Effects of Vanadyl Sulphate on Spermatogenesis in Male Rats

Background: It is known that vanadyl compounds are capable of alleviating hyperglycemia in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Objective: To examine the effect of vanadyl sulphate (VS) on spermatogenesis of male rats. Methods: Male rats (n=10) were administered 32 mg/kg/day of VS orally and 50 mEq/l NaCl (as drinking water) for one month.  Meanwhile, 11 male rats, the control group, received vehicle only; 50 mEq/l NaCl as drinking water.  At the end of the study, blood testosterone level as well as spermatogram of rats in both groups were determined.   The animals were sacrificed and their testes and epididimes were then studied under light microscope. Results: In VS treated group, blood testosterone level, and sperm count were significantly decreased by 51% (normal = 2.83±0.7 ng/ml, p<0.001), and 80% (normal = 565´106/ml, p<0.05), respectively, as compared to the control group. However, sperm motility, shape, and histology of testes and epididymides were not different from those of the control group. Conclusion: Vanadyl sulphate has detrimental effects on spermatogenesis.