Aim: To study the effect of mercuric chloride on the membrane-bound enzymes. Methods: The effect of mercuric chloride at two different doses, 1 mg/kg (low dose) and 2 mg/kg (high dose), orally for 30 days, was observed on the membrane-bound enzymes in the testis of adult albino rats. Results: Mercuric chloride significantly decreased the body weight and testis weight in the high dose group (P< 0.05), but not in the low dose group. The activities of 5' nucleotidase and adenosine triphosphatases were markedly decreased (P< 0.01) in the testis of both groups. Alkaline phosphatase and g-glutamyl transferase activities were significantly increased (P< 0.01) in both groups. However, the effect was more pronounced in the high than in the low dose groups. Conclusion: The dose dependent effect of mercuric chloride on these enzymes may affect the membrane characteristics and thereby the fertility of the animal.
    
    

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