Potential of acetamiprid to induce testicular oxidative stress, apoptosis and hormonal disturbance in male albino Wistar rats

Abstract

Introduction, acetamiprid (AMP) is an insecticide that can affect human health as it is easily absorbed through gastrointestinal mucosa inducing erectile dysfunction and reduction of total sperm count. Many research studies had examined the effect of AMP on different body organs while this study was designed to study the underlying mechanisms of AMP associated reproductive toxicity. Material and methods, 40 male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Control (C) group, received vehicle. 40 mg dose (40D), 30 mg dose (30D) and 10 mg dose (10D) groups received 40 mg/kg b.w., 30 mg/kg b.w., 10 mg/kg b.w. of AMP by oral gavage daily for 90 days. Results, sperm counts were significantly decreased in AMP treated groups with an increased count of flattened headed sperms in 40D-group. Plasma and testicular tissue GSH and TAS levels were significantly decreased while MDA and TOS levels were significantly increased after AMP administration in a dose dependent manner while plasma LH, FSH, GnRH and INHB levels were significantly increased. Seminiferous tubules basement membrane showed irregularities in 40D and 30D groups with a decrease in spermatogenic cells number. The testicular proliferative index was decreased associated with an increase in apoptotic index in AMP treated groups. Conclusion, AMP oral administration in a dose 10-40 mg/kg b.w. to male albino Wistar rats was found to possess an oxidative stress and apoptotic impact on the reproductive system which could be reflected on the occupational health precautions.