Effect of Mancozeb on the Specific activities of Testicular Steroidogenic Enzymes (3β-HSD, 17β- HSD) and Protective role of Vitamin C in Albino Rats

Mancozeb, an Inorganic-zinc dithiocarbamate is a typical fungicide with carbamate structure. It is chemically identified as ethylenebisdithiocarbamate (EBDC). It is commonly used for foliar application and seed treatment in agriculture. The present work was conducted to assess the protective effect of vitamin C against Mancozeb induced toxicity in the Testicular activity of adult albino rats. 90 days old adult Male wister albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) were exposed to Mancozeb at the dose of 300mg/kg body weight, orally for 60 days. The control group received olive oil. Administration of Mancozeb significantly decreased (p<0.05) the activities of 3βhydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and 17βhydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), compared to control. Co-administration of vitamin-C with Mancozeb restored the activities of the enzymes to normalcy. The withdrawal group of Mancozeb toxic effect was reversible. The present study reveals that the protective effect of vitamin – C on the Mancozeb induced testicular toxicity in adult rats.