The effect of Tulbaghia violacea extracts on testosterone secretion by testicular cell cultures
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aimed to determine the effect of Tulbaghia violacea Harv. on the male reproductive system in vitro by using testicular cell cultures. Tulbaghia violacea is a plant species indigenous to southern Africa and is used locally as a herbal remedy/medicine to treat several ailments.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 50% ethanol extract of Tulbaghia violacea was prepared. Three-month old male Balb/C mice were sacrificed and testicular cell cultures were prepared. Cells were then treated with varying concentrations of the Tulbaghia violacea ethanol extract (with/without Luteinizing hormone (LH)-treatment) and incubated for 4 h. Hormone production and cell viability were evaluated.
RESULTS: Treatment of cells with Tulbaghia violacea (312.5-5000 μg ml(-1)) significantly increased (P<0.05) LH-induced testosterone production as compared to vehicle-treated control (DMSO) whereas cells without LH-treatment showed no significant change in testosterone concentrations. No significant effect on cell viability was observed at all concentrations tested.
CONCLUSIONS: The data presented shows that Tulbaghia violacea has androgenic properties. Further studies are warranted to determine and clarify the exact mechanisms involved.
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