Improvement In Sperm Morphology Research Articles

Therapeutic Potential of Different Injection Methods for Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Buslfan-Induced Male Rat Infertility.

Background: In recent years, bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-derived MSCs) have emerged as a powerful cell-based therapy for various diseases, including male infertility. Aim: Demonstrating the efficiency of BM-derived MSCs transplantation by different routes of injection to home and repair testis of busulfan-induced azoospermic rats. Material and methods: In the present study, rat BM-derived MSC was isolated and characterized for mesenchymal &hematopoietic markers using flow-cytometry. Induction of infertility was induced by two successive doses of 10 mg/kg of busulfan. Azoospermic rats were treated by BM-derived MSCs which were injected via various routes (IP, IV, and local in testis). After 60 days; sperm analyses were performed beside mainly Biochemical, histopathological, immunohistological, and ultrastructural investigations. Results: BM-derived MSCs were expressed by CD44+ve, CD105+ve, CD106+ve, CD73+ve, CD34-ve, and CD45-ve. Sperm analysis showed a substantial improvement in sperm morphology, motility, and count following treatment with BM-derived MSCs. Caspase-3 and PCNA immunoexp ression accompanied with the levels of FSH, LH, testosterone, SOD, GSH and MDA depicted a considerable restoration of healthy levels after BM-derived MSCs treatment. The seminiferous tubules showed healthy morphology and spermatozoa were detected in their lumen according to the histopathological and ultrastructural analysis of BM-derived MSCs treated rats. Interestingly, BM-derived MSCs intravenous injection revealed the most significant infertility repair outcomes (P<0.05). Conclusion: Transplanted BM-derived MSCs had the potential to home in rat azoospermic testes and restore spermatogenesis. Consequently, the distinctive characteristics of BM-derived MSCs, such as their ability to differentiate and home, make them a promising cell-based therapeutic option for male infertility.

The Influence of Cryopreservation on Sperm Morphology and Its Implications in Terms of Fractions of Higher-Quality Sperm.

Background/Objectives: Male infertility is a significant global health issue, comprising approx. 50% of all infertility cases. Semen cryopreservation, a critical component of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), is a method commonly used in a wide range of situations, including gonadotoxic treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy, hazardous occupational exposures, and various medical conditions. Although historically viewed as potentially damaging to sperm, recent findings suggest that cryopreservation, when performed with appropriate techniques, may in fact enhance semen quality by improving the proportion of healthy spermatozoa, particularly in terms of their morphological parameters. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of cryopreservation on sperm morphology and viability, utilizing advanced morphological assessments pre- and post-freezing. Methods: Semen samples were collected from 97 patients undergoing infertility treatment at the KRIOBANK clinic (Białystok, Poland). The semen was liquefied and prepared in the form of slides. Sperm morphology was then assessed using an OLYMPUS BX40 microscope at 60× magnification. Results: The findings of the study revealed significant improvements in sperm morphology, with increased percentages of normal sperm and reductions in deformation indices post-thaw. Conclusions: The findings indicate that optimized cryopreservation protocols may support the selection of higher-quality sperm, offering valuable benefits for ART applications. These results challenge certain past assumptions regarding the impact of cryopreservation and underscore the need for refined freezing techniques to maintain and potentially enhance semen quality for reproductive use.

Semaglutide improved sperm morphology in obese men with type 2 diabetes mellitus and functional hypogonadism.

To compare the effects of semaglutide and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) on semen quality and parameters of functional hypogonadism (FH) in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. We designed a randomised open-label trial in 25 men with type 2 diabetes (aged 50 [46-60] years, BMI 35.9 [32.8-38.7] kg/m2) and FH randomised to semaglutide (SEMA) 1 mg/week or intramuscular testosterone undecanoate (TRT) 1000 mg/10-12 weeks for 24 weeks. Semen analysis and parameters of FH were measured at baseline and after 24 weeks of treatment. Participants completed questionnaires of the International Index of Erectile Function-15 (IIEF-15) and the Aging Symptoms in Men (AMS). The quality of baseline sperm parameters of our study cohort was poor, below the 5th percentile of reference values. In the SEMA group, there was a significant increase in morphologically normal sperm from baseline to the end of the study (2% [2; 3.5] vs. 4% [2; 5.5]; p = 0.012), whereas sperm concentration and total number decreased significantly in the TRT group. Compared to TRT, the SEMA group had a significantly higher number of morphologically normal sperm, sperm concentration and total number. Both groups experienced an increase in total testosterone and improvement in the AMS score, whereas the IIEF-15 score significantly improved only in the TRT group. Semaglutide markedly improved sperm morphology, total testosterone levels and symptoms of hypogonadism. These findings highlight semaglutide's potential as a therapeutic approach for men with obesity-related FH who desire fertility. NCT06489457, www. gov.

