Effect of epigallocatechin gallate on the spermatozoa quality of rats (Rattus norvegicus) exposed to 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine

Environmental exposure to neurotoxic compounds is known to impair reproductive function, particularly by reducing sperm quality through oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) a major antioxidant compound in green tea, on sperm quality in rats exposed to 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Thirty-two Wistar rats (180–200 g) were randomly divided into four groups (n=8): control; MPTP only (16 mg/kg BW intraperitoneally); EGCG only (30 mg/kg BW/day orally), and MPTP + EGCG. EGCG was administered once daily for 7 consecutive days. On Day 8, sperm samples were collected from the cauda epididymis and analysed microscopically. The MPTP group showed a significant decrease in sperm motility, viability, and concentration compared to the control group (P<0.01), confirming reproductive toxicity. Rats treated with EGCG alone had significantly improved sperm parameters, indicating its beneficial role in enhancing male fertility. In the group receiving EGCG after MPTP exposure, a significant improvement in all sperm parameters was also observed (P<0.01), although at a slightly lower extent than in the EGCG-only group. The findings suggest that EGCG has potential therapeutic effects in mitigating MPTP-induced reproductive damage, most likely through its antioxidant and cytoprotective mechanisms. While the results are promising, further research is recommended to explore the underlying molecular pathways, including oxidative and hormonal markers, and to evaluate the long-term effects of EGCG treatment. This study supports the potential application of EGCG as a protective agent against chemically induced male infertility.