P-10: Effects of Cadmium on Reproductive Enzymes of Blood and Reproductive Tissues in Adult Male Mice

Background: Heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd2+) are natural components of the Earth's crust which can not be degraded or destroyed. Industrial, mining and agricultural activities, particularly the excessive use of phosphate fertilizers, have led to high levels of cadmium contamination at many locations worldwide. Some toxic effects of cadmium are due to its inhibition of various enzyme systems such as enzymes containing sulphydryl groups. Chemistry Department of Shiraz University reported the presence of cadmium in water pools of Fars province. So in this study we investigated the effects of cadmium in a concentration similar to that found in Maharloo Lake (Fars, Iran) on activity of the male reproductive system enzymes. Materials and Methods: Balb/c male mice divided to three groups (C, I and II) which was respectively received 0, 23 and 50 mg/kg of cadmium chloride in 0.5 ml distilled water for 45 days. The activities of prostatic and nonprostatic acid phosphatase in serum, testis and prostate gland were evaluated using acid phosphatase kit. Results: Nonprostatic acid phosphatase activity decreased while prostatic acid phosphatase activity increased in the serum of group I and II compared to group C. These changes were statistically significant in group III. Prostatic acid phosphatase activity decreased in the prostate of the treated groups compared to group C. In testis of group II and III, acid phosphatase activity increased but prostatic acid phosphatase activity was very low and showed slight decrease compared to group C. Conclusion: The level of cadmium that finds in underground and pool water around Shiraz, such as Maharloo Lake, and according to its indirect entrance into the food chain, cadmium is a threat to male fertility among mammals in that area, also it requires further study.