Article

Aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera reduced intracellular ROS production, DNA fragmentation and acrosome reaction in Human spermatozoa in vitro

Wiley
Andrologia
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Abstract

The effects of aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera (MO) on human sperm functions and integrity was studied in vitro. Semen was obtained by masturbation after 3–5 days' abstinence from 34 healthy donors in Western Cape, South Africa. Liquefied semen was washed in human tubular fluid supplemented with 1% bovine serum albumin (HTF-BSA;1:5) with 10 min centrifugation at 300 g. Sperm suspensions were subsequently incubated with MO extract (0.625, 6.25, 62.5 and 625 μg/ml) for 1 hr, where HTF-BSA served as control. Sperm motility, vitality, DNA fragmentation, reactive oxygen species production, mitochondrial membrane potential, capacitation and acrosome reaction were assessed. Sperm motility, vitality, mitochondrial membrane potential and capacitation remained unchanged (p > .05). A dose-dependent decrease in sperm reactive oxygen species production (p < .0001), DNA fragmentation (p < .0001) and acrosome reaction (p < .001) was observed. An increase in the percentage of non-capacitated sperm (p < .01) was noted at 625 μg/ml. The antioxidant properties of MO actively maintained basic sperm functions, inhibited excess sperm free superoxide production and preserved acrosome reaction and DNA integrity. Further studies are needed to confirm the effect of aqueous MO leaf extract on fertility potential.

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... The rationale behind using a phytocomplex rather than its isolated constituents is based on the synergic effects between the molecules and increased bioavailability in the in vivo studies [231]. Table 3 reports the studies in which an aqueous [232][233][234][235][236][237][238] or alcoholic [91,[239][240][241][242] extract of plants or natural products was applied in vitro and during cryopreservation protocols to test the protective/antioxidant effects on human spermatozoa. Because the botanicals and herbal preparations for experimental or medical use contain different types of bioactive compounds, chemical characterisation of the extract and evaluation of the composition, antioxidant activity and toxicity are mandatory [91,218,235,236,[241][242][243][244][245]. ...
... Other compounds such as Cissampelos capensis rhizome aqueous extract [246] and unfermented rooibos [247] seem to induce sperm capacitation in vitro. Some researchers have analysed the effects of phytocomplexes on sperm DNA [238,240,244,245,248]. The authors have reported a general protective action on DNA. ...
... Positive effect on sperm parameters, DNA integrity, antioxidant activity [238] Capparis spinosa L. hydroalcoholic extract Extract characterization, positive effect on sperm parameters, DNA integrity [245] Origanum vulgare Positive effect on sperm parameter [237] essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation [251] ...
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Spermatozoa are highly differentiated cells that produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to aerobic metabolism. Below a certain threshold, ROS are important in signal transduction pathways and cellular physiological processes, whereas ROS overproduction damages spermatozoa. Sperm manipulation and preparation protocols during assisted reproductive procedures—for example, cryopreservation—can result in excessive ROS production, exposing these cells to oxidative damage. Thus, antioxidants are a relevant topic in sperm quality. This narrative review focuses on human spermatozoa as an in vitro model to study which antioxidants can be used to supplement media. The review comprises a brief presentation of the human sperm structure, a general overview of the main items of reduction–oxidation homeostasis and the ambivalent relationship between spermatozoa and ROS. The main body of the paper deals with studies in which human sperm have been used as an in vitro model to test antioxidant compounds, including natural extracts. The presence and the synergic effects of different antioxidant molecules could potentially lead to more effective products in vitro and, in the future, in vivo.
... Results obtained in our study indicate that there is an antioxidant effect caused by the addition of MOSE, which may be related to the improvement of different spermatic characteristics evaluated. Different parts of the M. oleifera plant contain several compounds with antioxidant activity (Moichela et al., 2021). Among the compounds with this potential are vitamins, minerals, carotenoids (Moichela et al., 2021), tannins, saponins, antimicrobial peptides, polyphenols and flavonoids (Nimrat et al., 2020). ...
... Different parts of the M. oleifera plant contain several compounds with antioxidant activity (Moichela et al., 2021). Among the compounds with this potential are vitamins, minerals, carotenoids (Moichela et al., 2021), tannins, saponins, antimicrobial peptides, polyphenols and flavonoids (Nimrat et al., 2020). ...
... This improvement in sperm parameters was reflected in a greater fertilizing capacity. Maintaining acrosomal integrity prevents premature capacitation and acrosomal reaction and intact mitochondrial function is necessary to maintain an adequate energetic state, since this organelle is the main source of ATP for sperm homeostasis, motility (especially in ovine sperm)(Losano et al., 2018) and acrosomal reaction necessary for sperm fertilization capacity(Moichela et al., 2021). These protective effects may be due to the antioxidant property of the extract since there was greater antioxidant activity in the semen with the addition of M. oleifera. ...
Article
Cryopreservation has adverse effects on the post‐thaw sperm quality due to oxidative stress and the presence of bacteria. To minimize such effects, plant extracts have been included in the composition of the semen diluents. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the antimicrobial and antioxidant effects of Moringa oleifera seed extract (MOSE) on cryopreserved ram semen, as well as its impact on in vitro fertilization. Semen from six hair rams was treated with five treatments before cryopreservation: Control (without any antibiotic), Standard (conventional antibiotic), 1.0, 10.0, and 50.0 mg/mL of MOSE. Post‐thawing sperm characteristics were evaluated by the computer‐assisted semen analysis. Antimicrobial activity was assessed by counting colony‐forming units (CFU) and the antioxidant capacity by the ferric reducing antioxidant power method. A heterologous in vitro fertilization technique was implemented to measure the fertilization rate. Progressive and rapid motility, membrane and acrosome integrity, and active mitochondria were higher (p < 0.05) in the 10.0 mg/mL treatment compared to Standard after thawing. All M. oleifera treatments showed inhibition of CFU. The antioxidant capacity of M. oleifera seed extract was higher in the 10.0 and 50.0 mg/mL treatments. Fertilization rate (cleavage percentage) was higher (p < 0.05) in the 10.0 mg/mL (82.9±10.0) and Control (82.5±9.9) treatments compared to Standard (73.7±9.1). The addition of 10.0 mg/mL of MOSE to ram semen inhibits the development of microorganisms and improves sperm characteristics and the in vitro fertility of the semen.
... [197] Aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera Reduce sperm reactive oxygen species levels, improve sperm DNA fragmentation, and maintain sperm function. [198] Camellia sinensis Enhance the CAT and SOD enzyme activities and glutathione levels in rat sperm, thereby protecting against oxidative stress-induced sperm damage. [199] Aspalathin linearis Increase the SOD enzyme level, reduce the MDA level, and enhance sperm concentration in rats. ...
... Water extracts of Moringa Oleifera have been shown to mitigate oxidative stress in cryptorchid rats, evidenced by reduced MDA levels and increased SOD activity [211]. Furthermore, research by Moichela et al. [198] demonstrated that Moringa Oleifera leaf water extracts improve sperm DNA fragmentation by reducing ROS production, thereby preserving essential sperm functions. Tea leaves, derived from the leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis, are rich in catechin polyphenols and have been reported to exhibit ROSscavenging properties [212]. ...
Article
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Male infertility represents a major health concern, accounting for approximately 50% of all infertility cases in couples. This condition arises from multiple etiologies, with oxidative stress gaining increasing attention in recent studies. During the final stages of sperm maturation, the majority of the cytoplasm is discarded, leaving sperm with a diminished antioxidant defense system, which makes them highly susceptible to the detrimental effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS can be generated from both intrinsic and extrinsic sources. Intrinsically, ROS are primarily produced by mitochondrial activity, while extrinsic factors include alcohol consumption, smoking, circadian rhythm disruption, gut microbiota imbalance, and leukocyte infiltration. Excessive ROS production leads to DNA damage, apoptosis, and epigenetic modifications in sperm, ultimately impairing sperm motility and contributing to infertility. This review provides a comprehensive examination of ROS sources and examines the mechanisms by which ROS induce sperm damage. Furthermore, it explores the therapeutic potential of antioxidants in mitigating oxidative stress and improving sperm quality.
... Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui pengaruh Aloe vera terhadap tingkat maturasi sel sperma pada tikus wistar dengan sindrom metabolik terinduksi. Penilitan yang dilakukan oleh Moichela et al., 2021, yakni pemberian ekstrak daun Moringa Oleifera menandakan adanya efek antioksidan berupa penurunan produksi Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) intraseluler pada sperma secara signifikan (Moichela et al., 2021). Sejauh ini belum menjumpai penelitian mengenai pengaruh daun Aloe vera terhadap tingkat maturasi sel sperma pada tikus wistar dengan sindrom metabolik terinduksi. ...
... Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui pengaruh Aloe vera terhadap tingkat maturasi sel sperma pada tikus wistar dengan sindrom metabolik terinduksi. Penilitan yang dilakukan oleh Moichela et al., 2021, yakni pemberian ekstrak daun Moringa Oleifera menandakan adanya efek antioksidan berupa penurunan produksi Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) intraseluler pada sperma secara signifikan (Moichela et al., 2021). Sejauh ini belum menjumpai penelitian mengenai pengaruh daun Aloe vera terhadap tingkat maturasi sel sperma pada tikus wistar dengan sindrom metabolik terinduksi. ...
Article
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Pendahuluan: Sindrom metabolik memunculkan gangguan spermatogenesis, akibat adanya peningkatan ROS. Peningkatan ROS mengganggu maturasi sel sperma. Ekstrak etanolik daun lidah buaya memiliki potensi sebagai antioksidan. Tujuan penelitian ini mengetahui pengaruh ekstrak etanolik daun lidah buaya (Aloe vera) terhadap tingkat maturasi sel sperma menggunakan Johnson score. Metode: Penelitian eksperimental laboratorik dengan pretest-posttest control group design. Dua puluh lima tikus Wistar jantan dibagi menjadi 5 kelompok, masing-masing kelompok sebanyak 5 tikus. K1-kelompok kontrol, K2-kelompok sindrom metabolik, K3, K4, dan K5 adalah kelompok tikus dengan sindrom metabolik yang diberi ekstrak etanolik daun lidah buaya dosis 200, 250, dan 300 mg/KgBB/hari. Penghitungan Johnson score menggunakan perparat histopatologi dengan pengecatan Hematoxilin Eosin (HE) setelah terminasi pada hari ke-57. Analisis data menggunakan uji one-way ANOVA, dilanjutkan dengan uji post-hoc Tukey HSD, dan uji korelasi Pearson, untuk mengetahui hubungan antara dosis ekstrak etanolik Aloe vera dengan tingkat maturasi sperma. Hasil:. Berdasarkan hasil uji korelasi Pearson’s kenaikan Johnson score (tingkat maturasi sel sperma) sejalan dengan peningkatan dosis ekstrak etanolik daun lidah buaya dengan R2= 0,783. Hasil uji beda one-way ANOVA terdapat perbedaan antar kelompok p<0,05. Uji post-hoc Tukey HSD K1 secara signifikan berbeda dengan K2. K1 tidak berbeda dengan kelompok K3, K4 dan K5. K2 secara signifikan berbeda dengan K3,K4 dan K5. Rata-rata skor Johnson K1 9,92 0,05, K2 7,04±1,49, K3 8,93 0,76, K4 9,50 0,23, dan K5 9,56 0,53. Kesimpulan: Pemberian ekstrak etanolik daun lidah buaya (Aloe vera) dosis 200 mg/KgBB/hari, 250 mg/KgBB/hari dan 300 mg/KgBB/hari berpengaruh positif terhadap maturasi sperma tikus Wistar model sindrom metabolik.
... The tree Moringa peregrina (M. peregrina), a member of the Moringaceae family, grows naturally in Jordan [17,18] Gallic acid (GA) was used as a reference standard at concentrations ranging from 100 to 6.25 μg/mL to construct a calibration curve. The TPC of the PEMs was calculated as mg/g dry extract equivalent of GA. ...
Article
Background: Skin problems caused by oxidative stress lead to the activation of collagenase and tyrosinase enzymes, contributing to skin aging, discoloration, and infections. Equisetum ramosissimum and Moringa peregrina were assessed for their potential uses in treating various skin conditions. Objective: The present research aimed to investigate the positive effects of polyphenols in Equisetum ramosissimum and Moringa peregrina extracts as potential cosmetic products for the treatment of different skin conditions. Methods: Total phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidants, and anti-collagenase and anti-tyrosinase activities of plant extract mixtures (PEM) at different ratios of (M. peregrina: E. ramosissimum) were determined using standard procedures. Inhibitory effects of PEM against acne-causing Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29213) were evaluated using the diameter (cm) of the inhibition zone method. A cream formulation containing PEM was developed and characterized for stability and potential skin irritation in rats using standard procedures. Results: The PEM at a ratio of (2:1) showed the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content (150.15 ± 2.8 mg/g, equivalent to gallic acid, and 41.5 ± 1.2 mg/g, equivalent to quercetin, respectively). Antioxidant activities for PEM (2:1) were also optimal, as determined by the DPPH and ABTS methods (IC50 = 7.06 ± 0.12 µg/mL and 53.29 ± 3.3 µg/mL, respectively). Furthermore, PEM (2:1) exhibited superior inhibitory activities against collagenase and tyrosinase enzymes (IC50 = 32.4 ± 1.19 µg/mL and 8.4 ± 1.19 µg/mL, respectively). Antimicrobial activity of PEM (2:1) tested on S. aureus showed the largest zone of growth inhibition (2.8 cm) at a concentration of 60 mg/mL. Studies on the PEM (2:1) cream formulation revealed that it remained stable under room conditions. Skin irritation tests on rats showed no signs of oedema or erythema after treatment. Conclusion: The PEM with a ratio of (2:1) demonstrated optimal activity as an oxidative stress-neutralizing agent, inhibitor of enzymes responsible for skin aging and hyperpigmentation, and antibacterial agent. The cream formulation containing PEM exhibited physical stability and no detectable risk of skin irritation throughout the research procedures.
... Furthermore, it has been found to enhance semen quality and assist in stress management (24). An in vitro study on aqueous leaf extract of Moringa Oleifera showed reduced intracellular ROS production, DNA fragmentation, and acrosome reaction in human spermatozoa (25). All of these findings correlate with the treatment employed in the present case, suggesting that Rasayana treatment can be used in the management of male infertility associated with parental DNA damage. ...
Article
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Background Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) can affect fertilization rate and embryo development, making it a useful measure for assessing male fertility. Available evidence supports the association between high sperm DNA fragmentation and poor outcomes, with regard to natural conception. Several treatment options are being adopted with varying degrees of success. Some of the commonly used treatment options are the intake of oral antioxidants, varicocele repair, and techniques like micro-manipulation-based sperm selection and use of testicular sperm for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Case Presentation Studies have shown that around 29% of couples depend on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) modality for the treatment of infertility. However, there is a lack of substantial evidence regarding its efficacy in treating various aspects of infertility in couples. The current case report is about a 44 year-old male patient with infertility, who has a known diagnosis of sex chromosome abnormalities. Meanwhile, the SDF study reports indicated the presence of chromosomal abnormalities. This patient was treated exclusively with Ayurveda therapy aimed towards qualitative improvement in reproductive tissues (Shukra Dhatu as per Ayurveda). Patient was assessed periodically for changes in chromosomal abnormality. After four months of treatment, the evaluations demonstrated the presence of completely normal chromosomes. Conclusion This case study indicates the potential of Ayurveda therapy in treating cases of male infertility caused by DNA fragmentation. Furthermore, observations and systematically designed clinical trials are warranted to establish a stronger level of evidence before making further clinical recommendations.
... Fresh Moringa oleifera leaves were left to dry for 7 days, then infused in distilled water (100 glL). The mixture was then boiled for 20 min then filtered out [16]. ...
