Biochemistry & Pharmacology: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Effect of Vitamin C and Vitamin E on Mercuric Chloride-Induced Reproductive Toxicity in Male Rats

Muthu K and Krishnamoorthy P

To evaluate the protective effects of Vitamin C and Vitamin E against Mercuric chloride -induced reproductive toxicity and to study the mechanisms underlying these effects. Male Wistar rats were orally administered mercuric chloride (10 mg/100 gm b.wt), (10 mg/100 gm b.wt) of mercuric chloride + (40 mg/100 gm b.wt) of Vitamin C and (10 mg/100 gm b.wt) of mercuric chloride + (20 mg/100 gm b.wt) of Vitamin E were administered orally to male albino rats for 30 days. Treatments with either Vitamin C or Vitamin E resulted in a significant protection of reproductive function. Both vitamins reduced the extent of mercuric chloride-induced reproductive toxicity, as evidenced by decrease in sperm abnormality and increase in sperm motility. Mercuric chloride-induced alterations in testis lipid peroxidation (MDA) were also markedly improved by test vitamins, and mercuric chloride -induced alterations in the testis antioxidation defense system were profoundly prevented by vitamins. In groups, where mercuric chloride was combined with either Vitamin C or Vitamin E, antioxidation enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT) were significantly elevated compared to the mercuric chloride-treated group. The results provide further insight into the mechanisms of mercuric chloride-induced reproductive toxicity and confirm the antioxidant potential of both Vitamin C and Vitamin E.