Exploring the Impact of Paternal B12 Levels During the Periconceptional Period on IUI Success

Background: The present study is a novel exploration of the effects of vitamin B12 supplementation on seminal fluid parameters and the outcomes of intrauterine insemination (IUI). Specifically, we aimed to evaluate the concentrations of vitamin B12 in blood and seminal plasma before and after two months of supplementation. Objectives: investigate the effects of vitamin B12 supplementation on the characteristics of seminal fluid parameters and IUI outcomes. Material and Methods: A randomized controlled experiment with 100 randomly selected infertile couples. The patients were divided into two equal groups according to their vitamin B12 dosage. Group A consists of 50 couples who are taking B12 supplements. Obtain blood and seminal plasma samples from couples to measure the level of vitamin B12. Group B consists of 50 couples and does not include any supplements. The couples in group B initiated ovulation induction and intrauterine insemination (IUI) during the same month as the medical examination without the use of any additional supplements. Still, after two months of vitamin B12 supplement, group A started ovulation induction. Result: Basal semen parameters for sperm count, sperm motility in grades, and sperm morphology in the study group have a higher sperm count than the control group. Vitamin B12 intake for two months improves sperm morphology and increases sperm motility in grades A and B, according to the current study. This has a favorable effect on sperm count overall. Conclusion: research will determine the positive effect of vitamin B12 supplements on sperm parameters and IUI results.

Protective Effects of Chitosan-Loaded Pomegranate Peel Extract Nanoparticles on Infertility in Diabetic Male Rats.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is known to have an impact on the health of the male reproductive system. It is linked to low sperm quality, increased oxidative stress, and an increased generation of reactive oxygen species in the seminal fluid. Pomegranate extract has phenolic compounds and significant protective properties against oxidative stress, male sex hormone disruptions, and sperm abnormalities. The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Pomegranate Peel Extract Nanoparticles (PPENPs) on male fertility in diabetic rats. DM was induced in rats by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg). Twenty-four rats were divided into four groups, 6 rats in each group: control, DM, DM+empty NPs (60 mg/kg, orally), and DM+PPENPs (60 mg/kg, orally). Administration of PPENPs increased the levels of insulin, FSH, LH, testosterone, catalase, glutathione reduced, and semen fructose. PPENPs also improved sperm quality, as seen by improvements in sperm morphology, motility, count, and the ability of metabolically active spermatozoa to convert blue resazurin dye to pink resorufin. However, PPENPs decreased levels of glucose, malonaldehyde, nitric oxide, and sperm abnormalities. Also, histological investigation of the PPENPs showed improvement in testis tissue architecture and increased the diameter size of seminiferous tubules and germinative layer thickness. Our investigation proved that the treatment of PPENPs has a protective effect on the reproductive system of male diabetic rats, improving fertility parameters, healthy sperm profiles, and the antioxidant system.

Association of Functional Genetic Variations in Uric Acid Transporters with the Risk of Idiopathic Male Infertility: A Genetic Association Study and Bioinformatic Analysis.

Uric acid plays an important role in sustaining and improving sperm morphology, viability, and motility. It is known that SLC2A9 and ABCG2 protein are the main urate transporter and genetic variations in these genes could be associated with the levels of serum uric acid. This study aimed to investigate the association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) SLC2A9-rs16890979, SLC2A9-rs3733591, ABCG2-rs2231142, and ABCG2-rs2231137 with male infertility. Additionally, the correlation of these SNPs with the uric acid level in seminal plasma of infertile men was examined. Subsequently, an in silico analysis was performed. In a case-control study, 193 infertile and 154 healthy controls were recruited. After semen sample collection, the uric acid level of seminal plasma was measured by a commercial kit. After genomic DNA extraction from sperm samples, SNPs genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP method. Lastly, the effects of SNPs on the SLC2A9 and ABCG2 gene function were evaluated by bioinformatics tools. The genetic association study revealed that there are significant associations between rs16890979, rs3733591, rs2231142, and rs2231137 genetic variations and increased risk of male infertility. Also, these variations were associated with oligozoospermia and teratozoospermia, and sometimes with asthenozoospermia. Also, we found that four studied SNPs could be associated with a decreased level of uric acid of seminal plasma in teratozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that the mentioned polymorphisms could affect molecular aspects of SLC2A9 and ABCG2 genes. In this preliminary study, the rs16890979, rs3733591, rs2231142, and rs2231137 genetic variations could be considered as genetic risk factors for male infertility by interfering with the uric acid level of seminal plasma.

