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Published on: April 7, 2014
[The change in reproductive ability of male mice exposed to vinblastine and X-rays]
Małgorzata M Dobrzyńska1, Maria G Słowikowska, Urszula Mikulska
1Zakład Ochrony Radiologicznej i Radiobiologii, Państwowy Zakład Higieny, 00-791 Warszawa.
Abstract:
The effects of male mice to vinblastine (VBL) and combined X-rays-vinblastine treatments on the sperm quantity and quality, fertility and induction of foetal deaths and congenital malformations in the offspring were investigated. VBL and combined X-rays-VBL exposure caused decrease in testes weight and sperm count as well as increased percent of abnormal spermatozoa. Both vinblastine and X-rays-vinblastine combination induced increase in frequency of DNA single strand breaks in germ cells. The highest dose of VBL induced decrease of percent of pregnant females, decrease of live foetuses and induction of dominant lethal mutations after exposure some stages of spermatogenesis. Combined exposure to low doses of X-rays and vinblastine enhanced the frequency of dead implants. After exposure to VBL on its own as well as to combination of low doses of both agents increase in the frequency of congenital malformations was not observed.
Insights
Vinblastine (VBL) and X-ray treatments negatively impact male mouse fertility, reducing sperm quality and quantity. While not increasing congenital malformations, these exposures can induce dominant lethal mutations and fetal deaths.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive toxicology
- Radiation biology
- Genetics
Context:
- Investigating the reproductive toxicity of vinblastine (VBL) and combined X-ray/VBL treatments in male mice.
- Assessing impacts on sperm parameters, fertility, and offspring health.
- Evaluating DNA damage in germ cells following exposure.
Purpose:
- To determine the effects of VBL and X-ray/VBL on male mouse reproductive outcomes.
- To analyze the induction of fetal deaths and congenital malformations.
- To understand the genotoxic effects on germ cell DNA.
Summary:
- Vinblastine (VBL) and combined X-ray/VBL treatments decreased testes weight and sperm count, increasing abnormal spermatozoa.
- Both exposures elevated DNA single-strand breaks in germ cells.
- High-dose VBL reduced pregnancy rates, live fetuses, and induced dominant lethal mutations; combined low doses increased dead implants, but congenital malformations were not observed.
Impact:
- Provides crucial data on the reproductive hazards of vinblastine and radiation exposure.
- Informs risk assessment for male reproductive health in occupational or therapeutic settings.
- Highlights the genotoxic potential and impact on fertility, guiding safety protocols.
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