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Objective The search for an osteopromotive material that enhances the efficacy of alloplasts in reconstructive surgeries has been going on for years. This study aimed to histologically and histomorphometrically evaluate the efficiency of Moringa oleifera leaf extract as an osteopromotive biomaterial. Design The study is a prospective randomized controlled animal study. 24 adult male New Zealand rabbits were equally allocated into test and control groups. Critical-sized bone defects were created in the edentulous areas of the mandibles of rabbits. The defects of the control group were filled with Beta-tricalcium Phosphate, while the defects of the test group were filled with Beta-tricalcium Phosphate combined with Moringa oleifera leaf extract. The results were evaluated histologically and histomorphometrically. Results Histological and histomorphometric analysis showed a significant increase in the surface area of bone and the number of osteoblasts in test groups compared to those in the control groups. Conclusion Moringa oleifera leaf extract has a positive effect on bone regeneration in critical-sized bone defects.
... The washed samples were incubated with black tea aqueous extract (0.4, 4.0, 40, and 405 μg/ml) for 1 hr at 37°C. Additional sperm parameters, sperm motility, vitality, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), ROS production, DNA fragmentation, capacitation, and acrosome reaction, were analyzed as previously described [32,[35][36][37][38]. The control contained only HTF-BSA. ...
Article
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Infertility affects about 25% of couples worldwide, and oxidative stress (OS) is linked to its idiopathic etiology. Green, black, white, and oolong teas are produced from Camellia sinensis, depending on their oxidation level, and contain antioxidant properties that may enhance male reproductive functions. The study aimed to investigate the effects of black tea aqueous extract on human sperm functions in vitro. Semen samples were collected from donors, liquefied, analyzed, and divided into normal (n = 40) and abnormal (n = 19) groups using the World Health Organization 2010 criteria. Samples were washed and incubated with black tea aqueous extracts (0, 0.4, 4, 40, 405 μg/ml) for 1 hr and analyzed. Along with a considerable decrease in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, DNA-fragmented spermatozoa, and acrosome reaction, the percentage of sperm vitality and intact mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) increased ( p < 0.05 ). Furthermore, compared to the normal group, a substantial increase in the percentage of acrosome reaction, ROS production, and percentage of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA, while a reduction in the percentage of intact MMP and sperm vitality, was noted in the abnormal group ( p < 0.05 ). Compared to the controls, there was no significant change in motility between the normal and abnormal groups ( p > 0.05 ). Black tea’s antioxidant activity, caffeine concentration, or both may have contributed to its improvement in human sperm function in vitro.
... M. oleifera leaf extracts were also observed on sperm cells with varying concentrations (0.625; 6.25; 62.5; 625 ug/mL). The findings indicated that M. oleifera inhibited the formation of sperm intracellular ROS at 62.5 and 625 ug/mL, reduced the percentage of sperm with DNA fragmentation and increased the percentage of incapacitated and intact acrosome spermatozoa at 625 ug/mL [73]. Table 1 summarises the effect of the M. oleifera on the male reproductive system following exposure to various infertility risk factors. ...
Article
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According to a recent report by the WHO, 50–80 million people suffer with infertility. Amongst these populations, male counterparts account for 20–50% of infertility cases. The aetiology of infertility in men includes many factors such as psychological issues, lifestyle and environmental factors, hormonal disorders and chromosomal abnormalities. The pathophysiology of these aetiologies may be initiated by a local inflammatory reaction increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which can negatively affect the male reproductive system by altering the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadotropin axis (HPG axis). Alteration of the HPG axis may affect testicular steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, the Leydig cells and Sertoli cells, leading to poor semen quality. The prevalence of male infertility underscores the need for a thorough scientific investigation to identify treatable or reversible factors using plant adjuvants with antioxidative properties. Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the currently available knowledge on the aetiologies of male reproductive dysfunction, emphasising infertility risk factors, as well as elucidating the possible ways by which readily available alternatives, such as Moringa oleifera leaves, may mitigate male infertility by highlighting its role on the oxidative stress parameters, reproductive hormonal levels, testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, gene expression, weight and morphology of the testis and sperm parameters.
... Deficiencies in semen quality and quantity have been identified as the prime cause of male infertility, with about 90% of cases attributed to suboptimal spermatogenesis and sperm counts (Agarwal et al., 2015). In a study conducted by a group of researchers, aqueous leaf extract of moringa maintained basic sperm functions, inhibited excess sperm free superoxide production and preserved acrosome reaction and DNA integrity (Moichela et al., 2021). Moringa leaves as a feed supplement could increase plasma testosterone concentrations, libido, and sperm motility of Bali bulls (Syarifuddin et al., 2017). ...
... The samples were mixed with HTF-BSA (1:6) (Moichela et al. 2021;Takalani et al. 2021), washed by centrifugation (300×g; 10 min) and re-suspended. Sperm suspensions (15 × 10 6 /mL) were subsequently incubated for 1 h with green tea aqueous extracts (0 μg/mL, 0.4 μg/mL, 4.0 μg/mL, 40 μg/mL and 405 μg/mL) at 37 o C. Human tubular fluid supplemented with BSA served as the control. ...
Article
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Background: Idiopathic causes of infertility is associated with oxidative stress. Antioxidants are known to scavenge the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Green tea (Camellia sinensis) contains polyphenols that enhance its antioxidant potential. Aim: This study focused on the impact of aqueous green tea extract on normozoospermic human spermatozoa. Setting: Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape (UWC), South Africa. Methods: Semen samples obtained using masturbation method following three to five days of sexual abstinence from consenting men (n = 59) at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) were liquefied and analysed. Normozoospermic samples were selected according to the World Health Organization (WHO) 5th guideline. Thereafter, semen samples (7.5 × 106 /mL) were washed in human tubular fluid (HTF; 10 min at 300 ×g) and exposed to aqueous extracts of green tea (0 μg/mL, 0.4 μg/mL, 4 μg/mL, 40 μg/mL, 405 μg/mL) for 1 h with various sperm parameters analyzed. Human tubular fluid supplemented with bovine serum albumin (HTF-BSA; 10%) served as control. Results: Sperm motility, reactive oxygen species production, across some reaction and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation decreased significantly, particularly at the highest concentration (405 μg/mL; p 0.001). A substantial increase in the percentage of viable spermatozoa and those with intact mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were observed (p 0.001). Conclusion: Aqueous extract of green tea prolonged sperm viability and MMP while reducing sperm intracellular ROS production, capacitation and across some reaction and DNA fragmentation, and may be attributed to its antioxidant potential. However, a high concentration of the extract appears to be detrimental to the functioning of human spermatozoa.
... In addition, the presence of alkaloids, terpenes, and xanthones in the plant extract could enhance the aphrodisiac activity in male rats (Paz et al., 1979;Taha et al., 1995;Drewes et al., 2002;Estrada-Reyes et al., 2013). The study conducted by Moichela et al. (2020) showed the antioxidant compound in aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves could maintain human sperm function. Therefore, the increase of plasma testosterone level in this study might be due to the presence of these bioactive compounds in Moringa oleifera leaves aqueous extract. ...
Article
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Moringa oleifera leaves were essential for lowering blood glucose levels and increasing androgen levels. This study evaluates the antihyperglycemic properties of Moringa oleifera (MO) leaves aqueous extract and its effect on diabetes-induced male Sprague Dawley rats in attenuating sexual dysfunction. A total of 40 mature male rats were divided into four main groups which were normal control group that received 1 mL of distilled water, the negative control group which did not receive any treatment, positive control group that received 500 mg/kg body weight of metformin, and MO treated group that received 400 mg/kg body weight of Moringa oleifera leaves aqueous extract. All groups were analyzed after 14 and 21 days for their fasting blood glucose level (FBGL) and sexual behavior (mounting latency and mounting frequency). Analysis of testosterone level was also conducted using the testosterone kit of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The data of the treatment group were compared to the control group subjected to one-way ANOVA using IBM SPSS Statistics 22 analysis. The FBGL of diabetes-induced rats treated with Moringa oleifera leaves aqueous extract significantly decreased (p<0.05) and the plasma testosterone level increased (p<0.05) compared to the negative and positive control groups. Diabetes- induced rats treated with Moringa oleifera leaves aqueous extract also showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) in mounting latency and increase (p<0.05) in mounting frequency within 15 min of the observation period. This study demonstrated that Moringa oleifera leaves aqueous extract could reduce FBGL significantly and improve the sexual dysfunction of diabetes- induced male rats.
