Cell and Tissue Journal

Abstract Aim: Elaeagnus angustifolia L. is a plant with many therapeutic effects. In this study the effect of aqueous extract of E. angustifolia fruit on Balb/C mouse embryo lens development was investigated.
Material and Methods: Thirty pregnant mice were randomly divided into two equal groups. Control group received drinking water daily and the experimental group received E. angustifolia fruit aqueous extract orally at a dose of 500 mg/kg from zero days to 18th day of pregnancy. After killing all of mice at 18th day gestation, their fetal heads were removed, fixed and processed for histological procedures. Fetal heads were sagitally sectioned at 5 µ thickness and then were stained with hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) and acid fuchsin-light green techniques. Then sections were examined using a light microscope and Motic software.
Results: Results showed that weight and Crown-Rump length mean of fetuses significantly increased in experimental group compared to control. Mean number of fetuses in experimental group was no significant decreased in comparison with control. Means placenta weight and diameter significantly decreased in experimental group compared to control. Also antero-posterior and superior-inferior diameters of lens and lens surface area significantly decreased in experimental group in comparison with control.
Conclusion: These results indicate that using E. angustifolia fruit aqueous extract at 500 mg/kg dose in pregnancy during is caused delaying in mouse embryo lens development.