Gestational and lactational exposure to gossypol alters the testis transcriptome.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Reproductive capacity can be altered by challenges experienced during critical periods of development, including fetal development and early neonatal life. Gossypol is a polyphenolic compound, commonly found in cotton seeds, that impairs male reproduction. Here, we investigated whether the exposure to gossypol in utero and during lactation alters male reproductive function in sheep. From conception until 60 days postpartum, ewes were randomly assigned to a control diet or a gossypol-rich diet based on cottonseed. Lamb testicles were removed at 60 days of age and subjected to RNA-sequencing.

Results

Lambs derived from the maternal cottonseed diet showed significantly lower growth and lower testis weight as a proportion of the total body weight, and reduced testoste

SUBMITTER: Louvandini H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6969474 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature