Biochemical and histopathological effects of carbendazim to rat male reproduction

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of carbendazim (methyl 2-benzimidazole carbamate) on the some hormone levels and on testis tissue. Carbendazim in the doses of 0, 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg/day were administered (by gavage) to male rats, daily for 15 weeks. At the end of the experiment serum total testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels were analyzed and testis tissues were taken for light and electron microscopic examinations. A statistically significant decrease in total serum testosterone level in rats exposed to carbendazim (dose: 300 and 600 mg/kg/day), compared to the control, was observed. Also, dihydrotestosterone level was significantly decreased in all experimental groups. Histopathologically, carbendazim caused detrimental effects in testis tissues. These effects were vacuolization, disorganization and necrosis in germinal epithelium. In addition, multinucleated giant cells were observed in the lumen of the seminiferous tubules. These pathological findings were supported by electron microscopic examinations. These results suggest that carbendazim, in subchronic exposure, affects testis tissue and androgenic hormone levels.