Abnormal Leydig Cell Aggregation in the Fetal Testis of Rats Exposed to Di (n-Butyl) Phthalate and Its Possible Role in Testicular Dysgenesis

• DOI: 10.1210/en.2004-0671
• Publication Date: 2004-11-12T01:24:39Z
• Authors: I. Kim Mahood; Nina Hallmark; Chris McKinnell; Marion Walker; Jane S. Fisher; Richard M. Sharpe
• Keywords: Testicle

Fetal exposure of male rats to di (n-butyl) phthalate (DBP) induces testicular changes remarkably similar dysgenesis syndrome in humans; these include induction focal areas dysgenetic tubules otherwise normal testes. In searching for the fetal origins latter, we used image analysis show that 500 mg/kg DBP [embryonic day (E)13.5–20.5)] caused abnormal aggregation Leydig cells centrally testis. This was not due increase cell number, and size significantly reduced DBP-exposed animals, as were testosterone levels immunoexpression P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme. The aggregates did exhibit evidence proliferation at E17.5–19.5. Using confocal microscopy (3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) Sertoli (anti-Mullerian hormone) cell-specific markers, animals trap isolated within them E21.5. These intermingled are still apparent on postnatal d 4, after cessation treatment, when they may form misshapen seminiferous cords (intratubular) them. located contain germ early puberty, but by adulthood only, implying presence intratubular interferes with spermatogenesis. It is concluded DBP-induced be a key event formation testis, identification mechanisms underlying events give new insights into disorders human.