Effects of exposure to the fungicide mancozeb on reproductive and somatic parameters of male mice

Abstract

Mancozeb (MZB) is a pesticide that is used widely against a range of fungal diseases in plants. However, its effects on the male reproductive system are still unclear. Thus, this study analyzed the effects of MZB on the reproductive system of mice over different exposure periods. In addition, somatic parameters were evaluated. For this purpose, adult male Swiss mice were distributed into 6 groups (n = 8 animals/group): 3 groups orally treated with 0.37 mg.kg-1 of MZB for 15, 30, or 60 days, and 3 control groups receiving only the vehicle (water) for the same period. The results showed an increase in the glycemic index (p < 0.05), while the gastrocnemius muscle mass was lower in mice exposed to MZB (p < 0.05). The seminal vesicle of treated mice was increased (p < 0.05). MZB also promoted changes in the frequency of spermatogenic stages and in the number of Sertoli cells (p < 0.05). Moreover, epididymal sperm count was increased in the cauda segment of mice exposed to MZB (p < 0.05). These findings may be the result of a direct action of MZB on the thyroid pathway, which has been recognized as a target of MZB metabolites, besides being an important pathway involved in the male reproduction. However, further research is warranted to confirm this hypothesis.