Zinc and copper content in rat epididymis and vas deferens

The zinc and copper content in the different epididymal segments and vas deferens of castrated rats were investigated with the help of atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The vas deferens showed maximum zinc content as compared to that of different parts of epididymis in all groups whether castrated unilaterally, bilaterally or in the intact control. Zinc content was reduced in the epididymis and vas deferens ipsilateral to the castrated side as compared to that of contralateral control and intake animals. Lowest zinc content was observed in the epididymis and vas deferens of bilaterally castrated animals from that of other groups. Absence of sperms was observed in all segments of epididymis and vas in bilaterally castrated animals and from the unilaterally castrated side. Copper content was unaltered in all epididymal segments and vas deferens. There appears to be a correlation between the absence of sperms in the male genital tract and the decrease in zinc content.