Investigation on the effect of Xylopia aethiopica ethanol seed extract on Aluminum chloride induced uterus and gonadotropins toxicity in adult female Wistar rats

Abstract Introduction: Reproductive disorders in females as a result of exposure to heavy metals are considered an important public health and social problem. Aim The study was to determine the level of influence of Xylopia aethiopica extracts on the female reproductive hormone, and histological changes in the uterus following administration of Aluminum chloride (AICI3). Materials and methods Twenty female Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of five rats. Group 1 served as normal control, groups 2, 3, 4 were administered 150mg/kg Aluminum chloride (AICI3). Group 2 served as positive control, while groups 3 and 4 were administered 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg extract of Xylopia aethiopica respectively. Administration of extract was done through oral route for 21 days, after which the animals were sacrificed. Hormonal assay such as Luteinizing hormone, Progesterone, Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Estradiol and histology of the uterus were evaluated. Results This revealed (AICI3) decrease the levels of FSH, LH, Estradiol and Progesterone. These results was further supported by histological observation that showed the thickenings and degeneration in the endometrial epithelial in the uterus caused by Aluminum chloride. Xylopia aethiopica treated groups showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in FSH, LH and Progesterone levels, while the Estradiol level was increase but it was not significant. Histologically, Xylopia aethiopica reduced thickenings and degeneration in the endometrial epithelial of the uterus caused by Aluminum chloride. Conclusion The finding demonstrated that treatment using Xylopia aethiopica may minimizes the toxic effect of Aluminum chloride on the female reproductive hormones and the uterus.