Cadmium-induced infertility in male mice

The effects of cadmium in a concentration similar to that found in Maharloo Lake (Shiraz, Iran) on male reproductive system was studied in adult Balb/c male mice that received 0, 23, and 50 mg/kg of cadmium chloride in 0.5 mL distilled water for 45 days. Sperm count and motility, sperm nuclear maturity and chromatin structure tests were carried out. Testis of each mouse was examined histologically. The treated male mice were mated with females. Prostatic and nonprostatic acid phosphatase activity in blood serum, testis, and prostate, lipid peroxidation and cadmium accumulation in testis, seminal vesicle, and middle 1/3 of the quadericeps femoris muscle were measured. The sperm count, sperm motility, sperm maturity, and the level of testosterone decreased significantly in the high dose adminstered group. Histological studies showed a severe necrosis and atrophy in the testis of high dose group, consequently, there was no successful mating in some groups. The number of newborns and their weights and crown rump lengths reduced. Cadmium accumulation in testis and middle of the quadriceps femoris muscle was significantly higher in animals receiving 50 mg/kg cadmium chloride. Nonprostatic acid phosphatase activity decreased, whereas prostatic acid phosphatase activity increased significantly in serum of animals receiving 50 mg/kg cadmium chloride. Also prostatic acid phosphatase activity decreased significantly in prostate of animals receiving 50 mg/kg cadmium chloride. Lipid peroxidation was significantly higher in testis of animals treated with 50 mg/kg cadmium chloride compared with control group. Cadmium affects male reproductive system activity and can cause infertility in mice as an animal model.