Research recently conducted by the University of Barcelona studied the effects of ecstasy on the reproductive behaviour and system of male rats. The study by Barenyas et. al. (2009) analysed four groups of usage: none (control), low, immediate, and high. The dosages were intended to mimic human weekend consumption of ecstasy maintained over adolescence and early adulthood. The immediate dose was 'representative of a heavy' user.
The study found that immediate and high usage caused damage to the DNA of sperm. The mating and pregnancy rates weren't affected, and even sperm that had significant damage maintained the ability to fertalise an egg.
The authors argue that this study has implications to human males, whose sperm are more sensative than male rats. They suggest implications could include early abortions, congenital malformations, and diseases like cancer in offspring.
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