Effects of cadmium chloride on reproductive parameters, nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress markers in male guinea pig (Cavia porcellus)

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cadmium on reproductive parameters and oxidative stress in male guinea pig (Cavia porcellus). Materials and methods: Thirty two (32) male guinea pigs were randomly assigned to four groups of eight each. Group 1 received distilled water orally; groups 2, 3 and 4 were treated with cadmium chloride at doses 8.75, 13.13 and 26.25 mg/kg.b.w. respectively. After 90 days of treatment, all animals were sacrificed and data collected. Result: Results revealed a significant (p < 0.05) increase of kidney and liver weights in cadmium chloridetreated animals compared to the control groups. Serum level of creatinine, urea, ALAT, ASAT significantly (P <0.05) increased and serum total proteins and total cholesterol significantly (P <0.05) decreased in all cadmium chloride-treated animals compared to the control. The weights of testes and epididymis and the volume of testes were significantly (p <0.05) lower in treated guinea pigs compared to controls. Seminal vesicle and bulbo urethral gland weights significantly (P <0.05) increased in group gavaged with the highest dose of cadmium chloride (26.25 mg/kg) compared to controls. Sperm mobility and count, the percentage of sperm with intact plasma membrane were significantly elevated in animals exposed to the highest dose of cadmium chloride (26.25 mg/kg) compared to controls. The percentages of micro -, macrocephalic and coiled-tailed spermatozoa were significantly increased in animals given the two largest doses (13.13 and 26.25 mg/kg) compared to controls. Serum testosterone concentration was significantly (p <0.05) lower in animals gavaged with cadmium chloride compared to control. The testicular activity of SOD, catalase, total peroxidase, malondialdehyde increased in cadmium chloride treated animals compared to control. Conclusion: In conclusion, exposure to cadmium chloride induced oxidative stress, renal, hepatic and reproductive toxicity in male guinea pig.