The protective Effect of Nigella sativa on sperm parameter in mice treated with dexamethasone

Background and Aim: Dexamethasone affects testis hemostasis through reduction of  testosterone level . In one study dexamethasone induced spermatogenesis defects through epithelial vacuolizations and sloughing of germ cell layer. Material and Methods: Forty NMRI mice were randomly divided into four groups. Control and dexamethasone groups received normal saline and dexamethasone (5 mg/kg) respectively for 7 days. Dexamethasone and Nigella sativa(NS) (5 mg/kg) were given to the third group and the fourth group(Nigella sativa group) received 5 mg/kg  Nigella sativa for 7 days. Epididymal sperm parameters were used for evaluation of the effects of dexamethasone and Nigella sativa on testis.   Results: Epididymal sperm parameters) count,motility and abnormal sperm) showed significant alterations in dexamethasone group (p<0.05). Treatment with NS+ dexamethasone significantly prevented these changes (p<0.05). Conclusion:Numerous studies have been performed to evaluate destructive effects of dexamethasone on  male reproductive system. The aim of this study was to assess protective effect of Nigella sativa against the side effects of dexamethasone on male reproductive system. We found that dexamethasone could decrease sperm parameters. These changes were reduced by using Nigella sativa.