Modulation of Rat Leydig Cell Steroidogenic Function by Di(2-Ethylhexyl)Phthalate1

摘要: Exposure of rodents to phthalates is associated with developmental and reproductive anomalies, there concern that these compounds may be causing adverse effects on human health. Testosterone (T), secreted almost exclusively by Leydig cells in the testis, primary steroid hormone maintains male fertility. cell T biosynthesis regulated pituitary gonadotropin LH. Herein, experiments were conducted investigate ability di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) affect androgen biosynthesis. Pregnant dams gavaged 100 mg21 kg21 day21 DEHP from Gestation Days 12 21. Serum LH levels significantly reduced offspring, compared control, at 21 35 days age. However, inhibitory no longer apparent 90 days. In a second set experiments, prepubertal rats, or age, 0, 1, 10, 100, 200 mg kg day for 14 This exposure paradigm affected steroidogenesis. For example, rats caused 77% decrease activity steroidogenic enzyme 17b-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, production 50% control. Paradoxically, extending period 28 (Postnatal 21‐48) resulted significant increases capacity serum levels. The no-observed-effect-level lowest-observed-effect-level determined 1 10