In order to study the functions of cultured cordyceps grain on the reproductive system,37 10W SD rats were randomly divided
into the five groups of A (control group),B,C,D and E and were fed routinely.Adenine (300mg/ky-d -1 ) was added in fodder for B,C and D groups to cause functional disturbance in the testicles of the rats.Simultaneously,Group C and D were given fine powder and compound powder (higher contents in active constitutes and D-mannitol) of north cordyceps grain for imitated treatment.Based upon the same feeding method of Group A,Group E was added compound powder of northern cordyceps at the same time.30 days later,all the experimental animals were killed to observe the changes in the structure of the animal testicles and the activity of the related enzyme for hormone synthesis (SDH,3β-HSD).The results showed that in comparison with Group A,the count of
spermatogenic cells and the sperm count obviously dropped in the rat testicles and SDH and 3β-HSD activity lowered in Group B.The enzymatic activity was intensified in Group C and D,with the count of spermatogenic cells and sperm count closing to the normal level,in which Group D was better than Group C.The above two indexes were better in Group E than in Group A,but without statistical difference.The findings indicate that northern cordyceps grain can intensify the spermatogenic and endocrine functions of the testicles,especially effective to the rats with testicle disturbance induced by adenine.