Adverse Effects of Saccharum offi cinarum Molasses on Rat Testicular Cells

Introduction: Saccharum offi cinarum is the source of the popularly used refi ned sugar, with reported anti-androgenic effects.Saccharum offi cinarum Molasses (SOM), a sweet byproduct obtained during sugar production, rich in phenolic compounds, minerals and organic acids is being explored as a substitute sweetener for refi ned sugar due to its nutritional advantage.However, paucity of knowledge of its effects on reproductive functions prompts this study designed to assess activities of testicular cells cultured in SOM fractions.Methods: Blackstrap ® Saccharum offi cinarum molasses was fractionated using methanol and water.Constituents of SOM methanol (SOMMF)and aqueous fractions (SOMAqF) were identifi ed using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry.Testicular cells from twelve rats were isolated, cultured and incubated with SOMMF, SOMAqF, components of SOMMF (Lupeol) and SOMAqF (Diethyl Phthalate).Cell viability, proliferation and testosterone biosynthesis were quantifi ed using MTT assay and ELISA.Data were analyzed using ANOVA at p<0.05.Result: Major constituents from SOMMF and SOMAqF were lupeol (87.2%) and diethyl phthalate (47.4%), respectively.Testicular cell proliferation increased in SOMMF (2.86±0.22)compared to control (1.89±0.18).Lupeol and diethyl phthalate decreased cell proliferation (1.07±0.11and 1.11±0.17)respectively, compared to the control (1.89±0.18).Testicular cell testosterone biosynthesis was reduced by SOMMF, SOMAqF, Lupeol and Diethyl Phthalate as compared to the control.Conclusion: Saccharum offi cinarum molasses adversely altered testicular cell activities, this may be linked to its constituents; lupeol and diethyl phthalate.