Analysis of testicular toxicity of solanine in mice

Solanine is one of chemicalcomponents in the tuber and the sprout of the potato which is toxic to human. Some studies on the toxicity of solanine on humans and animals have been reported, little is known about the mechanism of its testicular toxicity. In present study, the toxicity of solanine on male reproductive function was investigated in adult male Kunming mice. Compared with the control group, there was an obvious pathological change in testis, and the expression levels of 3 beta-HSD and vimentin decreased when the test concentration of solanine was at 21 mg/kg/day. Meanwhile, there was a significant dose- and duration-dependent reduction in the testicular weight and organ coefficient. However, no changes have been detected about the level of testosterone and there was a dramatic increase in the expression of LH in Leydig cells. Results of this study suggested that solanine leaded to male reproductive toxicity influencing the functions of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells.