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The age-related morphological changes of the testes in light ecotype Nigerian indigenous chicken were evaluated in this study using gross anatomical, histological and histomorphometric techniques. The results showed that the testes of 3- to 9-month-old birds were light pink while testes of sexually mature chicken were creamy white in colour. The left and right testicular weight, length, diameter, circumference and the organosomatic indices increased significantly (p .05) with increasing age across the groups. Although the mean tubular diameter and epithelial height of the left and right seminiferous tubules increased significantly (p .05) with age, the tubular diameter, epithelial height and luminal diameter did not vary significantly (p .05) between the left and right testes of all the groups. The one-cell layer thick germinal epithelium of the left testes at 3 to 6 months old showed islands of cell proliferation that contained spermatogonia and spermatocytes. At 6 to 9 months, the left testes exhibited numerous early spermatids with occasional occurrence of late stage spermatids while the right testes showed scanty early stage spermatids. At 12 to 18 months, the germinal epithelia of both left and right testes were characterized by the presence of Sertoli cells, spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, numerous early and late stage spermatids as well as spermatozoa. In conclusion, the morphological features highlighted in the present study show that at pre-pubertal periods, the left testes may develop faster than the right testes. However, both left and right testes may participate actively in the production of spermatozoa during the post-pubertal life.

In order to study the effect of l-arginine on testicular development in boars and its underlying mechanism, thirty 30-day-old Duroc boars (7.0 ± 0.3 kg) were randomly allocated to either a basal diet (CON, n = 15) or a 0.8% arginine diet (ARG, n = 15). Blood samples were collected and weight measurements were done regularly to every pig during the experimental period. Testes were collected for histological and proteomic analysis from 150-day-old boars. Results showed that dietary supplementation with arginine significantly increased testicular weight, the number of spermatogonia, and the height of the seminiferous epithelium (P 0.05). The serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were also significantly increased in the ARG group (P 0.05). A total of 154 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified, 76 of them were upregulated and 78 were downregulated. Mainly enriched metabolic pathways were the mTOR and Wnt signaling pathways. Functional annotation suggested that 18 DEPs were related to male reproduction. Western blotting results further validated the results from proteomics. This study may provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms by which arginine promotes male testicular development.

Histopathological examination of testicular tissue is the most reliable and sensitive method for detecting effects on spermatogenesis. Hypercholesterolemia reduces testicular weight, induces testicular degenerative changes, impairs spermatogenesis, affects Leydig and Sertoli cells and induces inflammation and fibrosis of testicular tissue. Based on numerous studies, honey has the ability to improve testicular histopathological abnormalities. To date, whether honey has any protective role against the effects of hypercholesterolemia on male reproductive functions is yet to be explored. This study investigated the effects of Trihoney (a mixture of Trigona, Mellifera and Tualang honeys) on changes in testicular weight and histopathological alterations induced by hypercholesterolemia in male New Zealand white rabbits. These changes were compared with the effects of atorvastatin (a lipid lowering agent) based on the same parameters. Forty-eight male New Zealand white rabbits were assigned into 6 groups and received different diets as follows; Control: commercial pellet; CH: commercial pellet and 0.6 g/kg/day Trihoney; HCD: 1% cholesterol diet; DH1: 1% cholesterol diet and 0.3 g/kg/day Trihoney; DH2: 1% cholesterol diet and 0.6 g/kg/day Trihoney; DAt: 1% cholesterol diet and 2 mg/kg/day atorvastatin. After 12 weeks, blood samples were collected for lipid analysis, the rabbits were sacrificed and the testes were harvested to evaluate any weight and histopathological changes. Administration of 1% cholesterol diet either alone or in combination with atorvastatin caused a significant reduction in the testicular weight, testicular tubular degenerative changes and spermatogenesis impairment. Trihoney, particularly, at the dose of 0.6 g/kg/day improved testicular weight, ameliorated the testicular tubular degenerative changes and enhanced spermatogenesis. The findings of this study suggest that Trihoney plays a favourable role in the protection against testicular weight reduction and histopathological changes induced by hypercholesterolemia. On the other hand, atorvastatin per se may have toxic effects on testicular tissue.

Background and Aim: In the male reproductive system, the aging process can lead to infertility. Recently, placenta and its derivatives have been researched as regenerative agents. This study aimed to describe the basic components of dried bovine placenta powder and its potential effects as a regenerative agent in a rat model of male reproductive aging with D-galactose induction. Materials and Methods: We divided 15 male Wistar rats, 2 months of age, into three groups: A, the health control group; B, the D-galactose induction group, and C, the D-galactose induction and 10% dried bovine placenta supplementation group. We measured epididymal sperm concentration and testicular weight and volume and analyzed these using one-way analysis of variance. Results: Dried bovine placenta was rich in nutrients, with 61.98% protein, 21.25±2.07 carbohydrates, 8.58% water, 4.93% ash, and 3.27% fat. The mean epididymal spermatozoa concentration of the rats in Groups A, B, and C was 3026×106/mL, 1492.8×106/mL, and 2732.5×106/mL, respectively. The average total testicle weights were 2.44 g, 2.72 g, and 2.57 g, respectively. The average total testicle volumes were 2.29 cm3, 2.49 cm3, and 2.33cm3, respectively. Conclusion: Dried bovine placenta powder is rich in nutrients, especially protein. Supplementation with dried bovine placenta can improve epididymal spermatozoa concentration that is important in fertility.

Transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is an alternative reproductive method to achieve conservation and production of elite animals in livestock production. Creating a recipient animal without endogenous germ cells is important for effective SSC transplantation. However, natural mutants with depletion of SSCs are difficult to obtain, and drug ablation of endogenous germ cells is arduous to perform for practical use. In this study, we used mouse models to study the preparation of recipients with congenital germ cell ablation. We knocked out (KO) Ets-variant gene 5 (Etv5) in mice using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. The testicular weight of Etv5-/- mice was significantly lower than that of wild-type (WT) mice. The germ cell layer of the seminiferous tubules gradually receded with age in Etv5-/- mice. At 12 weeks of age, the tubules of Etv5-/- mice lacked germ cells (Sertoli cell-only syndrome), and sperm were completely absent in the epididymis. We subsequently transplanted allogeneic SSCs with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) into 3-(immature) or 7-week-old (mature) Etv5-/- mice. Restoration of germ cell layers in the seminiferous tubules and spermatogenesis was observed in all immature testes but not in mature adult testes at 2 months post-transplantation. The presence of heterologous genes Etv5 and EGFP in recipient testicular tissue and epididymal sperm by PCR indicated that sperm originated from the transplanted donor cells. Our study demonstrates that, although Etv5-/- mice could accommodate and support foreign germ cell transplantation, this process occurs in a quite low efficiency to support a full spermatogenesis of transplanted SSCs. However, using Etv5-/- mice as a recipient model for SSC transplantation is feasible, and still needs further investigation to establish an optimized transplantation process.

This study was conducted to clarify the relationships of plasma concentrations of insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3), testosterone, inhibin, and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) with scrotal circumference and testicular weight in Japanese Black beef bull calves (n = 20), from birth to pre-puberty. Monthly blood sampling (0 to 7 months) and scrotal circumference measurements (0 to 7 months) were performed. Testicular weight was recorded immediately after castration at 7 months. Plasma INSL3, testosterone, inhibin, and IGF-I concentrations were measured either by enzyme immunoassay or time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay. The correlation coefficients of these hormonal concentrations with scrotal circumference were significant (P < 0.0001) and it was higher for INSL3 (r = 0.647) than for testosterone (r = 0.597), IGF-I (r = 0.400), and inhibin (r = –0.453). Calves with heavier testes (> 60 g) at castration (7 months) had higher (P < 0.05) plasma INSL3 (from 3 to 7 months) and inhibin (from 1 to 4 months) concentrations than those with lighter testes (< 60 g). The calves with heavier testes at castration had larger (P < 0.05) scrotal circumference than those with lighter testes from 3 to 7 months. In conclusion, blood INSL3 concentrations may be the best functional indicator among the hormones analyzed for determining total testicular volume during pre-puberty in bull calves. In addition, inhibin and INSL3 concentrations in early calfhood may be functional predictors for testicular weight at pre-puberty.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the supplementation of dl-methionine and l-lysine HCl to diet based on cafeteria standards of native chickens on body weight, internal organs and reproductive organs of native chicken at pullet phase. A total of 128 fourteen weeks-old native chickens were used in this study. The native chickens were divided into 4 treatments with 4 replications. The dietary treatments were: T 0 (ration based on cafeteria standard), T 1 (ration based on protein standard of NRC), T 2 (cafeteria ration+0.09% DL - M ethionine+0.22% L - L ysine HCl), T 3 (cafeteria ration+0.19% dl-methionine+0.42% l-lysine HCl). The data collected were body weight, liver and bile, pancreas, gizzard, testicular and ovary weight of native chickens aged 20 weeks. The result of this study for T 0 , T 1 , T 2 and T 3 showed that body weight of chickens were 1418.60; 1431.59; 1503.88 and 1556.41 g/bird, liver and bile weights were 22.44; 21.79; 24.49 dan 25.93 g/bird, pancreas weights were 2.33; 2.28; 2.50 and 2.70 g/bird, gizzard weight were 25.31; 23.91; 25.38 and 26.86 g/bird, testicular weight were 3.66; 3.86; 9.55 and 9.46 g/bird, testicular volume were 3.81; 3.38; 9.13 and 9.16 and ovary weight were 1.12; 1.32; 3.14 and 4.61 g/bird, respectively. The results showed that supplementation of DL - M ethionine and L - L ysine HCl gave significantly effect (P

