Effect of Testosterone and Antioxidant-Loaded Nanoliposomes on the Performance of Normozoospermic Samples: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Introduction: Antioxidants reduce the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in sperm. Additionally, nanoliposomes can be used as an efficient new drug delivery system that mitigates the adverse effects of drugs. This study aimed to investigate the use of nanoliposomes for delivering drugs such as resveratrol, catalase, resveratrol-catalase, and testosterone to normozoospermic samples to minimize the side effects of ROS. Methods: This study took place at Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute in Iran from October 2018 to December 2019. It involved 450 samples divided into three groups. Each of the 15 normozoospermic sperm samples collected from men was divided into 10 parts and analyzed in three groups: free drugs, nanoliposomes, and a control group. The study analyzed sperm parameters, PRM2 (Protamine 2) and HSP70 (heat shock proteins) expression, as well as sperm acrosome reaction and DNA fragmentation before and after freezing. Results: Nanoliposomes improved sperm motility and viability before freezing (P<0.05). Free resveratrol-catalase reduced motility before freezing (P<0.05). PRM2 and HSP70 expression were lower in the blank and testosterone nanoliposome groups (P<0.0001). After freezing, nanocarriers and free testosterone improved sperm motility (P<0.05). Resveratrol and testosterone-loaded nanoliposomes increased sperm viability (P<0.01). Nanoliposomes caused less sperm DNA damage (P>0.05). Free catalase reduced PRM2 and HSP70 expression (P<0.0001). Conclusion: Nanoliposomes can be used as an efficient drug delivery system to decrease ROS production or their side effects. Additionally, during freezing, they improve sperm viability and reduce DNA damage.