Effects of White Bualuang (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) Extract on Testicular Histomorphometry and Spermatogenic Parameters in Mancozeb-Exposed Rats

Male infertility is an increasing global health concern associated with declining population growth. Mancozeb (MZ) exposure may induce reproductive toxicity through endocrine disruption and oxidative stress, impairing spermatogenesis. This study evaluated the effects of White Bualuang extract (WBE) on sexual behavior, testicular histomorphometry, and spermatogenic parameters in rats exposed to MZ. Thirty mature male rats were randomly assigned to the following five groups (n = 6): Control, MZ 500 mg/kg, MZ + 0.55 mg/kg WBE, MZ + 1.10 mg/kg WBE, and MZ + 2.20 mg/kg WBE, for 30 days. Sexual behaviors, relative testis weight, antioxidant properties, and histomorphometry parameters were determined. MZ-exposed rats had significantly decreased courtship behavior, seminiferous tubule diameter, and a tendency toward decreased spermatogenic cell numbers, along with enlarged interstitial spaces. However, pretreatment with WBE, especially at a dose of 0.55 mg/kg, showed improvements in courtship behavior and several histomorphometry parameters and was associated with increased Sertoli cell efficiency and spermatogenic organization compared with the MZ group. WBE showed potential to reduce lipid peroxidation (LPO) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in MZ-exposed rats, particularly, the 0.55 mg/kg dose improved courtship behavior and reproductive parameters, supporting further investigation of WBE as an antioxidant and potential functional supplement.