Ghodrat Ebadimanas,
Volume 28, Issue 3 (8-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Mancozeb a widely used fungicide, is extensively applied to protect fruits, vegetables, and crops. It has various toxic effects on humans. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of mancozeb exposure on the ovaries of small laboratory mice.
Methods: Twenty-four immature small white laboratory mice were randomly divided into a control and a mancozeb group, each comprising 12 mice. Each group was divided into three subgroups of days 17, 24, and 31. Mice in the mancozeb group received 100 mg/kg/day mancozeb via gavage for 14 days, and the control group received an equivalent volume of distilled water daily. On day 28, mice were anesthetized for ovary collection, and microscopic sections were prepared and stained from the ovaries. Histomorphometric examination was performed by counting and measuring follicles.
Results: Findings showed that mancozeb exposure resulted in a decrease in the number of mature follicles, an increase in immature follicles, and a reduction in follicle diameter in the experimental group compared to the control group.
Conclusions: Mancozeb disrupts follicle development, potentially leading to reduced fertility in female mice.
