Reduction of spermatogenesis in mice after tributyltin administration

Organotin compounds, such as tributyltin (TBT) used as an antifouling biocide, can induce masculinization in female mollusks. However, few studies addressing the effect of TBT on spermatogenesis in mammalian have been reported. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of TBT at low doses (0.5, 5, and 50 μg/kg, respectively) on spermatogenesis in mice as exposed from puberty and gave insight into the mechanism. After exposure for 30 days, the gonadosomatic index (GSI) was significantly decreased. The testosterone levels in the testes were not altered and the 17β-estradiol levels were significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner, spermatogenesis of the testis was significantly inhibited. Estrogen receptor (ER-α and ER-β) levels in testes of the mice exposed to TBT were decreased in a dose-dependent manner. The results suggest that ER play an important role in TBT-mediated inhibition of spermatogenesis.