Alteration of trace element distribution and testis ACE activity in mice with high peritoneal aluminum

The present investigation was conducted to assess the effects of subacute aluminum (Al) exposure on testicular zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe) distribution in mice. Animals were intraperitoneally exposed to 0, 13, or 35 mg Al/kg body weight/d for a period of 14 d. Al concentrations in serum and testis in Al-treated animals were significantly higher than those of controls. The serum concentrations of Fe were lower, whereas serum Zn and Cu showed a pattern comparable to that of controls. The accumulation of testicular Fe and Cu remarkably increased in Al-exposed groups, whereas the Zn concentration in testis was significantly reduced only at the highest dose of Al exposure. The values of testicular thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were also increased after Al administration, indicating increased lipid peroxidation and oxidative stress. In addition, when the testicular Al was increased, the testis-specific angiotensin-converting enzyme (testis ACE) was noted. The results of this study indicated that part of the effect of Al intoxication on testis might contribute to abnormal metabolism of other minerals, such as Fe, Zn, and/or Cu. It was also suggested that reduced testis ACE activity presumably plays an important role in oxidative damage of Al-induced testicular toxicity.