Sperm immobilizing effect of triterpene saponins from Acacia auriculiformis

A mixture of two partially triterpenoid saponins (Tg), isolated from Acacia auriculiformis was tested for sperm immobilizing activity by using in vitro system. The lowest concentration (ED) required for an obvious immobilization of human sperm by using a modified Sander-Cramer test was found to be 0.35 mg/ml in physiological saline. The ability of the compound as a sperm immobilizing agent was compared with that of Triton X-100 and found to be more potent. Cervical mucus penetration test was also performed and the ED successfully prevented sperm entry in human cervical mucus. Supra-vital staining with eosin-nigrosin indicated death of the treated sperm. Electron microscopic study of Tg-treated sperm showed plasma membrane disintegration and dissolution of acrosomal cap which is presumably the cause for the spermicidal effect of the saponins. No permanent lesion was observed after application of 1.25 mg/ml Tg solution in physiological saline to the eye of rabbits for ten consecutive days.