Inhibition of spermatogenesis in the rat by treatment with [D-Ala6, Des-Gly-NH210] LHRH ethylamide.

The effect of treatment with a potent LHRH agonist, [D-Ala6, Des-Gly-NH2]LHRH ethylamide, injected at the low dose of 100 ng, twice a week, was evaluated on spermatogenesis in the rat. Significant degenerative changes of seminiferous tubules could be observed after two weeks of treatment. These changes were progressive and led to a marked inhibition of spermatogenesis after four to eight weeks of treatment. Testis weight was decreased to approximately 50% of control after eight weeks of treatment.