Journal of Environmental Biology

Effect on histological and sperm kinetics in DBP exposed Wistar rats

Neena Nair*, Sushila Bedwal, Deepa Kumari, Sunita Bedwal and R.S. Bedwal

Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur - 302 004, India

(Received: September 09, 2006; Revised received: April 21, 2007;  Accepted: May 26, 2007)

Abstract: Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, extensively used as a softener for polyvinyl chloride resins. A study was conducted to evaluate its effect on reproductive function of Wistar rats. DBP was given orally at a dose of 500, 1000 and 1500 mg kg^-1 body weight  for 7 days. Evaluating histological and fertility parameters assessed reproductive function. Significant reduction in seminiferous tubule diameter, Leydig cell nuclear diameter (except at dose 500 mg), number of primary spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes and spermatids were observed. Caudal sperm density and viability reduced significantly. Decrease in serum testosterone was also observed. Evidence indicates that DBP exposure causes dose dependent testicular toxicity and has the potential to induce adverse effect.

Key words:   DBP, Testis, Sperm density, Sperm viability, Testosterone

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