The present study was designed to analyse the relationship between age, body weight and testicular biometry in young Deoni males. A total of 36 young Deoni males were monitored for body weight and testicular biometry measurements monthly. The average (Mean±S.D.) scrotal circumference (cm) and testicular volume (cm3) in less than 7 months, 7-12 months, >12-18 months, >18-24 months and >24 months age groups were 10.79±1.99, 13.4±2.25, 17.47±3.48, 21.19±2.64 and 25.9±1.71, respectively and 22.75±13.23, 43.05±18.32, 98.30±67.38, 174.46±89.20 and 258.01±89.23, respectively. The maximum increase in body weight, scrotal circumference, testicular volume and testicular weight was observed from nine to 16 months of age in young Deoni males. Age of the bulls had a significant (P less than 0.05) effect on the testicular biometry parameters. The correlation of age and body weight with all testicular parameters was positive and significant (P less than 0.05). It is concluded that age, body weight and testicular biometry are positively and significantly correlated with each other.

The aim of this study was to describe the seminal, histomorphological and hormonal effects of the oral indenopyridine RTI-4587-073(l) on feline testicle. Clinical side effects were also recorded. Sixty testicles of 30 adult cats that had been treated (d 0) with RTI-4587-073(l) 12.5 mg/kg PO and randomly hemiorchiectomized twice on: day -14 (n = 8), 6 h (n = 6), 12 h (n = 8), 24 h (n = 6), day 7 (n = 8), day 14 (n = 6), day 21 (n = 6), day 35 (n = 6) or day 42 (n = 6) were studied. Before each hemiorchiectomy, fecal samples for testosterone (T) measurement were collected and the testes were grossly and ultrasound examined. This indenopyridine did not cause changes in testicular weight (P > 0.1), volume (P > 0.1), echostructure, gonadosomatic index (P > 0.1), fecal T concentrations (P > 0.1), nor clinical side effects. A severe disorganization of the cytoarchitecture of the seminiferous epithelium, sloughed cells and fluid, were observed in the 6 h samples up to a maximum at 24 h. Tubular diameter (P < 0.01) increased twice, during the first 24 h and on d 35. Germinal epithelium achieved its minimum height on d 14 to rapidly recover thereafter. This treatment caused a significant decrease in the volume of all the seminiferous cell components, except spermatogonias. All histotological parameters normalized by the end of the study. It was concluded that RTI-4587-073(l) severely disrupted spermatogenesis during the first 24 h after treatment returning to normality in approximately one spermatic cycle without clinical side effects., Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias

The endocrine system is critical to the maintenance of testicular function. The homeostasis of sex hormone levels is orchestrated by positive and negative feedback systems controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This study investigated the long-term effects of hemicastration on testicular size and function in stallions. Four Thoroughbred stallions, 4–6 years of age, were included in this study. Several parameters, including testicular weight and volume, plasma testosterone concentrations, VASA-positive germ cell populations and cross-sectional areas of the seminiferous tubules were compared in stallions that underwent two hemicastrations, approximately 11 months apart. The weights and volumes of testes harvested at the second hemicastration were significantly higher than those of testes collected at the first hemicastration. However, VASA-positive germ cell populations and the cross-sectional areas of seminiferous tubules were not significantly different between testes harvested at the first and second hemicastrations. Similarly, plasma testosterone concentrations measured weekly for 3 weeks before the first hemicastration, 3 weeks after the first hemicastration, and 3 weeks before the second hemicastration were not significantly different. Our results suggest that hemicastration results in compensatory enlargement of the remaining testis and compensatory steroidogenesis to maintain normal reproductive function in stallions.

In rams, artificial long days followed by continuous light stimulate testosterone secretion during the non-breeding season. The objective of this study was to determine whether artificial long days followed by continuous light could stimulate testosterone secretion in Alpine bucks as well as in those exposed to long days followed by a melatonin treatment. All bucks were kept in shaded open pens. Control males were exposed to natural photoperiod conditions (n=5). Males of the two experimental groups were exposed to 2.5 months of long days from 1 December (n=5 each). On 16 February, one group of males was exposed to 24 h of light per day until 30 June; the other group was exposed to natural variations of photoperiod and received two s.c. melatonin implants. Testicular weight was determined every 2 weeks, and the plasma testosterone concentrations once a week. In the control and the two photoperiodic-treated groups, a treatment×time interaction was detected for testicular weight and plasma testosterone concentrations (P

The aim of the present study is to prepare ethanol extract of Pomegranate peel and the effects of this extract on testicular weight to body weight ratio, Serum cholesterol, testosterone concentration and histopathological changes of testes in rabbits treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Twenty four adult male rabbits were used. They were divided randomly into four equal groups. Animals were treated for 56 days as following: Rabbits of the 1st group were received 1 ml distal water orally once a day and olive oil 0.5 ml /kg B.W. I.P twice a week as control group. The second group were treated I.P with 500mg / kg B.W. of CCl4 mixing with equal volume of olive oil (0.5 ml/kg B.W.) twice a week (group T1). The third group was received pomegranate peel extract orally (100 mg/kg B.W) once a day and olive oil 0.5 ml /kg B.W. I.P twice a week (group T2). The fourth group were received pomegranate peel extract (100 mg/kg B.W) once a day oral I.P with 500 mg / kg B.W. of CCl4 mixing with equal volume of olive oil (o.5 ml/kg B.W.) twice a week (group T3). Blood samples were collected at (0, 14, 28, 42 and 56) days for measuring testosterone concentration, Serum cholesterol after treatments. Animals weighed and scarified and testis were removed and weighed, Samples of testis were taken for histopathological study. The results of the present study showed that treatment with pomegranate peel extract causes a significant (P>0.05) increase in testicular weight to body weight ratio. Also a significant (P>0.05) decreased of serum cholesterol and a significantly (P>0.05) elevation of testosterone concentration were observed. Histopathological examination of the testis was revealed that the extract of Pomegranate peel protect the testis against lesions caused by CCl4. In conclusion, Pomegranate peel extract could protect the tissue of testicles from CCl4 perhaps, by its anti-oxidative effect of pomegranate peel extract, hence eliminating the deleterious effects or toxic effect of CCl4.

The use of high D(+)-fructose corn syrup has increased over the past several decades in the developed countries, while overweight and obesity rates and the related diseases have risen dramatically. However, we found that feeding a high D(+)-fructose diet (80% D(+)-fructose as part of the diet) to weaning rats for 21 days led to reduced food intake (50% less, P < 0.0001) and thus delayed the weight gains in the body (40% less, P < 0.0001) and testes (40% less, P < 0.0001) compared to the no D(+)-fructose diet. We also challenged a minimum requirement of dietary D(+)-glucose for preventing the adverse effects of D(+)-fructose, such as lower food intake and reduction of body weight and testicular weight; the minimum requirement of D(+)-glucose was ã23% of the diet. This glucose amount may be the minimum requirement of exogenous glucose for reducing weight gain.

