Effect of cadmium on 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in toad testis.

The enzyme 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17 beta-HSD) has been shown to exist biochemically and histochemically in the toad testis. A single injection of cadmium chloride (0.5 mg/toad) resulted 7 days later in reduced 17 beta-HSD activity in the testis and decreased serum testosterone with an increase in thumb pad glycogen content. It is concluded that cadmium induced changes lead to inhibition of androgen synthesis in the toad testis.