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Effect of zearalenone on reproductive parameters and expression of selected testicular genes in mice
E Zatecka1, L Ded1, F Elzeinova1
1Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v. v. i., Prague, Czech Republic.
Abstract:
We tested the effect of two different concentrations (150μg/l and 0.15μg/l) of mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEA) on the reproductive parameters and expression of testicular genes in male mice. In adult males, no reduction of body or reproductive organ weight was observed, and the seminiferous tubules were morphologically normal with ongoing spermatogenesis. However, we found decreased sperm concentration, increase of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa and increased binding of apoptotic marker annexin V. This study was also focused on the evaluation of gene expression profiles of 28 genes playing important roles during the processes occurring in the testicular tissue. We detected changes in the expression of genes important for proper spermatogenesis. Surprisingly, we observed a stronger effect after exposure to the lower dose of ZEA.
Insights
Mycotoxin zearalenone (ZEA) negatively impacts male mouse fertility by reducing sperm concentration and increasing abnormalities. Surprisingly, lower ZEA doses exhibited stronger adverse effects on testicular gene expression and sperm health.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive toxicology
- Environmental health
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Mycotoxins, such as zearalenone (ZEA), are contaminants that can pose risks to reproductive health.
- Understanding the specific effects of ZEA on male reproductive parameters and testicular gene expression is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of two different concentrations of zearalenone (ZEA) on male mouse reproductive parameters.
- To analyze the expression profiles of 28 key testicular genes following ZEA exposure.
- To compare the effects of high-dose versus low-dose ZEA exposure.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of adult male mice to two concentrations of zearalenone (150μg/l and 0.15μg/l).
- Assessment of body weight, reproductive organ weight, and seminiferous tubule morphology.
- Sperm analysis including concentration, morphology, and annexin V binding.
- Quantitative gene expression analysis of 28 selected testicular genes.
Main Results:
- No significant changes in body or reproductive organ weight were observed.
- Seminiferous tubules remained morphologically normal with active spermatogenesis.
- A decrease in sperm concentration and an increase in morphologically abnormal spermatozoa were detected.
- Increased binding of the apoptotic marker annexin V was observed.
- Significant alterations in the expression of genes crucial for spermatogenesis were identified.
- The lower dose of ZEA (0.15μg/l) demonstrated a stronger effect on gene expression and sperm parameters compared to the higher dose.
Conclusions:
- Zearalenone exposure, even at low doses, adversely affects male mouse reproductive parameters, including sperm quality and testicular gene expression.
- The study highlights a concerning non-linear dose-response relationship for ZEA's effects on male reproduction.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms behind ZEA's impact and establish safe exposure limits.
