Effects of hexavalent chromium on reproductive functions of male adult rats

Hexavalent chromium is an environmental contaminant which may be associated with reproductive abnormalities in male rats. In the present study, we examined the effect of hexavalent chromium on male reproductive function of rats. Male Wistar rats received a daily intraperitoneal injection of potassium dichromate (1 or 2 mg/kg body weight) for fifteen consecutive days. A decrease in testis weight and an increase in seminal vesicles and prostate weights were demonstrated after chromium treatment. Moreover, a dose-dependent increase in blood and testis chromium levels as well as an increase in FSH and a decrease in LH and testosterone serum levels were detected in treated rats. Histological analysis revealed pronounced morphological alterations with enlarged intracellular spaces, tissue loosening and dramatic loss of gametes in the lumen of the seminiferous tubules of treated rats. In addition, a decreased sperm motility and number of epididymal spermatozoa together with an increased sperm abnormality rate was found in chromium-treated rats in comparison to controls. In rats receiving the higher chromium dose, histological images presented considerably increased areas filled with seminal vesicle and prostate secretions. The mucosal crypts of seminal vesicles and the typical invaginations of prostate were altered. The results suggest that subacute treatment of potassium dichromate promotes reproductive system toxicity and affects testicular function of adult male rats.