Effects of lindane on reproductive parameters in male rats

The effects of lindane (gamma-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane) on male reproductive parameters were studied in sexually mature rats. Epididymal sperm numbers and motility, as well as alpha-glucosidase activity in the epididymis, were determined after i.p. treatment of lindane at concentrations of 9 and 18 mg kg(-1) body wt, twice a week for 60 days. The values of epididymal sperm numbers were significantly lower (P<0.001) in the animals treated with both doses compared to the control values. Sperm numbers decreased by 42% after treatment with the lower lindane dose, while the drop in sperm count in the animals exposed to the higher dose extended to about 50%. In addition, dose-related changes in epididymal sperm motility were detected in lindane-treated animals. Motility decreased by about 45% to 68% at 9 and 18 mg kg(-1) body mass, respectively. Relative organ masses (epididymis, prostate, anterior pituitary and testis) were measured at the end of the treatment. A significant decrease (P<0.01) in prostate weight was detected in both groups treated, while the weight of the pituitary decreased (P<0.05) only in the animals treated with the higher dose. a-Glucosidase activity in the epididymides did not show any statistically significant change after exposure to lindane. A histopathological analysis of testicular tissue from treated rats showed cell disorganization. Cells were irregularly shaped, with marked intercellular space between the spermatogenic cells. Our results imply that organochlorine insecticides like lindane can cause reproductive disorders, and therefore more attention should be directed towards understanding the affects of persistent pesticide residues on reproductive outcomes.