Asthenozoospermic Males Research Articles

Reduction of SLC7A11 and GPX4 Contributing to Ferroptosis in Sperm from Asthenozoospermia Individuals.

Ferroptosis is a newly defined form of regulated cell death, which is involved in various pathophysiological conditions. However, the role of ferroptosis in male infertility remains unclear. In this study, 42 asthenozoospermic and 45 normozoospermic individuals participated. To investigate the ferroptosis level in the two groups, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and iron were measured, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was detected as an indicator of mitochondrial injuries. Compared with the normozoospermic group, ROS (p < 0.05), MDA (p < 0.001), and iron (p < 0.001) of the asthenozoospermic group were significantly increased. However, the asthenozoospermia group had a decreased MMP level (p < 0.05). In addition, the expression levels of GSH-dependent peroxidase 4 (GPX4) (p < 0.001) and solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) (p < 0.05) were also reduced in asthenozoospermic individuals. In asthenozoospermic samples, a significantly high positive correlation was observed between GPX4 mRNA levels and progressive motility (r = 0.397, p = 0.009) and total motility (r = 0.389, p = 0.011), while a negative correlation was observed between GPX4 and iron concentration (r = - 0.276, p = 0.077). The function of ferroptosis in asthenozoospermic males has never been studied before. In our study, we concluded that GPX4 and SLC7A11 expression levels in asthenozoospermia patients were related to increased ferroptosis and impaired sperm function, revealing novel molecular insights into the complex systems involved in male infertility.

Molecular Changes Induced by Oxidative Stress that Impair Human Sperm Motility.

A state of oxidative stress (OS) and the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the male reproductive tract are strongly correlated with infertility. While physiological levels of ROS are necessary for normal sperm functioning, elevated ROS production can overwhelm the cell’s limited antioxidant defenses leading to dysfunction and loss of fertilizing potential. Among the deleterious pleiotropic impacts arising from OS, sperm motility appears to be particularly vulnerable. Here, we present a mechanistic account for how OS contributes to altered sperm motility profiles. In our model, it is suggested that the abundant polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) residing in the sperm membrane serve to sensitize the male germ cell to ROS attack by virtue of their ability to act as substrates for lipid peroxidation (LPO) cascades. Upon initiation, LPO leads to dramatic remodeling of the composition and biophysical properties of sperm membranes and, in the case of the mitochondria, this manifests in a dissipation of membrane potential, electron leakage, increased ROS production and reduced capacity for energy production. This situation is exacerbated by the production of cytotoxic LPO byproducts such as 4-hydroxynonenal, which dysregulate molecules associated with sperm bioenergetic pathways as well as the structural and signaling components of the motility apparatus. The impact of ROS also extends to lesions in the paternal genome, as is commonly seen in the defective spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic males. Concluding, the presence of OS in the male reproductive tract is strongly and positively correlated with reduced sperm motility and fertilizing potential, thus providing a rational target for the development of new therapeutic interventions.

Correlation of nerve growth factor with antioxidants and sperm parameters among Iraqi infertile males

The level of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the blood and seminal plasma of asthenozoospermia and oligoasthenozoospermia patients were compared to normozoospermic males and the relationship between NGF with sperm parameters and seminal antioxidant capacity were estimated to determine the role of NGF in the etiology of male infertility. Eighty-one infertile males and 40 normospermic control subjects were included in this stud. NGF levels were measured in the blood and seminal plasma, and its correlation with total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) levels and sperm parameters were studied. There was a general trend of decreased in serum and seminal NGF concentrations of asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic when compared to the normozoospermic samples. There was no significant association between NGF and seminal antioxidant status in asthenozoospermia and oligoasthenozoospermia males. Nevertheless, CAT positively correlated with sperm concentration, total sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology but only showed a statistically significant correlation to total sperm motility in asthenozoospermic males. A strong positive association was detected between seminal plasma TAC activity and total sperm motility in both asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermia males. A decrease NGF levels in serum and seminal plasma could have a significant role in the etiology of impaired sperm functions.

