PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF MELISSA OFFICINALIS EXTRACT AGAINST LEAD-INDUCED TOXICITY IN HEPATIC, RENAL AND TESTICULAR TISSUES OF MALE RATS

Tariq Feroz Memon; Kumayl Abbas Meghji; Sana Kashif; Farkhunda Nadeem; Ahsan Aslam Memon; Ali Abbas Thalo

doi:10.46903/gjms/23.4.2040

PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF MELISSA OFFICINALIS EXTRACT AGAINST LEAD-INDUCED TOXICITY IN HEPATIC, RENAL AND TESTICULAR TISSUES OF MALE RATS

Tariq Feroz Memon, Kumayl Abbas Meghji, Sana Kashif, Farkhunda Nadeem, Ahsan Aslam Memon, Ali Abbas Thalo

Abstract

Background: Lead exposure poses significant health risks by affecting various organ systems and causing oxidative stress. Melissa officinalis is recognized for its antioxidant properties and potential protective effects. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Melissa officinalis extract on hepatic, renal, and testicular tissues in male rats exposed to lead toxicity.

Materials & Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at Isra University (IU) Hyderabad from October 2024 to March 2025. Forty healthy male Albino Wistar rats, weighing 180-200 grams, were divided into four groups: Group A (control) received saline; Group B received saline and 20 mg/kg lead acetate; Group C was treated with 20 mg/kg Melissa officinalis extract, followed by 20 mg/kg lead acetate; Group D received 100 mg/kg Melissa officinalis extract, then the same lead dose. Biochemical parameters, including ALT, AST, ALP, urea, creatinine, and testosterone levels, were analyzed, along with sperm characteristics and histological examinations of liver and kidney tissues.

Results: Forty healthy male Albino Wistar rats, weighing 180-200 grams, were divided into four groups: Group A was a control group, while others were experimental. Group B showed significantly increased ALT (155.22 U/L), AST (114.52 U/L), and ALP (148.32 U/L) levels while decreasing testosterone (1.0 ng/ml). Melissa officinalis treatment improved these parameters, especially in Group D, with ALT (59.96 U/L), AST (49.79 U/L), and ALP (61.72 U/L) showing marked reductions. Sperm count and motility were significantly higher in Groups C and D, with Group D exhibiting only 12.4% abnormal morphology. Histological analyses revealed reduced liver degeneration and improved kidney architecture.

Conclusion: Melissa officinalis extract significantly protects against lead-induced hepatic, renal, and reproductive toxicity in rats, suggesting its therapeutic potential.

Keywords

Antioxidants; Lead Poisoning; Melissa officinalis; Oxidative stress; Reproductive Health; Testosterone.

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References

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46903/gjms/23.4.2040