Combined Effects of Di (2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate and Methylparaben on the Zinc Level and its Impact on Gonadal Function in the Mice, Mus musculus

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are common environmental toxins which cause negative impacts on hormone biosynthesis, fertility, testicular physiology, and reproductive function. Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and methylparaben (MP) are two prevalent EDCs that humans frequently use in their everyday lives. In the present investigation, the individual and combined effect of DEHP and MP on the zinc levels and gonadal function was studied in mice, Mus musculus. Male and female mice were assigned to four groups, each of which contained six mice: Control group treated with corn oil; DEHP and MP group treated with 500 mg/kg/day of DEHP and MP, respectively; and DEHP + MP group treated with 250 mg/kg/day of DEHP and MP each. They were given a daily oral dosage for a period of 28 days. The present finding suggests that the decreased zinc levels in the testis lead to reduced spermatocytes, absence of spermatozoa, degeneration of germ cells, and elevated levels of zinc in the ovary accelerate folliculogenesis causing reproductive abnormalities. In conclusion, this work demonstrates that the synergistic interaction between DEHP and MP downregulates zinc levels in the testis and upregulates zinc levels in the ovary, thereby negatively affecting the reproductive function in the mice, M. musculus. . KEYWORDS :Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, Gonadal function, Methylparaben, Zinc level