Effects of Lotus Seedpod Procyanidins on Extremely Low-frequency Electromagnetic Field-induced Reproductive Injury in Male Mice

Abstract:

The protective effects of lotus seedpod procyanidins (LSPCs) on injury to the reproductive system in male mice, induced by extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF). A total of 50 male, ICR mice were randomly divided into five groups: control group, ELF-EMF group, and ELF-EMF+30, 60, and 90 mg/kg LSPC groups. LSPC was administered intragastrically to the mice daily for 75 consecutive days. ELF-EMF exposure was initiated 15 days after LSPC administration began and continued for 60 days. After ELF-EMF exposure, the mice were sacrificed, and their epididymis and testes were obtained to determine the weight. Parameters such as testicle to body weight ratio, sperm motility, and malformation rates, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were measured as well as testicular pathological changes were noted. Administration of LSPCs (especially 60 and 90 mg/kg) for 75 days effectively alleviated testicular morphological damage, significantly improved testicle to body weight ratio, sperm motility, SOD activity in the testes, reduced sperm malformation rate, and testicle MDA content. The results suggest that treatment with LSPCs could significantly alleviate reproductive injury induced by ELF-EMF in male mice.