Effect of styrene administration on rat testis.

Styrene was administered through gavage to adult male rats for 60 days. At the lower dose of 200 mg/kg/day no overt signs of testicular toxicity were observed, while at the higher dose of 400 mg/kg/day activities of some marker enzymes for testicular function were found to be altered significantly, along with a decrease in spermatozoa number. Histopathological studies revealed marked degeneration of seminiferous tubules and lumen devoid of sperms, further confirming testicular toxicity of styrene. The present study suggests an overall sensitivity of the male reproductive system towards styrene exposure.