... As a result of the application of this ointment on the affected area the complications of RA can be This study is based on the formulation of a niosome containing leaf extract of the plant which is used in order to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. Therefore, the pharmacological screening process will be explained in the section below along with the drug mechanism of the plant on the human body [3]. A detailed evaluation of the disease named Rheumatoid Arthritis will be explained in the section below and how the medicinal plant is being used as a relief agent will be discussed in the following section of the study. ...
Article
This research is formulated on the basis of the Rheumatoid Arthritis of a niosome that contains leaf extract of the herb. Therefore, in this part along with the medication system of the herb on the body, the pharmacologic testing procedure is clarified. In the following part, we will explore a thorough assessment of the condition, called rheumatoid arthritis and how the medicinal plant is used as a release agent. While focusing on rheumatoid arthritis throughout the discussion, the research discussion section has made it clear how effectively this paper has tried to meet the formation of niosome with Moringa extract and its effectiveness to reduce the pain. Furthermore, the entire analysis has been illustrated by focusing on the effect of Moringa oleifera over rheumatoid arthritis disease.
... Meanwhile, the reproductive efficiency of the HFD group (G3) was generally compromised, as evidenced by the significant reduction in serum testosterone, and quantitative sperm disorders (reduced sperm cell concentration) and qualitative sperm disorders (reduced sperm viability and motility, and an increased proportion of morphological abnormalities) in rats fed a HFD (Abdulwahab et al., 2020). In a previous study, the aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera enhanced the percentage of non-capacitated spermatozoa, basic sperm functions, decreased the excess sperm free superoxide production, and maintained the acrosome reaction as well as the integrity of DNA in human (Moichela et al., 2021). ...
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In this study, we estimated the protective role of Moringa oleifera leaf ethanolic extract (MOLE) against obesity-associated testicular dysfunction. Fifty male albino rats were randomly assigned to five groups (n = 10): Group I (basal diet), group II (basal diet plus MOLE orally), group III (high-fat diet—HFD), group IV (HFD plus oral MOLE) and group V (HFD for 8 weeks followed by a basal diet plus oral MOLE for 6 weeks). The study duration extended for 14 weeks. Serum collected to investigate testosterone, FSH and LH levels. Testicular tissues were used to determine levels of SOD, glutathione, catalase and malondialdehyde. Semen was collected to estimate its quality (morphology, motility and concentration). Morphological changes in the testis were investigated by histopathological and immunohistochemical techniques. Compared with both control treatment and MOLE treatment, serum testosterone, FSH, LH, testicular enzymatic catalase, SOD, GSH, survivin immunoreactivity, sperm quality and testicular weight were all significantly decreased in rats treated with HFD, while there were significant increases in testicular malondialdehyde and caspase-3 immunoreactivity. MOLE improved all harmful effects of HFD. Improvements were more pronounced in the protected (G 4) than the treated (G 5) group. MOLE could be a potential solution for obesity-associated fertility problem.
... Similar effects on sperm vitality, motility, acrosome reaction, and morphological parameters in the seminiferous tubules and epididymis were observed following black tea administration [137]. Both green tea and black tea decreased serum levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase but black tea only increased creatinine levels [137] Aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera, the "miracle tree" containing a great number of bioactive compounds including polyphenols [138], reduced intracellular ROS production, DNA fragmentation and acrosome reaction without any effect on sperm motility, vitality, mitochondrial membrane potential and capacitation in human spermatozoa in vitro [139]. Quercetin improves the quality of cryopreserved human, dog and bull semen [140][141][142] and exerts protective effects against heavy metals induced oxidative injury in goat sperm and zygotes [143]. ...
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Aging and, particularly, the onset of age-related diseases are associated with tissue dys-function and macromolecular damage, some of which can be attributed to accumulation of oxidative damage. Recently, growing interest has emerged on the beneficial effects of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic diseases including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Several studies collectively suggests that the intake of polyphenols and their major food sources may exert beneficial effects on improving insulin resistance and related diabetes risk factors, such as inflammation and oxidative stress. They are the most abundant antioxidants in the diet, and their intake has been associated with a reduced aging in humans. Polyphenolic intake has been shown to be effective at ameliorating several age-related phenotypes, including oxidative stress, inflammation, impaired proteostasis, and cellular senescence, both in vitro and in vivo. In this paper, effects of these phytochemicals (either pure forms or polyphenolic-food) are reviewed and summarized according to affected cellular signaling pathways. Finally, the effectiveness of the anti-aging preventive action of nutritional interventions based on diets rich in polyphenolic food, such as the diets of the Blue zones, are discussed.
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While Moringa oleifera Lam. is gaining importance in Africa, especially sub-Saharan Africa, it is unclear whether research is following the quick pace of its development on the continent. Therefore, this article analyzes the landscape of research dealing with moringa in Africa. This systematic review draws upon 299 eligible articles identified through a search carried out on the Web of Science in April 2023. Research on M. oleifera is rather recent in Africa but interest is increasing among scholars. While the research field is multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral, the literature seems to focus on biological and environmental sciences. Moreover, research is performed mainly in South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and Ghana. The analysis suggests a significant potential contribution of moringa to food security and nutrition, climate change mitigation/adaptation, farming systems resilience, and livelihoods. Its versatility and diverse applications and uses make moringa particularly interesting for developing countries, such as African ones. However, this review also underscores some factors hindering its development. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen research on moringa to unlock its potential in Africa. Investments in research, innovation, and development can help address the many challenges that Africa faces and contribute to the transition towards sustainable and resilient food systems.
Article
Full-text available
While Moringa oleifera Lam. is gaining importance in Africa, especially sub-Saharan Africa, it is unclear whether research is following the quick pace of its development on the continent. Therefore, this article analyzes the landscape of research dealing with moringa in Africa. This systematic review draws upon 299 eligible articles identified through a search carried out on the Web of Science in April 2023. Research on M. oleifera is rather recent in Africa but interest is increasing among scholars. While the research field is multidisciplinary and cross-sectoral, the literature seems to focus on biological and environmental sciences. Moreover, research is performed mainly in South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and Ghana. The analysis suggests a significant potential contribution of moringa to food security and nutrition, climate change mitigation/adaptation, farming systems resilience, and livelihoods. Its versatility and diverse applications and uses make moringa particularly interesting for developing countries, such as African ones. However, this review also underscores some factors hindering its development. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen research on moringa to unlock its potential in Africa. Investments in research, innovation, and development can help address the many challenges that Africa faces and contribute to the transition towards sustainable and resilient food systems.
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Semen quality and quantity are essential for successful boar herd management. Oxidative stress, nutritional imbalances, and inflammation can impair boar fertility and semen quality. We investigated the impact of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) supplementation on blood parameters, serum antioxidant status, and sperm quality in 24 Duroc boars at 1.0-1.5 years. The boars were randomly divided into four groups of three replicates each and their feed was supplemented with MOLE at concentrations of 0, 10, 50, and 250 mg/kg body weight (BW). Supplementing Duroc boras with MOLE increased leukocyte, erythrocyte, and hemoglobin levels, and significantly influenced serum antioxidant concentrations. The 50 mg/kg showed the highest serum antioxidant capacity, followed by 10 mg/kg. The boars in the MOLE-supplemented group exhibited a significant (P=0.004) reduction in the percentage of total sperm abnormalities. MOLE in the diet can notably enhance blood parameters in breeding boars and improve antioxidant status and sperm quality.
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Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide. Oxidative stress (OS) causes peroxidation of lipids and damage to spermatozoa, thus, reducing the quality of seminal parameters. In addition, the differences in the levels of antioxidants and reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by intrinsic and extrinsic variables linked to lifestyle, diet, genetics, and OS also contribute to male infertility. High levels of ROS result in sperm damage of sperm parameters due to lipid peroxidation and oxidation of proteins. Other significant causes of ROS include changes in sex hormone levels, sperm DNA damage, including mutations, and immature spermatozoa. Treating the root causes of OS, by changing one’s lifestyle, as well as antioxidant therapy, may be helpful strategies to fight OS-related infertility. However, the determination of male infertility induced by OS is currently a challenge in the field of reproductive health research. This review intends to describe the role of oxidative stress on male infertility and the current understanding of its management. Lay summary The inability to conceive affects many couples globally. Oxidative stress refers to imbalances between different oxygen species which can lead to male fertility problems by damaging sperm and semen. Oxidative stress may be caused by several factors, including diets high in fats, sugars and processed foods, lifestyle (including smoking, alcohol consumption and having a sedentary lifestyle), and genetics. Treatment that focuses on the root cause may help combat male infertility. However, there is currently no consensus on the best way to treat male fertility problems, particularly those associated with oxidative stress. This paper describes the role of oxidative stress on male infertility and discusses the current techniques employed in treating male fertility issues.
