Protective Role of Ocimum tenuiflorum L. Leaf Extract Against Testicular Damage Induced by Nandrolone: Histopathological, Molecular, Oxidative Stress, and Hormonal Insights

This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Ocimum tenuiflorum L. (O.tenuiflorum) extract against testicular damage induced by nandrolone (ND) in rats.A total of sixty adult male rats were divided into six groups, each consisting of ten animals: Group 1 served as the control; Group 2 received ND (3 mg/kg orally); Groups 3, 4, and 5 were administered O. tenuiflorum extract at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day, respectively, alongside ND (3 mg/kg/day); and Group 6 received O. tenuiflorum extract at 200 mg/kg/day for 30 days.The study assessed serum levels of testosterone (T), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-, IL-1), oxidative stress indicators (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and nitric oxide), and apoptotic markers (Bcl-2, p53, caspase-3, and Bax).Administration of ND significantly elevated serum levels of T, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and pro-apoptotic gene expression while reducing LH and FSH levels, as well as sperm viability, count, and motility.In contrast, O. tenuiflorum extract notably normalized serum levels of LH, FSH, and T, restored antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines.Furthermore, it inhibited germ cell apoptosis by down-regulating p53, caspase-3, and Bax, while up-regulating Bcl-2.The findings suggest that O. tenuiflorum extract effectively protects testicular structure and function from ND-induced toxicity through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.