Correlation of nerve growth factor with antioxidants and sperm parametersamong Iraqi infertile males

Aim: The level of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the blood and seminal plasma of asthenozoospermia and oligoasthenozoospermia patients were compared to normozoospermic males and the relationship between NGF with sperm parameters and seminal antioxidant capacity were estimated to determine the role of NGF in the etiology of male infertility. Materials and methods: Eighty-one infertile males and 40 normospermic control subjects were included in this stud. NGF levels were measured in the blood and seminal plasma, and its correlation with Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC), Catalase (CAT) and Glutathione (GSH) levels and sperm parameters were studied. Results: There was a general trend of decreased in serum and seminal NGF concentrations of asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic when compared to the normozoospermic samples. There was no significant association between NGF and seminal antioxidant status in asthenozoospermia and oligoasthenozoospermia males. Nevertheless, CAT positively correlated with sperm concentration, total sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology but only showed a statistically significant correlation to total sperm motility in asthenozoospermic males. A strong positive association was detected between seminal plasma TAC activity and total sperm motility in both asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermia males. Conclusion: A decrease NGF levels in serum and seminal plasma could have a significant role in the etiology of impaired sperm functions.

Proteomic analyses reveal lower expression of TEX40 and ATP6V0A2 proteins related to calcium ion entry and acrosomal acidification in asthenozoospermic males

AimsIdiopathic nature of male infertility disorder needs to be investigated by different horizons of molecular biology for its treatment and to device male contraceptive. Further, it can also aid in advancement of assisted reproductive technology (ART), as nowadays the failure and disquiets of ART are consistent. Herein, we have attempted to find out proteins responsible for male infertility by comparing proteome profile of sperms collected from normal control and asthenozoospermic (AS) males. Main methodsDifferential proteome profiles were studied by 2-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) and mass spectrometry. The confirmation of proteome profiling results was done by western blotting and ELISA. Quantitative reverse-transcription-PCR was also performed in an independent cohort of AS and normal individuals to investigate the transcriptional regulation of proteins. Key findingsAlthough seven differentially regulated proteins were identified, highpoints of the study were two proteins, TEX40 and ATP6V0A2. Lower expression of a crucial sperm motility related protein, TEX40 is reported for the first time in clinically diagnosed AS males in the present investigation. Most likely with reference to previous findings the down regulation of TEX40 leads to fewer entries of calcium ions in the sperm and lower expression of ATP6V0A2 is responsible for acrosomal de-acidification. SignificanceConclusively, the down regulation of these two proteins in AS males might result in diminished sperm motility. The findings can be worthwhile for male contraception and ART management besides their use for male infertility therapy.

Human Sperm Characteristics with Regard to Cobalt, Chromium, and Lead in Semen and Activity of Catalase in Seminal Plasma.

We analyzed cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) concentrations in human semen and catalase CAT activity in seminal plasma and the effects of their relations on the sperm quality. We obtained semen samples from men (n = 168) undergoing routine infertility evaluation. Studies included two groups based on the ejaculate parameters: I (n = 39; normal ejaculate; normozoospermia); II (n = 129; pathological spermiogram). We examined relationships and differences between Co, Cr, and Pb concentrations in seminal plasma, CAT activity, and semen parameters. We did not establish differences in Co, Cr, and Pb concentrations and CAT activity from men between normozoospermic and those with pathological spermiogram. We found a significantly lower Co concentration and CAT activity in males with normal sperm motility than in asthenozoospermic males. We found significantly lower Co and a higher Pb concentration in males with normal morphology of spermatozoa than in teratozoospermic males. We found a significantly higher Pb concentration in the individuals with consumption of alcohol than in those without consumption. There were significant correlations between Co and Pb concentrations, sperm progressive motility (A + B, i.e., fast and slow progressive motility; Co-negatively; Pb-positively), and normal morphology of spermatozoa (Co-negatively; Pb-positively). We found a significant negative correlation between Cr concentration and slow progressive motility, and between CAT activity and volume of ejaculate. Co, Cr, and Pb levels and CAT activity were related to sperm characteristics and male fertility. The impact of alcohol may be manifested by a disturbance in Pb equilibrium in the body. Co and Pb influence progressive motility and normal morphology of human spermatozoa. Thus, Co and Pb levels in semen may be a useful diagnostic in male infertility. Most of the results of this study are in contrast to expectations. Namely, Pb is a toxic element and its harmful effects (poor semen quality) may be expected already at relatively low level of Pb exposure and are particularly visible with increasing of Pb. Co and Cr(III) are essential elements and harmful effects may be expected at their deficiency and/or overexposure.

