Effects of hypercholesterolaemia on Leydig and Sertoli cell secretory function and the overall sperm fertilizing capacity in the rabbit

The effects of hypercholesterolaemia on testicular endocrine and exocrine f unction were evaluated. The influence of hypercholesterolaemia on sperm qua lity, quantity, and fertilizing potential was also determined, Ten mature r abbits (group A) were fed chow containing 3% cholesterol for 12 weeks. Ten control rabbits (group B) were fed normal chow for the same period. At the end of the experimental period testosterone profiles and sperm parameters w ere evaluated and the sperm reproductive potential was assessed by in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques. Peripheral serum testosterone responses to testicular stimulation with human chorionic gonadotrophin, androgen-bindin g protein activity in testicular cytosols, sperm concentration, sperm motil ity, length of sperm midpiece, and IVF outcome were all significantly lower in group A than in group B. In contrast, serum cholesterol concentrations were significantly higher in group A. There were no significant differences in either testicular versus intraabdominal temperature differences or chol esterol concentrations in seminal plasma or testicular tissue between group s A and B, The results suggest that hypercholesterolaemia has a detrimental effect on Leydig and Sertoli cell secretory function, spermatogenesis, epi didymal sperm maturation process, and the overall sperm fertilizing capacit y.