Naphthoquinone impairs reproductive functions in plasmodium berghei berghei-infected male swiss mice

Abstract

Background: Various antimalarial drugs adversely affect male reproductive functions. Naphtoquinones, a class of antimalarial drugs have been shown to effectively combat malaria parasites. However, the effects of naphtoquinone on reproductive functions remain elusive. The study determined the effects of naphthoquinone on reproductive functions of Plasmodium berghei berghei-infected male Swiss miceMethods: Thirty male Swiss mice were divided into 6 groups (n = 5) namely; Control, 1 mg/kg naphthoquinone, 2 mg/kg naphthoquinone, Plasmodium berghei berghei (Pbb)-infected, Pbb-infected+1 mg/kg naphthoquinone and Pbb-infected+2 mg/kg naphthoquinone. Parasitaemia was confirmed by microscopy. Naphthoquinone (i.p.) was administered for seven days following confirmation of parasitaemia. Thereafter, they were sacrificed. Serum levels of FSH, LH, testosterone and cortisol were assayed via ELISA. Sperm characteristics were evaluated by microscopy. Data were expressed as mean ± SEM and analysed using ANOVA at p<0.05.Results: Sperm motility reduced in the Pbb-infected compared with control. Sperm viability, motility and count reduced in naphthoquinone only groups and Pbb-infected+naphthoquinone groups compared with the control. Naphthoquinone groups and Pbb-infected alone decreased in LH and testosterone concentrations compared with the control.Conclusion: Naphthoquinone treatment impaired reproductive functions in Plasmodium berghei berghei-infected male Swiss mice.