Evaluation of the p53 and Thioredoxin reductase in sperm from asthenozoospermic males in comparison to normozoospermic males.

The percentage of cells with H2O2, O2•- and DNA fragmentation was higher in asthenozoospermic compared to normozoospermic groups (p < 0.05). The p53 protein level was significantly higher in asthenozoospermic group (P < 0.001). TrxR activity in normozoospermic was significantly higher than asthenozoospermic group (P < 0.001). Total thiol groups and TAC levels were significantly higher in normozoospermic samples (P < 0.05). A significantly high negative correlation was seen between p53 protein levels with TrxR activity (r = - 0.49, P < 0.001), total motility (r = - 0.65, P < 0.001). p53 and ROS levels were increased in asthenozoospermic males while the TrxR activity was decreased. These changes lead to an increase in apoptotic, immotile and immature spermatozoa in the ejaculatory semen.

Application of testosterone supplementation in semen to improve sperm motility in asthenozoospermic males

To evaluate the effect of different concentrations and durations of seminal testosterone supplementation upon the motility of sperm from asthenozoospermic males. Semen was collected from 41 infertile men with asthenozoospermia. After liquefaction, 200μL was extracted from each semen sample and divided equally into five groups for a negative control, a vehicle control, and three experimental portions mixed with 4.75, 7.75, and 17.75nmol/L of testosterone, respectively. The sperm motility was evaluated at 5, 15, 30, and 45min following the addition of testosterone. The supernatant from remaining samples were sent for testosterone assay. Sperm viability was also evaluated after 45min. There was no difference in the number of samples in each group which showed a 20% improvement in sperm motility. Group 3 showed a significant retardation in the reduction of motility compared with Group 5 (P<0.05). Semen samples with a final testosterone concentration of 4.51-10nmol/L showed a significant improvement in sperm motility when measured 5min after addition. In contrast, samples showing a rise in testosterone level above 10nmol/L were associated with a reduction in both sperm motility and viability. Despite sperm motility decreasing over time, supplementation of semen samples with 4.75nmol/L of testosterone could delay such reduction. A final seminal testosterone concentration of 4.51-10nmol/L appears to be optimal for the best sperm motility.

Probiotic administration improves sperm quality in asthenozoospermic human donors.

The objective of this study is to analyse the effect of the ingestion of two selected antioxidant probiotics strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus CECT8361 and Bifidobacterium longum CECT7347) on sperm quality parameters in asthenozoospermic males after three and six weeks of administration. Nine asthenozoospermic men without any medical treatment under similar diet conditions participated in the study. The quality of individual sperm samples was evaluated before (previous to ingestion), during (after 3 and 6 weeks of ingestion) and after probiotic administration (3 and 6 weeks after finishing the treatment). Sperm motility was evaluated by computer-assisted sperm analysis system, DNA fragmentation by sperm chromatin structure assay, cell viability by flow cytometry and measurement of intracellular H2O2 (reactive oxygen species; ROS) by flow cytometry using dichloro-dihydrofluorescein diacetate. Sperm motility was drastically improved after the treatment (approximately 6 fold change), DNA fragmentation was statistically reduced after probiotic administration from (approximately 1.2 fold change) and intracellular H2O2 level was decreased (approximately 3.5 fold change). Cell viability was not affected by the treatment. The significant improvement in sperm motility and the decrease in DNA fragmentation reported in this study provide preliminary evidence that probiotics could be administrated to improve motility and decrease DNA fragmentation and ROS levels in asthenozoospermic human males.

Study of pentoxifylline effects on motility and viability of spermatozoa from infertile asthenozoospermic males.

