Potassium Dichromate Impact on some Biomarkers of Female Reproductive System Performances (Litter Size, Sex Ratio) and Physical Development (Vaginal Opening) in Rats (F2 Generation)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to emphasize potassium dichromate impact on some female reproductive system performances and physical development biomarkers in rats. Exposure to potassium dichromate (25 - LOAEL, 50 and 75 ppm Cr VI) in utero, during suckling period and until sexual maturity, of F2 female white Wistar rats generation (derived from F0 and F1 generations, exposed to the same Cr VI levels), pointed out significant decrease of alive/increase of dead pup number at birth, impaired sex ratio in male favor, significant dose dependent delay of puberty onset and lower body weight comparative to the optimum one at sexual maturity - the vaginal opening moment. ) in utero, during suckling period and until sexual maturity, of F2 female white Wistar rats generation (derived from F0 and F1 generations, exposed to the same Cr VI levels), pointed out significant decrease of alive/increase of dead pup number at birth, impaired sex ratio in male favor, significant dose dependent delay of puberty onset and lower body weight comparative to the optimum one at sexual maturity - the vaginal opening moment.

Keywords

• rat
• female
• sex ratio
• vaginal opening