Researchers used Japanese rice fish, called medaka, to study the effects of potassium perchlorate, a chemical often found in explosives and fireworks. Fish are useful because their reproductive genes and processes are similar to humans.
Male fish exposed to potassium perchlorate showed a large drop in fertility and clear damage to the testes. A second group got both potassium perchlorate and vitamin C at the same time. Those fish had improved fertility and less testicular damage compared with fish given the chemical alone.
The team says vitamin C, as an antioxidant, may protect sperm production, but more research is needed to know how this could help people.
Difficult words
- potassium perchlorate — a chemical used in explosives and fireworks
- medaka — a small Japanese rice fish species
- fertility — ability to produce babies or young
- testis — male reproductive organs that make spermtestes
- antioxidant — a substance that protects cells from damage
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think vitamin C could help protect people from chemical damage? Why or why not?
- Have you ever taken vitamin C for health? How often do you take it and why?
Related articles
China funds Africa’s green energy but raises debt concerns
China has financed hydropower, transmission and solar projects that brought electricity to many African communities. A 2012–2020 study found these projects reduced energy poverty, but experts warn about opaque, resource-backed loans and rising debt risks.
Targeting Glut1 in Neutrophils Reduces Kidney Damage
Researchers using a mouse model of antibody-mediated glomerulonephritis found that neutrophils increase Glut1, a glucose transporter. Disabling Glut1 in neutrophils or using a Glut1 inhibitor reduced inflammation and improved kidney pathology in the model.
Vitamin D may slow diabetes for some people
A new analysis of a large US trial suggests vitamin D supplements might delay progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes for people with certain vitamin D receptor gene variations. Researchers warn against taking high doses without medical advice.