Effects of the GnRH antagonist acyline on the testis of the domestic cat (Felis catus).

The aim of this study was to describe the effects of a single dose of the gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist acyline on testicular characteristics of the domestic cat. Twelve mature cats were orchidectomised unilaterally (right testis) on Day -7 (n=7) or Day 15 (n=5). On Day 0, 330 μg/kg acyline was administered s.c. to all the animals. Left orchidectomy was carried out on Day 15 (n=2), Day 30 (n=4) and Day 60 (n=6). Sperm were recovered from the epididymis and the testes were evaluated grossly, histologically and immunohistochemically. Significant differences (P<0.05) were found between days for epididymal sperm motility, vigor, abnormal morphology, germinal epithelium height, spermatocytes, spermatids, spermatozoa, lumen and cellular debris. Conversely, no significant differences were found for gross testicular and tubular characteristics, spermatogonia, Sertoli and Leydig cells and intertubular compartments. It was concluded that a single dose of acyline reversibly impaired spermiogenesis, spermatocytogenesis and sperm motility for 2 weeks.