Effect of Saffron on Histomorphometric Changes of Testicular Tissue in Rat

Problem statement: Saffron is widely used as a food flavor and has well known medicinal effects. This drug has an effect on steroid and sexual hormones. The aim of this study was investigation of Saffron orally administration on histomorphometric change of testicular tissue in rat. In this experimental study, 40 male rats are used (4 groups and 10 rats in each group). Approach: Animals were received Saffron (50, 100 and 200 mg kg^-1) daily orally administration, during 28 days. As one group was control (normal saline) and three groups was drug consumer. The testis tissue was sampled after passing of above time and section providing, was stained by H and E. Results: The histomorphometric changes of testicular tissue which include, seminiferous tubules diameter, seminiferous epithelial thickness, interstitial tissue and testicular capsule thickness were studied. Results showed that seminiferous tubules diameter, seminiferous epithelial thickness had significantly decreased (p<0.05) but interstitial tissue thickness had significantly increased (p<0.05) compared with control group. Testicular capsule thickness had not significantly changed. Conclusion: Our results showed that seminiferous tubules diameter, seminiferous epithelial thickness and interstitial tissue thickness in rat testis were significantly changed after Saffron orally administration. This results probably via the reducing of serum testosterone concentration. Effect of Saffron on spermatogenesis index and unfertilization in human needed to be more investigation.