Therapeutic Potential of Green Synthesized Selenium Nanoparticles Using Ficus Capensis Leaf Extract Against Lead–Induced Erectile Dysfunction in Male Rats

Abstract

Lead exposure is a major environmental and occupational hazard that induces oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, resulting in reproductive dysfunction and erectile impairment. This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of green-synthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) using Ficus capensis leaf extract (FCLE) against lead-induced erectile dysfunction in male albino rats. Forty male rats were divided into eight groups (n = 5) and treated with lead acetate (0.5 mg/kg BW), FCLE (800 mg/kg BW), SeNPs (0.25 mg/kg BW), and their conjugate (FCLE–SeNPs) for 28 days. Biochemical assays were performed to assess antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH), lipid peroxidation (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α). Gene expression analysis of NF-κB, MMP9, and TGFβ1 was conducted using RT-qPCR, while sperm quality parameters were evaluated using a computer-assisted sperm analyzer (CASA). Results revealed that lead exposure significantly increased MDA, LDH, and TNF-α levels, upregulated the expression of NF-κB, MMP9, and TGFβ1 and decreased antioxidant enzyme activities and sperm quality indices (motility, viability, and count). Treatment with FCLE and SeNPs individually mitigated these effects, but the FCLE–SeNPs conjugate produced the most significant restoration. The conjugate normalized oxidative stress biomarkers, downregulated apoptotic and inflammatory genes, and improved sperm morphology and function to near-control levels. These findings demonstrate that green-synthesized FCLE–SeNPs possess potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, providing effective protection against lead-induced oxidative and reproductive damage. The study concludes that the FCLE–SeNPs conjugate is a promising, eco-friendly nanotherapeutic candidate for managing heavy-metal-induced infertility and erectile dysfunction.