Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
08:20
A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
Nickel induced structural and functional alterations in mouse Leydig cells in vitro
Jiřina Zemanová Kročková1, Peter Massányi, Alexander V Sirotkin
1SPU v Nitre, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovak Republic. cipko26@yahoo.com
Summary
Nickel chloride (NiCl2) negatively impacts mouse Leydig cells, reducing testosterone secretion, viability, and altering cell structure. It also increases apoptosis, indicating significant toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Reproductive Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Leydig cells are crucial for testosterone production in males.
- Environmental toxicants can disrupt testicular function and male fertility.
- Nickel compounds are common environmental pollutants with potential health effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the toxic effects of nickel chloride (NiCl2) on mouse Leydig cells.
- To assess the impact of NiCl2 on testosterone secretion, cell viability, apoptosis, and ultrastructure.
Main Methods:
- Mouse Leydig cells were cultured with varying concentrations of NiCl2.
- Testosterone secretion was measured using radioimmunoassay.
- Cell viability was assessed via MTT assay.
- Apoptosis was quantified using TUNEL assay.
- Ultrastructural changes were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- NiCl2 exposure decreased cell viability at concentrations ≥250μmol/L.
- Testosterone production showed a concentration-dependent decrease.
- Apoptosis significantly increased at 125, 250, and 1000μmol/L NiCl2.
- Ultrastructural analysis revealed increased euchromatin, lipid droplets, and vacuoles, with decreased mitochondria and smooth endoplasmic reticulum at higher NiCl2 concentrations.
Conclusions:
- NiCl2 exerts toxic effects on mouse Leydig cells, impairing steroidogenesis and viability.
- Nickel exposure induces apoptosis and significant ultrastructural damage in Leydig cells.
- These findings highlight the potential reproductive toxicity of nickel.
