Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to assess Deltamethrin-induced alterations in sperm quality and testicular toxicity. Sixty adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were assigned Four Groups (A-D). A acted as control and received deionised distilled water, B-D were exposed orally to 6.25, 12.5 and 25 mg/kg/day of Deltamethrin Emulsifiable concentrate for 35 days. The results showed significant (p<0.05) reduction in bodyweight at 25 mg/kg/day with no effect on vital organs weights. Accesory sex organ weights declined significantly (p<0.05). A concentration-dependent reduction (p<0.05) in the testes weight (2.81±0.52 to 2.56±0.22 g) epididymal weight (2.36±0.12 to 2.18±0.22 g) occured. Histopathological evaluation of the testes showed degenerative changes and impairment of spermatogenesis accompanied by cellular losses at 12.5 and 25 mg/kg/day. The most affected spermatogenic elements were the primary spermatocytes. Post testicular toxicity was confirmed from epididymal sperm quality with reduction in motility and viability, increased percentage dead sperm cells and percentage abnormality in the sperm morphology including retention of cytoplasmic droplet and sperm head abnormality. There was elevation in the concentration of Aspartate aminotransferase which was positively and significantly (p<0.01) correlated with Deltamethrin concentration (r = 0.9060), R² = 0.8209, Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) r = 0.9015, R² = 0.8127 and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) r = 0.9099, R² = 0.828. It was concluded that Deltamethrin has the potential to impair fertility and general reproductive health by inhibiting spermatogenesis and thus, limiting sperm production potential. Periodic evaluation of reproductive health especially in males constantly exposed to Deltamethrin due to their occupation is recommended.

Keywords:

Deltamethrin, pyrethroid insecticide, reproductive toxicity, sperm morphology, testis,

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