Lead Induced Oxidative Stress and Affected the Expression of Steroidogenesis -related Genes in Testis of Male Mice

Background: Lead (Pb) is classified as a major risk factor affecting the male reproductive system; however, itsprecise mechanisms of action are poorly understood and inconsistent. This work aimed to investigate effect ofPb toxicity on function.Methods: Accordingly, in this study, adult mice treated with acetate (PbAc) by gavage (200 mg/kg/day) for 28 days. We analyzed sperm count morphology, oxidative stress, expression antioxidantand steroidogenesis -related genes testes mice.Results: Pb significantly (P<0.05) showed decreased body weight count, well significantly(P<0.05) increased number abnormal sperms plasma testosterone level. The activities superoxidedismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) catalase (Cat) were decreased, whereasthe level malondialdehyde (MDA) was testis Pb. mRNAlevels antioxidant-related (SOD1, GPX1, CAT) following treatment.Furthermore, involved steroidogenic pathway, including acuteregulatory protein (Star), cytochromeP-450scc (Cyp11a1), 17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD),3β-Hydroxysteroid (3β-HSD) cytochrome P450, family 17 (Cyp17), (P<0.05)decreased after exposure Pb.Conclusion: In conclusion, disrupts function inducing negativelyregulating mRNA expressions antioxidant genes, ultimately reducingsperm quality quantity.