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South Asian Research Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (SARJPS)
Volume-8 | Issue-02
Original Research Article
Possible Protective Effects of Propolis Compared to vitamin E on Sex Hormones in Male Adult Rats Exposed to Chlorpyrifos
Zainab Hayder Al-Jazaeri, Asia S. Abdullah, Muhsin S. G. AL‑Mozie'l
Published : June 26, 2026
DOI : https://doi.org/10.36346/sarjps.2026.v08i02.003
Abstract
Background: Chlorpyrifos (CF) is the most extensively used organophosphorus (OP) insecticide. Due to its widespread use in agriculture, residues of CF have been found in food crops and environmental samples such as air, leading to concern for potential risks to living beings. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to compare the protective roles of propolis versus vitamin E against chlorpyrifos-induced reproductive toxicity and oxidative stress in male rats. Methods: A total of thirty-two adult male Wistar albino rats were randomly assigned into four groups (n = 8): control, chlorpyrifos-treated (6.7 mg/kg), chlorpyrifos + propolis (50 mg/kg) and chlorpyrifos + vitamin E (100 mg/kg). Treatments were given orally over six weeks. Serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, and reduced glutathione (GSH) were assessed. Testicular tissue was also examined histopathologically. Results: Chlorpyrifos exposure significantly reduced the serum LH and FSH levels, and markedly depleted GSH in comparison with the control group. Histopathological examination showed degenerative changes in the testicular tissue, loss of germ cells, and disrupted spermatogenesis. Propolis or vitamin E treatment restored normal testicular histological architecture, significantly increased antioxidant status, and maintained near-normal gonadotropin levels. However, the serum testosterone levels were not significantly affected within the experimental groups. Conclusion: Chlorpyrifos-induced reproductive toxicity appears to be associated with oxidative stress and endocrine dysregulation. Propolis and vitamin E mitigated the adverse effects of exposure by enhancing antioxidant defenses and maintaining testicular architecture and hormone homeostasis.

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