Testicular function following oral exposure to Tramadol and Cannabis sativa ethanol extracts in male Wistar rats
Keywords:
Tramadol, Cannabis sativa, spermatogenic function, oxidative stress, testicular architectureAbstract
Objective: Substance abuse is a global challenge. This study investigated the effects of two commonly abused substances, tramadol and/or Cannabis sativa ethanol extracts (ECS), on testicular function in Wistar male rats.
Methods: Twenty-animals were equally divided into 4groups that received 0.9%NaCl (0.2ml), tramadol (40mg/kg), ECS (2mg/kg) and tramadol + ECS for 30days, respectively (daily p.o). Following anesthesia, blood samples were obtained and serum testosterone was determined. Testes and epididymis were harvested and weighed. Sperm motility, viability and counts were evaluated in the epididymis while superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels and histology (Haematoxylin & Eosin) were evaluated in the testis.
Results: Sperm motility, viability, counts, testosterone level and testicular CAT was reduced in all experimental groups compared to control. Relative epididymal weights increased in tramadol only and ECS only compared to control. Testicular SOD was decreased only in the tramadol only and co-treatment (tramadol + ECS), respectively. LDH was increased in the tramadol only treatment group. Testicular histology in tramadol and co-treatment groups showed structural aberrations that are consistent with impaired spermatogenesis, antioxidant depletion and oxidative stress.
Conclusion: Abuse of tramadol and/or Cannabis sativa ethanol extracts may predispose to testicular dysfunction resulting from decline in testicular antioxidants, testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis.
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