Testicular weight is a valuable measure of gonadal development in laboratory mice, but is usually only obtainable postmortem. The objective was to assess the utility of antemortem, noninvasive methods of predicting testicular weight and volume in peripubertal mice. Body weight, scrotal width, and ultrasonographic testicular diameter measurements were obtained in situ in euthanized male outbred (CD-1: N = 20) and inbred (BALB/c: N = 20) mice and compared with excised testicular weight and diameter. In these two strains, body weight predicted mean testicular weight (r(2) = 0.810; P < 0.0001 and r(2) = 0.943; P < 0.0001, respectively). Scrotal width (lateral margins of the scrotum) was a more reliable indicator of excised mean testicular weight (CD-1: r(2) = 0.885; P < 0.0001; BALB/c: r(2) = 0.861; P < 0.0001) than measurements of testicular diameter obtained via ultrasound (CD-1: r(2) = 0.597; P < 0.0001: BALB/c: r(2) = 0.478, P < 0.01) in both strains. Obtaining scrotal width measurements also required less time and restraint than ultrasonography. In live, conscious animals (10 of each strain), the association of scrotal width to testicular weight remained high (CD-1: r(2) = 0.906; P < 0.0001; BALB/c: r(2) = 0.918; P < 0.0001). Predicted testicular weights derived from scrotal width measurements differentiated animals in three stages of advanced spermiogenesis (CD-1: N = 30; P < 0.0001; BALB/c: N = 30; P < 0.0001). Based on these findings, in vivo scrotal width can be used for noninvasive, in situ prediction of testicular weight in peripubertal laboratory mice. It also has potential application in staging testicular development on a quantitative scale, which would complement using balanopreputial separation as a single indicator of puberty. As a more direct measure of testicular size, this parameter will also be less affected by endogenous and exogenous influences than body weight. Ultimately, using noninvasive in vivo methods of predicting testicular weight should reduce the number of animals required for studies focused on testicular development.

The body weight and testicular and epididymal parameters of Afar, Long-eared Somali (LES), and Woyto-Guji (WG) breeds of goat were investigated. A total of 405 randomly selected bucks of Afar (n=135), Long-eared Somali (n=135), and Woyto-Guji (n=135) were included in this study. The overall mean scrotal circumference (SC), testicular volume (TV), testicular length (TL), testicular weight (TW), body weight (BW), epididymal weight (EW), body condition score, and testicular diameter (TD) measurements in all bucks were 20.8±1.94 cm, 68.1±6.18, 4.96±0.79 cm, 70.0±5.66 g, 22.1±2.98 Kg, 9.09±1.88 g, 2.55±0.68, and 4.28±0.45 cm, respectively. Significant (p<0.05) breed differences in SC, TD, TL, TW, BW, EW, and TV were recorded. Long-eared Somali (LES) breed was heaviest and Afar breed was the lightest and Woyto-Guji (WG) had the average BW. In all breeds, the parameters were positively correlated. In Afar breed, the TW had a significant correlation with BW (r=0.90) and SC (r=0.65). In LES BW was highly correlated with TD (r=0.96) and TL (r=0.96). In WG, TW was significantly correlated with TD (r=0.94), EW (r=0.90), TL (r=0.89), and BW (r=0.82). In multiple regression analysis the linear combinations of BCS, SC, and BW significantly predicted TW, TL, TV, TD, and EW in all breeds. In conclusion, Long-eared Somali breed displayed greater BW and scrotal and testicular traits.

Introduction: Recently there has been an increased association between environmental factors and male infertility. Aims: In the present study, the effect of changes in testicular biometric parameters (weight and volume) and testicular function (Sperm count, morphology, testosterone level) in Cadmium chloride administered Wistar rats was studied. Methodology: Twenty male albino Wistar rats were randomized into four groups (n=5). Group A (control) received rat chow and water, while Group B, C and D received 15mg/L, 20mg/L and 25mg/L of Cadmium chloride respectively for 6 weeks. Result: There was a significant (P=.05) and dose dependent decrease in testicular function parameters in the rats and a significant (P=.05) and positive correlation between the biometric parameters and testicular function. Conclusion: The findings showed that Cadmium chloride has a deleterious effect on testicular function and biometric parameters of the testes may be important in the assessment of testicular function.

Aims: To investigate the effects of carbon tetra chloride on the body weight and ovaries, uterus, testes of the rabbit for 30 days. Methodology: The rabbit were randomly divided into two equal groups (control and one treated groups), and the animals were treated as follow: 1- Control group C. (n = 15) received Distilled water 1ml /kg b.w four times a week intrapertunium for 30 days. 2- Treatment group. (n=15) were treated with carbon tetrachloride (1 mg / kg b.w mixing with equal volume of olive oil (1ml/ kg b.w.) four times a week/ intrapertunium for 30 days. The body weight of the animals detected at the day 1 th , 7 th , 14 th , 21 th and 30 th of the experimental period. At30 days animals sacrificed and ovaries, uterus, testis were removed and weighted, Samples of ovaries, uterus & testis were taken for histopathological study. Results: Treatment with carbon tetra chloride causes a significant decrease in body weight. Also a significant decreased of ovarian, testicular weight and non-significant increase of uterus weight's. Conclusion: Carbon tetra chloride causes decrease body weight, degeneration testes, ovaries followed by effect on fertility.

Testicular sizes of animals are important for identification of those with adequate sperm production. The aim of this study was to define the testicular and related size estimates that would be associated with optimal cauda epididymal sperm counts (ESC) in Sahel goats based on postmortem evaluations. A stratified quota sample population of 125 male goats inclusive of all testicular sizes was taken at a slaughterhouse in Maiduguri, Nigeria. The bucks were aged 18-30 months and weighed 17.04 ± 2.99 (12-25) kg. Body, testicular and epididymal weights of each goat with other related size measurements were estimated. ESC was determined from homogenized tissue using a manual cytometer. At the cut-off ESC of >1.1 × 109 sperm heads, 66 (52.5%) of the goats had optimal ESC which was associated with testicular weight of 59.90 ± 16.10 (31.4-86.2) kg, gonado somatic index of 3.51 ± 0.69 (2.0-4.5) g/kg and scrotal circumference of 19.07 ± 1.29 (17.0-21.8) cm. The ESC correlated better with age than body weight of the animals and correlated also with testicular and scrotal size variables and epididymal weights. The size variables of the scrotum and testis correlated with one another. These findings provide data that may be used to anticipate adequate antemortem sperm reserve based on testicular size during preliminary selection of sires for breeding from a sexually mature Sahel buck population.Keywords: Optimal sperm output, testicular size, scrotal size, Sahel goat, Nigeria

Perttula, J. and Bédécarrats, G. Y. 2012. Blindness in Smoky Joe roosters results in advanced sexual maturation. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 483–491. In chickens, an increase in photoperiod activates the hypothalamo-pituitary gonadal axis resulting in sexual maturation. Although it is well established that light can directly stimulate the hypothalamus, the relative contribution of the eye in the control of reproduction is still controversial. Using a genetically blind line of chickens (Smoky Joe), we investigated the relative importance of the retina of the eye in sexual maturation in roosters. Furthermore, to evaluate the effect of photostimulation, three generations of blind and sighted Smoky Joe roosters were utilize. Generation 1 (G1) was photostimulated at 17 wk of age, while generation 2 (G2) was left un-photostimulated and generation 3 (G3) was photostimulated at 12 wk of age. Blind roosters in G1 and G2 matured between 17 and 19 wk of age (testicular weight, comb length) independently of photostimulation whereas maturation of sighted animals was significantly delayed in G2. However, this advanced sexual maturation was no longer evident when birds were stimulated at 12 wk of age. Blind roosters in G2 showed advanced spermatogenesis when compared with sighted animals. No significant difference in plasma testosterone levels was observed for any of the three generations. In conclusion, although still photosensitive, blind rooster sexually matured spontaneously earlier than their sighted counterpart.

The goal of this study is to perform a comparative genetic investigation of testicle development during the postpubescence period (from days 70 to 90 of life) in the inbred mice lines PT and CBA/Lac. Interlinear differences in the body and testicular weight, serum testosterone concentration, number of epididymal spermatozoa, area of testicular epithelium, semeniferous tubule lumen, and insulae of Leydig cells were analyzed. It was found that the morphological and histomorphometric parameters of testicles in males from the PT line compared to the males of the CBA/Lac line did not reach a definitive stage with the end of the post-pubescence period and kept on developing until day 90 of life. Therefore, genetic differences remain in the postpubertal testicular development of laboratory mice.

Buffalo are an economically important source for meat and milk production, especially in Brazil. However, important aspects of their biology remain unknown thus far. Herein, we describe the reproductive characteristics of male Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) raised under extensive management conditions by applying biometrics associated with testicular weight. We analyzed seven males, divided into two groups: G1, which consisted of four 18-month-old animals, and G2, which consisted of three 24-month-old animals. Testicular development occurs slowly in Murrah buffalo, suggesting a delay of sexual maturity. The biometric testicular parameters analyzed were scrotal circumference, testicular weight, testicular length, testicular width, testicular thickness and testicular circumference. Our data indicate strong correlations between SC, age and body weight, and additional significant relationships were identified between body weight, age and other testicular parameters. Thus, these parameters are suitable indicators when selecting bulls for breeding purposes.

