Evaluating the effects of quinestrol on the reproductive organs of the Nile rat (Arvicanthis niloticus) for use in the rat control

ABSTRACT The purpose of this research was to determine whether the synthetic estrogen quinestrol has antifertility effects on male and female Nile rats (Arvicanthis niloticus). Both male and female rats were orally administered quinestrol dissolved in castor oil at a dosage of 1 mg/kg for seven days. In contrast, male and female control rats were given castor oil alone. The use of this dosage of quinestrol resulted in a decrease in the weight of reproductive organs in both sexes, as well as a decrease in sperm count and motility and an increase in the percentage of abnormal sperm. Various histopathological alterations were observed in the testicular, epididymal, and ovarian tissues. Significant reductions in immunohistochemical markers such as androgen receptor protein (AR) and Wilm’s tumor nuclear protein 1 (Wt-1) were observed in treated male rats. These results indicate that quinestrol induces infertility in both males and females of the Nile rats. Therefore, it is recommended for use in integrated pest management campaigns targeting these serious vertebrate pests.