Mechanisms and histopathological impacts of acetamiprid and azoxystrobin in male rats

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2022 Jun;29(28):43114-43125. doi: 10.1007/s11356-021-18331-3. Epub 2022 Jan 29.

Abstract

Acetamiprid (neonicotinoid insecticide) and azoxystrobin (fungicide) are widespread pesticides used for pest management, but they have the potential for toxicity to mammals. The goal of this study was to look for oxidative stress, metabolic alterations, and reproductive problems in male rats' serum after 2 months of exposure to sub-lethal dosages of acetamiprid and azoxystrobin. Seven classes of male rats were formed: control, 3 groups of acetamiprid (1/10, 1/20, 1/40 LD50), and 3 groups of azoxystrobin (1/10, 1/20, 1/40 LD50) and were orally daily treated (n = 8/group). Our findings revealed that acetamiprid and azoxystrobin disrupted oxidative and metabolic processes in the examined rats throughout 30 and 60 days of testing. The levels of nitric oxide increased significantly, while catalase, a superoxide dismutase enzyme, and glutathione reductase activity were reduced. Serum levels of sex hormones, calcium, and total protein have all dropped substantially in rats. In comparison to the control group, the testis and liver structure, as well as spermatozoa parameters, had distinct histological characteristics. In conclusion, acetamiprid and azoxystrobin exhibit dose- and time-dependent effects on oxidative parameters that cause testis damage.

Keywords: Calcium; Follicle-stimulating hormone; Lutilizing hormone; Male rat; Nitric oxide; Sperm count.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Catalase / metabolism
  • Male
  • Mammals
  • Neonicotinoids / toxicity
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Pyrimidines
  • Rats
  • Sperm Motility
  • Spermatozoa*
  • Strobilurins / pharmacology
  • Superoxide Dismutase / metabolism
  • Testis*

Substances

  • Neonicotinoids
  • Pyrimidines
  • Strobilurins
  • acetamiprid
  • Catalase
  • Superoxide Dismutase
  • azoxystrobin