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Despite advances in the field of male reproductive health, idiopathic male infertility, in which a man has altered semen characteristics without an identifiable cause and there is no female factor infertility, remains a challenging condition to diag- nose and manage. Increasing evidence suggests that oxidative stress (OS) plays an independent role in the etiology of male infertility, with 30% to 80% of infertile men having elevated seminal reactive oxygen species levels. OS can negatively affect fertility via a number of pathways, including interference with capacitation and possible damage to sperm membrane and DNA, which may impair the sperm’s potential to fertilize an egg and develop into a healthy embryo. Adequate evaluation of male reproductive potential should therefore include an assessment of sperm OS. We propose the term Male Oxidative Stress Infertility, or MOSI, as a novel descriptor for infertile men with abnormal semen characteristics and OS, including many patients who were previously classified as having idiopathic male infertility. Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) can be a useful clinical biomarker for the classification of MOSI, as it takes into account the levels of both oxidants and reductants (antioxidants). Current treatment protocols for OS, including the use of antioxidants, are not evidence-based and have the potential for complications and increased healthcare-related expenditures. Utilizing an easy, reproducible, and cost-effective test to measure ORP may provide a more targeted, reliable approach for administering antioxidant therapy while minimizing the risk of antioxidant overdose. With the increasing awareness and understanding of MOSI as a distinct male infertility diag- nosis, future research endeavors can facilitate the development of evidence-based treatments that target its underlying cause.
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Despite advances in the field of male reproductive health, idiopathic male infertility, in which a man has altered semen characteristics without an identifiable cause and there is no female factor infertility, remains a challenging condition to diagnose and manage. Increasing evidence suggests that oxidative stress (OS) plays an independent role in the etiology of male infertility, with 30% to 80% of infertile men having elevated seminal reactive oxygen species levels. OS can negatively affect fertility via a number of pathways, including interference with capacitation and possible damage to sperm membrane and DNA, which may impair the sperm’s potential to fertilize an egg and develop into a healthy embryo. Adequate evaluation of male reproductive potential should therefore include an assessment of sperm OS. We propose the term Male Oxidative Stress Infertility, or MOSI, as a novel descriptor for infertile men with abnormal semen characteristics and OS, including many patients who were previously classified as having idiopathic male infertility. Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) can be a useful clinical biomarker for the classification of MOSI, as it takes into account the levels of both oxidants and reductants (antioxidants). Current treatment protocols for OS, including the use of antioxidants, are not evidence-based and have the potential for complications and increased healthcare-related expenditures. Utilizing an easy, reproducible, and cost-effective test to measure ORP may provide a more targeted, reliable approach for administering antioxidant therapy while minimizing the risk of antioxidant overdose. With the increasing awareness and understanding of MOSI as a distinct male infertility diagnosis, future research endeavors can facilitate the development of evidence-based treatments that target its underlying cause.
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The preliminary phytochemical screening of the crude extract of fresh and dried Moringa oleifera leaves, of the organic solvent and residual fractions of the extract was carried out according to the standard methods. Chemical constituents of the crude aqueous extract of the fresh leaves were found to be tannins, saponins, carbohydrates, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, steroids and terpenes. The crude aqueous extract of the dried leaves contains the same chemical components like that of the fresh leaves except for the absence of steroids and terpenes. Based on the organic solvent extract analysis, the chloroform portion of the extract contains saponins, carbohydrate, flavonoid, cardiac glycosides and alkaloids. The ethyl acetate fraction contains similar chemical constituents and in addition Tannins. Also the n-butanol fraction of the extract contains tannins, saponins, carbohydrate, flavonoid and alkaloid. The residual aqueous fraction of the extract contained tannins, carbohydrate, flavonoid and phlobatannin. Anthraquinones were completely absent from the analysis of Moringa oleifera leaf extracts. The observed chemical constituents have been discussed in relation to the acclaimed medical properties of the plant. Key words: Phytochemistry, crude aqueous extract, organic solvent fractions, Moringa oleifera leaves
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Bioassay-guided fractionation of the crude extracts of Moringa oleifera Lam. using in-vitro angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition assay was employed to purify the two compounds, namely: quercetin-3-O-glucoside (1) and kaempferol-3-O-glucoside (2). Compound 1 has a significant % of inhibition at varying concentrations: 7 ug/ml (56.37±0.0059%), 15 ug/ml (59.16±0.0137%) and 28 ug/ml (75.74±0.0161%). The methanol extract was found to contain 180.15 ug/ml of compound 1 for every 2mg/ml of methanol extract after standardization. Furthermore, oral administration of M. oleifera crude extracts did not present acute toxicity in mice. Methanolic and ethyl acetate extracts have significantly reduced sytolic blood pressure in Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester or L-NAME induced hypertensive mice (90.97±0.7975 mm Hg in methanolic extract treated mice; 87.71±0.9623 mm Hg in ethyl acetate-treated mice versus 89.21±0.8025 mm Hg in control group).
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Moringa oleifera is a valued medicinal plant in traditional folk medicine. Many pharmacological studies have shown the ability of this plant to exhibit analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anticancer, antioxidant, nootropic, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, anti-ulcer, cardiovascular, anti-obesity, antiepileptic, antiasthmatic, antidiabetic, anti-urolithiatic, diuretic, local anesthetic, anti-allergic, anthelmintic, wound healing, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and antidiarrheal properties. This review is a comprehensive summary of the phytochemical and pharmacological activities as well as the traditional and therapeutic uses of this plant. M. oleifera has wide traditional and pharmacological uses in various pathophysiological conditions. We will review the various properties of M. oleifera (drumstick tree) and focus on its various medicinal properties. We think that it is an attractive subject for further experimental and clinical investigations.
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Trace elements aid numerous biochemical processes in the human body. The main cause of many health problems in man are either deficiency or excess of minerals. Hence, screening of the definite bio-active" constituents of plant source and evaluation of elemental composition of the extensively used medicinal plants is greatly vital. An effort was made to find out the elemental constituents of diverse parts of Moringa oleifera including fruit, leaves, bark, stem and flower at trace levels from Laki Marwat, Bannu and D.I. Khan. Trace elements were quantified applying atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The amount of Selenium (Se), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu) and Iron (Fe) in stems, flowers, barks, leaves and fruits of Moringa oleifera from Laki Marwat is relatively greater than those of Bannu and D.I. Khan. The results reveal that the amounts of trace elements in various aerial parts of M. oleifera are highly dependent on harvesting sites."Various aerial parts of M. oleifera were observed to have ample amounts of Zn, Se, Fe and Cu.
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The aim of the study was to investigate the associations between standard semen parameters and the parameters reflecting oxidative stress intensity, antioxidant defense functions, levels of selected macro and trace elements, and parameters characterizing immune system function. The study group consisted of 103 fertile males. Based on semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, and percentage of motile sperm at 1 hour postcollection, the individuals were divided into two equal groups—those with excellent (EX) semen quality and those with mediocre (ME) semen quality. The remaining measured parameters characterizing motility and the percentage of normal morphology were higher in the EX group than in the ME group; however, the seminal plasma pH did not differ between the examined groups. The phosphate level was 31% lower in the EX group than in the ME group, whereas there was a tendency toward a 25% lower level of Fe in the EX group than in the ME group ( p=0.064 ). The activities of enzymes involved in antioxidant defense, CuZn-SOD, CAT, and G6PD, were 14%, 63%, and 39%, respectively, higher in the EX group than in the ME group. However, the level of alpha-tocopherol was 32% lower in the EX group than in the ME group. The other measured parameters characterizing antioxidant defense and the parameters of oxidative stress intensity and immune system function were not significantly different. The value of seminal plasma pH is not related to the semen quality of fertile males. Higher fertility potential estimated based on standard semen parameters in fertile males is associated with lower levels of Fe and higher activities of some antioxidant enzymes.
