The present study evaluated bioassay-guided fractionation, the in vitro antioxidant activity, and protective effects of the methanol leaves extract of Baphia longipedicellata against cadmium chloride–induced testicular damage in Wistar rats. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of key bioactive compounds: flavonoids; tannins; alkaloids; phenolics; and terpenoids, with fractionation indicating higher concentrations of phenolic constituents in the ethyl acetate and butanol fractions. Antioxidant assays showed significant concentration-dependent activities in lipid peroxidation inhibition, nitric oxide and DPPH radical scavenging. Crude extract and ethyl acetate fractions showed superoxide inhibition and ferric reducing power effects comparable to catechin. Cadmium chloride exposure induced marked oxidative stress, hormonal imbalance, and impaired sperm parameters evidenced by reduced levels of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and endogenous antioxidants, with elevated malondialdehyde levels. Treatment with the extract (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly ameliorated these effects by restoring antioxidant enzyme activities, improving reproductive hormone levels, and enhancing sperm quality in a dose-dependent manner. Acute toxicity test results indicated relative safety at lower doses. In conclusion, Baphia longipedicellata leaves extract exhibits potent antioxidant and protective properties, supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent against cadmium-induced testicular toxicity and oxidative stress–related reproductive disorders.
Kayode et al. (Thu,) studied this question.
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