Background: The male epididymis is responsible for storing and maturing sperms. Hyperthyroidism is defined as an increase in the circulating level of thyroid hormones. The change in thyroid hormones level can negatively impact male fertility.
Aim of The Study: The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of luteolin in alleviating the structural changes induced by hyperthyroidism on the epididymis of adult albino rats.
Material and Methods: Forty adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: Group I: IA Subgroup: Rats received no treatment. IB Subgroup: Each rat received 0.5 ml of olive oil via a gastric tube for four weeks. Group II: Each rat received 50 mg/kg of luteolin daily via a gastric tube for four weeks. Group III: Each rat received 100 μg of levothyroxine per kg of body weight daily via a gastric tube for four weeks to induce hyperthyroidism. Group IV: Each rat received levothyroxine as in Group III, along with luteolin as in Group II.
Results: Group III rats exhibited epididymal structural and ultrastructural alterations with significant increase in abnormal sperms, collagen fibers and expressions of PCNA and AR when compared to the control group. In contrast, Group IV rats, showed nearly normal epididymal structural and ultrastructural characteristics with increased collagen fibers and thyroid hormones. However, there was no significant difference in the abnormal sperms number or the expressions of PCNA and AR.
Conclusion: Luteolin may be considered a potential natural adjuvant for treating male infertility, especially in cases linked to oxidative stress, such as hyperthyroidism.