Protective Role of Withania somnifera Against the Adverse Effects of Levofloxacin on Testes Tissue of Rats In Vivo

Abstract Background: Medicinal plants have many uses in traditional medicine in all cultures due to their unique therapeutic properties. Withania somnifera is considered an agent to improve sexual health, an antioxidant, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory. Objective: This study aimed to determine the therapeutic effect of W. somnifera on the potential Levofloxacin-induced testicular injury in rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups: control group (C), saline-treated for 60 days. Group (W) W. somnifera root extract was orally treated for 60 days. Group (L) Levofloxacin orally treated for 60 days. Group (W+L) Levofloxacin was orally co-administered and pretreated with W. somnifera root extract for 60 days. Group (L+W) Levofloxacin was orally co-administered and post-treated with W. somnifera root extract for 60 days. The degree of protection was estimated using the gonadosomatic index (GSI), hormonal changes, and oxidative stress biomarkers. Furthermore, specimens from the testes were obtained and histopathologically examined for qualitative analysis of testicular tissue morphology and quantitative analysis utilizing seminiferous tubular diameter and Johnsen’s scoring system. Results: Levofloxacin treatment resulted in a significant decrease in GSI, glutathione (GSH), Johnsen’s score, seminiferous tubule diameter, and germinal epithelium. As well as a significant rise in malondialdehyde (MDA), LH, and FSH levels. The testosterone remained unaffected. W. somnifera root extract treatment post-Levofloxacin improved recovery of these biochemical changes and boosted the antioxidant defense. Conclusion: W. somnifera root extract considerably minimized the side effects of levofloxacin in testicular tissue.