EFFECTS OF POMEGRANATE JUICE CONSUMPTION ON THE FERTILITY AND PROTECTIVE ACTIVITY AGAINST A FUNGICIDE EXPOSURE IN MALE WISTAR RATS

Introduction: The aim of this study is to throw light on the possible protective effect of pomegranate juice (GJ) (Punica granatum L) after experimental oral administration of fungicide Thiophanate Methyl (TM) and its effects on sperm quality, of male healthy Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods: Fifteen healthy adult male Wistar rats were divided into 03 groups. Group 1: control, Group 2: treated with Thiophanate Methyl (TM) (150 mg / kg) and Group 3: Treated with Thiophanate Methyl + pomegranate juice (GJ) (150 mg/kg + 1.5 ml). The method used for the treatment is oral gavage daily, for 60 days.

The reproductive organs that were collected were weighed, and the epididymis and testis were used for further evaluations (count, viability, motility of spermatozoa), we also conducted histological tests for testis and epididymis.

Results: The results showed that the treatment with Thiophante Methyl induced a decrease in concentration, motility, and viability of spermatozoa while the treatment of rats with fungicide associated with the grenade juice restored the concentration and the mobility of spermatozoa.

Conclusion: Thiophanate Methyl (TM) caused structural changes in the epididymis and testes inducing a decrease in sperm quality, which would interfere with its function and contribute to infertility. On the other hand, GJ can prevent these changes by increasing the number of caudal sperm; thus, it could have an effect in improving male fertility.