Trace element levels in the testes of thioacetamide-induced cirrhotic rats

Masculine infertility disorders are related to changes in trace element metabolism in the testis. In this study, toxic effects of thioacetamide in trace element (zinc, copper, selenium, and manganese) levels in the serum and testis of rats were studied at 1-, 4-, 8-, and 12-week posttreatment duration. A decrease in serum zinc, copper, and selenium was noticed whereas the level of these trace elements in the testis was increased. Manganese showed an increase in both serum and testis in response to thioacetamide treatment. Changes in trace element level showed structural damage in different organs such as the liver, kidney, and spleen. Further studies are needed to establish the effect of the changes in the level of trace elements in the structure and function of the testes of thioacetamide-treated rats. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 14:383–392, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.