Evaluation of reversible antiandrogenic and antispermatogenic activities of Annona squamosa (Linn) stem bark methanol extract in male albino rats

The present study was undertaken to evaluate antiandrogenic activities of (methanol stem bark extract) Annona squamosa L. (Annonaceae) with their respective reversibility in male albino rats. Adult male albino rats were gavaged with 100% methanol extract of Annona squamosa stem bark at the dose level of 50, 100 and 200 mg/rat/day for 60 days.

Fertility test was performed before and after 55th day of treatment.

Sperm dynamics in cauda epididymides and testis were assessed.

Biochemical and histological analysis were also done in blood, serum and in reproductive organs. Recovery of fertility was followed to evaluate the reversibility of drug nature. Annona squamosa stem bark extract brought about a significant decrease in the weights of testes and accessory reproductive organs. Sperm motility and density was also reduced significantly. Significant reduction was seen in protein, sialic acid and glycogen content of testis as well as fructose content of seminal vesicle. An increased level of cholesterol was seen in testis.

The blood and serum parameters were found to be within the normal range whereas the serum testosterone levels decreased significantly. The stem bark extract feeding caused a marked reduction in the number of spermatocytes and spermatids in the testis. The diameter of the seminiferous tubules and the numbers of mature Leydig cells were also decreased whereas, number of degenerating cells increased proportionately. In conclusion Annona squamosa stem bark extract have an antiandrogenic and antispermatogenic activity, which were reversible after withdrawal of drug.

Acknowledgment: Authors are thankful to the Head, Department of Zoology, Prof. N.K. Lohiya Coordinator CAS, Department of Zoology for providing the neccessory facilities and UGC, Regional Office, Bhopal, INDIA for financial support.