Efficacy of Ascorbic Acid on Anti-Infertility Effects of Alcoholic Extract of Nicotiana Tabacum Leaf in Male Wistar Rat

Abstract

Background: Tobacco intake has led to negative impacts on the neurological and endocrine systems, possibly due to the compromised immune system that is linked to tobacco use. Despite the long history of using the tobacco plant (Nicotiana tabacum L.), cigarettes dominate the global market, making up 96% of all sales of manufactured tobacco products. Despite being taken in smokeless form, reports indicate that the plant is toxic and has negatively affected several bodily cellular activities. This study looked at how an alcoholic extract made from Nicotiana tabacum leaf affected the Wistar male rats' reproductive parameters. According to estimates from the World Health Organization, tobacco usage resulted in 100 million deaths worldwide throughout the 20th century, and 5.4 million fatalities in 2004. Except for humans, non-human primates, and guinea pigs, the livers of most mammalian species synthesis vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, a six- carbon lactone molecule. Scurvy, also known as scorbutus, is a life-threatening disorder caused by a shortage of vitamin C. It can only be cured via proper treatment. Therefore, humans must consume vitamin C to ensure their survival. The testis is the primary male reproductive organ. The structure is analogous to the ovaries in females. The testes are the main endocrine and reproductive organs in the male body. They generate sex steroid hormones and mature haploid sperm. The testes are located in two pairs within the scrotum, with the epididymis situated at the back edge.  Material and Method: The extract was obtained from the plant's leaf using the process of alcoholic extraction. The experiment utilized a sample of 30 male Wistar rats, which were assigned randomly to five groups: A, B, C, D, and E. Each group consisted of six rats with an average weight of 115g.  Result: Changes in body weight, testis weight, semen quality, and morphology were all studied in this investigation. Furthermore, testicular histology evaluations were carried out. Overall, the alcoholic extract derived from the leaf of Nicotiana tabacum had a significant negative impact on various male reproductive indices. This study demonstrates that ascorbic acid possesses prospective and restorative effects against testicular damage caused by the alcoholic extract of Nicotiana tabacum leaf. However, it should be noted that these effects were not fully observed at the current dosage. Further investigation is necessary to fully understand the long-lasting effects on reproductive health.