Effect of Cadmium on 17ß-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase in Toad Testis

Abstract
The enzyme 17.beta.-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17.beta.-HSD) has been shown to exist biochemically and histochemically in the toad testis. A single injection of cadmium chloride (0.5 mg/toad) resulted 7 days later in reduced 17.beta.-HSD activity in the testis and decreased serum testosterone with an increase in thumb pad glycogen content. It is concluded that cadmium induced changes lead to inhibition of androgen synthesis in the toad testis.