The present study was designed to evaluate the ameliorative role of Zeron-20 as an antioxidant on Phoxim (organophosphorus insecticide) - induced genotoxicity and infertility in male rats. 20 rats were used for determination of acute oral LD50 of Phoxim. 40 animals were divided into four equal groups, each of 10 rats. Group (1) served as control. Group (2) given Zeron-20 at a dose of 25µl/kg BW, three times /week for 65 days. Group (3) orally administered Phoxim at a dose of 50mg/kg BW (equivalent to 1/40 LD50) three times/week for 65 days. Group (4) treated with Zeron-20 (25µl/kg BW, three times /week) in combination with Phoxim (50mg/kg BW, three times /week for 65 days). At the end of the experiment, sex organs (Testis, seminal vesicles and prostate gland) were taken for relative weight, spermatozoal examination and histopathological examination of the testes. In addition, chromosomal analysis in male spermatocytic cells was accomplished. The results of this study revealed that there was no difference in the relative weight of the testis, seminal vesicles and prostate gland following administration of Phoxim compared to the control group or any other treated group. As well, treatment with Zeron-20 didn't show any enhancement in these parameters compared to control. Administration of Phoxim reduced sperm cell count, life percent and increased percentage of abnormal sperm morphology compared to the control group. However, co-treatment with Zeron-20 significantly improved these parameters ( sperm count and morphology . The frequency of chromosomal aberration in spermatocytic cells (both structural and numerical aberrations) was increased in Phoxim treated group; however, the treatment with Zeron-20 decreased these aberrations significantly and restored it
near to control. In conclusion, Phoxim exposure for male rats caused reproductive and genotoxicity, however, Zeron-20 co-treatment ameliorate these oxidative toxic effects. Therefore, it seems reasonable to try to support the treatment of male infertility with supplementation having the ability to neutralize ROS i.e. antioxidants.