Decreased Levels of Plasma Testosterone/LH Ratio in Male Mice Exposed to Sodium Arsenite

Abstract

-While it's been shown that arsenic impairs male reproductive function, it remains unclear whether the mechanism involves an effect on testosterone (T) production. We examined plasma T and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in mice given water containing either 20 or 40 mg/L sodium arsenite (SA). The plasma T levels were lower in SA-treated mice than in controls and correlated well with testicular T levels within individuals. However, SA treatment did not significantly affect plasma LH levels. The ratio of plasma T to LH was reduced by the treatment with 40 mg/L SA. These results suggest arsenic-induced defect in testicular testosterone production in mice.

In vitro application of sodium arsenite to mice testicular and epididymal organ cultures induces oxidative, biochemical, hormonal, and genotoxic stress

“…Several in vivo studies have, however, reported reproductive toxicity in male mice upon exposure to arsenic. For instance, NaAsO 2 induces oxidative stress and adversely affects sperm functions (Monika et al, 2013), reduces steroidogenesis (Chang et al, 2010), and generates spermatotoxic effects (Pant et al, 2004). It is very well established that an imbalance between ROS levels and antioxidant enzymes indicates oxidative stress.…”