To Investigate the Biochemical Parameters in Male Albino Wistar Rats Treated with Benincasa Hispida Seeds and Coenzyme Q10

Abstract

Male infertility remains a global health concern, with oxidative stress being a critical factor responsible for impaired sperm quality, hormonal imbalance, and altered biochemical homeostasis. This study investigated the effects of Benincasa hispida (ash gourd) seed extract in combination with Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on biochemical and reproductive parameters in male albino Wistar rats. Twenty-four adult rats were divided into four groups: control, low dose (100 mg/kg seed extract + 10 mg/kg CoQ10), medium dose (150 mg/kg + 10 mg/kg), and high dose (200 mg/kg + 10 mg/kg), administered orally for 60 days. Biochemical markers including liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin, protein, albumin), kidney function tests (BUN, creatinine, uric acid), lipid profile, antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH), oxidative stress marker (MDA), and reproductive hormones (testosterone, FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin, corticosterone, TSH) were evaluated.

Results demonstrated a dose-dependent improvement across biochemical and hormonal indices. Liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP) and protein levels showed enhanced metabolic activity without hepatotoxicity, while kidney markers (BUN, creatinine, uric acid) indicated normal renal function with increased metabolic turnover. Antioxidant enzyme activities were elevated, accompanied by reduced lipid peroxidation, signifying mitigation of oxidative stress. Hormonal assays revealed significant increases in testosterone, FSH, and LH, indicating stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, while estradiol and prolactin remained within physiological ranges. The 200 mg/kg dose exhibited the most pronounced effects, reflecting synergistic benefits of phytochemicals in B. hispida seeds and the mitochondrial support of CoQ10.

Collectively, findings highlight the therapeutic potential of B. hispida seeds and CoQ10 in restoring biochemical balance, improving antioxidant defense, and enhancing male reproductive hormone regulation. These results provide experimental evidence supporting their role as safe, natural nutraceuticals for managing oxidative stress-induced male infertility.