Altered testicular histomorphometric and antioxidant levels following in vivo Bisphenol-A administration

Abstract

Background: Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a pervasive environmental toxin that is used in the production processes of many consumables and equipment that are in daily application. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of BPA on the structural and functional integrity of the reproductive system in male Wistar rats and its interaction with melatonin. Methods: Adult female rats in pro-estrus phases were mated with adult male rats and the conception determined. The male pups were divided into two groups of A and B. These groups were further subdivided into six subgroups each. They were administered varying low doses of BPA (25 or 50mg/kg) and melatonin (10mg/kg) at neonatal and adolescent ages. The testes, epididymis and blood samples were collected for histological, semen and biochemical investigations, respectively. Results: The results show that BPA caused histological alterations, reduced quality and quantity of sperm cells, and induced oxidative stress at birth and adolescence. Conclusion: Bisphenol A exposure, even at low dose, is toxic to the male reproductive system, and melatonin administration did not significantly improve the alterations caused by the BPA.