Abstract

EFFECT OF ARSENIC EXPOSURE ON TESTOSTERONE LEVEL AND SPERMATOGONIA OF MICE

Abstract

Exposure to different heavy metals causes irreversible toxic insult to male reproductive system. Heavy metals produce cellular impairments at structural and functional level in male reproductive system. Environmental toxins and radiation are suspected to be responsible in part for the deterioration of semen quality observed worldwide during the recent few decades. Arsenical exposure through drinking water is common in many areas of the world and major threat for human. Present study aims to illustrate effect of arsenic on testosterone level and spermatogonia of mice. Arsenic 3 mg/kg b.w and 4 mg/kg b.w daily administered by gavage method for eight weeks. Mice were sacrificed after completion of schedule, blood were collected for testosterone estimation and tissues were fixed for Transmission Electron Microscopic Study. It is observed that arsenic causes marked decline in testosterone level of mice. It was declined gradually with increased duration of arsenic exposure. In higher dose group it was more declined. Mitochondria, nucleus, nuclear membrane and nucleopore complex of spermatogonia were more degenerated increase duration of arsenic exposure. Thus it is concluded that arsenic exposure caused decrease in testosterone level and degeneration of spermatogonia, which finally leads to infertility in male mice.

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