Time-course effects of carbendazim in the infundibulum of the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to establish the long-term effect of a single dose of carbendazim in the tubular region of the infundibulum of Japanese quail using scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscopy. At a dose of 400mg/kg bodyweight, carbendazim in sunflower oil base was administered orally to mature Japanese quails. The control group received the oil base only. The effects of carbendazim on ultrastructural features of infundibulum were examined in spatial temporal periods post-exposure. At SEM level, loos of cilia were observed from 5 days post-exposure. At TEM level, pyknosis, karyorrhexis, swollen mitochondria, dilated RER cisternae, increased number of lysosomes and vacuoles were observed from 24 hours post-exposure. Compound cilia and loos of striated rootlets were also observed. Thickening and duplication of the basal lamina were identified from 12 days postexposure. These results suggest oviductal regression due to carbendazim toxicity and signs of epithelial recovery at later stages post-exposure.

Keywords: Carbendazim, infundibulum, degeneration, electron microscopy, Japanese quail