The effects of vitamin E supplementation on sperm parameters, chromatin integrity, and gene expression before and after freezing in aged mice.

Some age-related testicular changes, such as Sertoli cell vacuolization and blood-testis barrier breakdown, reduce total sperm production and male fertility. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of vitamin E on restoring testicular function in aged mice. Sperm cryo-resistance was also assessed. Twenty-eight 48-week-old male Naval Medical Research Institute mice were divided into four groups for a daily gavage of vitamin E: the control group received distilled water, while the three treatment groups were administered 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, respectively, for 4 weeks. Subsequently, semen analyses, DNA fragmentation index (DFI), and protamine deficiency tests were conducted. Testicular histology, tissue antioxidant enzyme activity, and gene expression levels were also assessed. The two higher dosages of vitamin E were associated with a higher sperm count, greater progressive motility, and improved sperm morphology (p<0.05). These benefits were also evident after sperm freezing (p<0.05). Although chromatin abnormalities increased following vitrification, the treatment groups showed better outcomes (p<0.05). The tubular diameter, epithelium height, and luminal diameters remained unchanged with age. The tissue antioxidant capacity was greater in the groups receiving the high doses of vitamin E. Additionally, significant increases in inhibitor of DNA binding protein-4 (Id4) and GDNF family receptor alpha-1 (Gfra1) expression were observed in the higher vitamin E dosage groups, and promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger protein (Plzf) expression was notably present in the 400 mg/kg treatment group compared to the control group (p<0.05). Antioxidant supplementation might enhance reproductive outcomes in aging males. The observed effects included improved sperm cryo-resistance, which is advantageous for future applications such as sperm freezing or fertility preservation.

Is varicocoelectomy indicated in infertile men with isolated teratozoospermia? a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Clinical palpable varicocoeles in conjunction with isolated teratozoospermia are rarely observed. Therefore, the effects of varicocoelectomy on sperm morphology are not clear. The aim of this meta-analysis is to compile studies that assess the effectiveness of varicocoelectomy in isolated teratozoospermia to reach a more consistent and reliable conclusion. The present meta-analysis was registered to PROSPERO (CRD42023467933). We utilized the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guideline to report the outcomes. Articles published before 1 October 2023 were included in the study. The search terms used were teratozoospermia, isolated teratozoospermia, varicocoelectomy for isolated teratozoospermia, and semen analysis after varicocoelectomy in isolated teratozoospermia. We identified 1,013 studies in full publications or abstracts using the methodology and the search terms. Five studies were included for systematic review, while four were included for meta-analysis. The five studies (10-14) included 348 patients aged 18-44 years. The pooled analysis revealed a significant improvement in sperm morphology in isolated teratozoospermia patients undergoing varicocoelectomy (Q=199.42, p<0.0001; I2=98.49%). The pooled analysis revealed no significant improvement in sperm concentration in isolated teratozoospermia patients undergoing varicocoelectomy (Q=5.69, p=0.058; I2=64.85%). Three of the examined studies provided information regarding pregnancy rate and it was high in all studies. According to the Newcastle-Ottowa scale (NOS) assessment, the total quality score of all studies was 7. The funnel plot test demonstrated a visible asymmetry, and Begg and Mazumdar's rank correlation test confirmed the publication bias (p=0.04). Varicocoelectomy can be an effective and reliable treatment option in patients with isolated morphology abnormalities and clinically palpable varicocoele. This meta-analysis reported that varicocoelectomy may increase pregnancy rates by improving semen parameters in infertile men with isolated teratozoospermia, although this conclusion requires further evidence.

