Inhibition of spermatogenesis in house rat (Rattus rattus Rufescens) following the administration of alpha- chlorohydrin.

Chronic administration of alpha-chlorohydrin (25 mg/kg body wt.) caused lesions in the testis of house rat. The changes in the germ cells were degenerative. The seminiferous tubules and Leydig cell nuclear diameter were reduced. Epididymal cell height was greatly reduced. The lumen was devoid of spermatozoa. alpha-Chlorohydrin administration inhibited the synthesis of RNA, protein, sialic acid in the testis and accessory sex organs. Total cholesterol of the testis was increased. Adrenal ascorbic acid depletion was conspicuous. alpha-Chlorohydrin anatagonizes the stimulatory action of testosterone in castrated house rats. alpha-Chlorohydrin can be considered as a biologically effective compound for the control of house rat population in human dwellings. It's dose dependent reaction is discussed.