P-11: The Effects of Kerack Used in Iran on Sperm Parameters and Testis Structure in Adult Mice

Background: Kerack is emerging illicit substance which its use is rising up in Iran. It has harmful effects on body organs. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of Iranian Kerack on sperm parameters and testicular structure of mice. Materials and Methods: In this study, 25 male mice (Balb/C) were divided into five groups (control, sham and three experimental). Experimental groups of Kerackdependent mice (received ascending dose of Kerack for seven days twice daily) were divided into three categories, experimental I, II and III. Experimental I was given Kerack at a dose of 5 mg/kg, experimental II 35 mg/kg and experimental III 70 mg/kg, intraperitoneally twice a day for a period of 35 days. The sham group received normal saline and lemon juice (2.6 μl/ml) whilst the control group just received water and food. Mice were then scarified and sperm removed from cauda epididymis and analyzed for sperm count, motility, morphology (normal/ abnormal) and viability. Testes were also removed, weighed and processed for light microscopic studies. Results: The results showed that epididymal sperm parameters were significantly decreased in experimental groups (dose-dependent) compared with sham and control groups (p≤0.01). Gonadosomatic index and diameters of seminiferous tubules were significantly reduced with high dose Kerack (70 mg/kg) injected in comparison with control testes. Conclusion: It is concluded that Kerack used in Iran has the destructive effects on reproductive system in male mice.