Growth suppressing effect of Curcuma comosa extract on male reproductive organs in immature rats

Abstract

The effects of Curcuma comosa extracts on the growth of male reproductive organs were investigated in immature rats. Intragastric administration of a hexane extract at a dose of 500 mg/kg BW for 7 consecutive days significantly suppressed weights of testes, epididymis, ventral prostate, seminal vesicle and levator ani muscle, whereas the same dose of ethyl acetate extract did not affect the organ weights. Suppression of the growth of the organs by the hexane extract was dose-dependent. Histological examination revealed regression of the spermatogonium in the seminiferous tubules and necrosis of epithelial cells in the epididymis. All effects of the hexane extract were similar to the effects of estradiol. Concurrent treatment with either hCG or testosterone did not fully abolish the suppressing effects of the extract. The growth-suppressing effect of C. comosa extract on male reproductive organs can be attributed to inhibition of gonadotrophin secretion and subsequent reduction of testosterone production, or to direct action on the male accessory sex organs.