Fenoxaprop-P-ethyl herbicide induces biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical alterations in the kidneys and testes of rats.

BACKGROUND

Pesticide use, a global practice in agriculture, contributes to environmental contamination and poses significant health risks. This study investigates the impact of Fenoxaprop-P-ethyl (FPE), a chiral herbicide, on renal function and male fertility in albino rats.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The study was conducted on 8-week-old male albino rats subjected to an experimental protocol as follows: the control group, a vehicle group, and two FPE-treated groups: one given 26 mg/kg and the other 157.5 mg/kg (1/20 LD₅₀) for 30 days. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, and oxidative stress markers, comet assay assessment, histopathological examination, and immunohistochemical analysis were performed on renal and testicular tissues.

RESULTS

The study shows that FPE-treated rats experience a dose-dependent increase in renal biomarkers, along with redox imbalance, and DNA damage, with kidney tissue alterations and increased expression of inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha and fibrogenic marker transforming growth factor beta 1. Additionally, FPE-treated rats experience reduced sex hormones, along with redox imbalance, DNA damage, with testicular spermatogenic layer damage, and decreased proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression.

CONCLUSION

Sub-chronic exposure to FPE induces renal damage, inflammation, and fibrosis, accompanied by disruptions in male reproductive health. The study emphasizes the intricate relationship between oxidative stress, hormonal imbalance, and reproductive dysfunction.

DATA AVAILABILITY: Not applicable.