Contraceptive efficacy of solanum xanthocarpum berry in male rats
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Contraceptive efficacy of solanum xanthocarpum berry in male rats
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Ashok Purohit
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Contraceptive efficacy of solanum xanthocarpum berry in male rats
Year: 1992
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Recent research has highlighted the need for male antifertility agents, shifting focus from traditional female contraceptives to exploring plant-based alternatives. Solanum xanthocarpum, commonly known as Kantikari, is a member of the Solanaceae family that has shown medicinal potential, particularly in treating dysuria and misperistalsis. This study aimed to investigate the antispermatogenic effects of a 50% ethanol extract of Solanum xanthocarpum berries on male albino rats to evaluate its feasibility as a male contraceptive method. The active compound identified in the plant, solasodine, underpins its biological effects.
Effects on Testicular Cell Population
The administration of Solanum xanthocarpum berry extract at a dosage of 0.5 gm/kg body weight for a period of 60 days resulted in a significant reduction of spermatogenic cells, including primary and secondary spermatocytes and spermatids, indicating a decrease in sperm production. Statistical analysis revealed a significant decrease in immature and mature Leydig cells and an increase in degenerating Leydig cells. The results suggest that the extract has an antispermatogenic effect, attributed to its capability to lower testosterone levels, which in turn adversely affects the germinal cell population essential for sperm production.
Conclusion
The findings of this study demonstrate that Solanum xanthocarpum berry extract possesses active antispermatogenic properties in male rats, characterized by reduced testicular cell populations and altered Leydig cell dynamics. With its potential as a natural male contraceptive agent, further research is warranted to explore its applicability and safety in human populations. The focus on plant-based contraceptive methods may provide a complementary approach to existing contraceptive options while minimizing the risk of toxic effects associated with synthetic alternatives.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the primary aim of the study on Solanum xanthocarpum?
The study aimed to assess the antispermatogenic potential of Solanum xanthocarpum berry extract in male albino rats, identifying it as a potential contraceptive of plant origin for human males.
What dosage of Solanum xanthocarpum was administered to the rats?
Male rats were given a 50% EtOH extract of Solanum xanthocarpum at a dosage of 0.5 grams per kilogram of body weight for 60 days to evaluate its effects on spermatogenesis.
What significant changes were observed in testicular cell populations?
The study found a significant reduction in germinal cells, including primary and secondary spermatocytes and spermatids, indicating the extract's antispermatogenic effects, with a notable increase in degenerating Leydig cells.
What conclusions were drawn about Solanum xanthocarpum's effects?
Results suggested that Solanum xanthocarpum extract actively reduces sperm production and affects androgen levels, confirming its potential as a male contraceptive. Further research is ongoing to explore its mechanisms.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for 鈥淐ontraceptive efficacy of solanum xanthocarpum berry in male rats鈥�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Solanum xanthocarpum:
Solanum xanthocarpum, commonly known as Kantikari, is a plant belonging to the Solanaceae family. This species is notable for its medicinal properties, particularly as it has been evaluated for its potential as a male contraceptive. The study highlights its antispermatogenic effects, suggesting its relevance in developing plant-based fertility control methods.
2) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
In the context of the study, 'transformed' refers to the process of converting raw data into a standardized format for analysis. Specifically, raw counts of testicular cell populations were transformed using Abercrombie鈥檚 formula to yield nuclear points, facilitating accurate statistical evaluation of the effects of Solanum xanthocarpum on spermatogenesis.
3) Discussion:
'Discussion' in this study section serves to interpret the findings regarding the effects of Solanum xanthocarpum on male rat spermatogenesis. It connects experimental results to existing scientific knowledge about androgen dependence in spermatogenesis, thereby helping to clarify how the plant extract induces antispermatogenic changes in testicular cell populations.
4) Zoology:
Zoology is the branch of biology that focuses on the study of animals, including their physiology, behavior, and interactions with their environment. This study falls under zoology as it examines the reproductive physiology of male rats and the effects of a plant extract on their reproductive biology, contributing to understanding male fertility.
5) Science (Scientific):
'Science' is a systematic endeavor that builds and organizes knowledge in the form of testable explanations and predictions about the universe. This research exemplifies scientific inquiry by employing experimental methods to investigate the contraceptive properties of Solanum xanthocarpum, addressing questions relevant to reproductive health and pharmacology.
6) Water:
Water, a critical solvent in biological processes, is essential for maintaining life and is often provided ad libitum to laboratory animals. In this study, rats were maintained on water freely available, ensuring their hydration and overall health which is crucial for reliable experimentation and assessment of the plant extract's effects.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: 鈥�Contraceptive efficacy of solanum xanthocarpum berry in male rats鈥�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Active principle, Oral feeding, Differential count, Spermatogenesis process, Light ether anesthesia, Degenerated cells, Male rat.