ABSTRACT

Cadmium exposure remains a significant public health concern due to its toxic effects on various organ systems, including the female reproductive system. Chronic exposure to cadmium has been linked to ovarian dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and structural damage to reproductive tissues. This study investigates the potential ameliorative effects of Tetracarpidium conophorum (African walnut) against cadmium-induced toxicity in the female reproductive organs of albino rats. Twenty (n=20) female albino rats weighing between 168g-192g were included in this research study. They were sub grouped into four groups with five (n=5) in each group; a control group (group I), a cadmium-exposed group (group II), a group co-administered cadmium and T. conophorum extract (group III) and a group administered T. conophorum extract alone (group IV). The animals were housed under standard laboratory conditions and provided unrestricted access to food and water ad libitum. Over a 14-day period, 0.5 mg/kg of cadmium was administered to the rats in group II and group III. 200 mg/kg of T. conophorum extract was administered to the rats in group III and group IV. Histopathological technique was done using hematoxylin and eosin on the ovaries of the various groups to assess tissue integrity and the plant extract's protective properties. The results revealed that there was highly significant decrease (p<0.05) in body weight of rats administered with cadmium, cadmium and walnut (142.33±4.48^b vs 134.67±4.84^b) when compared with control group (181.67±6.01^a). The photomicrographs of the ovarian tissues in the cadmium-induced rat group showed follicular atresia while the photomicrographs of the ovarian tissue of the rat group given the extract and cadmium showed normal ovarian tissue. Administration of T. conophorum extract demonstrated substantial ameliorative effects, including restoration of normal tissue structure and reduction of oxidative damage. These protective effects are attributed to the plant's potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, it may be said that T. conophorum shows promise as a natural therapeutic agent for mitigating cadmium-induced reproductive toxicity in females. Further research is needed to elucidate its mechanisms of action, refine dosage regimens, and evaluate its clinical applicability for managing heavy metal-induced reproductive disorders.