Genotoxicity and reproductive toxicity of bisphenol A and X-ray/bisphenol A combination in male mice

This study was designed to investigate the effects of 2 weeks of exposure of male mice to bisphenol A (BPA) alone or in a combination with X-rays on the sperm count and quality as well as induction of DNA strand breaks in somatic and germ cells. Pzh:SFIS male mice were exposed to X-rays (0.05 and 0.10 Gy) or BPA (5, 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) or to a combination of both (0.05 Gy + 5 mg/kg body weight of BPA and 0.10 Gy + 10 mg/kg of BPA). Both X-rays and BPA administered alone decreased sperm count and quality. X-rays induced DNA strand breaks in spleen cells, whereas BPA induced DNA strand breaks in lymphocytes and in cells from spleen, kidneys, and lung and in germ cells. After combined exposure to both agents, sperm count and quality were similar as after exposure to each agent alone and significantly reduced, compared to control. Levels of DNA damage in somatic and germ cells after combined exposure to lower, as well as higher, doses were significantly reduced, compared to the effects of BPA alone. Results confirmed the mutagenic ability of BPA. Combined exposure to X-rays and BPA leads to the prevention of DNA damage in somatic and germ cells of mice.