Reproductive Toxicology in Male Rodent Models
Summary
The study of reproductive toxicology in male rodent models centres on how chemical, pharmacological and nutritional exposures impair male fertility through direct effects on the testis, accessory glands and the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal axis. Common endpoints include altered sperm count, motility, morphology and changes in serum hormone levels. Mechanistic investigations reveal roles for oxidative stress, apoptosis, epigenetic modifications, steroidogenic enzyme dysregulation and disruption of cell-to-cell communication in the seminiferous epithelium. Rodent models offer controlled dosing regimens, genetic homogeneity and advanced analytical techniques such as proteomics and transcriptomics to map cell-specific responses. Data generated inform regulatory toxicology, underpin risk assessment for new chemicals and guide development of protective interventions to safeguard human reproductive health.
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Reproductive Toxicology in Male Rodent Models publication trend
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Technical terms
Spermatogenesis: The multi-stage process by which spermatogonial stem cells develop into mature spermatozoa within the seminiferous epithelium.
Sertoli cell: A somatic testicular cell that supports germ cell development and maintains the blood-testis barrier.
Leydig cell: A testicular interstitial cell responsible for testosterone synthesis under luteinising hormone stimulation.
Oxidative stress: A state of imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defence mechanisms leading to cellular damage.
Endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC): A substance that interferes with hormonal signalling pathways, potentially affecting fertility and reproductive development.
References
- The Effect of Statins on Male Reproductive Parameters: A Mechanism Involving Dysregulation of Gonadal Hormone Receptors and TRPV1. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2023).
- Lavandula stoechas essential oils protect against Malathion-induces reproductive disruptions in male mice. Lipids in Health and Disease (2018).
- Effect of High-Fructose Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome on the Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in Male Rats. Biomedicines (2022).
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