DEHP mediated by peroxisome proliferator-receptors affect functions of ovary of female mice

Objective To assess the effects of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate(DEHP)on female reproductive system in mice mediated through peroxisome proliferator-receptors(PPARs).Methods Fourty female ICR mice of 21 days were randomly divided into 0,20,100,and 500 mg/kg dose group.With continuous DEHP exposure for 10 days and 24 hours after cessation of the exposure,the mice were killed.PPARs mRNA expression levels were determined by real time-PCR.Estradiol and progesterone levels in serum were detected with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA).Results The ovarian wet weight and organ coefficient decreased significantly in 100 and 500 mg/kg DEHP exposure groups compared with those of the control group(P < 0.05).Serum estradiol level in 500 mg/kg DEHP group decreased significantly compared with the control group(P < 0.05).Compared with that of the control group,progesterone level showed a significant difference(P > 0.05).The PPARα,PPARβ mRNA expression levels in DEHP exposure groups were not significant different from those of the control group(P > 0.05).PPARγ mRNA expression level increased significantly in DEHP expouse groups compared with the control group(P < 0.05).Conclusion As a peroxisome proliferator mediating PPARs gene expression,DEHP could affect ovarian function in mice.