Moringa seeds mitigate oxidative stress and promote antioxidant activity in aging male rats

Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the antioxidant effects of one of the natural plant sources against oxidative stress caused by aging. Moringa oleifera seeds (MOS), the less utilized part, were chosen to investigate their role against oxidative stress in aging male albino rats. Methods: DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate), ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), polyphenols, some vitamins, and amino acids were estimated in the moringa seeds. The animals were mainly divided into two groups: adult and elderly rats. Each group was further subdivided equally into normal (not treated) and treated rats (which were orally administered an aqueous ground suspension of the MOS seeds) at a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight for four weeks (five days/week). Serum levels of free testosterone, free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and liver and kidney function were assessed. Additionally, histopathological investigations of brain and testicular tissue samples were conducted. Glutathione S-transferase (GST), malondialdehyde (MDA), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were measured in the homogenates of brain and testicular tissues. Results: The results reveal a powerful antioxidant effect of MOS, indicated by a significant reduction in MDA levels along with a significant increase in GST and AChE concentrations. MOS treatment significantly increased serum testosterone levels and thyroid hormone levels in the male rats' serum. Conclusion: MOS could improve most oxidative stress disorders associated with aging in male rats. Finally, the inadequacy of research on brain and testicular aging has been identified, and new research options have been proposed to aid in the treatment of brain and testicular aging. Further study in this area may uncover the underlying mechanisms, paving the way for the development of new treatments for age-related issues.