Expression of SARS-CoV2 Infectivity Machinery in the Male Reproductive Tract: Possible Outcomes on Fertility

Abstract

Emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage and rattles the entire world causing multifaceted hardships. Though initially thought to be a disease that primarily affects the lungs, latest evidence suggests its possible Long-term effects on multiple organ systems. SARS-Cov-2, the virus responsible for this disease infects the cells through ACE2 receptor and the serine protease TMPRSS2. In light of the fact that ACE2 expression is very high in the testis and the expression of TMPRSS2 in other reproductive organs, there has been growing interest to determine the effect of SARS-Cov-2 infection on the male reproductive system, especially on fertility. Through bioinformatics analyses, in vitro and cohort studies, the effects on SARS-Cov-2 infection at the molecular to physiological levels are proposed. Perturbations in hormonal levels, damage to the anatomical structure and inflammation in reproductive organs, decline in sperm count and sperm function have been reported. Thus, the significance of COVID-19 on global reproductive health has gained importance. In this article, we summarize the reported facts related to SARS-Cov-2 infectivity on male reproductive system. Such a comprehensive summation herein will help the researchers to have an up to date knowledge in this area of research and to coronavirus newer studies to address the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on male reproduction, especially fertility.