EFFECT OF BERBERINE ON SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR AND KEY ENZYMES RELEVANT TO ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION IN DIABETIC RATS

Abstract

Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid found in traditional herbs and spices. It possesses anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and antioxidant effects. However, there is possible dearth of information on the erectogenic mechanism in erectile function. Therefore, this study investigated berberine effect on sexual behaviour and key enzymes relevant to erectile dysfunction (ED) in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetes rats. Sixty three (63) adult male rats weighing between 170 to 180 g were used. After14 days of acclimatization, rats were divided into nine groups (n = 9). 2 weeks after treatment, the rats’ organs were excised and biochemical assays (ACE, AChE, ADA, NO, Arginase, etc) were carried out on them. The results showed thatthe mounting and intromission numbers were enhanced on administration of berberine (50mg/kg & 100mg/kg). Also, lowered blood glucose level, reproductive hormones (Testosterone, FSH, LH, and Prolactin) were analyzed and the results showed increase in serum reproductive hormonal levels compared to STZ-induced control rats.Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), angiotensin-1 converting enzyme (ACE), adenosine deaminase (ADA) and arginase activities were higher in the STZ-induced rats as against the control, and decreasedon treatment with dose of 100mg/kg Berberine showing better potency than 50mg/kg. Berberine of 100mg/kg showed better potentials (P < 0.001) than 50mg/kg as itincreased nitric oxide (NO) level, decreased lipid peroxidation level, and enhanced reduced glutathione (GSH) level, as well improved total and non-protein thiol levels compared to STZ-induced rats. Hence, the study revealed berberine reduced the activitiesof crucialenzymes (Arginase, ADA, AChE, ACE, etc.) associated with hyperglycemia-induced ED and could therefore be used as nutraceuticals in ED management/treatment.