Effect of Cycas pectinata Seed Extract on Testicular Steroidogenesis in a Mouse Model

Abstract

The seed of Cycas pectinata is widely used in traditional practices in the Northeastern region of India for diverse purposes along with improving testicular functions. Thus, it may be hypothesized that the phytochemicals of C. pectinata seed could modulate testicular steroidogenesis. Therefore, we have investigated the effects of C. Pectinata seed extract (CPE) on testicular steroidogenesis by using in vivo and in vitro approaches. We have also performed the molecular docking of phytochemicals with some steroidogenic markers based on the identified phytochemicals from our previous study. The in vivo treatment of CPE increased the circulating estrogen and decreased circulating testosterone. The in vitro treatment of CPE also showed increased secretion of estrogen which can be suggested due to an increase in the aromatase (CYP19A1) activity. Our results also showed that the expression and localization of CYP19A1 were elevated by the CPE. The treatment of CPE also showed an accumulation of cholesterol in the testis, which could enhance testicular steroidogenesis. The other steroidogenic markers like 3βHSD, StAR, and LHR were upregulated by the CPE. Twelve compounds exhibited binding energy in the range of -10.0 to -8.0 kcal/mol with CYP19A1. Our data from in vitro, in vivo, and docking studies, showed that phytochemicals of CPE could modulate testicular steroidogenesis.