The study was conducted to compare the testicular morphometry parameters of right and left testis as well as their correlation in non-descript breed of goats. A total 16 mature testicles were collected from the Government approved slaughter house, in air-tight sterile cryobox (4-5°C) and brought to the laboratory within 2-4 hours after slaughtering the buck. The epididymis was carefully separated from each testis then testicular measurements were recorded. The mean epididymal length of right and left testes were observed as 12.01±1.33 cm and 12.36±1.44 cm; epididymal weight as 09.30±1.80 gm and 09.65±1.87 gm; testicular length as 05.91±0.91cm and 06.23±0.89 cm; testicular weight as 58.29±3.80 gm and 63.77±4.01 gm; testicular diameter as 04.19±0.59 cm and 04.44±0.69 cm; testicular volume as 54.38±4.39 ml and 62.50±4.46 ml and the testicular density as 01.11±0.41 gm/ml and 01.04±0.31 gm/ml, respectively. The correlation coefficient of various biometrical parameters of right and left testicles were significantly (p

Objectives: To supply scientific information / literature on the use of P.oleracea in enhancing fertility in males; either to validate or to refute this folkloric use. This study investigated the effect of the lipophilic and hydrophilic leaf extracts of Portulaca oleracea on male reproductive parameters. Methods: The extracts were obtained using two extracting solvents – chloroform and 80% aqueous methanol in succession. Experimental animals were randomly divided into 7 groups of 16 rats each. Group A (control) received 0.5ml 20% Tween 80 (vehicle), groups B, C and D received 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg of the lipophilic extract respectively and E, F and G received 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg of the hydrophilic extract respectively for 60 days. On days 14, 28, 42 and 60; four rats from each group were weighed and anaesthetized for sample collection. Blood (for testosterone), testes (weight and histomorphology) and sperm cells from caudal epididymis (for semen analysis) were collected. Results: Both extracts had no significant (p>0.05) effect on testicular weight and histomorphology, and sperm cell characteristics but caused a significant (p

Zusammenfassung Fur 12 Eber im Alter von 8,5–8,7 Monaten und zwei 12 bzw. 14 Monate alte Eber wurden die Hodengewichte und histometrische Hodenbefunde den radioimmunologisch gemessenen Konzentrationen von Testosteron und dem Ebergeruchsstoff 5 α-Androstenon gegenubergestellt. Fur die 12 gleichaltrigen Eber ergaben sich folgende Werte (x ± sx): Gewicht des linken Hodens: 364,0 ± 17,2 g bzw. 2,836 ± 0,135 g/kg KG; Tubulusdurchmesser: 160,4 ± 6,9 μm; Durchmesser der LEYDIG-Zell-Kerne: 6,203 ± 0,140 μm, Interstitium des linken Hodens: 28,53 ± 2,67 % bzw. 100,3 ± 7,2 g bzw. 0,791 ± 0,067 g/kg KG; 5 α-Androstenon im Plasma der V. spermatica: 36,750 ± 7,732 ng/ml, der V. auricularis: 6,477 ± 0,972 ng/ml, im Fett 1,287 ± 0,363 μg/g; Testosteron im Plasma der V. spermatica: 9,058 ± 2,014 ng/ml, der V. auricularis: 1,899 ± 0,279 ng/ml. Alle Parameter wurden untereinander auf Korrelation gepruft. Fur eine Reihe von Beziehungen wurden die quantitativen Relationen ermittelt oder die Regressionen errechnet. Das Hodengewicht hatte weder zum Interstitium noch zu dem analytischen Befund Beziehungen. Die Grose der LEYDIG-Zell-Kerne war mit dem Hodengewicht negativ und mit dem Tubulusdurchmesser sowie dem prozentualen Interstitium-Anteil positiv korreliert. — Unter den Steroidwerten bestanden sehr enge Korrelationen zwischen Testosteron- und 5 α-Androstenongehalt der V. spermatica sowie zwischen den 5 α-Androstenon-Konzentrationen des V. spermatica- und V. auricularis-Plasmas und des Fettes. Als wertvollster histometrischer Parameter zur Abschatzung der endokrinen Aktivitat des Hodens erwies sich das Gewicht des Interstitiums, besonders wenn es auf das Korpergewicht bezogen wurde. Es wird vorgeschlagen, der Gesamtheit der LEYDIG-Zellen eine Organbezeichnung zu geben, z. B. LEYDIG-Zell-Organ. Summary Relationships between the concentrations of testosterone and the boar taint steroid 5 α-androst-16-en-3-on in plasma and adipose tissue and histometric evaluation in testes of boars In 12 boars, aged 8.5–8.7 months and two older boars (12 and 14 months) the weights of the left testes and histometric testicular parameters were determined. The concentrations of testosterone and the boar taint steroid 5 α-androst-16-en-3-one (5 α-androstenone) were determined radioimmunologically. In the group of 12 younger boars the following results were obtained (x ± sx): weight of the left testes: 364.0 ± 17.2 g. (2.836 ± 0.135 g./kg. bodyweight). Diameter of the tubuli: 160.4 ± 6.9 μm. Diameter of Leydig-cell-nuclei: 6.203 ± 140 μm. Amount of interstitial tissue of the left testes: 28.53 ± 2.67% (100.3 ± 7.2 g. or 0.791 ± 0.067 g./kg. bodyweight). Concentration of 5 α-androstenone in vena-spermatica-plasma: 36.750 ± 7.732 ng./ml., peripheral plasma: 6.477 ± 0.972 ng./ml., in fatty tissue: 1.287 ± 0.363 μg./g. Mean concentrations of testosterone were 9.058 ± 2.014 ng./ml. spermatica-plasma and 1.899 ± 0.279 ng./ml. peripheral plasma. All parameters were correlated and for some of the correlations the regression lines were calculated. There was no correlation between testicular weight and the interstitium nor the analytical data. A negative correlation existed between the size of Leydig-cell-nuclei and the weight of testes. The size of nuclei was positively correlated with the diameter of tubuli and the amount of interstitial tissue (%). Close correlations were found between concentrations of testosterone and 5 α-androstenone in vena spermatica plasma and between concentrations of 5 α-androstenone in plasma of vena spermatica, peripheral plasma and fatty tissue. The weight of interstitium, especially if referred to body weight, was found to be the most valuable histometric parameter for estimating the endocrine function of the testes. It is proposed to use the term “Leydig-cell-organ” for the total amount of Leydig-cells in the testes. Resume Rapports entre les concentrations de testosterone et de la substance odorante du verrat 5 α-androst-16-en-3-on dans le sang et le tissu graisseux avec des resultats histometriques dans les testicules du porc Les poids des testicules et des donnees histometriques sur les testicules ont ete mis en parallele avec des concentrations de testosterone et de la substance odorante du verrat 5 α-androstenon mesurees radioimmunologiquement chez 12 verrats de 8,5–8,7 mois et 2 verrats de 14 mois. Les valeurs suivantes (x ± sx) ont ete trouvees chez les 12 verrats du meme âge: Poids du testicule gauche: 364,0 ± 17,2 g resp. 2,836 ± 0,135 g/kg poids du corps; diametre des tubules: 160,4 ± 6,9 μm; diametre des noyaux des cellules de Leydig: 6,203 ± 0,140 μm; interstice du testicule gauche: 28,53 ± 2,67 % resp. 100,3 ± 7,9 g resp. 0,791 ± 0,067 g/kg poids corporel; 5 α androstenon dans le plasma de V. spermatica: 36,750 ± 7,732 ng/ml, de V. auricularis: 6,477 ± 0,972 ng/ml, dans la graisse: 1,287 ± 0,363 μg/g; la testosterone dans le plasma de V. spermatica: 9,058 ± 2,014 ng/ml, de V. auricularis: 1,899 ± 0,279 ng/ml. On a recherche les correlations entre tous les parametres. On a trouve des relations quantitatives ou calcule les regressions pour une serie de rapports. Le poids du testicule n'a pas eu de relations avec l'interstice ou les resultats analytiques. La grosseur des noyaux des cellules de Leydig a eu une correlation negative avec le poids testiculaire et positive avec le diametre des tubules et avec la partie de l'interstice calculee en pourcent. Il y eut d'etroites correlations parmi les valeurs de steroides entre le taux de testosterone et de 5 α-androstenon de V. spermatica et entre les concentrations de 5 α-androstenon dans le plasma de V. spermatica et V. auricularis et de la graisse. Le poids de l'interstice, en particulier par rapport au poids corporel, s'est revele etre le paramatre histometrique le plus valable pour l'estimation de l'activite endocrine. On propose de donner une designation d'organe a l'ensemble des cellules de Leydig, par exemple organe cellulaire de Leydig. Resumen Relaciones entre las concentraciones de testosterona y de 5 α-androst-16-en-3-ona, la substancia olorosa de los verracos, en sangre resp. tejido adiposo, y hallazgos histometricos en el testiculo de cerdo Los pesos testiculares y los hallazgos en los mismos de doce verracos, de 8.5–8.7 meses de edad, y de otros dos, de 12 resp. 14 meses de edad, se enfrentaron a las concentraciones de testosterona y 5 α-androstenona, la substancia olorosa de los verracos, medidas con tecnicas radioinmunologicas. Para los 12 verracos de la misma edad se obtuvieron los valores (x ± sx) siguientes: peso del testiculo izquierdo: 364.0 ± 17.2 g. resp. 2.836 ± 0.135 g./kg. PC; diametro tubular: 160.4 ± 6.9μm.; diametro nuclear en las celulas de LEYDIG: 6.203 ± 0.140 μm.; intersticio del testiculo izquierdo: 28.53 ± 2.67 % resp. 100.3 ± 7.2 g. resp. 0.791 ± 0.067 g./kg. PC; 5 α-androstenona en el plasma sanguineo de la v. espermatica: 36.750 ± 7.732 ng./ml., de la v. espermatica: 9.058 ± 2.014 ng./ml., de la v. auricular: 1.899 ± 0.279 ng./ml. Todos los parametros se revisaron entre si en cuanto a correlacion. Para una serie de relaciones se determinaron las correspondencias cuantitativas o se calcularon las regresiones. El peso testicular no se hallaba relacionado ni con el intersticio ni con el hallazgo analitico. El tamano de los nucleos de las celulas de LEYDIG presentaba una correlacion negativa con el peso testicular y positiva con el diametro tubular y la parte porcentual del intersticio. — Bajo los valores esteroides existian correlaciones muy estrechas entre los contenidos de testosterona y 5 α-androstenona de la v. espermatica, asi como entre las concentraciones de 5 α-androstenona del plasma sanguineo de la v. espermatica y v. auricular y de la grasa. Como parametro histometrico mas valioso para calcular la actividad endocrina del testiculo se mostro el peso del intersticio, sobre todo cuando se referia al PC. Se propone adjudicar a la totalidad de celulas de LEYDIG una designacion organica, p. ej. organo celular de LEYDIG.

