Saccharum officinarum juice alters reproductive functions in male Wistar rats

Infertility is a problem across almost all cultures and societies. Problems in the male partner, especially as a result of unhealthy dietary habits, are the commonest single group of course. Many populations, therefore, tend more toward the use of natural dietary substitutes opined to proffer less risk to reproductive functions and more health benefits. Saccharum officinarum juice (SOJ) is a widely consumed, energy-rich, nutritious substance that has many minerals and enzymes. Saccharum officinarum plant was reported to have anti-thrombosis, anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulatory activities. This study evaluated the reproductive effects of S. officinarum juice in male Wistar rats. A sugarcane press juicer was used to extract S. officinarum juice. Twenty male Wistar rats (100-120 g) grouped into four (n = 5) received 1.0 mL/kg/day distilled water (control), and 1.0, 3.2 and 10.0 mL/kg/day of fresh S. officinarum juice once daily for 8 weeks via gavage. Sperm analysis, histology of testes and epididymides were evaluated by microscopy. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used in assessing the serum levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and testosterone. Data were analyzed using the analysis of variance at a significance of p < 0.05. SOJ increased fasting blood glucose levels in 3.2 and 10.0 mL/kg groups. The 10.0 mL/kg juice caused a significant increase in testosterone level and sperm count, and it also increased the percentage of aberrant sperm and decreased sperm viability. Saccharum officinarum juice impaired the histological integrity of the testes and epididymides. Thus, S. officinarum juice adversely altered the reproductive functions of male Wistar rats by reducing sperm quality and disrupting testicular architecture.

Keywords: Saccharum officinarum juice; infertility; sperm quality; testosterone.