Histomorphmetric studies on the protective role of Maca (Lepidium meyenii) on New Zealand White Rabbits prostate gland under oxidative stress

The prostate gland considers the most important gland among rabbits' accessory genital glands and secretes many factors essential for sperm function. This study aims to show the impact of Maca as an antioxidant on the prostate gland's histomorphology and its capacity to reduce the effects of oxidative stress. Twenty-four healthy New Zealand white male rabbits, 6-8 months divided into 4 groups.1st group (control group), 2nd group (Maca), 3rd group (H2O2), 4th group (Maca+ H2O2). To evaluate these effects, we used histomorphometrical studies. In control and Maca groups, acini were lined by simple columnar epithelium and showed normal interstitium. However, in H2O2 treated rabbits, we observed cuboidal epithelium and epithelium height decreased significantly compared to other groups, and interstitium showed fibrosis. Also, in H2O2 treated rabbits, we observed mild degenerative changes in the epithelial lining the acini, with karyolitic nucleus and vacuolated cytoplasm. In concern to acini length, we observed that the secretory units in Maca groups was overcrowd due to increasing acini length. However, in H2O2 exposed rabbits the diameter of the glandular portion and the length of the acini decreased significantly compared to other groups. Moreover, in H2O2 treated rabbits we demonstrated other changes as congested and hyperemic blood vessels and muscular layer appeared disorganized and degenerated. In Maca+ H2O2 (H+M) treated rabbits the epithelium reverted to simple columnar and the secretory activity increased compared to H2O2 group. In conclusion, we can ensure the effect of Maca as an antioxidant and its ameliorative effect on oxidative stressed rabbits.