Author/Editor		Majdič, Gregor; Saunders, Philippa TK
Title		Vpliv snovi iz okolja s hormonskim delovanjem na razvoj spolnega sistema pri sesalcih
Translated title		The influence of environmental pollutants mimicking hormonal actions on development of mammalian reproductive system
Type		članek
Source		Androl List
Vol. and No.		Letnik 3, št. 3
Publication year		1997
Volume		str. 4-10
Language		slo
Abstract		Several reports in recent years have shown increased incidence of several male reproductive problems including cryptorchidism, hypospadias, testicular cancer as well as smaller sperm counts. The aim of this article is to discuss the data showing importance of fetal/neonatal period for normal development and function of male reproductive system in adult life. In addition, some experiments are described showing the possible influences of oestrogenic chemicals on development of male reproductive tract in rats. Results have shown that treatment of female rats with low doses of period and postnataly up until weaning causes a small but significant reduction in testicular size in offspring from these rats. Additional experiments have shown that oestrogenic chemicals, when applied to pregnant females in high doses, could reduce the activity of 17alpha-hydroxylase enzyme in the testes from their fetuses. As this enzyme is one of the key enzymes involved in testosterone production, one would expect reduced testosterone production following administration of oestrogenic chemicals. Bearing in mind the importance of testosterone during critical period of fetal masculinization, the possible effects of reduced 17alpha-hydroxylase activity cold be deleterious.
Descriptors		PRENATAL EXPOSURE DELAYED EFFECTS SEX DIFFERENTIATION ESTROGENS RATS ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE TESTIS SPERMATOZOA