Protective effect of date palm pollen (Phoenix dactylifera) on sperm parameters and sexual hormones in male NMRI mice exposed to low frequency electromagnetic field (50 Hz)

Introduction: Exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) induces harmful effects on testis and reproductive activities. In traditional medicine, date palm pollen (DPP) which has remarkable nutritional values is used for curing male infertility and impotency. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of DPP in preventing the detrimental effects of low frequency electromagnetic field (50 Hz) on sperm parameters and sexual hormones. Methods: Adult male mice were randomly divided into 7 groups of 8 and exposed to EMF 4 h/day for 10 days. In this study experimental groups received DPP with doses of 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively before exposure. At the end of the experiment each group were tested for sperm parameters including: motility, count, morphology, viability and the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone. Results: Our results revealed that exposure to EMF induced significant reduction (P < .001) in sperm count, viability and progressive motility in comparison with control group. EMF caused abnormalities in sperm and significant decrease in testosterone level while there was no significant difference in level. Administration of DPP before exposure improved the sperm count, viability, motility and testosterone level in experimental groups. In addition, pretreatment with DPP prevented the sperm abnormality induced by EMF. Conclusion: The results indicate the protective effect of DPP against EMF adverse effects on sperm parameters and sexual hormones in male mice.