Camellia oil with its rich in fatty acids enhances post-thawed boar sperm quality

BackgroundBoar sperm are highly susceptible to specific conditions during cryopreservation, leading to a significant decrease in their fertilizing potential due to damage to their membranes. Camellia oil, known for its fatty acids with antioxidant and biological properties, has not been previously explored for the cryopreservation of boar semen. This study aimed to examine the effects of camellia oil on post-thawed boar sperm quality. Boar semen ejaculates (n = 9) were collected and divided into six equal aliquots based on camellia oil concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5% v/v) in the freezing extender. Semen samples were processed and cryopreserved using the liquid nitrogen vapor method. Thereafter, frozen semen samples were thawed at 50 °C for 12 s and evaluated for sperm morphology by scanning electron microscope, sperm motility using a computer-assisted sperm analyzer, sperm viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial function, MDA level and total antioxidant capacity.ResultsThe results demonstrated that the supplementation of 1.5% (v/v) camellia oil showed superior post-thaw sperm qualities such as improved sperm morphology, motility, acrosome integrity and mitochondrial function by 14.3%, 14.3% and 11.7%, respectively, when compared to the control group. Camellia oil at a concentration of 1.5% (v/v) showed the lowest level of MDA (18.3 ± 2.1 µmol/L) compared to the other groups.ConclusionsIn conclusion, adding 1.5% (v/v) camellia oil in the freezing extender reduced the oxidative damage associated with cryopreservation and resulted in a higher post-thawed sperm quality.

Impact of Shorter Abstinence Periods on Semen Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The success of assisted reproductive technology (ART) relies heavily on semen parameters, and it is influenced by the length of the abstinence period. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a 2- to 7-day abstinence period. Even so, efficacy is still suboptimal. Thus, this study aims to determine whether shorter abstinence periods (<2 days) can improve semen parameters. This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis. A literature search was performed across five databases: PubMed, Embase, ProQuest, Scopus, and Wiley Online Library using the PICO format. Retrieved articles were assessed according to eligibility criteria and the PRISMA flow diagram. Those eligible for quantitative analysis were assessed using forest plots. Risks of bias were tested using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A total of 22 studies and 31,640 samples were included. Studies showed that short abstinence periods significantly reduced semen volume (mean difference [MD] -0.83, p<0.01), sperm concentration (MD -8.39, p<0.01), and DNA fragmentation (MD -3.82, p<0.01). No differences in sperm morphology were identified. Meanwhile, the overall effect for total (MD 2.30, p<0.05) and progressive motile sperm (MD 2.18, p<0.01) was significantly increased. Subgroup analysis on oligospermia patients revealed a significant increase in normal sperm morphology (MD 1.64, p<0.01) along with reduced DNA fragmentation (MD -3.30, p<0.05). However, no significant changes were seen among other sperm parameters. In conclusion, our findings suggest a shorter abstinence period could be beneficial due to its effect on sperm motility and DNA fragmentation. Additionally, oligospermia patients will benefit from improved sperm morphology. These findings can provide insight for future guidelines to promote a shorter abstinence period for improving ART outcomes.

Prospective reproductive outcomes according to sperm parameters, including DNA fragmentation, in recurrent pregnancy loss

Research questionAre the prospective reproductive outcomes in RPL couples related to sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) measured by SCSA, morphology and concentration at referral? DesignA prospective cohort study including 95 couples seen between 01/04/2018 and 01/12/2019 at the tertiary Copenhagen RPL Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet and Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark. The couples had experienced three or more unexplained consecutive pregnancy losses (PLs) or two late PLs (>12 weeks gestation) Follow-up was 12-31 months. ResultsEighty-one of 95 couples (85.3%) achieved a pregnancy after referral. In the first pregnancy, 46 couples (56.8%) achieved a live birth, and 35 (43.2%) experienced another PL. There was no significant difference in baseline DFI between couples who experienced a pregnancy loss (median 11.7, IQR 9.1–17.3) and couples who had a live birth (median 12.5, IQR 9.1–16.5, p=0.971). Improving sperm morphology increased the odds of live birth after referral (aOR=1.26, 95%CI 1.05-1.52, p=0.014). DFI and sperm concentration were not associated with the outcome of the first pregnancy. Overall, 35.9 % of the men had DFI>15 at inclusion. Couples who failed to achieve pregnancy had a higher median DFI of 17.7 (IQR 7.7-27.2) compared with the rest of the cohort (median 12.0, IQR 9.3-16.5, p=0.041). ConclusionsAt referral, sperm DFI (SCSA assay), morphology and concentration cannot be used to identify RPL couples at risk of another PL. Increased baseline DFI was associated with difficulty to achieve another pregnancy and improving sperm morphology was associated with increased odds of live birth.