Background:The quality of semen is one of the major parameters in male infertility. Pentoxifylline, a methylxanthine derivative, is an agent primarily used in the treatment of intermittent claudication and other vascular disorders. Studies have shown that pentoxifylline enhances the quality and quantity of sperms. In this study, we have investigated the in vitro effects of pentoxifylline on viability and motility of spermatozoa in samples of infertile oligoasthenozoospermic males.Materials and Methods:In this observer-blinded clinical trial, semen samples of 25 infertile oligoasthenozoospermic males were collected in Alzahra Educational Medical Center of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences from August 2010 to August 2012. After the isolation of spermatozoa by the swim-up method, they were randomized into four groups in ISM1 environment: The controls treated normally: Group 1 treated by pentoxifylline at a dose of 50 μg/ml, Group 2 treated by pentoxifylline at a dose of 100 μg/ml, and Group 3 treated by pentoxifylline at a dose of 200 μg/ml. Sperm viability and motility were compared among the groups on 45 min, 24 h, 36 h, and 48 h intervals.Results:Mean percentages of live sperms were 98.40%, 51.40%, 20.60%, and 6.00% in control group and 98.40%, 69.20%, 38.60%, and 14.60% in Group 3 on the mentioned intervals, respectively. This mean percentage decrease of live sperms was significantly lower in Group 3 comparing with that of other groups (P = 0.01). Mean percentages of motile sperms were 54%, 8.40%, 2.80%, and 0% in control group; and 54%, 16%, 4.80%, and 1.40% in Group 3 on the mentioned intervals, respectively. There was not a significant difference between the four groups in this regard (P = 0.19).Conclusion:Pentoxifylline can enhance the viability of sperm of infertile oligoasthenozoospermic males with no significant effect on its motility.

Altered microRNA expression profiles of human spermatozoa in patients with different spermatogenic impairments

To determine whether microRNAs are differentially expressed in men with normal versus impaired spermatogenesis, and to find a biomarker for accurate diagnosis of male infertility. Microarray with real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) validation. University research and clinical institutes. Male partner of selected couples (n = 27) who were undergoing assisted reproduction techniques for infertility treatment. None. Statistically significantly altered microRNA expression profiles in normozoospermic versus asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic men. There were 50 miRNAs up-regulated and 27 miRNAs down-regulated in asthenozoospermic males. In oligoasthenozoospermic males, 42 miRNAs were up-regulated and 44 miRNAs down-regulated when compared with normozoospermic males. The miRNAs that exhibited the highest fold changes and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve were miR-34b, miR-122, and miR-1973 in samples from asthenozoospermic men and miR-34b, miR-34b*, miR-15b, miR-34c-5p, miR-122, miR-449a, miR-1973, miR-16, and miR-19a in samples from oligoasthenozoospermic men. Furthermore, quantitative RT-PCR assays on specific miRNAs, including miR-141, miR-200a, miR-122, miR-34b, miR-34c-5p, and miR-16, yielded results that were largely consistent with the microarray data. Our results reveal an extended number of miRNAs that were differentially expressed in asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic males compared with normozoospermic males. These data provide evidence for analysis of miRNA profiles as a future diagnosing tool for male infertility.

Trans–fatty acid levels in sperm are associated with sperm concentration among men from an infertility clinic

We measured the sperm fatty acid composition using gas chromatography in anonymized semen samples of 33 men undergoing infertility evaluation at an academic medical center. Trans-fatty acids were present in human sperm and were related inversely to sperm concentration (r = -0.44).

1921 SIGNIFICANCE OF ANTI-CHLAMYDIA TRACHOMATIS IGM ANTIBODY IN INFERTILE OR SUBFERTILE MEN: IMPACT OF ANTIMICROBIAL THERAPY ON SEMEN PARAMETERS

