Effects of Aframomum melegueta Seeds on the Biochemical and Histoarchitectural Changes on Testis in Epileptic Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures that can affect both mental and physical functions. Beyond its neurological impact, epilepsy and some antiepileptic treatments have been associated with reproductive and hormonal disturbances. Aframomum melegueta, a spice from the Zingiberaceae family widely distributed in Africa, is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and fertility enhancing properties. This study investigated its potential protective effect against testicular damage in an experimental model of epilepsy. Methods: Twenty-four (24) male Wistar rats weighing 110-150g were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6). Group A served as the control (healthy rats). Group B was induced with epilepsy using lithium chloride (127 mg/kg) and pilocarpine (30 mg/kg) and received no treatment. Group C was induced with epilepsy and treated with Aframomum melegueta extract (400 mg/kg). Group D was induced with epilepsy and treated with carbamazepine (100 mg/kg). Treatment lasted for 21 days. At the end of the experiment, animals were sacrificed, and the testes were harvested for biochemical assays, hormonal analysis (testosterone levels), and histological evaluation using Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), Periodic Acid–Schiff (PAS), and Masson’s Trichrome stains. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post hoc test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The untreated epileptic group showed increased inflammatory markers, reduced antioxidant levels, and decreased testosterone compared to the control group. Histological analysis revealed distorted testicular architecture, degeneration of seminiferous tubules, compromised Leydig cells, reduced PAS positivity, and increased collagen deposition, indicating fibrosis. In contrast, rats treated with Aframomum melegueta showed reduced inflammation, improved antioxidant status, and increased testosterone levels. Histological findings demonstrated restoration of seminiferous tubule architecture, improved spermatogenesis, preserved Leydig cell structure, enhanced PAS expression, and reduced collagen deposition. The protective effects observed in the group treated with Aframomum melegueta extract were comparable to, and in some parameters more pronounced than, those seen with carbamazepine treatment. Conclusion: These findings suggest that Aframomum melegueta exerts protective effects against lithium chloride pilocarpine–induced testicular damage in male Wistar rats, likely through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant may offer supportive benefits in managing reproductive complications associated with epilepsy.