Reproductive toxicity of sinvastatin in adult male rats

Abstract

Statins are lipid-lowering agents used extensively in human clinical exercising their effects through inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, a crucial enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. The normal structure and function of the male reproductive system depend on the action of androgens. By lowering cholesterol substrate for the synthesis of steroid hormones, the use of statins can cause damage to male reproduction. There are a few studies on the effects of exposure to statins on the male reproductive tract and sperm quality. Thus, we will perform an experimental study to evaluate the reproductive parameters of adult rats exposed to doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg/day of simvastatin from post-natal days 70 to 100. For that, the following parameters will be investigated: sperm parameters, concentrations of sex hormones, weights of reproductive organs, morphological analysis of testis and epididymis, and pharmacological reactivity of isolated sex glands and ducts. It is intended that, besides the formation of qualified human resources in Biology and Toxicology of Reproduction, new knowledge will be acquired on the adverse effects of simvastatin on the male reproductive tract.(AU)