Evaluation of Deltamethrin induced reproductive toxicity in male Swiss Albino mice

ObjectiveTo assess the adverse effect of Deltamethrin (DM) (technical grade) on reproductive organs and fertility indices of male Swiss albino mice, Mus musculus.MethodsForty male mice were divided into four experimental groups: control, vehicle control (peanut oil), high dose DM treated and low dose DM treated group. An oral dose of 3 mg/kg b.wt (low dose) and 6 mg/kg b.wt (high dose) of Deltamethrin was administered for a period of 45 days to male Swiss albino mice.ResultsDM caused a significant reduction in body and organ weights, sperm count, sperm motility percent, sperm viability, serum testosterone level, sialic acid content of cauda epididymis and fructose level of seminal vesicle. DM-treated groups also showed a significant decline in testicular 3β and 17β Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase (HSD) activities. Histological examinations revealed significant alterations in the testes of dosed groups.ConclusionDeltamethrin is a toxic pyrethroid pesticide that produced significant reproductive toxicity in treated male mice as revealed by the severely affected parameters and the altered gravimetric indices.