Multigenerational analysis of the functional status of male reproductive system in mice after exposure to realistic doses of manganese

The present study aimed to analyze the effect of multigenerational exposure to Mn at realistic doses on the functional quality of the male reproductive system of mice. Females and males (generation F0) were treated for 60 days with MnCl2, via gavage, at the doses of 0, 0.013, 0.13, and 1.3 mg/kg/day. Treatment of F0 dams continued throughout gestation and lactation periods. At the time of weaning, the offspring (F1 generation) was divided into: animals that were not exposed after weaning – parental exposure (PE); and those exposed via parental generation and directly (PDE) for additional 60 days, at the same dose of F0 generation. F0 and F1 males were euthanized for assessment of sperm parameters and redox changes in the reproductive system. There was a decrease in the sperm concentration of the F0 generation. In addition, the sperm parameters of F1 generation were drastically affected. The activity of antioxidant enzymes was significantly reduced in PE animals. It was possible to verify that the biochemical damages were higher in the PE individuals, as demonstrated by the integrated biomarker response index. Our results show that Mn, even at low doses, is able to promote a reduction in sperm quality over a generation. [Display omitted] •Manganese in realistic doses alters the homeostasis of the male reproductive system.•F1 generation presents greater spermatic alterations than the generation F0.•Realistic doses of Mn alters the antioxidant defense system of F1 generation.•Mn drastically affected the sperm motility of the F1 generation.•Mice exposed only during the prenatal period are more susceptible to Mn damage.