Unripe-pulp Persea amercicana Extract Possibly Induces Folliculogenesis

Abstract

Background: Persea americana pulp has monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which are associated with improved reproductive health.

Objectives: To determine the result associated with Persea americana methanol unripe-pulp extract on the ovaries and ovarian cycle of adult female albino Wistar rat.

Study design: Twenty (20) mature female albino rats with regular ovarian cycle, weighing 150-200g were divided into 4 groups of 5 animals, each group received; Group 1 (control) received 5 mg/kg body weight of distilled water, while Group 2, Group 3 and Group 4 received 380 mg/kg, 760 mg/kg and 1,140mg/kg body weight of Persea americana methanol unripe-pulp extract respectively. Administration was intraperitoneally at the proestrus phase for 12 days with simultaneous examination of the oestrus cycle which continued for 12 more days after cessation of administration, followed by sacrifice. Blood was collected for analyses of oestrogen, LH, FSH and progesterone while organ weight was measured and subsequently histological analysis. Dosages were from acute toxicity studies performed using the Up and Down method.

Result: There was a proportional decrease in weight gain with increasing dosages and no significant difference in organ weight except for the heart. There was an increase in concentration of estradiol, LH and FSH and a reduction in the concentration of progesterone with increased doses. The frequency of the oestrus phase was increased though not significant. Histologic analysis revealed normal histo-architecture across all groups with apparently more follicles in the experimental groups.

Conclusion: There was an increase in frequency of oestrus phase, concentration of estradiol, LH and FSH levels with apparently more developing ovarian follicles.