Effects of exposure to a glyphosate-based herbicide on male mice reproduction

Abstract

Glyphosate is classified as a post-emergent herbicide with a broad spectrum of activity and is the most widely sold pesticide in Brazil and globally. Glyphosate is also recognized as an endocrine disruptor capable of inducing reproductive disorders in animals. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a glyphosate-based herbicide (Gliz 480 SL) on the reproductive function of male mice during different exposure periods. The following parameters were analyzed: testicular germinal epithelium, daily sperm production, and sperm transit time through the epididymis. A total of 48 adult Swiss mice were divided into three groups exposed to glyphosate at a daily dose of 0.35 mg/kg for 15, 30, or 60 days, and three control groups that received only water (vehicle). A reduction in the relative mass of the caput/corpus of the epididymis, accompanied by a shorter sperm transit time, was observed after 15 days of exposure, resulting in increased sperm accumulation in the cauda epididymis. Stages V–VI of spermatogenesis showed reductions during 15 and 60 days of exposure. Based on the applied protocol, the glyphosate formulation Gliz 480 SL can alter reproductive parameters, particularly during short exposure periods.