Amelioration of Monosodium Glutamate-induced Testicular Damage and Infertility in Male Rats by Water Melon and Cantaloupe Seeds Extract and Juices

Aims: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is extensively used as food additive and flavor enhancer, there is a growing concern that this may affect the male reproductive system and fertility. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of MSG on fertility and testes of mature male rats and the ameliorative role of water melon and cantaloupe (seeds extract and juices).

Study Design: Thirty-six male Sprague - Dawely rats (150-180 g) were randomly assigned into six groups (n=6). Group (1): orally administered with distilled water. Group (2): orally administered with 60 mg/kg of MSG. Groups (3 and 4): orally administered with 60 mg/kg of MSG + 200 mg/kg of water melon seeds extract and juice respectively. Groups (5 and 6): orally administered with 60 mg/kg of MSG + 200 mg/kg of cantaloupe seeds extract and juice respectively.

Results: Results showed that administration of MSG for 6 weeks caused abnormalities of semen characteristics, increased DNA damage and up-regulation of caspase3 expression in the testes tissue. Also, the levels of plasma sex hormones were decreased and the oxidant-antioxidant status was disturbed, moreover, MSG caused alteration in the histopathological structures of testicular tissue. Administration of seeds extract or juices of water melon and cantaloupe almost corrected the biochemical and histopathological alteration produced by MSG.

Conclusion: This study concluded that water melon and cantaloupe seeds and juice extracts have an ameliorative role against MSG-induced testicular damage and infertility in rats.