TOXIC EFFECTS OF PARAQUAT DICHLORIDE LEACHATE ON TESTES AND SPERM PARAMETERS OF MALE WISTAR RATS

Abstract

Herbicide(s) commonly known as weedkillers, are chemical substances used to control unwanted plants. Paraquat (PQ) (1, 1-dimethyl 4, 4-bipyridillium dichloride) is the active component of the herbicide (Parae Force) used in this study. This study was performed on 25 male Wistar rats that were divided into 5 groups (A, B, C, D and E), Group A served as the control group that received only distilled water, Group B, C, D & E served as the treated groups that received 25%, 50%, 75%, & 100% leachate of Paraquat dichloride concentration respectively for 8 weeks. This study investigated the effect of paraquat dichloride on the testes, sperm characteristics and body weight in adult male Wistar rats. Histological analysis of the testes as well as semen analysis was carried out. Histomorphometry study of the testes showed deformed seminiferous tubules with irregular shape and spermatogenesis was arrested. Interstitial space was comparatively loose and disrupted Leydig cells are also visible. Seminiferous tubules also exhibiting degenerated basement membrane along with degenerated interstitial cells, degenerated spermatogonia and damaged Sertoli cells. Consequently, the sperm count from the Paraquat dichloride exposed semen revealed significant decreased results, the sperm morphology and sperm progressivity were also affected negatively. In conclusion, the present study indicates that Paraquat dichloride demonstrated toxic effects on male reproductive parameters.