Cadmium-zinc interactions on reproductive function ♀

The toxic nature of cadmium (Cd) is well established, and its harmful effects on the reproductive system have been widely documented. In addition, numerous studies have described the trace element zinc (Zn) as an antagonist of the toxic metal in vivo and in vitro. In the present work, we planned to study the interactions between Cd and Zn at the level of female reproductive function in the zebrafish Danio rerio. The aim of this study was to highlight the toxic effects of Cd and the protection that can be provided by Zn supplementation, as well as to determine the mechanisms likely to be involved in these effects. We were therefore interested in studying, at the organismal, tissue and molecular levels, the effects of Cd and Zn on the ovarian function of adult female zebrafish. The interactions between these two elements were studied in terms of a number of weight parameters, the histological structure of certain tissues and oxidative status. We also studied the effects on tissue Cd fixation and Zn levels, as well as on membrane transporters of this trace element.