engleski

Effects of lindane on male reproductive parameters in rats

The effects of lindane ({; ; gamma}; ; -1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6-hexachlorocyclohexane) on male reproductive parameters were studied in rats. The testicular sperm number, epididymal sperm number and motility, as well as {; ; alpha}; ; -glucosidase activity in epididymis and histological analysis of testicular tissue, were determined after the i.p. treatment with lindane concentrations 9 and 18 mg/kg b.w. twice a week during 60 days. Absolute values of the epididymal sperm number were significantly lower (p < 0.001) in the animals treated with both doses compared to the control values. Sperm number decreased for 42% after treatment with the lower lindane dose, while the drop in sperm count in the animals exposed to the higher dose extended to about 50%. Also, the dose-related changes in epididymal sperm motility were detected in lindane treated animals. The motility decreased for about 45% to 68%. Relative organ and tissue weights (epididymis, prostate, anterior pituitary and testis) were measured at the end of the treatment. The significant decrease (p < 0.01) of prostate weight was detected in the both treated groups, while the weight of pituitary decreased (p < 0.05) in the animals treated with the higher dose. The {; ; alpha}; ; -glucosidase activity in epididymides did not show any statistically significant changes after the exposure to lindane. Histological analysis of testicular tissue from treated rats showed the cell disorganization and cell clusters together with spermatocytes. Presented results imply that the organochlorine insecticides like lindane can cause the reproductive disorders, and are calling for more attention and control of the persistent pesticide residues.

lindane; sperm parameters; histological changes in testis; epididymal alpha-glucosidase

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