Abstract
The effect on testicular steroidogenesis after lindane (δ-isomer of hexa-cholorocyclohexane) administration of 4 and 8 mg/kg, i. p. daily for 45 days to male mature rats was investigated. A significant decline in testicular weight of both test groups was observed. Celluler degeneration in Leydig cells of the 8 mg/kg treated group was conspicuous. A sharp decline in the Leydig cell's population and morphological deformation were supported by the decreased activities of testicular hyaluronidase and 3βΔ5-hydroxy-steroid dehydrogenase. A high level of testicular cholesterol and depletion of ascorbic acid were also responsible for steroidogeneic impairment in the treated groups. These impairments also led to a significant diminution in serum testosterone.
