Ameliorative effect of Yuganzi (Emblica officinalis) on chronic low-dose acrylamide-induced reproductive toxicity in male and female rats

• This study is novel since it aims to ascertain the antioxidant effect of Emblica officinalis on the deleterious effects of AA on the reproductive system. • This study demonstrated alterations in the histological examination coupled with certain hormonal indicators, proving beyond a doubt the harmful effect of AA on the reproductive system. • Emblica officinalis has a treatment effect on AA-induced toxicity in the reproductive system. • Reducing the consumption of processed foods, particularly those high in carbohydrates, is recommended to lessen the effects of AA on the body. • Along with avoiding AA-rich foods, consuming plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables can help protect the body against AA's harmful effects. Acrylamide (AA) is a toxic substance found in almost all our daily food items produced during the cooking process that damages the structure and affects the reproductive system's function by inducing oxidative stress, thereby increasing the health risk in humans. Emblica officinalis ( E. officinalis ), Yuganzi is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and has proven to have antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress and alleviate toxicological changes in the body. This research aims to examine the effect of E. officinalis on AA-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in the reproductive systems of male and female rats. A total of thirty Sprague Dawley rats were used in the study. Oral gavage was used to administer both AA and E. officinalis. A dose of 60 μg/kg/bw/day to cause AA toxicity and 200 mg/kg bw/day of E. officinalis extract was administered. Hormonal parameter analysis and histopathological analysis were done to observe the effectiveness of E. officinalis on AA toxicity. Follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), significantly decreased in acrylamide-treated females (group 2) whereas Progesterone and Testosterone showed a mild decrease in group 2 except estradiol which slightly increased. Group 3 that were treated with E. officinalis after the induction of AA toxicity for 8 weeks showed an increase in the hormonal parameters like the normal control group. The histopathological study showed severe degeneration of testicular cells and ovarian follicles in group 2 with interstitial oedema and haemorrhage. Group 3 showed the restoration of the AA-induced structural damage by the antioxidant properties of E. officinalis . This study lends credence to the bodily harm inflicted by AA on the male and female reproductive systems and the alleviative effect of E. officinalis . Given that E. officinalis did not demonstrate equivalent treatment efficacy on the testis and ovary, more research is necessary to determine whether the effectiveness is dose-dependent. Graphical abstract.