Histomorphometric and biochemical changes in the testicular tissues of rats treated with mercuric chloride.

Gradual alterations of testicular tissues were noted in rats treated with mercuric chloride at dosages of 0.05 mg/kg and 0.10 mg/kg body weight (i.p.) over a period of 90 days. Significant reduction in body and testicular weights were observed throughout the experimental period in treated animals. Consequently, testicular protein, DNA and RNA also exhibited a similar type of diminution in the same groups. Moreover, high cholesterol and low ascorbic acid concentrations were found in testis at both doses. Testicular degeneration and spermatogenic arrest were more pronounced in the high dose group over a period of 90 days.