Ameliorative effect ofStevia rebaudianaBertoni on sperm parameters,in vitrofertilization, and early embryo development in a streptozotocin-induced mouse model of diabetes

Abstract

SummaryDiabetes mellitus (DM) is a common metabolic disease characterized by high blood sugar levels. It is well known that men with diabetes frequently experience reproductive disorders and sexual dysfunction. In fact, sperm quality has a significant effect on fertilization success and embryo development. The current study aimed to investigate the effect ofStevia rebaudianahydroalcoholic extract on serum testosterone levels, sperm parameters,in vitrofertilization (IVF) success, andin vitroembryonic developmental potential to reach the blastocyst stage in a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced mouse model of diabetes. In this research, 30 male mice were distributed randomly into control, diabetic (streptozotocin 150 mg/kg) and diabetic +Stevia(400 mg/kg) groups. The results revealed a decrease in body and testis weight and elevated blood fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels in the diabetic group, compared with the control. However,Steviatreatment significantly increased body and testis weight, while serum FBS levels were decreased compared with the diabetic group. In addition,Steviasignificantly increased blood testosterone levels compared with the diabetic group. Moreover, sperm parameters were improved considerably bySteviatreatment compared with the diabetic group. Furthermore,Steviaadministration significantly promoted IVF success rate andin vitrodevelopment of fertilized oocytes compared with the diabetic group. In summary, our data indicated thatSteviaenhanced sperm parameters, IVF success, andin vitroembryonic developmental competency in diabetic mice, probably because of its antioxidant effects. Therefore,Steviacould ameliorate sperm parameters that, in turn, increase fertilization outcomes in experimental-induced diabetes.