Role of maternal nutritional supplementation on the hormonal profile and immunohistochemical analysis of testicular development of fetal rats

Introduction: This study elucidated the role of maternal microelement supplementation on fetal testicular development. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight Wistar rats (21 females and 7 males) were randomly divided into seven groups comprising three females to one male: Group A – standard feed and water; Group B – diet deficient in all the micronutrients (Fe, Cu, Se) and water; Group C – diet fortified with 0.2 mg/kg of selenium and water; Group D – diet enriched with 40 mg/kg of iron and water; Group E – diet fortified with 8 mg/kg of copper and water; and Group F – diet enriched with all nutrients and water. All administration was via oral gavage; thereafter, animals were sacrificed at day 20 of pregnancy. Placenta measurements, testes, and blood serum were obtained for analysis. Results: The results showed statically a significant decrease (p<0.05) in placental and fetal weight (WPF), the distance between fetus and mother (DFM), the concentration of trace elements; FSH and LH levels among chaff only group when compared to the Control group. Testicular histomorphology and immunohistochemical studies of the animals in the chaff alone diet showed mild fetal Leydig cells in the interstitium, primitive germ cells in the testicular cord, pre-Sertoli cell necrosis, and decreased positive expression compared with the control. Conclusion: Administration of single and combined doses of nutritional supplements diet significantly preserved the fetal parameters, hormone profile, and histochemical analysis of the testis.