Abstract: BACKGROUND AND AIM:: To explore the effects of peripubertal exposures to bisphenol A on reproduction and development in male rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sprague_Dawley weaning rats received by gavage 0, 5, 50 or 500 mg/kg/day of bisphenol A from post_natal day (PND) 23 to 53. The onset of puberty (progression of preputial separation) was measured on PND 37. Testis and epididymis were weighed and prepared for histological evaluation. Serum testosterone, and gene expression of steroidogenic enzymes in the testis were measured. RESULTS: A decrease in body weight was found in the 500 mg/kg group rats, but there was an increase of testis weight in 5 mg/kg group. There was no difference of serum testosterone between tested groups and control, but the concentration was higher in 50 mg/kg group than in 500 mg/kg group. The gene expressions of steroidogenic enzymes (P450Scc,17β_HSD and P450Arom) were altered in all dosage groups. CONCLUSION: Peripubertal exposure to Bisphenol A could induce changes in gene expression of some steroidogenic enzymes in the testis of rats.

Key words: Bisphenol A, pubertal male rats, reproductive and developmental effects