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The extensive use of artificial insemination in turkeys has led to the development of in vitro semen storage. However, fertility rates from liquid stored and frozen/thawed turkey semen are still unsatisfactory. The aim of the study was to assess spermatozoa viability, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and reactive oxygen species production (ROS) in liquid stored and cryopreserved turkey semen with the use of flow cytometry. Moreover, motility and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content in sperm were monitored at the same time to link flow cytometry data with sperm movement and energetics. Liquid storage led to a decrease in sperm motility (80.6 vs. 55.6%, for fresh and stored for 48 h), live sperm with an intact MMP (59.9 vs. 30.5% for fresh and stored for 48 h), and a 20-fold decrease in ATP content after 24 h of storage. A 3-fold increase in ROS+ sperm was observed after 48 h of storage (9.3 vs. 26.8% for fresh and stored for 48 h). Semen equilibration before cryopreservation affected only ATP content. However, freezing/thawing led to a dramatic decrease in all of the studied semen quality parameters. A 5-fold decrease in live sperm with intact MMP (59.8 vs. 11.9%) and a 7-fold increase in sperm ROS+ (10.8 vs. 74.4%) were recorded between fresh and frozen/thawed semen. The results strongly suggested that a significant loss of MMP and a disturbance in sperm ATP production during semen storage can be the main reason for the decline in sperm motility. The disturbance of mitochondria activity during storage seems to be associated with the increase in oxidative stress in turkey semen. Turkey sperm mitochondria also appear to be very sensitive to cryodamage. Diminished energy production in turkey spermatozoa, visible as the low percentage of sperm with an intact MMP and low level of ATP after freezing/thawing, which is associated with high ROS generation, could be responsible for the low fertilizing ability of cryopreserved turkey semen.
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Sperm DNA fragmentation is considered one of the main causes of male infertility. The most accepted causes of sperm DNA damage are deleterious actions of reactive oxygen species (ROS), defects in protamination, and apoptosis. Ram sperm are highly prone to those damages due to the high susceptibility to ROS and to oxidative stress caused by heat stress. We aimed to evaluate the effects of heat stress on the chromatin of ejaculated and epididymal sperm and the activation of apoptotic pathways in different cell types in ram testis. We observed higher percentages of ejaculated sperm with increased chromatin fragmentation in the heat stress group; a fact that was unexpectedly not observed in epididymal sperm. Heat stress group presented a higher percentage of spermatozoa with DNA fragmentation and increased number of mRNA copies of transitional protein 1. Epididymal sperm presented greater gene expression of protamine 1 on the 30th day of the spermatic cycle; however, no differences in protamine protein levels were observed in ejaculated sperm and testis. Localization of proapoptotic protein BAX or BCL2 in testis was not different. In conclusion, testicular heat stress increases ram sperm DNA fragmentation without changes in protamination and apoptotic patterns.
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This study aimed to evaluate dietary supplementation of Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) on semen quality, oxidative stress, thermal regulation and health status of heat stressed buffalo bulls. Eighteen sexually mature Egyptian buffalo bulls were divided into three groups, 6 in each. Bulls in G1 were fed ration composed of concentrate fed mixture (CFM), berseem hay and rice straw (control). Bulls in G2 and G3 were fed the same CFM supplemented with MOL at levels of 4 and 8% of CFM, respectively for one month presemen collection and 4 months as semen collection period. Semen was collected twice weekly and evaluated for percentages of individual motility (IM), livability (SL), abnormality (SA) and damaged acrosome (DA) of sperm cells. Response of spermatozoa to hypo-osmotic test (percentage of curled spermatozoa) at 50 mOsm/l for 30 min was also recorded. Rectal (RT) and skin (ST) temperatures, respiration rate (RR) and pulse rate (PR) were recorded. Blood samples were taken pre-treatment and during 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th months of semen collection to determine hemoglobin concentration (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV%), count of red (RBCs) and white (WBCs) blood cells. Concentration of total proteins (TP), albumin (AL), globulin (GL), glucose (GLU), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), urea, uric acid, creatinine (Cr) and testosterone, as well activity of AST, ALT, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione (GSH) were determined in blood serum. Concentration of TG and TC, and activity of AST, ALT, SOD, catalase and GSH were estimated also in seminal plasma. Results showed that RT and ST, RR and PR decreased (P<0.05) in G3 than in G2 and G1. Each of RT and ST, RR and PR increased (P<0.05) up to 3rd collection month, then decreased at the 4th collection month in association with THI values. Percentage of IM, SL, SA, CT and DA were improved (P<0.05) in G2 and G3 as compared to G1, being the best (P<0.05) in G3. All previous parameters were improved (P<0.05) by advancing collection month. Both TC and TG in seminal plasma decreased (P<0.05) in G3 as compared to G1 and G2. Activity of AST and ALT decreased (P<0.05), while catalase, GSH and SOD activities increased (P<0.05) in seminal plasma of G2 and G3 as compared to G1. Each of TC, ALT, catalase, GSH and SOD in seminal plasma increased (P<0.05), while TG decreased (P<0.05) by advancing collection month, while AST was not affected. Serum testosterone concentration was higher (P<0.05) in G2 and G3 than in G1, being the highest in G3. Each of PCV, Hb and RBCs were higher (P<0.05) in G2 and G3 than in G1, being the highest in G3, while WBCs showed (P<0.05) an opposite trend (P<0.05). Each of Hb, RBCs and WBCs increased (P<0.05) one month after treatment, then Hb and RBC increased (P<0.05), while PCV and WBCs decreased (P<0.05) at the 4th collection month. Serum TP, AL and GLU increased (P<0.05) in G3 as compared to G1 and G2, while GL was not affected by treatment. By advancing collection month, concentration of TP, AL, GL and glucose showed gradual increase (P<0.05). Concentration of TG and TC reduced (P<0.05) in G2 and G3, while HDL increased (P<0.05) in G3 as compared to G1. However, LDL was not affected by treatment. Concentration of TG decreased (P<0.05), while HDL increased (P<0.05) by advancing collection month. Concentration of TC and LDL showed fluctuated trend of change at different collection months (P<0.05). Serum urea decreased (P<0.05) in G3, while uric acid, creatinine, AST and ALT decreased (P<0.05) in G2 and G3 as compared to G1. Urea and uric acid decreased (P<0.05) during one month before semen collection and at the 3 rd collection month, respectively. However, Cr, AST and ALT decreased (P<0.05) by advancing collection month. Catalase, GSH and SOD increased (P<0.05) in G2 and G3, being the highest in G3. All antioxidant enzymes increased (P<0.05) by advancing collection month, being at higher rate for SOD, followed by GSH and the lowest for catalase during month pre-treatment. The current study can conclude that, moringa oleifera leaves could be used as feed additive to help farmers for sustainable development of breeding bulls. Results of this study recommended that daily adding 240 g moringa oleifera leaves per buffalo bull for one month pre-semen collection or at a level of 8% of concentrate feed mixture in diets of buffalo bulls can improve quality and production of semen without any adverse effects on health status under hot climatic conditions in Egypt.
