The toxic effects of 4-tert-octylphenol on the reproductive system of male rats

The aim of the present study is to investigate the toxic effect of 4-tert-octylphenol (OP) on testicular functions of rats. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were orally administered different doses of OP at the levels of 0 (control), 50, 150 and 450 mg/kg/d for 30 d. Testicular functions were assessed by histopathology, testicular sperm head counts, daily sperm production, sperm motility (measured by computer assisted sperm analysis, CASA) and biochemical indices (marker testicular enzymes). The size and weight of the testis, epididymis, and prostate were reduced in all the three dosages. Histopathologically, damages of spermatogenic cells and Sertoli cells were observed by electron microscope. Testicular sperm numbers, daily sperm production and activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were decreased significantly in the 450 mg/kg/d OP group. The motility of spermatozoa was reduced significantly in 150 and 450 mg/kg/d treated groups. These data demonstrate that OP affects testicular functions. The primary sites of action may be spermatogenic cells and Sertoli cells. The results of the present study provide first information of OP on sperm motility.