[Study on reproductive and immune toxicity of male rats exposed to As2O3].

OBJECTIVE: To study on reproductive and immune toxicity of male rats exposed to subacute As2O3. METHODS: 24 male rats of KM-strain were divided into four groups and were given by gavage deionized water, 2.0, 4.0 and 8.0 mg As/(kg x bw) for 7 days. After the exposure, the rats were killed and the testis, epididymis were collected and analysed. RESULTS: (1) In comparison with control, testicular and epididymal weights were lower than those of high dose group (P < 0.05), but there were no difference of testicular indexes between exposed group and control. The stained sperm count were lower than those of arsenic exposure group (P > 0.05), and malformation rate of sperm were significant increase in middle- and high-dose group (P < 0.05); (2) Compared to control, the weight and index of immune organ was decrease in middle-and high-dose group, and the spleen weight and index was significantly lower in high-dose group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: As2O3 can induce reproductive and immunotoxicity in male mice.