Evaluation of the Effects of the Hydroalcoholic Extract of Renealmia pycnostachys Fruit on the Penile Corpus Cavernosum in Mice.

Abstract

Renealmia pycnostachys belongs to the Zingiberaceae family and is cited as probably extinct, represented only by the specimen collected in Minas Gerais. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of R. pycnostachys fruit on the reproductive system of male Swiss mice. Twenty-one male Swiss mice were used, divided into 4 experimental groups. Control animals, sildenafil citrate and 2 doses of the extract (50 and 150 mg/kg) were administered by gavage for 42 days, corresponding to the animal's reproductive cycle. Phytochemical screening identified the presence of flavonoids, tannins, triterpenes, and saponins, demonstrating a high free radical neutralization capacity. The extract did not cause any biometric, tubular, or intertubular changes, and consequently did not affect sperm production. It did not cause hormonal or oxidative status alterations. However, it did promote an increase in penile corpora cavernosa. These findings indicate that the extract increases the proportion of penile corpus cavernosum tissue without altering nitric oxide levels or serum testosterone. The molecular mechanisms underlying this effect were not investigated and remain to be elucidated.