Publication: Dose-dependent effect of copper chloride on male reproductive function in immature rats
Date
2005
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
Background: Copper is essential as a trace element for metabolic processes. Exposure to copper in industries
develops toxicity among the workers. Previous findings on adverse effects of copper on male reproductive function
in adult albino rats led to investigate the effects of this metal on reproductive function of maturing male rats in the
present experiment.
Methodology: To study these effects, immature (30 to 35 days old) Wistar strain albino rats weighing about 50-60 g
were treated intraperitoneally with copper chloride at doses of 1000, 2000 and 3000 μg/kg body weight/day for 26
days.
Result: Significant fall in accessory sex organ weight and inhibition of testicular 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase
activity along with degeneration of testicular growing spermatogenic cells and reduction in serum testosterone, FSH
and LH level were observed at the doses of 2000 and 3000μg/kg/day. On the other hand, at the dose of 1000
μg/kg/day significant increase in testicular steroidogenic enzyme activity and stimulation of testicular
spermatogenesis along with rise in serum testosterone and LH level were observed, though no significant change
was observed in serum FSH level. This suggests that copper has got a dose-dependent effect on testicular
steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis and serum testosterone and LH level in maturing male rats.
Keywords: Copper, male reproduction, gonadotropins, Immature rats