A study on the effect of thiotepa on mice spermatogenesis using light and electronic microscope

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Toxicology
• Oncology

Background:

• Chemotherapy, including thiotepa, can cause infertility.
• Limited data exists on thiotepa's specific effects on spermatogenesis.
• Understanding these side effects is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the spermatogenic effects of intraperitoneal thiotepa administration in mice.
• To evaluate the impact of thiotepa on testicular germinal epithelium using electron microscopy.

Main Methods:

• Balb/c mice were divided into control and thiotepa-treated groups.
• Thiotepa was administered at 2.5 mg/kg for 5 days.
• Testicular tissues were analyzed using light and electron microscopy after 5 weeks.

Main Results:

• Thiotepa treatment reduced germinal epithelium thickness and caused germ cell loss.
• Electron microscopy showed intercellular spaces, irregular basement membranes, and vacuoles.
• Mitochondrial vacuolation and chromatin condensation were observed in treated mice.

Conclusions:

• Thiotepa adversely affects testicular germinal epithelium.
• Both cytotoxic effects and apoptosis induction contribute to thiotepa's impact on spermatogenesis.
• Further research is needed to mitigate thiotepa-induced testicular toxicity.