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Effects of methotrexate on rabbit testes. Part 2: Hormonal changes
M Koehler1, U Heinrich, R Ludwig
1Pediatric Clinic Silesian Medical School, Zabrze, Poland.
Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Methotrexate (MTX) exposure in male rabbits disrupted endocrine function, increasing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and altering testosterone and androstenedione levels, suggesting gonadal steroid synthesis impairment.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Methotrexate (MTX) is a widely used chemotherapy agent.
- Potential endocrine disrupting effects of MTX require further investigation, particularly in male reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of single and repeated methotrexate (MTX) doses on endocrine function in male rabbits.
- To assess MTX concentrations in tissues and their correlation with observed endocrine changes.
Main Methods:
- Thirty mature and peripubertal male rabbits were administered single or repeated MTX doses.
- Plasma levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and androstenedione were measured using radioimmunoassay (RIA).
Main Results:
- Elevated plasma FSH levels were observed in both single and repeated MTX dose groups.
- Repeated MTX administration led to elevated androstenedione and reduced testosterone levels, indicating potential gonadal steroid synthesis defects.
- Luteinizing hormone (LH) levels remained unchanged, suggesting a complex interplay between MTX, gonadal steroids, and gonadotropin synthesis.
Conclusions:
- Methotrexate exposure can significantly disrupt male rabbit endocrine function.
- Repeated MTX administration may impair gonadal steroidogenesis, affecting reproductive hormone balance.
- The observed hormonal changes highlight the need for careful monitoring of endocrine health in individuals undergoing MTX treatment.