Protective Effects of Boswellia Thurifera Aqueous Extract against Cisplatin-Induced Cytotoxicity on Sperm Quality in Mice

Introduction: Cisplatin (CIS) is among the chemotherapeutic agent. However, its use is limited due to side effects, such as impairment in the spermatogenesis process. On the other hand, Boswellia Thurifera has protective effects on the reproductive system. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Boswellia Thurifera aqueous extract against cisplatin-induced cytotoxicity on sperm parameters in mice. Material & Methods: In this experimental study, 32 male mice were divided into four groups (n=8). The first group (the control group) was given isotonic saline for 35 consecutive days. Boswellia thurifera aqueous extract was orally administered to the second group at the dose of 500 mg/kg/day for 35 consecutive days without CIS. The mice in the third group were treated with an intraperitoneal injection of CIS (5.5 mg/kg). Finally, the last group received CIS and Boswellia thurifera aqueous extract together at the same doses. On the next day, after the last injection, body and testis weight, as well as sperm count, motility, viability, and morphology were evaluated. (Ethic code: 10210501972004) Findings: CIS alone led to a significant reduction in sperm motility, viability, and morphology, compared to the control group (P<0.001). However, CIS+Boswellia thurifera aqueous extract and Boswellia thurifera aqueous extract alone increased the sperm count, motility, and viability; moreover, they decreased the abnormal sperms, compared to the CIS group (P<0.001). Discussion & Conclusion: The results of the current study demonstrated that CIS decreased sperm quality, and the coadministration of Boswellia thurifera aqueous extract reduced CIS-induced cytotoxicity and improved the sperm quality. In conclusion, the Boswellia thurifera aqueous extract is useful for the reduction of limitationthe toxic effects of CIS and improvement of the parameters of sperm quality.