Effect of dilute Ethanol Intake on DEHP (di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate)-induced Testicular Atrophy
Background: Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is the most commonly used as a plasticizer for polyvinyl chloride (PVC), but recently, concern has arisen over the DEHP which may act as a reproductive toxicant to humans. On the other hand, ethanol is the most common supplement of beverages and foods, and so many persons ingest a large quantity of ethanol in daily life. However, interactions between ethanol and DEHP toxicity are not well known. Method: To investigate the effect of dilute ethanol ingestion on the DEHP induced testicular atrophy, rats were received a 1% (w/w) DEHP diet and 2.5 or 5% (v/v) ethanol water for 7 days. Result: The rats treated with DEHP-diet alone for 7 days were observed significant testicular weight loss. On the other hand, testicular weight loss was significantly suppressed in rats treated with DEHP diet and ethanol water. A significant negative correlation between relative testicular weight (as a percentage of body weight) and testicular MEHP concentration was found among rats treated with DEHP-free diet (Control) and DEHP diet alone. Most of the data plots for the DEHP diet plus ethanol water group were scattered above the regression line. Conclusion: These results suggest that dilute ethanol may be effective in preventing DEHP testicular atrophy. However, the mechanism of prevention is unknown and further research is needed.