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Male reproductive effect of nickel sulphate in mice
Abstract:
Nickel sulphate was administered orally to adult male mice at dose level of 5 and 10 mg/kg body weight (5 days per week) for 35 days. There was no change in body weight. However a significant decrease in absolute and organ-to-body weight ratios of testes, epididymides, seminal vesicles and prostate gland was observed. The sperm abnormality, associated with decrease in sperm motility and sperm count was also observed. Significant alterations in the activities of marker testicular enzymes, viz. sorbitol dehydrogenase (decreases), lactate dehydrogenase (increases) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (increases) associated with histopathological changes in testes, epididymides and seminal vesicles, were also observed. Accumulation of nickel in testes, epididymides and seminal vesicles was also observed. The study reveals that the oral exposure to nickel may affect the histology of testes, epididymides, seminal vesicles and sperms morphology. These testicular and spermatotoxic changes may be responsible for observed male mediated developmental toxic effects.
Insights
Oral exposure to nickel sulfate in male mice caused testicular damage, reduced sperm quality, and altered reproductive organ weights. These findings indicate nickel
Area of Science:
- Environmental Toxicology
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Nickel is a common industrial metal with known toxic effects.
- Understanding nickel's impact on male reproductive health is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of oral nickel sulfate exposure on male mouse reproductive system.
- To evaluate testicular histology, sperm parameters, and enzyme activities.
Main Methods:
- Adult male mice were administered nickel sulfate orally (5 and 10 mg/kg) for 35 days.
- Evaluated body weight, organ weights, sperm count, motility, and morphology.
- Assayed testicular enzyme activities (SDH, LDH, GGT) and performed histopathological examinations.
Main Results:
- No significant change in body weight was observed.
- Significant decreases in testes, epididymides, seminal vesicles, and prostate gland weights.
- Reduced sperm motility and count, increased sperm abnormalities, and altered testicular enzyme activities.
- Histopathological changes in testes, epididymides, and seminal vesicles, with nickel accumulation.
Conclusions:
- Oral nickel sulfate exposure induces testicular toxicity and spermatotoxic effects in male mice.
- Nickel accumulation in reproductive organs contributes to observed adverse effects.
- These findings highlight potential risks of nickel exposure on male reproductive health and development.