Does maternal stress induce abnormal descent of the testis in prepubertal rats

摘要: Objective To investigate whether prenatal maternal stress, considered to alter plasma testosterone concentration and induce a lack of surge in male rat fetuses, has any effect on the growth processus vaginalis testicular descent offspring. Materials methods Pregnant rats were divided into two groups. In group 1, placed three times daily for 60 min each session Plexiglas holders (13×6×8 cm) illuminated by 150-W flood lights from day 14 18 gestation during dark phase animals’ light (12 h) cycle. 2, pregnant females not handled acted as controls. After birth, anogenital distance both female was measured, length measured at 7 days age some rats. Thereafter, 21, 24, 27 30 age, assessed remaining rats. Results In delayed stressed compared with control At five 36 offspring showed abnormal descent; testes superficial inguinal position above scrotum. Both significantly less than controls. Conclusions Maternal stress induced female-like caused testis, inhibiting after birth. Prenatal may therefore be involved delay neonatal inducing mild anti-androgenic fetus.