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Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae) is a medium-size agroforestry tree that originated from south Asia, but has become naturalised in many countries globally. Moringa oleifera has gained importance due to its multipurpose uses and good adaptability to both humid and dry climates. Almost all parts of the plant are used. The species is considered as a neglected and underutilised as its potential is still not well economically known and valued. This review presents the status and factors responsible for underutilisation of this, otherwise important crop as a basis for formulation of viable development strategies of knowledge on taxonomy, distribution, diverse utilisations, nutritional value, socioeconomic importance, morphological and genetic diversity, domestication, propagation and management of M. oleifera. Knowledge gaps, and research and development avenues are suggested and discussed for improved valorisation. To that purpose, articles were searched in Google Scholar, Web of Science and BioMed Central database with relevant keywords on M. oleifera. All the articles found, including reviews and peer-reviewed articles were critically read and analysed for inclusion in this review. Findings revealed that the species is one of the most studied and used species with various uses stretching from food and medicinal uses to water purification, biopesticide and production of biodiesel. Findings also highlight high morphological and genetic diversity of the species, which may become a resource for the conservation and the selection of germplasm. However, many aspects of the species are still waiting for further research. Key Words: Domestication, economy, genetic resources, Moringa oleifera, nutrition value
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Motility is an important criterion in the assessment and quantification of the quality of ejaculated and epididymal sperm samples. Ovine sperm spermatozoa are particularly susceptible to cryodamage, and shortening the interval from collection to cryostorage may potentially minimize the negative effects of cryopreservation, thereby improving the post-thaw viability of ram spermatozoa. The use of the swim-up technique (SUT) in quantifying spermatozoa motility is well documented, especially for the isolation of highly motile spermatozoa for assisted reproductive purposes. However, this technique is time consuming and involves a swim-up period of 10 minutes before the motility of a sample is recorded by using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) software such as the Sperm Class Analyser® (SCA®). The novel flush technique (FT) allows for capturing of sperm motility tracks via the SCA® system shortly after semen collection, that is, within a minute. This study compared fresh ejaculated sperm motility traits by using the SUT and FT. Motility evaluations were performed using 45 semen samples obtained from 15 adult Merino rams (Ovis aries) at weekly intervals. Motility recordings were captured at 100 frames per second, using a calibrated 20 µm deep Leja slide. The percentage total motile spermatozoa of samples subjected to the FT was 89.2%, which was significantly higher than that recorded by the SUT (83.9%). The results also indicated that the wobble (WOB) parameter showed significantly higher values when using the FT, and parameters curvilinear velocity (VCL) and amplitude of the lateral head displacement (ALH) indicated significantly higher values when using the SUT. Establishing the ideal spermatozoa concentration and analysis of sperm subpopulation motility characteristics would assist in the optimization of the FT, and its use in CASA motility analysis of ovine spermatozoa. Standardization of CASA analysis of ovine semen samples, which would enable the selection of quality spermatozoa samples for use in field insemination (fresh samples) or in vitro fertilization programs, and laparoscopic AI cryopreserved samples warrants further investigation.
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Objective: To summarise the latest evidence on the role of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) in male factor infertility, as SDF has been emerging as a valuable tool for male infertility evaluation. Methods: A search of PubMed was conducted using the keywords ‘sperm DNA fragmentation’ and ‘male infertility’. Studies in languages other than English were excluded. All identified studies were screened and clinical studies in humans were included. Results: In all, 150 articles were included for analysis. Current evidence supports the association between high SDF and poor reproductive outcomes for natural conception and intrauterine insemination. Although the relationship between high SDF and in vitro fertilisation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection is less clear, the negative implication of high SDF on pregnancy loss is evident. Various treatment strategies have been attempted with varying success. The predictive value of SDF testing on outcomes of natural pregnancy and assisted reproduction illustrates its value in clinical practice. Conclusion: The significant role of SDF in male factor infertility is supported by current evidence. The beneficial role of SDF testing in selection of varicocelectomy candidates, evaluation of patients with unexplained infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss, selection of the most appropriate assisted reproductive technique with highest success rate for infertile couples, and assessment of infertile men with modifiable lifestyle factors or gonadotoxin exposure has been recently proposed.
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Background Studies showed effects of Moringa oleifera (MO) on lowering blood sugar levels in animal and diabetes patients. The aims of this study were to determine the effect of MO leaf capsules on glucose control in therapy-naïve type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to evaluate its safety. Method This was a prospective randomized placebo controlled study. Therapy-naïve T2DM was randomly assigned to receive either 8 grams per day of MO leaf capsules (MO leaf group) or placebo for 4 weeks. Clinical and laboratory characteristics were recorded at screening and at the end of 4-week study. 9-point plasma glucose was obtained before and every week during the study. Results Thirty-two T2DM patients were enrolled. The mean age was 55 years and the mean HbA1C was 7.0%. There was no significant difference in FPG and HbA1C between groups. MO leaf group had SBP reduction by 5 mmHg as compared to baseline but this difference had no statistical significance. There were no adverse effects of MO leaf. Conclusions Moringa oleifera leaf had no effect on glycemic control and no adverse effects in T2DM. Interestingly, this study demonstrated that MO leaf had a tendency on blood pressure reduction in T2DM, and this result needs further investigation.
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Moringa Oleifera (MO), a plant from the family Moringacea is a major crop in Asia and Africa. MO has been studied for its health properties, attributed to the numerous bioactive components, including vitamins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, isothiocyanates, tannins and saponins, which are present in significant amounts in various components of the plant. Moringa Oleifera leaves are the most widely studied and they have shown to be beneficial in several chronic conditions, including hypercholesterolemia, high blood pressure, diabetes, insulin resistance, non-alcoholic liver disease, cancer and overall inflammation. In this review, we present information on the beneficial results that have been reported on the prevention and alleviation of these chronic conditions in various animal models and in cell studies. The existing limited information on human studies and Moringa Oleifera leaves is also presented. Overall, it has been well documented that Moringa Oleifera leaves are a good strategic for various conditions associated with heart disease, diabetes, cancer and fatty liver.
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Background Aloe barbadensis (AB) is a short stemmed succulent medicinal herb that is being used by locals in Nigeria to enhance libido. Therefore this study evaluates the aphrodisiac potential and acute toxicological effect of A. barbadensis (AB) root in male Wistar rats. Methods Aphrodisiac potential was determined following the oral administration of graded doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of ethanol extract of A. barbadensis root. Sildenafil citrate (Viagra) and distilled water served as positive and negative controls respectively. Sexual behavioural parameters (mounting and intromission frequencies, mounting, intromission and ejaculatory latencies) were observed. Serum testosterone and cholesterol concentrations were also progressively monitored on days 1, 7 and 14. The acute toxicological evaluation of the plant were based on any onset behavioural changes and mortality respectively. Results The findings from the sexual behavioural study indicated that the ethanol extract of A. barbadensis significantly increased mounting frequency and intromission frequency but significantly decreased mount and intromission latencies in a dose dependent manner particularly on day 1 and 14. The ethanol extract also prolonged ejaculatory latency. The testosterone and cholesterol concentrations were also increased as the dose increased particularly on day 1 and 7. The lowest dose of 100 mg/kg showed the best aphrodisiac effect. The toxicity studies showed that there were no acute behavioural changes with zero mortality. Conclusion The increased blood testosterone and cholesterol concentrations by the ethanol extract of A. barbadensis can probably be said to be the possible mechanisms of action for its aphrodisiac property. The plant may also be used to treat hypotestosteronemia following its ability to increase testosterone. These findings therefore give backing to the acclaimed local use of A. barbadensis root as an aphrodisiac in males.
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Moringa oleifera is an edible plant that has been reputed to be a miracle plant by numerous authors, with effects on practically every body system. Phytochemical analyses have demonstrated that the leaves are rich in various minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Its use in some continents dates back to Antiquity. Neurodegeneration are chronic diseases of the nervous system. There is currently an increase in the use of natural products to combat these debilitating diseases. So far, no suitable cure has been found, and conditions are managed and the symptoms treated. This article reviews the literature on the effects of Moringa oleifera leaves on the nervous system in vivo and in vitro.
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Oxidative stress is a well-established cause of male infertility, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) impairing sperm production, motility, membrane, and DNA integrity. Currently, most clinics do not test infertile patients for the imbalance between ROS generation and the ability of the antioxidants to scavenge them, although there is a clear need for andrology laboratories to be able to identify and/or quantify seminal oxidative stress. As such there is a clinical urgency for an inexpensive and easy-to-perform assay able to identify oxidative stress in semen. The aim of this review is to provide information on the currently available methods to assess and quantify ROS and particularly superoxide in male reproductive cells, tissues, and fluids which may have a significant clinical utility in identifying men with impaired fertility associated with oxidative stress. Through a deeper understanding of oxidative stress and its assessment options, clinical andrology labs may better assist patients to achieve increased rates of fertility and pregnancy.
