Gemcitabine impacts histological structure of mice testis and embryonic organs.

The present study aimed to investigate the toxic impact of gemcitabine on the histological structure of white mice testis and the histological structure of some embryonic organs. The mature male mice were treated with 130 mg kg(-1) of gemcitabine intraperitoneally. These treated males were placed after one week with mature normal females for fertilization. Females were dissected after the 14th day of pregnancy to investigate embryos. The histological investigation of testis showed an interruption in spermatogenesis process as evident by distorted spermatocytes, spermatozoa and a reduction in their number. Histological examination of embryonic organs, including liver, kidney, small intestine, spleen, zatrek gland and testis, after two weeks of pregnancy revealed impaired structures. The drug also reduced fertility and survival of embryos. In conclusion, present study suggests that cautions should be taken when gemcitabine is used as an anticancer drug.