Effect of alpha-tocopherol supplementation on the impact of aflatoxin B1 on the testes of rats

Exp Toxicol Pathol. 1998 Jun;50(3):221-4. doi: 10.1016/s0940-2993(98)80086-9.

Abstract

Rats were given aflatoxin B1 (7.5 microg/200 g b.w.) and alpha-tocopherol (0.9 mg/200 g b.w.) for 14 days oral intubation to investigate the effect of alpha-tocopherol on the toxicity of aflatoxin B1 on rat's testes. There were significant alterations in testicular sorbitol dehydrogenase, lactic dehydrogenase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, gamma glutamyl transpeptidase; reduced quality of sperm and marked pathological changes in the testis of rats given aflatoxin B1 alone. Alpha-tocopherol supplementation increased the aflatoxin blood level. A reduction in the toxicity of free radicals by alpha-tocopherol in association with a reduction in aflatoxin metabolism seem to be responsible for the protective influence observed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aflatoxin B1 / pharmacology
  • Aflatoxin B1 / toxicity*
  • Animals
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Drug Interactions
  • Free Radicals / toxicity
  • Male
  • Rats
  • Teratogens / pharmacology
  • Teratogens / toxicity*
  • Testis / drug effects*
  • Testis / enzymology
  • Vitamin E / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin E / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Free Radicals
  • Teratogens
  • Vitamin E
  • Aflatoxin B1