A multiparametric assay to compare the cytotoxicity of soy milk with different storage media

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of soy milk compared with several other storage media [coconut water, Hank's Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) and whole milk], assessed through a multiparametric analysis employing 3T3 cells. Plates containing confluent 3T3 fibroblasts were exposed to the various media for 24 h, at 37°C with 5% CO₂, and cell viability was evaluated by a multiparametric assay assessing sequentially, on the same cells, mitochondrial activity (XTT), membrane integrity (neutral red test) and total cell density (crystal violet dye exclusion test). Results from each test were compared by two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Statistical analysis showed that whole milk, HBSS and soy milk were the most effective media in maintaining cell viability at all tested times (P < 0.05). The least amount of viable cells was observed when using coconut water. This study shows that the efficacy of soy milk in maintaining the viability of 3T3 fibroblasts is similar to that of HBSS and milk, as shown by three different cell viability tests.