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Updated: Jun 6, 2026
Assessment of Sexual Behavior of Male Mice
Published on: March 5, 2020
Toxic effects of citrinin on the male reproductive system in mice
Han Qingqing1, Yu Linbo, Guo Yunqian
1College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
This study investigated the effects of citrinin (CTN) on male mouse reproductive organs. Adult male mice were exposed to intraperitoneal injection of CTN at 0-6.25 mg/kg body weight daily for 7 days, and then mated with sexually mature untreated female mice. Reproductive organ relative weights, semen quality, serum testosterone concentrations and fertility of treated mice were assessed. CTN significantly increased relative weights of the testes, epididymis, seminal vesicle and preputial gland, increased the number of abnormal spermatozoa and decreased the number of live spermatozoa. A significantly lower pregnancy rate was observed when females were mated with CTN-exposed males. The histological results indicated that distance of testicular seminiferus tubule increased. The sperm count and serum testosterone concentrations were significantly reduced in a dose-dependent manner in mice treated with CTN. The results suggest that CTN has adverse effects on the reproductive system of adult male mice.
Insights
Citrinin (CTN) exposure negatively impacts male mouse reproductive health, affecting sperm quality, testosterone levels, and fertility. These findings highlight CTN
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Endocrinology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Citrinin (CTN) is a mycotoxin with potential health implications.
- Limited research exists on CTN's specific effects on male reproductive systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of CTN exposure on male mouse reproductive organs and fertility.
- To assess changes in semen quality, testosterone levels, and reproductive organ weights.
Main Methods:
- Adult male mice received daily intraperitoneal injections of CTN (0-6.25 mg/kg) for 7 days.
- Reproductive organ weights, semen parameters, serum testosterone, and fertility were evaluated.
- Histological examination of testicular tissues was performed.
Main Results:
- CTN exposure significantly increased the relative weights of testes, epididymis, seminal vesicle, and preputial gland.
- Semen quality was adversely affected, with increased abnormal sperm and decreased live sperm counts.
- Reduced sperm count, lower serum testosterone concentrations, and decreased fertility rates were observed in a dose-dependent manner.
- Histological analysis revealed increased distance between testicular seminiferous tubules.
Conclusions:
- Citrinin (CTN) exerts adverse effects on the male mouse reproductive system.
- CTN exposure can lead to impaired reproductive function and reduced fertility in males.
- Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms of CTN toxicity on reproduction.