cells and testicular parenchyma were also evaluated, and possible side effects were noted. Significant reductions in sperm concentration and motility were observed starting from Days 60 and 75, respectively, in all treated groups (P<0.05), but no azoospermia was noted. A mild osmotic diarrhea occurred in dogs from Group 3 (150 mg/kg), although blood variables were within the normal range of a clinically healthy dog. Arrested spermatogenesis was observed in the seminiferous tubules of all treated groups, and vacuolization and signs of Sertoli cell degeneration were detected in all treated groups, particularly in Group 3 (150 mg/kg). Selective damage to Sertoli cells induced by the extract occurred in all treated groups independently of the extract concentration. Alteration of the epididymal environment may reduce the motility of sperm cells, considering that their structure was normal. Sperm characteristics in treated animals were considered to be similar to those of sub-fertile dogs. However, these effects may be temporary, and dogs may recover normal sperm characteristics when the extract is withdrawn.
Department of Animal Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Autonomous University of Yucatan, Merida Yucatan, Yucatan, Mexico. opacheco@uady.mx
Antonio
A
Ortega-Pacheco
Matilde
M
Jimenez-Coello
Karla Y
KY
Acosta-Viana
Eugenia
E
Guzman-Marin
Eduardo
E
Gutierrez-Blanco
Wendy S
WS
Luna-Flores
Miguel A
MA
Zavala-Sanchez
Arturo
A
Gonzalez-Robles
Maria S
MS
Perez-Gutierrez
D000818:Animals; D029441:Carica / Q000737:chemistry*; D004285:Dogs / Q000378:metabolism*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D008297:Male; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning / Q000662:veterinary; D046529:Microscopy, Electron, Transmission / Q000662:veterinary; D010865:Pilot Projects; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000494:pharmacology*; D011897:Random Allocation; D012639:Seeds / Q000737:chemistry; D013081:Sperm Motility / Q000187:drug effects; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000648:ultrastructure; D013737:Testis / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000648:ultrastructure
D010936:Plant Extracts