Kisspeptin treatment reverses high prolactin levels and improves gonadal function in hypothyroid male rats

We evaluated whether the administration of kisspeptin-10 (Kp10) is capable of restoring gonadal function in hypothyroid male rats. Hypothyroidism was induced with 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) for three months. In the last month, half of the hypothyroid animals were treated with Kp10. Hypothyroidism reduced testicular and sex gland mass, decreased the proliferation of the seminiferous epithelium, and compromised sperm morphology, motility, and vigor. A decrease in plasma LH and testosterone levels and an increase in prolactin secretion were observed in the hypothyroid rats. Hypothyroidism reduced Kiss1 and Kiss1r protein and gene expression and Star and Cyp11a1 mRNA levels in the testis. Furthermore, it reduced Lhb, Prl, and Drd2 and increased Tshb and Gnrhr expression in the pituitary. In the hypothalamus, hypothyroidism increased Pdyn and Kiss1r while reducing Gnrh1. Kp10 treatment in hypothyroid rats restored testicular and seminal vesicle morphology, improved sperm morphology and motility, reversed high prolactin levels, and increased LH and testosterone levels. In addition, Kp10 increased testicular expression of Kiss1, Kiss1r, Fshr, and Nr5a1 and pituitary Kiss1 expression. Our findings describe the inhibitory effects of hypothyroidism on the male gonadal axis and sperm quality and demonstrate that Kp10 treatment reverses high prolactin levels and improves gonadal function and sperm quality in hypothyroid rats.

Semen's parameters after varicocelectomy surgery with mast cell stabilizers treatment in infertile varicocele patients: Randomized clinical trial study.

Varicocele is one of the most common causes of male infertility in which testicular function is progressively damaged. This study aims to investigate the effect of varicocelectomy and mast cell stabilizers on reducing sperm DNA fragmentation in infertile patients with varicocele. In this randomized clinical trial, after obtaining ethical approval and informed consent, infertile patients with varicocele were randomly assigned to three groups: varicocelectomy, 1 mg ketotifen, and varicocelectomy plus with 1 mg ketotifen for 3-month follow-up. Semen analysis and estimation of DNA fragmentation index (DFI) were obtained from all people in the studied time periods. In this study, 420 infertile patients with varicocele were included with an average age of 31.6 years. The results showed that sperm morphology, sperm motility, sperm count, and sperm DFI had significant differences after the intervention (p < 0.05). Also, the results of semen analysis for each group showed that there was a significant improvement in sperm morphology, motility, count, and DFI index of infertile people with varicocele after the intervention (p < 0.05). But the difference was statistically higher in the varicocelectomy plus with 1 mg ketotifen group than in the other groups (p < 0.01). The evidence and results of this study showed that the use of varicocelectomy plus ketotifen in infertile people with varicocele was more effective in improving Semen parameters than the use of mast cell stabilizers or varicocelectomy alone.

Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma on the Oxymetholone-Induced Testicular Toxicity

Oxymetholone is one of the anabolic steroids that has widely been used among teenagers and athletes to increase their muscle bulk. It has undesirable effects on male health and fertility. In this study, the therapeutic effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on oxymetholone-induced testicular toxicity were investigated in adult albino rats. During the experiments, 49 adult male albino rats were divided into 4 main groups: Group 0 (donor group) included 10 rats for the donation of PRP, Group I (control group) included 15 rats, Group II included 8 rats that received 10 mg/kg of oxymetholone orally, once daily, for 30 days, and Group III included 16 rats and was subdivided into 2 subgroups (IIIa and IIIb) that received oxymetholone the same as group II and then received PRP once and twice, respectively. Testicular tissues of all examined rats were obtained for processing and histological examination and sperm smears were stained and examined for sperm morphology. Oxymetholone-treated rats revealed wide spaces in between the tubules, vacuolated cytoplasm, and dark pyknotic nuclei of most cells, as well as deposition of homogenous acidophilic material between the tubules. Electron microscopic examination showed vacuolated cytoplasm of most cells, swollen mitochondria, and perinuclear dilatation. Concerning subgroup IIIa (PRP once), there was a partial improvement in the form of decreased vacuolations and regeneration of spermatogenic cells, as well as a reasonable improvement in sperm morphology. Regarding subgroup IIIb (PRP twice), histological sections revealed restoration of the normal testicular structure to a great extent, regeneration of the spermatogenic cells, and most sperms had normal morphology. Thus, it is recommended to use PRP to minimize structural changes in the testis of adult albino rats caused by oxymetholone.