Zusammenfassung 1. An insgesamt 26 geschlechtsgesunden Bullen der Hohenfleckviehrasse im Alter zwischen 1,5 und 7 Jahren wurde das Hodenwachstum quantitativ makroskopisch und mikroskopisch untersucht. 2. Hodengewicht (ohne Nebenhoden) und Hodenvolumen wuchsen linear auf 202% der Ausgangswerte an. Am Hodenwachstum waren alle Hodenstrukturen beteiligt. Die absolute Zunahme des Germinativums pro Hoden betrug 122,6 g, die des Interstitiums 113,6 g. Die prozentuale Zunahme des Interstitiums war jedoch bedeutend hoher (178,4%) als die des Germinativums (59,3%). 3. Der Tubulusdurchmesser veranderte sich im untersuchten Zeitraum nicht (290,5 μm ± 7,1, x ± s der 6 Altersgruppen). Die Gesamtlange des Tubulusapparates pro Hoden wuchs linear von 2782 m (1,5 Jahre) auf 4248 m (6,5 Jahre) an (P ≦ 0,01), so das die von der Tunica propria fur die basale Zellschicht des Germinativums bereitgestellte Wandflache der Tubuli sich je Hoden von etwa 2,52 m2 auf etwa 3,92 m2 linear vergoserte. Der Besatz an primaren Spermatozyten pro Flacheneinheit der Tubuluswand zeigte keine Altersabhangigkeit. 4. Die mit zunehmendem Alter auftretende Vergoserung des Hodens ist neben einer Vermehrung des Zwischengewebes auf ein Langenwachstum der Tubuli seminiferi zuruckzufuhren. Da die Zahl primarer Spermatozyten pro Flacheneinheit Tubuluswand gleich bleibt, ergibt sich dadurch eine Steigerung der germinativen Kapazitat der Hoden. Summary Quantitative histological studies of testicular growth of bulls after puberty 1. In 26 bulls of the spotled mountain cattle, aged between 1.5 and 7 years, testicular growth was studied quantitatively, both macroscopically and histologically. 2. Testicular weight (without epididymis) and testicular volume increased linearly to 202% of the original values. All testis components participated in testis growth. The absolute increase in the germinative tissue per testis was 122.6 g and in the interstitium 113.6 g but the percentage increase in the interstitium was significantly greater (178.4%) than that of the germinativum (59.3%). 3. Tubule diameter did not change over the interval studied (290.5 μm ± 7.1, x ± s of the six age groups). The total length of the tubular apparatus per testis increased linearly from 2782 meters (1.5 years) to 4248 meters (6.5 years) (P ≦ 0.05), so that the wall of the tubules originating from the tunica propria for the basal cell layer of the germinativum increased from about 2.52 sq. meters to about 3.92 sq. meters. The number of primary spermatocytes per unit surface of tubule wall showed no relationship to age. 4. The enlargement of the testicle with age is attributed not only to multiplication of interstitial tissue but also to increase in length of the seminiferous tubules. Since the number of primary spermatocytes per unit area of tubule wall does not change, there must be an increased germinative capacity of the testicle. Resume Examens histologiques quantitatifs sur la croissance testiculaire chez des taureaux apres la puberte 1. On determine quantitativement, macroscopiquement et microscopiquement, la croissance testiculaire chez 26 taureaux sexuellement sains de la race tachetee des montagnes, âges de 1 an et demi a 7 ans. 2. Le poids du testicule (sans epididyme) et le volume testiculaire augmentent de maniere lineaire jusqu'a 202% des valeurs initiales. Toutes les structures participent a la croissance testiculaire. L'augmentation absolue de la couche germinative est de 122,6 g par testicule et l'accroissement du tissu interstitiel est de 113,6 g par testicule. Calculee en pourcents, l'augmentation du tissu interstitiel est nettement plus elevee (178,4%) que celle de la couche germinative (59,3%). 3. Le diametre des canalicules n'a pas varie pendant la duree de l'experience (290,5 μm ± 7,1, x ± s pour les 6 categories d'âge). La longueur totale de l'appareil tubulaire s'accroit de maniere lineaire de 2782 m (1 an et demi) a 4248 m (6 ans et demi) par testicule (P ≦ 0,05), de sorte que la surface laterale des canalicules, mise a disposition par la tunique fibreuse proprement dite, pour former la couche germinative basale, s'accroit de maniere lineaire d'env. 2,52 m2 a 3,92 m2 par testicule. Le nombre des spermatocytes primaires par unite de surface de paroi tubulaire ne depend pas de l'âge. 4.L'accroissement du testicule avec l'âge doit etre attribue non seulement a une multiplication du tissu interstitiel, mais aussi a une croissance en longuer des canalicules seminiferes. Comme le nombre des spermatocytes primaires par unite de surface de paroi tubulaire reste identique, il s'en suit une augmentation de la capacite germinative du testicule. Resumen Estudios histologicos cuantitativos acerca del crecimiento testicular en toros despues de alcanzar la pubertad 1. En un total de 26 toros sanos con relacion al sexo de la raza berrenda triguena, de edades comprendidas entre 1,5 y 7 anos, se examino el crecimiento testicular cuantitativo con tecnicas macro y microscopicas. 2. El peso testicular (sin epididimos) y el volumen de los mismos crecieron linealmente hasta el 202% de los valores de partida. En el crecimiento testicular participaban todas las estructuras. El aumento absoluto del germinativo por testiculo ascendia a 122,6 g, el del intersticio 113,6 g. Sin embargo, el aumento porcentual del intersticio era bastante mayor (178,4%) que el del germinativo (59,3%). 3. El diametro tubular no se modifico durante el transcurso del espacio de tiempo que duro el examen (290,5 μm ± 7,1, x ± s de los 6 grupos de edad). La longitud total del aparato tubular por testiculo crecio linealmente de 2782 m (1,5 anos) a 4248 m (6,5 anos) (P≦0,05), de modo que la superficie parietal de los tubulos aprontada por la tunica propia para la capa celular basal del germinativo aumentaba linealmente por testiculo de unos 3,92 m2. El aderezo de espermatocitos primarios por unidad de superficie de la pared tubular no mostraba ninguna dependencia de la edad. 4. El aumento del testiculo que se presenta con el avance de la edad se debe, al lado de la multiplicacion del tejido intersticial, al crecimiento longitudinal de los tubulos seminiferos. Ya que permanece igual el numero de espermatocitos primarios por unidad de superficie de la pared tubular, se infiere por ese medio el aumento de la capacidad germinativa de los testiculos.

