A Rat Model for Chemotherapy-Induced Male Infertility

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Abstract
The effects of chronic administration of cyclophosphamide and procarbazine [used in cancer therapy] on testicular function in the rat were examined. Cyclophosphamide produced disruption of the normal spermatogenic architecture that was dose- and time-dependent. Total ablation of the germinal epithelium was not achieved. Procarbazine produced more specific testicular damage. Multiple weekly injections of 100-200 mg/kg of procarbazine caused complete destruction of the spermatogenic, cells with no effect on Sertoli cells. Treated animals remained infertile for > 4 mo. and showed no histologic evidence of recovery. This model may be useful for examining possible mechanisms to prevent spermatogenic damage associated cancer chemotherapy in man.