Effect of Testosterone Propionate on the Testis & Seminal Vesicles of Experimental Hypothyroid Rats

Abstract

Thiourea treatment causes structural and functional changes in the testis of young rats. There is some disorganization of the seminiferous epithelium and many of the Leydig cells also undergo atrophy. The total cholesterol content of the testis is.increased significantly and the seminal vesicles present an infantile appearance. Testosterone propionate therapy exerts a beneficial influence on the testis of hypothyroid rats. The atrophic changes in the Leydig celis are absent and the se~erous eptthelium shows normal spermatogenic activity. There is also a decrease in total cholesterol content .of the testis and a hypertrophy of the seminal vesicles. The probable mechanism of action of the goiterogen on testis is discussed.