[Effects of malathion on testicular enzyme activities and sperm quality of male rats].

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of sub chronic exposure to malathion on testicular enzyme activities and sperm quality of male rats. METHODS: Forty male rats were divided into four groups: three exposure groups and a control group. Malathion was administered orally to male rats at 0, 33.75, 54.00, and 108.00 mg/kg for 60 days to evaluate the toxic alterations in sperm dynamics and testicular enzyme activities including ACP,LDH,SDH and γ-GT. The control rats were administered with an equivalent volume of distilled water in the same manner.After sacrificed, the testes were collected and weighed. RESULTS: The body weight and the testis weight of animals showed a decreasing tendency, and there was a statistical difference between the 54.00, 108.00 mg/kg groups, and the control group (P<0.05). Malathion brought about marked reduction in testicular sperm counts, sperm motility, and significant growth of sperm malformation rate in 108.00 mg/kg group. A significant decrease in the activities of testicular enzyme ACP and γ-GT was observed in malathion exposed rats, while the activities of LDH was significant increased and there were no obvious effects on the activities of SDH. The activities of ACP, γ-GT and LDH showed a statistical difference between the 108.00 mg/kg groups, and the control group. CONCLUSION: Malathion reduced the sperm counts and sperm motility, increased the malformation rate and reduced the activities of testicular enzymies of male rats.