Induction of oxidative stress by benzo(a)pyrene in the epididymis of Wistar rats

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of sub-chronic exposure to benzo(a)pyrene on the antioxidant system and histology of rat epididymal sperm. Intraperitoneal administration of benzo(a)pyrene to male Wistar rats at doses between 1 and 100 µg/kg body weight for 60 days entailed a decrease in the weight of the epididymis (caput and cauda), seminal vesicle, and prostate, while the body weight was not affected. Epididymal sperm reserves were reduced in a dose-dependent manner. Indicators of lipid peroxidation were increased while activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in all three epididymal regions decreased. Histological malformations were observed in the epididymis. Exposure to benzo(a)pyrene deranges the antioxidant defense system and induces histological changes in the epididymis.