Dose-dependent effect of Cobra Venom on testes in mice

In this study, the effect of phospholipases, Cobra Venom Factor (CVF) on the morphology of testis in mice as well as on some mineral contents was investigated. Mineral analysis shows changes in the concentration of many elements. This report however, will only discuss calcium, potassium and phosphorus and their possible roles during testis development. Toxin administration results in severe structural damage to the testis. These toxin-induced abnormalities are associated with a reduction in the intracellular concentrations of calcium, potassium and phosphorus in testis cells. Inhibition of calcium suggests a signaling-mediated role of the CVF-induced effect on the testis of intoxicated mice. Potassium depletion is believed to mediate cellular deformation through hyperpolarization of the plasma membrane. Reduction of the intracellular phosphorus causes many physiological abnormalities within testis cells as a result of the reduced production of internal cellular regulators that are mostly phosphorylated.