Effects of low dose acrylamide on the rat reproductive organs structure, fertility and gene integrity

Abstract

Objectives: To assesses the effects of long term exposure to low dose of acrylamide (0.4 μg/g) in post-weaning Sprague–Dawley rats on the structure of the reproductive organ as well as DNA integrity. Methods: The histological changes in the male and female reproductive organs the morphological changes in sperms as well as the genotoxic effect of acrylamide were assessed. The effect acrylamide on pregnancy outcome was evaluated. Results: Testes of acrylamide-fed rats showed decreased number of seminiferous tubules containing mature sperms and degenerative changes in sperm germ cell layers. Some sperms of epididymal cauda showed head deformity. In female, acrylamide included cystic ovarian changes, degenerative changes of zona pelluida, granulosa cells and oocytes. Post implantation loss and decrease in the number of full term fetuses were detected. Resorption sites showed necrotic fetal tissue with vacuolation of amniotic cells. Conclusion: Acrylamide cause harmful effect on the reproductive organ structure, fertility and cause extensive DNA damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes.