Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (EGME) Disturbs the Gonadotropic Hormones and the Biological Quality of Semen in Rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus

ABSTRACT Glycol ethers (GEs) are amphiphilic solvents widely used for industrial or domestic applications. Their toxic effects on the reproduction and development of mammals have been well studied. This family presents important structural differences leading to various behaviors in terms of their metabolism and their toxic effects. This work aims to study the impact of ethylene glycol monomethyl ether (EGME) on the gonadotropic axis and semen biology in the rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus. Thirty adult male rabbits were divided into three groups (n = 10): a control group and 2 groups treated with EGME. The solvent was applied at two increasing doses: 50 ppm and 150 ppm for five successive weeks, orally. The level of the circulating gonadotropin hormones luteinizing hormone (Lh) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSh), the level of testosterone, the biological characteristics of the sperm, the weight and the histopathology of the testes were studied. The results obtained show a significant dose-dependent decrease in Lh, FSh and testosterone in the treated groups compared to control. The administered solvent caused severe deterioration in sperm quality, decreased sperm concentration, mobility and vitality, with increased sperm morphological malformations. The treated individuals show hypogonadism and severe tissue damage, especially in group treated with 150ppm dose.