You have accessJournal of UrologyInfertility: Therapy/Evaluation1 Apr 20101921 SIGNIFICANCE OF ANTI-CHLAMYDIA TRACHOMATIS IGM ANTIBODY IN INFERTILE OR SUBFERTILE MEN: IMPACT OF ANTIMICROBIAL THERAPY ON SEMEN PARAMETERS Jin Ho Choe, Hana Yoon, Joong Shik Lee, Young Min Joo, and Ju Tae Seo Jin Ho ChoeJin Ho Choe More articles by this author , Hana YoonHana Yoon More articles by this author , Joong Shik LeeJoong Shik Lee More articles by this author , Young Min JooYoung Min Joo More articles by this author , and Ju Tae SeoJu Tae Seo More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2010.02.1889AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Chlamydia infection in the genitourinary tract is associated with male infertility and subfertility. We sought to estimate the prevalence of anti-chlamydial antibodies in infertile men and examined the effect of antimicrobial therapy on their sperm parameters. METHODS Males who visited a fertility clinic (n=2,196) were screened for serum anti-Chlamydia trachomatis IgM antibody and subjected to computer-assisted semen analysis. Patients who were positive for the antibody or had borderline levels received one single 1,000 mg dose of oral azithromycin. Total motile sperm counts (TMSCs; semen volume x sperm count x percentage of motile sperm x 106) were compared before and after treatment. TMSC changes in patients with initial asthenozoospermia (<50% motility) were also assessed. RESULTS The anti-chlamydial antibody prevalence was 21.6% (474/2,196; positive in 12.8% and borderline in 8.8%). TMSC before and after treatment was evaluated in 198 patients, of whom 129 initially exhibited asthenozoospermia. After treatment, the TMSC rose significantly in antibody-positive patients (215.7x106 vs. 255.6x106, n=123, p=0.008) and antibody-borderline patients (145.8x106 vs. 184.9x106, n=75, p=0.049). After treatment, there was also a marked rise in the TMSC of antibody-positive asthenozoospermic males (127.8x106 vs. 203.9x106, n=73, p<0.001) and antibody-borderline asthenozoospermic males (106.2x106 vs. 162.1x106, n=56, p=0.015). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of anti-Chlamydia trachomatis IgM antibody in adult males could be higher than expected. Appropriate antimicrobial therapy in patients with anti-chlamydial antibody improves TMSC. Therefore, it may be prudent to screen subfertile men for Chlamydia trachomatis-mediated genitourinary tract infections. Seoul, Republic of Korea© 2010 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 183Issue 4SApril 2010Page: e747 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2010 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Jin Ho Choe More articles by this author Hana Yoon More articles by this author Joong Shik Lee More articles by this author Young Min Joo More articles by this author Ju Tae Seo More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

In vitro effect of zinc on oxidative changes in human semen.

The in vitro effect of zinc on superoxide anion (O2-) generation and on experimentally induced lipid peroxidation (LPO) in spermatozoa of infertile men was investigated. Washed spermatozoa pre-incubated for 30 min at 37 degrees C in the presence of 1 or 3 mmol l-1 zinc, released less superoxide anions (P < 0.03 and P < 0.02, respectively; n = 9) than the untreated spermatozoa. Similar results were obtained using activated polymorphonuclear leukocytes (1 x 10(6) cells ml-1) in the presence of 1 or 3 mmol l-1 Zn (P < 0.001 and P < 0.0002, respectively; n = 9). The in vitro evidence of the inhibitory effect of zinc on O2- generation by human spermatozoa and leukocytes indicates that zinc may act in vivo as a scavenger of excessive O2- production by defective spermatozoa and/or leukocytes in semen after ejaculation. A significant stimulatory effect of Zn (3 mmol l-1) on iron-induced lipid peroxidation, measured by the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), was detected in the spermatozoa of 16 normo- and 17 asthenozoospermic males (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.001, respectively). In 11 samples with sperm concentration 20.3 +/- 2.1 x 10(6) ml-1, exhibiting initial TBARS concentration two times higher than in normo- and asthenozoospermic samples (40.5 +/- 2.4 vs. 17.1 +/- 1.1 and 28.5 +/- 4.1 nmoles TBARS 10(-8) spermatozoa), no effect of zinc on the LPO rate was found. The observed inhibitory effect of zinc on superoxide anion regardless of the initial O2- level and stimulatory effect of zinc depending on the initial LPO rate in human spermatozoa suggests that this metal ion participates in the oxidative changes occurring after ejaculation and thus may modulate the properties of germ cells.

