[Effect of large-dosage of 5alpha-reductase inhibitors on the spermatogenesis of male rats].
OBJECTIVE
To identify the role of 5alpha-reductase in the spermatogenesis of male rats by studying the effect of two 5alpha-reductase inhibitors, Epristeride and Finasteride, on the spermatogenesis in male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats.


METHODS
Changes in the weight of the testis, serum testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels, epididymal sperm count, and reproductive function were observed and analyzed after the two 5alpha-reductase inhibitors were administered to male SD rats orally.


RESULTS
The experiment showed that in comparison with control animals, both the two 5alpha-reductase inhibitors: 1. suppressed the development of the prostate and reduced the weight of the testis in the experimental groups (P < 0.05); 2. decreased the serum level of dihydrotestosterone and enhanced testosterone; 3. inhibited epididymal sperm count and productive function.


CONCLUSIONS
High dosages of the 5alpha-reductase inhibitor, Epristeride, can suppress the development of the prostate and reduce the weight of the testis, decrease dihydrotestosterone, and inhibit spermatogenesis and productive function in male rats.
Wang
Xiao-dong
XD
Department of Endocrinology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
Jia
Yue
Y
Cui
Yu-gui
YG
Wang
Xing-hai
XH
Tong
Jian-sun
JS
Ma
Ding-zhi
DZ
Cai
Rui-fen
RF
Di
Fu-song
FS
D058891:5-alpha Reductase Inhibitors; D000730:Androstadienes / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000818:Animals; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D018120:Finasteride / Q000494:pharmacology; D008297:Male; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley; D013091:Spermatogenesis / Q000187:drug effects*
D058891:5-alpha Reductase Inhibitors; D000730:Androstadienes; C072547:epristeride; D018120:Finasteride