Domestic male rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus were exposed to either HgCl2 alone (Hg) or combined with vitamin C (Hg-VC), date palm (Hg-DP), vitamin C and date palm (Hg-VC-DP) for a period of 6 weeks, in order to estimate the possible protective roles of these components against mercury intoxication. The epididymal sperm concentration, speed, motility and viability were investigated together with testicular relative weights and plasma testosterone level. Results showed a slight increase of testicular relative weight in the Hg-VC-DP group compared with the control. Testosterone concentration has decreased significantly both in Hg and in VC treated groups. The levels of the hormone in Hg-DP and Hg-VC-DP groups were close to that of the control. Clearly, sperm concentrations in all treated groups were similar to that of the control. Contrary, a decrease in speed, motility and vitality was observed in the Hg group compared to the control. When compared to the control, spermatozoa motility was significantly lower in Hg- DP and in Hg-VC-DP as well. Also, spermatozoa viability was significantly diminished in Hg- VC, Hg-DP and in Hg-VC-DP groups, as that of the Hg treated group. To conclude, the protective role of VC against Hg toxicity seems evident on spermatozoa's speed and motility, while that of DP was noticeable on testosterone and spermatozoa speed. However, the combination of VC and DP together has only ameliorated testosterone level and spermatozoa speed.