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Moringa oleifera seeds are a promising resource for food and non-food applications, due to their content of monounsaturated fatty acids with a high monounsaturated/saturated fatty acids (MUFA/SFA) ratio, sterols and tocopherols, as well as proteins rich in sulfated amino acids. The rapid growth of Moringa trees in subtropical and tropical areas, even under conditions of prolonged drought, makes this plant a reliable resource to enhance the nutritional status of local populations and, if rationalized cultivation practices are exploited, their economy, given that a biodiesel fuel could be produced from a source not in competition with human food crops. Despite the relatively diffuse use of Moringa seeds and their oil in traditional medicine, no pharmacological activity study has been conducted on humans. Some encouraging evidence, however, justifies new efforts to obtain clear and definitive information on the benefits to human health arising from seed consumption. A critical review of literature data concerning the composition of Moringa oil has set in motion a plan for future investigations. Such investigations, using the seeds and oil, will focus on cultivation conditions to improve plant production, and will study the health effects on human consumers of Moringa seeds and their oil.
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Oxidative stress (OS) plays an essential role in male infertility aetiology by affecting sperm quality, function, and also the integrity of sperm DNA. The assessment of oxidative stress in semen may be an important tool to improve the evaluation of sperm reproductive capacity. The purpose of this study was the evaluation of any possible relation between the unbalance of oxidative stress caused by superoxide anion in the ejaculate with the presence of sperm DNA fragmentation and high concentration of round cells. 56 semen samples from males from couples suffering from infertility were evaluated according to World Health Organisation (WHO) 2010 guidelines. Oxidative stress levels from N1 (low) to N4 (high) were assessed in ejaculates using oxiSperm; DFI (sperm DNA fragmentation index) as assessed by the SCSA (Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay) was used for evaluation of sperm chromatin integrity. Our data show that high oxidative stress (N3-N4 levels) correlated positively with a % and round cells 1.500.000/mL . In conclusion, OS increases sperm DNA damage. Thus evaluation of semen OS extent of sperm DNA damage in infertile man could be useful to develop new therapeutic strategies and improve success of assisted reproduction techniques (ART).
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Moringa oleifera is a medicinal plant and an excellent dietary source of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and health‐promoting phytochemicals (phenolic compounds, glucosinolates and isothiocyanates). Glucosinolates and isothiocyanates are known to possess anti‐carcinogenic and antioxidant effects and have attracted great interest from both toxicological and pharmacological points of view, as they are able to induce phase 2 detoxification enzymes and to inhibit phase 1 activation enzymes. Phenolic compounds possess antioxidant properties and may exert a preventative effect in regards to the development of chronic degenerative diseases. The aim of this work was to assess the profile and the level of bioactive compounds in all parts of M. oleifera seedlings, by using different MS approaches. First, flow injection electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (FI‐ESI‐MS) fingerprinting techniques and chemometrics (PCA) were used to achieve the characterization of the different plant's organs in terms of profile of phenolic compounds and glucosinolates. Second, LC‐MS and LC‐MS/MS qualitative and quantitative methods were used for the identification and/or determination of phenolics and glucosinolates in M. oleifera . Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Evidence suggests that disturbing the balance between reactive oxygen species levels and antioxidant contents in seminal plasma leads to oxidative stress resulting in male infertility. This study was carried out to identifying clinical significance of seminal oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation in treatment strategies of male infertility in southwest Iran. Sperm parameters, lipid peroxidation and activity of antioxidant enzymes were assessed in fertile (n = 105) and infertile (n = 112) men. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in seminal plasma were found to be higher significantly (p < .001) in patients. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities in seminal plasma were significantly (p < .001) lower in infertile men. Significant negative correlations were observed between MDA levels and sperm motility and normal morphology. Spermatozoa with fragmented DNA were higher (p < .001) in infertile men and significantly correlated with MDA levels and SOD and GPx activities. MDA of 4.2 nmol/ml, SOD of 4.89 U/ml and GPx of 329.6 mU/ml were optimum cut-off limits to discriminate infertile patients from fertile men. The results show the leading role of oxidative stress in aetiology of male infertility in southwest Iran and indicate that evaluation of seminal antioxidant status and DNA integrity can be helpful in men attending infertility clinics during fertility assessment.
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Although semen quality is an important determinant of fertility, defining clear thresholds for normal ranges has proven difficult. According to 'time to pregnancy' studies, fecundity starts to decline when sperm concentrations fall below 30-55 × 10(6)/ml, whereas the WHO criterion for normal values is currently 15 × 10(6)/ml. Multiple studies over the past 15 years have reported median sperm concentrations of 41-55 × 10(6)/ml in young men (mean age 18-21 years) from the general population, suggesting that many of them have suboptimal semen quality. Sperm numbers remain fairly constant between 19 and 29 years of age, which points to the importance of developmental effects. Discussion on whether population semen quality has declined has continued for decades, as regional differences in trends have been noted. The reasons for poor semen quality and adverse trends are not well established, but some associations suggest a causal relationship, for example, with maternal smoking during pregnancy. The role of chemical exposures leading to endocrine disruption and detrimental reproductive effects has been in the focus of research during the past 20 years. Identification of exposures that affect fertility could provide opportunities for effective prevention of reproductive health problems.
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Moringa Oleifera, native to India, grows in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is commonly known as ‘drumstick tree’ or ‘horseradish tree’. Moringa can withstand both severe drought and mild frost conditions and hence widely cultivated across the world. With its high nutritive values, every part of the tree is suitable for either nutritional or commercial purposes. The leaves are rich in minerals, vitamins and other essential phytochemicals. Extracts from the leaves are used to treat malnutrition, augment breast milk in lactating mothers. It is used as potential antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and antimicrobial agent. Moringa Oleifera seed, a natural coagulant is extensively used in water treatment. The scientific effort of this research provides insights on the use of moringa as a cure for diabetes and cancer and fortification of moringa in commercial products. This review explores the use of moringa across disciplines for its medicinal value and deals with cultivation, nutrition, commercial and prominent pharmacological properties of this “Miracle Tree”.
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Infertility affects an estimated 15% of couples globally, amounting to 48.5 million couples. Males are found to be solely responsible for 20-30% of infertility cases and contribute to 50% of cases overall. However, this number does not accurately represent all regions of the world. Indeed, on a global level, there is a lack of accurate statistics on rates of male infertility. Our report examines major regions of the world and reports rates of male infertility based on data on female infertility. Our search consisted of systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and population-based studies by searching the terms "epidemiology, male infertility, and prevalence." We identified 16 articles for detailed study. We typically used the assumption that 50% of all cases of infertility are due to female factors alone, 20-30% are due to male factors alone, and the remaining 20-30% are due to a combination of male and female factors. Therefore, in regions of the world where male factor or rates of male infertility were not reported, we used this assumption to calculate general rates of male factor infertility. Our calculated data showed that the distribution of infertility due to male factor ranged from 20% to 70% and that the percentage of infertile men ranged from 2·5% to 12%. Infertility rates were highest in Africa and Central/Eastern Europe. Additionally, according to a variety of sources, rates of male infertility in North America, Australia, and Central and Eastern Europe varied from 4 5-6%, 9%, and 8-12%, respectively. This study demonstrates a novel and unique way to calculate the distribution of male infertility around the world. According to our results, at least 30 million men worldwide are infertile with the highest rates in Africa and Eastern Europe. Results indicate further research is needed regarding etiology and treatment, reduce stigma & cultural barriers, and establish a more precise calculation.
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Moringa oleifera Lam is considered one of the most useful tree in the world because every part of the Moringa tree can be used such as nutritional supplement, for medication, and industrial purposes.Conventional solid-liquid extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) were performed using different solvents and mixtures of solvents with water. The total phenolic content was determined using Folin-Ciocalteu assay. UAE using ethanol:water (50:50) was the best extraction procedure, which allowed 47 ± 4. mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dry leaf to be obtained. In addition, high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization quadropole-time of flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS) was used to characterize the bioactive compounds in the resulting extract. Consequently, 59 compounds were tentatively characterized, phenolic acid derivatives and flavonoids being the most abundant. Furthermore, 30 of these compounds were tentatively identified for the first time in M. oleifera leaves.This study shows that leaves from M. oleifera are a good nutritional resource used as a nutritional supplement and may carry additional opportunities for food ingredient innovations, pharmaceutical and cosmetics products.