Exposure to beta-cypermethrin impairs the reproductive function of female mice

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Toxicology
• Environmental Health
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Pesticide exposure is a growing concern for reproductive health.
• Beta-cypermethrin (β-CYP) is a widely used insecticide with potential endocrine-disrupting properties.
• Understanding β-CYP's impact on female reproduction is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of β-CYP on female reproductive function in mice.
• To examine the impact of β-CYP on uterine endometrium morphology and follicular development.
• To determine the relationship between β-CYP exposure and fertility outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Female mice were exposed to varying doses of β-CYP.
• Reproductive parameters, including pregnancy rates, were assessed.
• Serum hormone levels (E2, FSH, P, LH) were measured.
• Uterine endometrial morphology and follicular development were examined histologically.

Main Results:

• β-CYP exposure significantly decreased successful pregnancy rates.
• Serum levels of estradiol (E2) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) increased, while progesterone (P) and luteinizing hormone (LH) decreased.
• Uterine endometrium showed damage, with marked inhibition of endometrial pinopodes.
• A significant reduction in the total number of ovarian follicles was observed in medium- and high-dose groups.

Conclusions:

• β-CYP significantly impairs female reproductive function in mice.
• Disruption of reproductive hormone balance and damage to the endometrium and ovarian follicles contribute to reduced fertility.
• These findings highlight the potential reproductive risks associated with β-CYP exposure.