Dose-dependent effect of copper chloride on male reproductive function in immature rats.

BACKGROUND Copper is essential as a trace element for metabolic processes. Exposure to copper in industries develops toxicity among the workers. Previous findings on adverse effects of copper on male reproductive function in adult albino rats led to investigate the effects of this metal on reproductive function of maturing male rats in the present experiment. METHODOLOGY To study these effects, immature (30 to 35 days old) Wistar strain albino rats weighing about 50-60 g were treated intraperitoneally with copper chloride at doses of 1000, 2000 and 3000 microg/kg body weight/day for 26 days. RESULT Significant fall in accessory sex organ weight and inhibition of testicular 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity along with degeneration of testicular growing spermatogenic cells and reduction in serum testosterone, FSH and LH level were observed at the doses of 2000 and 3000microg/kg/day. On the other hand, at the dose of 1000 microg/kg/day significant increase in testicular steroidogenic enzyme activity and stimulation of testicular spermatogenesis along with rise in serum testosterone and LH level were observed, though no significant change was observed in serum FSH level. This suggests that copper has got a dose-dependent effect on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis and serum testosterone and LH level in maturing male rats.