The Effect of Zinc and Nano Zinc Supplementation on Serum Testosterone and Testicular Histology in Male Rats

Abstract

Background : Infertility is a universal medical problem, 50% was contributed to male factors. Zinc is an important elements for all living cells and it is one of the most important trace elements in our bodies. Nanoparticles, are mall particles, that have a large surface area if compared to their size, this small size, help them to enter into living cells easily. This makes them an essential participant in all biological interactions and their modern applications. The aim was to evaluate the effects of Zinc and Nano zinc on male gonads histology and function. Methods: A double blind case control study, designed to test the effects of Zinc oxide and Nano zinc oxide on 20 rats that were divided randomly into 4 equal groups. Control, Zinc, Nano zinc, and hybrid (zinc and Nano zinc) group. The dose was 0.11mg/kg. Results: There was significant change in in serum Zinc and testosterone, more in ZnNPs containing groups. While the histological picture of testis ameliorated in zinc arm, but worsen in ZnNPs arm of experiment. These results lead to the Conclusion that Nano zinc though improve S. testosterone, it can damage the testicular tissues in certain doses.