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Abstract
Anordiol, an antiestrogen, was administered at doses of 2.5 and 10 mg/kg day−1 for 30 and 60 days to adult male rats. A significant decrease in serum LH, FSH, and testosterone levels occurred in the treated animals as compared to controls. Serum testosterone and LH levels decreased to about 15–35% of control value on day 15 of treatment and reached undetected levels thereafter. Serum FSH level also decreased to about 25–50% of control value by day 15 of treatment and remained at this level. Significant decrease in the weights of the testes and accessory reproductive organs occurred following anordiol treatment, while the body weights remained at pretreatment level. Histological examination of the testes revealed significant decrease in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules and in the number of germ cell elements. Spermatogenesis was arrested at the secondary spermatocyte stage. Leydig cells appeared atrophic and contained pyknotic nuclei. The epididymis, prostate, and seminal vesicle showed degenerative changes. The secretory activity of the glandular epithelium of the prostate gland appeared to be markedly reduced. In conclusion, anordiol acts by blocking gonadotropin production and/or release by the pituitary; thereby testosterone production by Leydig cells is not stimulated, causing spermatogenesis arrest.