Evaluation of lead toxicity on reproduction using the fertility test

Abstract EN

-The present study was conducted to evaluate the toxicity of lead (Pb) on reproduction and fertility in sprague-dawley rats.

Forty rats were divided into four groups (10 rats each) and every group contained 5 male and 5 Female rats.

Group (1), male and female rats were fed on a diet containing 300 mg lead acetate/kg diet.

Group (2), the female rats were fed on a diet containing lead acetate while the male rats fed on normal diet.

Group (3), the male rats were fed on a diet containing lead acetate while the female rats fed on normal diet.

Group (4), served as control.

After three months, the fertility test was made and the offspring were counted then weighted at the end of experiment.

Three months later, rats in all groups were weighted then sacrificed and specimens from testes, epididymis, ovaries and fallopian tubes were taken for histopathology.

Serum samples were collected for determination of sex hormones.

In lead acetate treated groups there were a significant decrease in the total body weight as well as testes and ovaries.

The number of offspring was significantly decreased.

The mean levels of testosterone, progesterone and estrogen in lead acetate treated group were significantly decreased when compared with control group.

Histopathological examination of the testes of male rats treated with lead acetate revealed vascular changes in the form of congestion and edema, testicular degeneration, fibrosis and lymphocytic infiltration in the interstitial tissue.

Lesions in female rats treated with lead acetate revealed vascular and degenerative changes in the ovaries and metaplasia of the epithelial lining of the fallopian tubes.

It was concluded that lead toxicity induced adverse effects on the fertility and reproduction of rats.