H. Bataineh et al., EFFECT OF LONG-TERM INGESTION OF CHROMIUM COMPOUNDS ON AGGRESSION, SEX BEHAVIOR AND FERTILITY IN ADULT MALE-RAT, Drug and chemical toxicology, 20(3), 1997, pp. 133-149
The effects of long-term ingestion of chromium chloride (trivalent com
pound) and potassium dichromate (hexavalent compound) was investigated
on sexual bahavior, aggressive behavior and fertility in male rats. A
dult male rats were exposed to chromium chloride and potassium dichrom
ate in drinking water at a concentration of 1000 ppm for 12 weeks. The
exposure of male rats to chromium chloride and potassium dichromate r
educed the number of mounts. The exposure of male rats to potassium di
chromate increased the time to ejaculation. On the other hand, the exp
osure of male rats to chromium chloride and potassium dichromate incre
ased the post ejaculatory interval. The number of animals ejaculating
were reduced in chromium chloride and potassium dichromate exposed mal
e rats. The exposure of male rats to chromium chloride and potassium d
ichromate decreased lateralizations, boxing bouts and fights with stud
male. The exposure of male rats to chromium chloride and potassium di
chromate had no effect on fertility. Testes, seminal vesicle and prepu
tial gland weights were significantly reduced in chromium chloride-and
potassium dichromate - exposed males. In conclusion, the long-term in
gestion of chromium chloride and potassium dichromate would have adver
se effects on sexual behavior and territorial aggression in adult male
rat.