Evaluation of CatSper 2 gene expression and embryonic morphological parameters in mice exposed to ethephon

Ethephon is a hormone used to accelerate the plant growth regulator processing. Mostly, after entering to the tissues, causing disturbance in reproductive system and subsequently decreased sperm fertility potential. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ethephon on embryonic morphological parameters and CatSper 2 protein localization in sperm.

In this experimental study, 78 males and females (NMRI Strain) mice randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental groups received ethephon at doses of 120, 240 and 480 mg/kg as well as the positive-control group received neostigmine (0.1 mg/kg). After treatment, the animals were sacrificed and euthanized. Sperm samples were collected from cauda epididymis for qRT-PCR and immunohistochemically evaluation and stored at -70 ° C until examination.

The results of morphological parameters showed that hatching percentage, viability, number and length of fetuses in experimental groups were lower than control group. There was also a decrease in the expression of CatSper 2 gene in the experimental groups compared to the control group. Sperm immunohistochemical results indicated that there was no localization for the CatSper 2 protein in the experimental groups versus the ones (p<0.05).

Ethephon by producing free radicals causes decreased embryonic morphological features. It also impairs fertility and reproduction by decreasing the expression of CatSper 2 gene and lack of protein localization in sperm.