Effects of cadmium chloride on the testis and sex accessory glands of the Indian palm squirrel, Funambulus pennanti (Wroughthon)
Lohiya, N.K.
Acta Europaea Fertilitatis 7(3): 257-265
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0587-2421 PMID: 1036003 Document Number: 107843
A single subcutaneous injection of cadmium chloride caused reversible destruction in the testis of palm, squirrel, Funambulus pennanti. Marked regression in testicular weight and seminiferous tubule diameter associated with complete necrosis of germinal epithelium was observed after 1, 2, 3, 5 and 7 days of cadmium administration. A significant increase in the concentration of testicular cholesterol was observed after 5 days treatment. Decrease in the citric acid concentration of prostate gland was associated with the degenerative changes of the spermatogenic elements. Reduced fructose concentration in the seminal vesicle and prostate of cadmium treated animals indicate an inhibition of androgen production. Decreased androgen production was also reflected by the atrophic seminal vesicles, prostate and epididymides. These effects were reversible and about 70% seminiferous tubules showed normal spermatogenesis. The cholesterol, fructose and citric acid concentration of testis and sex accessory glands returned to subnormal levels after 45 days of cadmium chloride treatment. It is suggested that the degenerative effects of cadmium chloride are dose, time and species dependent.