Role of +(-)catechin against cadmium toxicity in the rat testes

Objective. Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most toxic and carcinogenic heavy metals to organisms. Exposure to the metal occurs mainly through environmental pollution and its wide range of uses in industrial fields. Cadmium performs its effect on living organisms by accumulating in various tissues and affecting tissue antioxidant enzyme systems. The testes are critical target organs following cadmium exposure. This study aimed to determine the possible effects of cadmium on zinc concentration and the role of +(-)catechin against the toxic effects of cadmium in rat testis tissue. Material and methods. Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups: control, cadmium and cadmium+catechin-receiving groups. The experimental groups received cadmium chloride and +(-)catechin via their drinking water for 30 days. Cadmium and zinc concentrations were measured in testis tissue of rats. Lipid peroxidation measurements were also taken in the tissue. Results. Accumulation of cadmium was observed in testis tissue during the experimental period. Increased lipid peroxidation was observed in the tissues of the cadmium and cadmium+catechin groups. The cadmium and zinc concentrations in the +(-)catechin group were not found significant differences with controls. Conclusion. [CE1]The data suggest that lipid peroxidation was associated with cadmium toxicity in testes and +(-)catechin does not seem to be helpful against cadmium toxicity.