Inhibition of CYP450scc expression in dioxin-exposed rat Leydig cells

Polychlorinated dibenzo- p -dioxins, such as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dioxin (TCDD) have been recognized as highly potent developmental and reproductive toxins. We have previously demonstrated effects of TCDD in modulating the expression of rat Sertoli cell secretory products and markers for cell–cell interaction. In this study, we examined the direct biological effects of TCDD in rat Leydig cell primary cultures. Mature rat Leydig cells...