Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L) and extract in comparison with ampicillin on the histological parameters of the reproductive system in male mice treated with E. coli LPS. In this research, 65 adult male mice were divided into 6 groups. Control, LPS, LPS+ampicillin, LPS+chamomile extract 50 mg/kg, LPS+chamomile extract 100 mg/kg and LPS+chamomile extract 200 mg/kg. IP injection were performed for 20 days and the fertility of each group was evaluated. The results of histological and fertility tests of each group were compared with the control group. The results of histological studies showed a significant decrease in mean number of stem cells and primary spermatocyte cells of LPS group compared to that in the control group (p≤0.05). The diameter of the seminiferous tubules and the number of embryos in the five treatment groups show a significant change compared to control group (p>0.05). According to these results, LPS can reduce stem cells and primary spermatocyte in the testicles and thereby reduce the fertility potential, while the treatment of chamomile extract in all three doses of 50, 100 and 200 can reduce the effects of LPS and increase fertility potential.
Keyword: Chamomile, ampicillin, lipopolysaccharide, male reproductive system, fertility, mice.