Effect of Di Butyl Phthalate on Reproductive Functions in Pregnant Mouse

Di butyl phthalate (DBP) is an environmental contaminant used in the production of plastics, cosmetics and medical devices. Pregnant women may be exposed to DBP through diet and daily consumer products. In present study, the effects of DBP on reproductive function of pregnant mice were investigated. Pregnant females were given DBP through gastric intubation at 0, 250 and 1000 mg / kg body weight (BW) on days 0 to 7 and 7 to 11 of gestation in two experiments. In first experiment ovarian weight was found significantly (p< 0.001) decreased at higher dose only whereas uterine weight was measured significantly low in both treated groups: DBP 250 (p< 0.01); DBP 1000 (p< 0.001), as compared to control group. Number of implantation was found significantly low (p< 0.001) and percentage of pre-implantation loss were significantly high (p< 0.001) in both DBP treated groups as compared to control. Progesterone level was found significantly (p< 0.01) low in DBP 1000 treated group while estradiol level decreased in both treated groups: DBP 250 (p< 0.01); DBP 1000 (p< 0.001). A significant (p< 0.001) increase post implantation loss along with reduced foetal weight was: DBP 250 (p< 0.05); DBP 1000 (p< 0.001), observed in treated groups in second experiment. Progesterone level was also found significantly low in both treated groups: DBP 250 (p< 0.01); DBP 1000 (p< 0.001), as compare to control group. In conclusion, results suggest that DBP exposure during pregnancy reduces uterine receptivity and slow down embryonic growth. [Singh S, Lata S. Effect of Di Butyl Phthalate on Reproductive Functions in Pregnant Mouse. N Y Sci J 2014;7(11):1-6]. (ISSN: 1554-0200). http://www.sciencepub.net/newyork. 1