Effect of heat-induced hypermotility on pregnancy rate in intrauterine insemination for male factor infertility associated with asthenospermia: a prospective, randomized, controlled study

To assess the effect of mild heat for the enhancement of sperm fertilizing capacity in intrauterine insemination for male factor infertility associated with asthenospermia. Prospective, controlled, clinical study. Male factor infertility associated with asthenozoospermia was the criteria for inclusion. Ninety-seven couples were randomized to the study group while 100 couples were randomized to serve as the control group. Semen samples from the study group were processed with Percoll gradient and were left for incubation at 40 degrees C for 2 h. Semen samples from the control group were processed with Percoll gradient method and were incubated at 37 degrees C. Main outcome measure was the pregnancy rate. The mean concentration of total motile sperm (TMS) in the study group was 11.20 +/- 4.22 x 10(6) (range 7-18) after wash with Percoll while was increased to 62.41 +/- 12.49 x 10(6) (range 44-71) after heat treatment. The mean concentration of TMS in the control group was 13.90 +/- 5.66 x 10(6) (range 8-19) after wash with Percoll while was increased to 17.73 +/- 3.67 x 10(6) (range 14-22) after incubation at 37 degrees C. The difference in TMS concentrations between the study and the control group after incubation at different temperatures was statistically significant (p < 0.005). There were 24 pregnancies in the study group, providing a pregnancy rate of 24.7%. In the control group eight pregnancies were achieved (8%) (p = 0.001). Mild heat was found remarkably effective in asthenozoospermic males for increasing the concentration of inseminated total motile sperm and the pregnancy rate correspondingly.

Lipid composition of spermatozoa in normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic males

Introduction Lipids play an important role in the structural and functional activity of spermatozoa. We investigated the phospholipids composition and fatty acid-bound phospholipid of spermatozoa from asthenozoospermic and normozoospermic men. Patients and methods Semen samples were analyzed in 15 asthenozoospermic and eight normozoospermic subjects and the sperm phospholipids and fatty acids were determined using high performance thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography, respectively. Results The most abundant (mean±SE) phospholipids in normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic samples were phosphatidylethanolamine (70.9±11.5 and 44.2±8.5 nmol/10 8 spermatozoa, respectively) and phosphatidylcholine (58.6±9.5 and 34.6±3.2 nmol/10 8 spermatozoa, respectively). Compared to normozoospermic samples, asthenozoospermic samples showed lower levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA; p<0.01) and higher levels of saturated fatty acids (SFA; p<0.05). Discussion Changes in content of phospholipids and its fatty acid composition of spermatozoa may be related to infertility in asthenozoospermic males.

Decreased polyunsaturated and increased saturated fatty acid concentration in spermatozoa from asthenozoospermic males as compared with normozoospermic males

The lipid composition of the sperm membrane has been shown to exert a significant effect upon the functional quality of spermatozoa. We have studied fatty acid composition of the phospholipids in spermatozoa in asthenozoospermic and normozoospermic men and determined the ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to saturated fatty acids of spermatozoa of these two groups. Fatty acid concentration of spermatozoa was determined in 15 asthenozoospermic and eight normozoospermic semen samples by thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography. The most abundant polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids in normozoospermic samples were docosahexaenoic acid (DHA 22 : 6 omega3, 98.5 +/- 4.5 nmol per 10(8) spermatozoa, mean +/- SE) and palmitic acid (103 +/- 17 nmol per 10(8) spermatozoa) respectively. The mean +/- SE values of DHA and palmitic acid in asthenozoospermic samples were 53.9 +/- 11.6 and 145 +/- 14.7 nmol per 10(8) spermatozoa respectively. Compared with normozoospermic samples, asthenozoospermic samples showed lower levels of PUFA and higher amount of saturated fatty acids. The mean +/- SE ratios of sperm PUFA/saturated fatty acids in asthenozoospermic and normozoospermic samples were 0.66 +/- 0.06 and 1.45 +/- 0.16 (P < 0.001) respectively. This study demonstrates that spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic men have lower levels of PUFA compared with saturated fatty acids. This may be contributory to the poor motility noted in samples from these men.

