Adverse effects of 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether on semen quality and spermatogenesis in male mice.

2,2',4,4'-Tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE47) is an environmental contaminant. To determine the reproductive toxicity, we studied groups of adult male mice and found that the rate of sperm capacitation was decreased significantly in three BDE47-exposed groups (0.0015, 0.045 and 30 mg kg(-1) day(-1)). Sperm motility parameters (MOT, PRO, VCL and BCF) after capacitation were also declined in treated groups. Moreover, exposure to BDE47 at concentrations of ≥0.045 mg kg(-1) day(-1) caused increased germ cell loss and apoptosis in some seminiferous tubules. Our results suggest that short-term exposure to low-dose BDE47 may have adverse effects on semen quality and spermatogenesis in adult male mice.