A histochemical study of the effect of danazol and oestradiol-17 beta on steroidogenic activity in testis and epididymis of the gerbil, Tatera indica.

Abstract

Danazol (4 mg/day/animal) and oestradiol-17 beta (100 microgram/day/animal) were administered subcutaneously for 22 and 15 days respectively. The testis and epididymis were histochemically analysed for steroid dehydrogenases, NADH-diaphorase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity and lipids. Both steroids significantly reduced the weights of the testis and other accessory reproductive organs. The activities of delta 5-3 beta- and 17 beta-HSD were markedly reduced in the seminiferous epithelium and interstitial cells of the testis. Sudanophilic lipids accumulated in the seminiferous tubules and the interstitium. Oestradiol generally had a greater effect than did danazol, but both probably affect the testicular function by inhibiting steroidogenesis.