Seminal plasma levels of 15-F2α-isoprostane, malondialdehyde and total homocysteine in normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic males

It has been proposed that oxidative stress plays an important role in male infertility. The aims of this study were to compare seminal plasma levels of 15-F2t-isoprostane (8-iso-PGF2α), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total (sum of free and bound) homocysteine (tHcy) from normozoospermic vs. asthenozoospermic men, and to examine the relationships between tHcy and lipid peroxidation products. The study was a case-control study with a simple random sampling. The case group was consisted of 15 asthenozoospermic males. This group was compared with 15 normozoospermic men. Seminal plasma levels of 15-F2α-isoprostane and tHcy were measured using commercially available enzyme immunoassay (EIA) kits. MDA levels were determined by the thiobarbituric acid (TBA) assay. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare two groups. Coefficients of correlation were calculated using Spearman's correlation analysis. All hypothesis tests were two-tailed with statistical significance assessed at the p value <0.05 level. MDA levels were higher in asthenozoospermic subjects than in control subjects (0.72±0.06 μM vs. 0.40±0.06 μM; p<0.05). No differences were seen in 15-F2α-isoprostane levels in asthenozoospermic subjects and controls (65.00±3.20 pg/ml vs. 58.17±4.12 pg/ml; p>0.05). Interestingly, tHcy levels were to be slightly higher in asthenozoospermic subjects than in controls (6.18±1.17 μM vs. 4.8±0.52 μM). Sperm motility was inversely correlated with seminal plasma 15-F2α-isoprostane and MDA levels, respectively (p<0.05). In summary, seminal plasma levels of 15-F2α-isoprostane and tHcy showed no significant difference between normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic men. Sperm motility was not correlated with seminal plasma levels of tHcy. No relationship was found between tHcy and lipid peroxidation.

The association between male infertility and sperm disomy: Evidence for variation in disomy levels among individuals and a correlation between particular semen parameters and disomy of specific chromosome pairs

BackgroundThe association between infertility and sperm disomy is well documented. Results vary but most report that men with severely compromised semen parameters have a significantly elevated proportion of disomic sperm. The relationship between individual semen parameters and segregation of specific chromosome pairs is however less well reported as is the variation of disomy levels in individual men.MethodsIn order to address these questions the technique of fluorescent in-situ hybridisation (FISH) was utilised to determine the disomy levels of chromosomes X, Y and 21 in 43 sperm samples from 19 infertile males. The results generated from this study were analysed using logistic regression.ResultsIn this study we compared levels of sperm concentration, motility and morphology with levels of sperm disomy for chromosome 21 and the sex chromosomes. Our results suggest that there is considerable variation in disomy levels for certain men. They also suggest that oligozoospermic males have significantly elevated levels of sex chromosome disomy but not disomy 21; they suggest that severe asthenozoospermic males have significantly elevated levels of disomy 21 but not sex chromosome disomy. Surprisingly, severe teratozoopsermic males appeared to have significantly lower levels of sperm disomy for both the sex chromosomes and chromosome 21.ConclusionWe suggest that the association between sex chromosome disomy and oligozoospermia may be due to reduced recombination in the XY pairing region and discuss the relevance of our findings for the correlations between sperm disomy and sperm motility and morphology.

Relationship between zinc concentrations in seminal plasma and various sperm parameters.

The zinc concentration in seminal plasma from 98 infertile male patients and 8 fertile males was measured. The zinc concentration of the seminal plasma in azoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic patients was significantly lower than that in the other groups (each, p<0.05 ). The seminal plasma zinc concentration in asthenozoospermic males was significantly higher than that in any other group (p<0.05). There was a positive correlation of zinc concentration with sperm concentration (r=0.33, p<0.05) and with sperm motility (r=0.22, p<0.05), while there was no correlation with sperm morphology. A correlation between zinc concentration and plasma testosterone concentration was observed (r=0.24, p<0.05). It is concluded that excessively high zinc concentration is apparently related to defective motility in asthenozoospermic patients, even though adequate seminal plasma content of the element is required for normal sperm function.