Habib N, Tahir M, Lone K P, Latif W.
Protective effect of vitamin E on phthalate induced toxicity on spermatogenesis and testosterone level.
Biomedica Jan ;32(2):83-7.

Background and Objective: Phthalates are reputed to cause toxicity on account of lipid peroxidation of cell membrane and generation of reactive oxygen species. The toxicity to spermatogenesis is manifested by decrease in Johnsen scoring, atrophy or disruption of the germinal epithelium of seminiferous tubules. The present experiment was designed to investigate toxic effects on serum levels of testosterone and spermatogenesis caused by phthalates and their protection by vitamin E. Methods: Twenty four male albino rats were used, divided into three groups of eight animals each. Group A was given 0.4 ml of corn oil daily for 15 days. Group B was given 0.15 ml of Dioctyl phthalate (DOP) dissolved in 0.4 ml of corn oil daily for 15 days. Group C was given 0.15 ml Dioctyl phthalate and 10 mg of vitamin E, each dissolved in 0.4 ml of corn oil respectively, daily for 15 days. The mode of administration was oral gavage. Results: On histological examination the testes of animals of group B showed statistically significant decrease in Johnsen score (p-value < 0.001) with disruption of germinal epithelium and absence of mature sperms. These findings were associated with reduced levels of serum testosterone in this group. Coadministration of vitamin E and DOP to group C showed statistically improved Johnson score and testosterone levels as compared to group B. Conclusion: Phthalate induced testicular toxicity and effect on testosterone level were prevented by coadministration of vitamin E and DOP.

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