Abstract In the present study, penconazole fungicide was
examined for its affect on the morphology and function of
testes in rats. Male rats were orally administered penconazole
at a dose of 50 or 100 mg/kg, three times/week, for
9 months. Testosterone hormone level was measured using
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Testicles
were submitted for histopathological examination using
light microscope. Testicles were exposed for more investigation
using transmission electron microscope. Quantitative
analysis of seminiferous epithelial cycle and Leydig cells
were obtained. The results revealed that a significant decrease
in testosterone hormone level than the control group.
Light microscope examination showed necrotic and degenerative
changes in testes at the level of seminiferous tubules.
Sertoli, Leydig, and germ cell numbers showed significant
depletion. Ultrastructural investigation showed Sertoli and
Leydig cells had several morphological alterations. Spermatogonic
cells showed multiple features of apoptosis. From the
previous findings, we concluded that penconazole fungicide
induced structural and functional testicular impairment. The
use of penconazole as a fungicide must be restricted and
regularly monitored in the environment.