Protective role of Talinum triangulare leaf extract against Lead-Induced reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats

Reproductive toxicants are substances that can impair the ability to produce healthy offspring, with heavy metals like lead being a significant concern due to their detrimental effects on male fertility. This study investigated the protective role of the ethanol extract of Talinum triangulare (EETT) against lead acetate-induced reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats. Forty-five rats were divided into nine groups. Treatments included lead acetate (60 mg/kg) alone, lead acetate concurrently with EETT (200 or 400 mg/kg), lead acetate followed by EETT (post-treatment), EETT alone, and a control. The results showed that lead acetate alone induced a significant reduction in relative testicular and epididymal weights, sperm motility, viability, count, and serum levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone. It also decreased glutathione activity and caused severe histological damage to the testis and epididymis. However, these damaging effects were markedly reversed in rats administered EETT, particularly in the post-treatment groups. The study concludes that the ethanol extract of Talinum triangulare possesses significant protective and restorative properties against lead-induced reproductive toxicity, likely attributable to its antioxidant phytochemical constituents.