Variation in the Oxidative Status of Testicular Tissues During Critical Pubertal Age Under Influence of Bisphenol A

Abstract

Pubertal development of testis requires stringent regulations and precise expansion of germ cells. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in regulation and proliferation of spermatogonia. Bisphenol A (BPA) is well known for the induction of oxidative stress in testicular tissues leading to major adversities including reduced fertility in male. In the present study, BPA led response of antioxidants was assessed during critical period of pubertal maturation of testis. Four groups of Wistar albino rats were formed containing 15 animals each; Group I-Control, Group II-administered with 5 mg/kg/d BPA, Group III- administered with 25 mg/kg/d BPA and Group IV- administered with 50 mg/kg/d BPA. These groups were further bifurcated into three distinct periods of exposure i.e. 42-63 PND, 42-91 PND and 42-105 PND, containing 5 animals each. Level of CAT, SOD, GSH, GPx, and LPO was analysed. Linear regression for individual antioxidants and Pearson’s correlation between antioxidants were applied for age-wise analysis of variance. Results showed that during first three weeks (i.e. 42-63 PND) of BPA administration were better tolerated, irrespective of doses. Later intervals indicated significant decline (p<0.05) in the activity and level of antioxidants. Relatedness between variables of antioxidants following BPA exposure and control were extremely low (R2<0.1) indicating differential activity. Nonetheless, between antioxidants strong strength of association (r>0.9) was evident. Although initial toleration against BPA’s oxidative insult was evident, it could not be sustained following 91 or 105 PND. Extremely lower activity of antioxidant at later stage suggested potential delay in testicular maturity.