Effect of Boron Addition on Testicular Development of Ostrich

Abstract

Effect of boron on development of testis in the ostrich was studied by observing the changes in the microstructure and ultrastructure. Apoptotic status of testicular cells and hormone level were examined. Compared with the control group, the experimental groups exhibited different degrees of change in the histological structure of the testis on addition of boron in different quantities. Cell apoptosis could be detected in testicular tissues of both control and experimental groups, mainly in Leydig cells and spermatocytes. Level of the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) of the serum in the experimental groups also varied compared with those in the control group. In the present study, 100 mg/l of boron when supplemented with drinking water was helpful for the development of testis in the ostrich. It was also observed that high doses of boron significantly inhibited cell development in the testis of the ostrich.