Published in Environmental Health Perspectives, new research reveals that sucralose—a widely used artificial sweetener—may harm male reproductive health, at least in animal models.
Male infertility is a growing concern globally, and environmental and dietary factors such as increased consumption of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) have been linked to its rise. Sucralose, making up 30% of the U.S. sweetener market, is not only commonly consumed but also found persistently in water systems. A potentially genotoxic byproduct, sucralose-6-acetate, adds to health and environmental concerns.
About the Study
Researchers exposed male rats to different doses of sucralose for two months. Effects on sperm, reproductive organs, and key reproductive hormones were examined through biochemical and histological analysis. Lab tests also used Sertoli and Leydig cells to observe cellular changes under sucralose exposure.
Key Findings
Cell Damage: Sucralose reduced cell viability and disrupted autophagy in reproductive cells, showing signs of lysosomal dysfunction and oxidative stress.
Hormone Disruption: Lower levels of testosterone, LH, and KISS1—hormones critical for male fertility—were observed in exposed rats.
Sperm Abnormalities: Rats showed decreased sperm quality and abnormal sperm morphology (e.g., coiled/bent tails).
DNA Damage: Sperm cells displayed markers of DNA damage, indicating compromised fertility.
Oxidative Stress: Increased levels of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation markers (like malondialdehyde) were found in treated rats.
Conclusion
Sucralose exposure negatively impacts male reproductive health in rats by inducing oxidative stress, hormone disruption, and cellular damage. While the sucralose doses used in cell studies were higher than typical human intake, the results raise concerns about the long-term safety of sucralose and its byproducts.
Implications: The findings support the need for stronger food safety regulations and further research on the reproductive and environmental effects of artificial sweeteners like sucralose.
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