The Effect of Heparin on the Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Changes in Rat Testis

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the preventive effects of low molecular weight heparin on testis destruction created by low dose (0.25 ml/kg) carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4 ) application. Materials and Methods: Sixteen Spraque Dawley male rats were used. CCl 4 induced testicular destruction was created. There were 4 rats in each group; Group I recieved 1 ml of intraperitoneal olive oil, Group recieved intraperitoneal 0,25ml/kg CCL 4 in 1 ml of olive oil , Group III recieved intraperitoneal 0,25ml/kg CCL 4 in 1 ml of olive oil plus subcutaneous 180 IU/kg low molecular weight heparin and Grup IV received only subcutaneous 180 IU/kg low molecular weight heparin. At the end of 4 weeks of study period, rats were sacrified and tissue samples were fixed in glutaraldehyde solution. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of testis weight (p>0.05). Light microscopy showed vacuolization in the basal portion of the seminiferous tubules in Group II. Intercellular dehiscence between the spermatogenetic cells was significant in Group II compared to control group at the level of fine structure. Intercellular dehiscence was not significant in Group III compared to Group II. The seminiferous tubules structures in Group IV were found comparable with the control group. Low dose of CCl4 caused germ cell loss, inhibition of mitosis, and structural deterioration of the Sertoli cells in seminiferous tubules of rat testes. Conclusions: Low molecular weight heparin was found to be effective preventing CCl 4 induced testis destruction.