P-10: Aqueous Extract of Rosa Damascena Protects Mice against Formaldehyde-Testicular Damages

Background: Formaldehyde is widely used in industry and in medicine as tissue fixative and disinfectant. It contains reactive molecules which have been known for its cytotoxic effects. In the present study, the probable protective properties of Rosa damacena aquatic extract, against the harmful effects of formaldehyde was evaluated by consideration of sperm count, motility, viability, morphology and serum testosterone level in male mice. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight healthy NMRI male mice were randomly divided into four groups (n = 7). Group one was negative control which received distilled water while groups two, three and four were received intra-peritoneally 10 mg/kg diluted formaldehyde, 40 mg/kg extract, 40 mg/kg extract+ formaldehyde, respectively. The trial was continued for 35 days. Results: The result showed that formaldehyde could lead to significant adverse effects on motility,viability, concentration and morphology of sperm compared to group I (p<0.01) and decreased serum level of testosterone compared to group I (p<0.05). In group III, the extract caused to significant increase in motility, viability, count of sperm and increased serum testosterone compared to control and second groups (p<0.01). In group IV, it was determined that the produced damages, caused by formaldehyde, were improved after extract injection compared to group II (p<0.01). Conclusion: It is concluded that serious damages are occurred via formaldehyde injection in male reproductive system and the aqueous extract of Rosa damacena provides protective effects against these damages.