Russian National Academy of Sciences: Surov's Hamsters Study

Ultrastructural analysis of testes from mice fed on genetically modified soybean.

Authors: Vecchio l, Cisterna B, Malatesta M, Martin T.E., Biggiogera M

Abstract  

We have considered the possible effects of a diet containing genetically modified (GM) 

soybean on mouse testis. This organ, in fact, is a well known bioindicator and it has 

already been utilized, for instance, to monitor pollution by heavy metals. In this 

preliminary study, we have focussed our attention on Sertoli cells, spermatogonia and 

spermatocytes by means of immunoelectron microscopy. Our results point out that the 

immunolabelling for Sm antigen, hnRNPs, SC35 and RNA Polymerase II is decreased 

in 2 and 5 month-old GM-fed mice, and is restored to normal at 8 months. In GM-fed 

mice of all ages considered, the number of perichromatin granules is higher and the 

nuclear pore density lower. Moreover, we found enlargements in the smooth 

endoplasmic reticulum in GM-fed mice Sertoli cells. A possible role played by traces of 

the herbicide to which the soybean is resistant is discussed. 

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Published European journal of histochemistry : EJH
Volume 48, Issue 4, October 2004, Pages 448-454