1. A total of 7960 Cobb and Ross broiler males were reared on various photoperiods or continuous illumination in two trials to 35 or 40 d. Tibial breaking strength was measured in both, and tibial ash content determined in the first of the two trials. 2. Tibial breaking strength was significantly affected by photoperiod, body weight, testicular weight, and genotype. Although peak bone strength occurred at about 7 h for Ross and at 12 h for Cobb, with reductions in strength for both shorter and longer photoperiods than these peaks, the removal of body weight effects showed that tibial breaking strength was negatively correlated with photoperiod per se. However, after removal of photoperiodic influences, breaking strength was positively correlated with both body weight and testicular weight. 3. Ross birds had greater tibial breaking strengths than Cobb, irrespective of whether the comparisons were made at the same photoperiod, the same body weight, or the same ash content. 4. Ash content increased according to the logarithm of photoperiod, but was unrelated to body weight. Tibial breaking strength increased with ash content. Ash contents were similar for Ross and Cobb birds. 5. Despite the significant differences in breaking strength and ash content, there were no broken bones or signs of leg abnormality in any of the 300 birds sampled. Tibial breaking strength data may therefore be of limited value in assessing the benefits of photoperiod to welfare in modern broilers.

Despite extensive investigation, a cause-and-effect relationship between varicocele and male infertility has not been fully proven. We investigated the effect of a unilateral varicocele on both testes. Spermatogenesis in the rats with a surgically induced left varicocele was evaluated 5 weeks postoperatively by measurement of testicular weight, flow cytometric DNA analysis and evaluation of the mean seminiferous tubular diameter (MSTD). In rats with varicoceles, the testicular weight, the percentage of haploid cells and the MSTD were decreased in both testes in contrast to sham-operated rats. There was a greater decrease on the left side. These results suggest that unilateral varicocele may impair spermatogenesis in both testes, with the impairment being greater on the ipsilateral side.

The objective of this study was to determine gonadal sperm/spermatid reserves in Shikabrown breeder cocks. Five cocks, each of Shikabrown White and Shikabrown Red, were slaughtered after one year of evaluation of seminal characteristics. To determine testicular integrity of the breeder cocks, left and right testes from each slaughtered samples were carefully dissected out of the abdomen and marked accordingly. Each testis weight, length and volume were measured, followed by the determination of gonada l sperm/spermatid reserves. The mean testicular lengths for Shikabrown White were 4.22±0.03cm and 3.98±0.04cm for the right and left testes, respectively; while that for Shikabrown Red were 4.40±0.1cm and 4.44±0.09cm for right and left testes, respectively. The mean testicular weight of Shikabrown Red cocks was significantly (P < 0.01) higher than that of Shikabrown White cocks (12.39±0.76g and 10.23±0.25g, respectively). The mean gonadal sperm/spermatid reserves (x 10 per ml testis) for the right testes in 9 Shikabrown White and Shikabrown Red cocks were 57.6±5.6 and 103.2±22.3 (P < 0.01), respectively, while those of the left testes were 84.8±18.2 and 209.4±95.1, respectively. The left mean gonadal sperm/spermatid reserves in Shikabrown Red strain was statistically (P < 0.01) higher than Shikabrown White strain. This study suggests: I) that there are strain differences in testicular function of the breeder cocks and ii) that there are differences in spermatogenic capacity between the right and left testes in breeder cocks.

Prenatal or perinatal exposure to physiologically-patterned magnetic fields (MFs) affects behaviour in weanling (22d) and young adult (90d) rats. However, the long-term (120d-730d) biological effects of these MFs have not been ex- amined. In the current study, the long-term effects of developmental exposure to a physiologically-patterned MF, and their dependence on nitric oxide (NO) activity, were investigated. Pregnant dams were exposed from 2d before to 14d after par- turition to square wave, 7 Hz MF and to either water or nitric oxide (NO) modulation in tap water with NO precursor 1.0 g/L L-arginine or 0.5 g/L NO inhibitor n-methylarginine. To assess the possibility of intensity-windowing of any effects, MF intensities of

Background The present research details the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pathological changes of testis in cryptorchidism model. We also tried to find relationship between VEGF and pathological changes in cryptorchidism. Methods Six-week-old ICR male mice were operated to induce unilaterally cryptorchid model. The expression of VEGF was investigated by Western blot and Immunohistochemistry. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to evaluate pathological changes at different day intervals. Results In our study, immunohistochemistry of VEGF in testicular cross sections suggested that the VEGF was expressed in the cytoplasm of leydigcells, Sertoli cells and germ cells. Quantitative analysis of VEGF by Western blot showed a time-dependent decrease of VEGF expression in cryptorchidism. VEGF expression significantly decreased at day 7, the lowest at day 21 and then little recovery was observed at day 28 in unilateral cryptorchid testis. Conclusions Interestingly, the expression of VEGF was decreased significantly at day 14, the lowest at day 21 and then little recovery was observed at day 28 in its self-control testis. The decreased and recovered weight of testis was similar to VEGF expression in unilateral cryptorchid testis and self-control testis. Therefore, we propose that there is a time dependent decrease of VEGF expression in cryptorchidism. VEGF have an important role on impaired spermatogenesis in cryptorchidism.

To assess delayed fertility in male growth-retarded (grt) mice with congenital primary hypothyroidism, their testes were chronologically examined. The testicular weight in grt mice was significantly lower than age-matched normal mice until 8 weeks but was comparable at 13 and 26 weeks. While normal mice had mature sperm cells in both testes and epididymides at 5 weeks, age-matched grt mice did not. The size of the seminiferous tubules in testes of grt mice was smaller than that of normal mice before 13 weeks but was comparable at 26 weeks. These findings suggest that male grt mice might need more than 13 weeks to develop mature testes.

The testosterone levels with nasal gland volume and Leydig cell morphometry in sexually mature capybaras were compared using 10 adult capybaras, aging 28 months. Body and testicular weight were 50kg and 28g, respectively. The gonadosomatic index was 0.11±0.02%, while nasal gland volume was 34.12±13.04ml. Serum testosterone concentration was 25.07±14.73ng/ml. Leydig cell volume density and leydigosomatic index were, respectively, 28.8±8.3% and 0.030±0.007%. Total and individual Leydig cell volumes were 6.88±1.92ml and 2,228.14±272.59x10-12ml, respectively. Leydig cell numbers per testis and per gram of testis were, respectively, 3,079.4±719.9x10(6) and 115.09±31.78x10(6) cells. These results show that increase in serum testosterone concentration is correlated to a proportional increase of nasal gland and Leydig cell volume in capybaras. Estimaram-se as correlações entre os níveis de testosterona e o volume da glândula nasal e a morfometria das células de Leydig no parênquima testicular de capivaras sexualmente maduras. Utilizaram-se 10 capivaras com aproximadamente 28 meses de idade e com peso médio corporal de 50kg e testicular de 28g. O índice gonadossomático e o volume médio da glândula nasal foram 0,11±0,02% e 34,12±13,04ml, respectivamente, e a concentração sérica de testosterona 25,07±14,73ng/ml. A proporção volumétrica de células de Leydig e o índice leydigossomático foram 28,8± 8,3% e 0,030±0,007%, respectivamente. Os volumes total e individual de células de Leydig foram 6,88±1,92ml e 2228,14±272,59´10-12ml, respectivamente. O número de células de Leydig por testículo e por grama de testículo foram, respectivamente, 3079,4±719,9´10(6) e 115,09±31,78´10(6). Concluiu-se que o aumento dos níveis séricos de testosterona foi acompanhado por aumento proporcional do volume da glândula nasal de capivaras e que a concentração desse hormônio é tanto mais alta quanto maior for o volume da célula de Leydig.

This study was designed to investigate the effects of KH204 on the relaxation response and reproductive function in male. Strips of rabbit corpus cavernosum were prepared for mounting and isometric tension measurement in an organ bath. On cavernosal strips contracted with phenylephrine and KH204 was applied in increasing concentrations from 0, 61, 183 and 549 mg/L, causing dose-dependent relaxation. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered with 61, 183 and 549 mg/kg/day of KH204 for 10 weeks. We examined organ weights, testicular sperm head counts, epididymal sperm counts, motility and morphology. KH204 relaxed rabbit corpus cavernosal strip contracted by phenylephrine in a dose-dependent manner. In the male rat, testicular weight was increased significantly in the KH204 treated groups compared with control group. Also in the testicular sperm head counts, epididymal sperm counts were increased significantly in the KH204-treated rats. In conclusion, the data suggest that KH204 could enhance erectile and reproductive function.

Introduction: To investigate the effects of blocking prenatal androgen with the anti-androgen flutamide on testicular weight (TW), seminiferous tubular diameter (STD), testicular biopsy score (TBS), testicular testosterone (TT), and fertility. Materials and Methods: Ten pregnant Wistar albino rats were injected with flutamide (100 mg/kg) on gestational days 16 and 19. Rats injected with the solvent were used as controls. Male pups from these dams were evaluated for testicular descent on postnatal day 22. The ability of each male to produce offspring was tested when the animals were aged 130 days. The rats were killed when 180 days old, and the testes were removed. Results: Sixteen of the 24 male rats (66.6%) exhibited cryptorchidism (6 unilateral, 10 bilateral) in the flutamide-treated group. Three of the rats with normally descended testicles were fertile, but none of the cryptorchid rats was fertile in flutamide-treated group. The average TW, mean STD, TBS and TT levels of the flutamide-treated rats was significantly lower than in the solvent-injected rats. However, there was no significant difference in these values between descended and undescended testes in flutamide-treated rats. Conclusion: Blocking of prenatal androgen with flutamide interferes with testicular development by inhibiting testicular descent, and also effects testicular morphology and function in both the descended and undescended testes of rats.

Aim: The complete biological effects of chronicuse of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), reportedas a weak androgen, are not completelyunderstood. The aim of the present study is toevaluate the effects of chronic administrationof DHEA on the spermatogenesis in rats.Methods: Male Wistar rats, 4 months old, wereselected for the study. The animals weredivided into two groups. Group 1 (n = 9) receivedplacebo (saline solution) 0.5 ml/day and Group2 (n = 15) received DHEA 5 mg/kg/day. Both thegroups received the respective treatments 5days a week during 10 months. At the end of theexposure, the rats were sacrificed and thetestes removed, weighed and processed forhistologic analysis. Spermatogenesis wasevaluated as the mean number of seminiferoustubules with and without spermatids inmaturation phase in their lumen, in fiverandom fields on the same slide.Results: The median levels of serum totaltestosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfatewas measured in the two groups. Significanthigher concentrations in total testosterone(2.06 ± 0.4 vs. 0.80 ± 0.2; p 0.05). These values for the left testeswere 1.57 ± 0.3 and 1.55 ± 0.3 g,respectively (p > 0.05). The histologicanalysis showed a mean of 13.5 ± 1.5 and12.8 ± 1.8 seminiferous tubules per field inthe groups 1 and 2, respectively (p > 0.05).The same analysis demonstrated that in thecontrol group 0.06 ± 0.1 of the tubulespresented without spermatids in maturationphase and in the DHEA group this was observedin 0.22 ± 1.2 of the tubules (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Chronic administration of DHEA inthe present dose did not show any detectableeffect on the quantitative and qualitativeanalyses of spermatogenesis in rats.

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of mobile phone radiation and exercise on testicular function in male Wistar rats. Methods: Twenty male Wistar rats weighing 150–198 g were used for this experiment. The animals were divided into four groups (n = 5). The first group was the control group, the second group was exposed to mobile phone radiation for 6 h daily, the third group was subjected to swimming >three times a week and >30 min each session or >90 min a week, and the fourth group containing five rats was exposed to mobile phone radiation for 6 h daily and was subjected to swimming for >three times a week and >30 min each session or >90 min a week. This experiment lasted for 30 days. A Nokia 1280 cell phone was used to emit electromagnetic waves, and the cages of Groups 2 and 4 were surrounded by aluminum foils to focus and limit the waves to the interior of the cages, with the phone being placed 0.5 cm under the cage. A radiofrequency radiometer was kept close to the cages to detect the cell phone radiation. Results: Short-term exposure of male Wistar rats to mobile phone radiation (6 h/day × 30 days at 1.6 W/kg specific absorption rate) led to a statistically insignificant (P > 0.05) decrease in the serum testosterone levels and testicular weight, whereas exercise (> three times a week and >30 min each session or > 90 min a week) in male Wistar rats led to statistically nonsignificant (P > 0.05) increase in the testosterone levels and testicular weight. Conclusions: The findings of this study indicated that short-term exposure of mobile phone radiation leads to a statistically nonsignificant decrease in serum testosterone levels and testicular weight, whereas regular exercise leads to a statistically nonsignificant increase in the testosterone levels and testicular weight.

The present experiment was performed to investigate the interactive effects of different prior photoperiods and stress on testicular weight in Syrian hamsters under the neutral photoperiod. Seasonality was experimentally manipulated by the change of photoperiod. One group was exposed to LD 12.5 : 11.5 for 12 weeks following 8-week long photoperiod (LP)exposure. The other group was exposed to the same neutral photoperiod for 12 weeks after 8-week short photoperiod(SP). Stress was produced by food deprivation of fixed days or random days throughout the 12 weeks of the neutral photoperiod. The results clearly showed that unpredictable food deprivation on 25% days throughout the 12-week testing period induced more detrimental effects on testes than predictable deprivation once every 4 days in the LP group. Stress tolerance associated with food deprivation was weaker for the animals transferred from LP than for the ones transferred from SP. This finding suggests that stress tolerance varies with season.

Objective To determine the effects of a left-sided experimental varicocele on testicular morphology and fertility in right hemicastrated adult rats. Materials and methods A double-controlled experimental study was carried out using mature Sprague-Dawley rats, with 12 rats in each treated group and five corresponding controls. Group 1 underwent right orchidectomy, group 2 right orchidectomy and a left varicocele, and group 3 only a left varicocele; each control group underwent a corresponding sham operation. Two months after surgery each rat was placed with two mature female rats for one month to assess fertility. All the rats were then killed and their testes weighed; the mean testicular weight was calculated for each group and the mean seminiferous tubule diameter (STD) measured. Johnsen scores and histological abnormalities were evaluated for each testis using light microscopy. Results The mean (sem) testicular weight and STD in group 2 were significantly lower, at 1311 (100) mg and 225 (11) μm, respectively, than in group 1, at 1771 (28) mg and 255 (4) μm (P 0.05). There were no differences between the Johnsen scores in groups 2 and 3. There were severe histological abnormalities in the left testes in three of nine and two of eight animals in group 2 and 3, respectively; in group 3, changes in the right testis were detected in one rat. Six of nine and seven of eight rats were fertile in group 2 and 3, respectively. Conclusion Experimental left varicocele decreased the left testicular weight and STD in both hemicastrated and intact adult rats. However, the presence of the right testis is important for preserving fertility.

Bisphenol-A Affects Spermatogenesis in the Adult Rat Even at a Low Dose: Motoharu SAKAUE, et al. Environmental Health Sciences Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies—Bisphenol-A (BPA), a xenobiotic estrogenic compound widely used as a plastics monomer, has been suspected to have a so-called low dose effect on the reproductive system when administered transplacentally. In the present study, we investigated possible low-dose effects of BPA on spermatogenesis in adult rats. Male rats (13 weeks old; W13) were administrated a daily oral dose of BPA, ranging from 2 ng to 200 mg/kg, for 6 days and examined for testicular weight (TW) and daily sperm production (DSP) at W14 and W18. A BPA dose as low as 20 μg/kg tended to decrease TW and significantly reduced both DSP and the efficiency of spermatogenesis (DSP per gram testis) at W18, showing that BPA suppressed a normal increase in DSP and TW from W13 to W18. A single administration of 20 μg BPA/kg to W13 rats affected the intensity or mobility of several protein spots in the testicular cytosol fraction as shown by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis analysis. The present study showed that BPA at a low dose affects spermatogenesis in the adult rat. (J Occup Health 2001; 43: 185-190)

Background: In this study we aimed to discuss whether thegonadal suppression is effective or not in preventing the gonadal toxiceffects of some chemotherapeutics.Methods: Forty Sprague-Dawley adult male rats were randomised into4 groups, each consisting of 10. No drugs were given to the first group. Thesecond group received GnRH agonist and antiandrogen, the third groupreceived COPP chemotherapy protocol and the last group received COPPtogether with GnRH agonist and antiandrogen. Ninety days after drugapplication we sacrificed all rats. Total body weight, testicular weight andtesticular size measurements were all recorded. All testicular tissues wereexamined histologically for the ratio of active seminiferous tubules.Results: There was no difference in total body weight. The weight andmeasurements of testicular tissues were decreased in-group 3 and 4 whencompared with 1 and 2. The amount of active seminiferous tubules wassignificantly less in the third group.Conclusions: As a conclusion we think that gonadal suppressionapplied during chemotherapy regimen could decrease the testicular toxiceffects of chemotherapeutic but more clinical investigations needed forroutine application.

One of the most attractive characteristics of a horse testis is the change of the weight during development. As the testicular weight changes and the number of Leydig cells decreases, pigments appear in interstitial tissues. In the present study, the characteristics of the pigments found in the interstitial tissues were examined histochemically and ultrastructurally. Specific stainings indicated that the pigmented granules showed almost all of the histological and histochemical characteristics of ceroid or ceroid-like pigment. The cells showed positive reaction for acid phosphatase while the pigmented cells contained a lot of lysosomes ultrastructurally. These results suggest that macrophages might phagocytize Leydig cells, and store their digested materials as ceroid-like pigment.

