The Short Term Effect of Ligation on the Vas Deferens on Distribution, Motility and Morphology of Spermatozoa in the Rat, Mouse, Guinea-pig and Gerbil

Abstract

The intermediate effect of unilateral ligation of the vas deferens on the morphology and motility of spermatozoa in the cauda epididynis and vas was investigated in adult rats (Wistar,Spraguc-Dawly, and Hooded strains), gerbil,guinea-pig and mice.

Three days following the ligation of the vas deferens decapitated sperms were observed in the vas of rats and gerbils but not in guinea-pig and mice. However, in the mice decapitation occurred three months later. The motility, on the other hand, was reduced in all the species.

In the epididymis,, the appearance of the sperm was normal three days after ligation in all the species investigated. However, the motility was reduced except in the guinea-pig. It is suggested that alteration in blood supply and occlusion of the lumen of vas are responsible for the observed phenomena.