Olive Leaves Extract Effects on Sperm Quality Following Experimentally-Induced Diabetes in Rats

Background: The experimental model of streptozotocine (STZ)-induced diabetes explains changes in the male reproductive system as part of the disease. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the olive leaf extract effects on STZ-induced diabetes and to examine its modulatory effects on sperm quality. Methods: Twenty adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four equal groups: the first group served as untreated control. Groups 2, 3 and 4 of rats were injected STZ (65 mg/kg). The animals which exhibited blood glucose levels higher than 250 mg/dl by days 4-6, were considered as diabetic rats. Groups 3 and 4 received olive leaf extract (100 and 150 mg/kg, orally) and vehicle to the control and diabetic rats (group 2) for 10 consecutive days. Results: Glycated haemoglobin percentage (%HbA1c) as a diabetic index significantly decreased in the animals ingested by the 150 mg/kg of the extract compared to the diabetic group (P