Diabetic disease is known to suppress male reproductive activity in laboratory animals and humans. The present study was designed to evaluate whether streptozotocin-induced diabetes increases apoptotic cell death in rat testes through activation of the JNK and Bax pathway. Diabetes was induced by a single intravenous injection of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg) and testis samples were collected after 3 months. Compared with controls, body weight and testicular weight were lower in the diabetic group, and the apoptotic index in testicular germ cells was significantly increased. Expression of phospho-JNK and Bax was significantly increased in the diabetic group, and the level of activated caspase-3 was also increased, compared to that of controls. Our findings suggest that streptozotocin-induced diabetes increases apoptotic cell death in rat testes through phosphorylation of JNK and activation of Bax.

In current assay the serotoninergic system in newly-born Wistar rats underwent pharmacological modification by fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), to investigate its repercussion on testicular parameters in adult animals. Thirty animals were distributed according to treatment: control animals (n = 6), animals treated with 1 mg kg -1 (n = 6), 5 mg kg -1 (n = 6), 10 mg kg -1 (n = 6) and 20 mg kg -1 (n = 6) of fluoxetine (IP). When 150 days old, the animals were anesthetized and perfused intra-cardiacally with fixative solution. Testes were routinely processed for inclusion in plastic resin (methacrylate glycol). Further, 4 µm-thick histological sections were stained with toluidine blue/sodium borate 1% and analyzed histometrically. Pharmacological intervention on the serotoninergic system during the postnatal period of the testes development in Wistar rats with fluoxetine chlorohydrate reduced parameters, such as testicular weight, testis liquid weight and seminiferous tubules diameter. However, testicular parameters, such as daily sperm production (DSP), spermatogenesis efficiency (DSP/g/testis) and cell population in stage VII of adult animals, were not influenced by fluoxetine chlorohydrate usage during neonatal period. Results show that administration of fluoxetine during 21 days after birth may induce adverse changes in the spermatogenesis of adult rats.

Different forms of Aluminum are environmental xenobiotics that induce free radical-mediated cytotoxicity and reproductive toxicity. We studied the aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) toxicity on adult rat testes. Male Wistar rats were treated orally with AlCl3 at three doses: 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg bw for 6, 12 and 18 months. Body and testes weight were followed. Plasma and testicular metal levels were assayed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry with graphic oven method. Light microscopy observation of testes was also performed. The results showed a significant decrease (p

s of the 52nd Congress of the European Societies of Toxicology (EUROTOX) Fibes Congress Center Seville, Spain, 04th-07th September 2016

PURPOSE: To determine whether the testicular torsion causes long-term effects on the spermatogenesis of the contralateral testis, and whether the orchiepididymectomy of the twisted testis could prevent them, using specific spermatogenesis parameters to elucidate the conflicting results in the literature. METHODS: Seventy-four pubertal male Wistar rats were randomly selected. The experimental group consisted of 40 rats, divided into four subgroups, submitted to 1.080 degrees counterclockwise left testicular torsion and its scrotal fixation at the beginning of the experiment, and left orchiepididymectomy at one, five, ten and 90 days, respectively. The control group consisted of 24 rats, divided into four sham operation control subgroups. An additional control subgroup consisted of the ten remaining rats, submitted only to the left orchiepididymectomy at the beginning. At 90 days, the contralateral testes of the experimental and control subgroups were collected for the evaluation of their spermatogenesis parameters: testicular weight, seminiferous tubular diameter, Johnsen score and differential counting of the germ cells. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were observed among the experimental and control subgroups for all of the spermatogenesis parameters of the contralateral testes. CONCLUSIONS: Testicular torsion does not cause long-term effects on the spermatogenesis of the contralateral testis in pubertal rats, and the orchiepididymectomy of the twisted testis is not necessary for preventive purposes for the contralateral spermatogenesis. OBJETIVO: Determinar se a torção testicular causa efeitos tardios sobre a espermatogênese do testículo contralateral e se a orquiepididimectomia do testículo torcido poderia preveni-los, usando parâmetros específicos da espermatogênese para elucidar os resultados conflitantes na literatura. MÉTODOS: Foram selecionados aleatoriamente 74 ratos machos púberes da linhagem Wistar. O grupo experimental foi composto por 40 ratos divididos em quatro subgrupos, submetidos à torção anti-horária de 1,080 graus do testículo esquerdo e sua fixação escrotal no início do experimento e à orquiepidimectomia esquerda com um, cinco, dez e 90 dias, respectivamente. O grupo controle foi composto por 24 ratos divididos em quatro subgrupos de cirurgias simuladas. Um subgrupo controle adicional foi constituído pelos dez ratos restantes submetidos unicamente à orquiepididimectomia esquerda no início do experimento. Aos 90 dias, os testículos contralaterais dos subgrupos experimentais e controles foram coletados para avaliação dos parâmetros de suas espermatogêneses: peso testicular, diâmetro do túbulo seminífero, graduação de Johnsen e contagem diferencial das células germinativas. RESULTADOS: Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre todos os subgrupos experimentais e controles para todos os parâmetros analisados da espermatogênese dos testículos contralaterais. CONCLUSÕES: A torção testicular não causa efeitos tardios sobre a espermatogênese do testículo contralateral em ratos púberes e a orquiepididimectomia do testículo torcido não é necessária para fins preventivos da espermatogênese contralateral.

En el presente trabajo se han evaluado determinados parámetros testiculares y características morfológicas de los espermatozoides epididimarios obtenidos postmortem en el toro de lidia, teniendo en cuenta la edad, el peso del animal, la circunferencia escrotal, peso y longitud testicular, y sus variables espermáticas. Se analizaron 12 pares de testículos de toros lidiados en una Plaza de Toros, procedentes de doce astados encaste Domecq de dos ganaderías. Una vez llegado el toro al desolladero de la plaza, se midió la circunferencia escrotal, se extrajeron los testículos y se conservaron a una temperatura de 5ºC, previamente identificados. Posteriormente en laboratorio se realizó el pesaje y medición de cada testículo, se diseccionó la cola del epidídimo para conseguir la muestra. Se midió volumen, concentración espermática, motilidad. Por último se realizaron extensiones con la tinción de eosina nigrosina y se valoraron espermatozoides vivos y muertos, células normales, células anormales y acrosomas normales. La muestra obtenida de cada testículo, fue diluida en una proporción 1:2 con un diluyente comercial (Steridyl®), ambos atemperados a 37ºC, antes de realizar las tinciones y las extensiones. Con el fin de estudiar las características espermáticas y los parámetros testiculares de toros de lidia provenientes de dos ganaderías, se realizó un diseño completamente al azar con un arreglo factorial 2x2 (dos ganaderías y dos testículos). Los resultados muestran que hay diferencias significativas (p

Testicular maturation was assessed in age-matched, sexually immature (13–17-week-old) New Zealand white rabbits using end points frequently evaluated in toxicity studies: testicular weight and testicular histology. Testicular weights and testicular maturity as assessed histologically were markedly variable in sexually immature rabbits, especially at ≥ 14 weeks of age. The large variation in testicular weights in immature rabbits requires that large changes in a treatment group relative to controls be present for statistical detection of testicular weight effects at commonly used significance levels. Testicular weights and testicular maturity were strongly correlated to one another, but neither weight nor maturity was strongly correlated to body weight. Thus, stratification and randomization of immature rabbits to study groups based upon body weight will not assure in absence of group differences with respect to testicular maturity. The large variation in testicular weights and maturity in 13–17-week-old rabbits warrants caution in the evaluation of testicular changes when rabbits of this age range are used in toxicity studies.

The long-term effect of dividing the genitofemoral nerve supply to the undescended testis in naturally cryptorchid rats is reported. 20 male Buffalo rats with an undescended right testis, noted at the age of 30 days, were used for the investigation. 20 healthy animals served as controls. The abdominal division of the right genitofemoral nerve was performed in 10 cryptorchid and 10 healthy animals at the age of 40 days. The animals were mated at 150 days of age. Both testes were removed at 180 days of age. In each excised testis the testicular weight and seminiferous tubular diameters were measured, and the maturity of the germinal epithelium was determined using the Johnsen testicular biopsy score. The experiment showed that in 70% of the nonoperated cryptorchid rats, both testes were affected at the age of 180 days, and 90% of these animals were infertile. In the operated cryptorchid rats, the contralateral descended were not damaged, and 60% of these animals were fertile. The division of the genitofemoral nerve in healthy animals had no effect. The results suggest that neural transmissions might play a role in the damage to the descended testis in unilateral cryptorchidism. This observation requires further investigations.