Effect of CoQ10 Supplement on Spermogram Parameters and Sexual Function of Infertile Men Referred to The Infertility Center of Fatemieh Hospital, Hamadan, Iran, 2019: A Randomized Controlled Trial Study.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the antioxidant supplement of CoQ10 and placebo in the male infertility treatment. The randomized controlled trial study was designed as a clinical trial. Samples in each group consisted of 30 members. The first group received 1 daily dose of 100 mg coenzyme Q10 capsules and the second group received a placebo treatment. Treatment in both groups lasted 12 weeks. Before and after the intervention of semen analysis, hormonal measurement of testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were done. Sexual function was assessed before and after the intervention by using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction questionnare. The mean age of participants was 34.07 (5.26) years in the CoQ10 group and 34.83 (6.22) in the placebo one. Normal volume of semen (P=0.10), viscosity (P=0.55), sperm count (P=0.28), and sperm motility (P=0.33) in the CoQ10 group increased without statistically significant differences. But the normal sperm morphology increased with statistically significant differences in the CoQ10 group (P=0.01). There was an increase in normal FSH levels and testosterone levels in the CoQ10 group compared with the placebo patients, but these differences were not statistically significant (respectively P=0.58, P=0.61). The results also revealed that the scores of erectile function (P=0.95), orgasm (P=0.86), satisfaction with sexual intercourse (P=0.61), overall satisfaction (P=0.69) and the score of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF, P=0.82) were greater after the intervention in the CoQ10 group than in the placebo group although the difference was not statistically significant. The use of CoQ10 supplement can improve sperm morphology; however, in other sperm parameters and also in some hormones increased after the intervention, this was not statistically significant and therefore the result is not conclusive (registration number: IRCT20120215009014N322).

EFFECT OF VARICOCELECTOMY ON SEMEN ANALYSIS AND CLINICAL PARAMETERS

To determine changes in semen and clinical parameters following varicocelectomy. Prospective comparative study conducted on 30 Methods: patients at Santosh Medical college and hospital, Ghaziabad., undergoing varicocelectomy. Study aimed at comparing the semen analysis and various clinical parameters (pain VAS score and size of the swelling) postoperatively, at 3 month and 6 monthly follow up. Semen pH Results: value and total semen volume did not show any statistically signicant improvement postoperatively. Post operatively statistically signicant improvement was seen in total sperm count, motility as well as sperm morphology. The improvement was more when preoperative parameters were in lower range compared to normal range parameters. 7 patients who were oligospermic preoperatively showed marked improvement in their sperm count at 3 and 6 months respectively(p value 0.001); which is more signicant improvement than preoperatively normospermic patients (p value 0.003). Postsurgery sperm motility showed signicant improvement, better results were seen when preoperative motility was &lt; 28% versus when motility was &gt;28%. Signicant improvement in sperm morphology postoperatively(p value 0.001)was seen, with better results in patients with preoperative sperm morphology &lt;3% versus &gt;3%. Mean VAS score showed statistically signicant decrease at 3 months and at 6 months postoperatively (p value 0.001).83.3% patients were relieved of pain at 6months follow up post surgery. Of the 12 patients who presented with swelling, 11 patients showed signicant decrease in swelling size at 6 months follow up postoperatively. We advice varicocelectomy Conclusions: in all patients of varicocele who are either clinically symptomatic with scrotal pain and swelling, and also in asymptomatic patients with subnormal semen parameters.

Evaluation of supplementation of cryopreservation medium with gallic acid as an antioxidant in quality of post-thaw human spermatozoa.

Human sperm cryopreservation is a way to preserve sperm in the clinic. But, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during cryopreservation, has certain negative impacts on the quality of sperm and its reproductive capacity. The goal of this study is to see how sperm cryopreserved in media enriched with gallic acid alter post-thaw morphology, motility, viability, DNA structure, and plasma membrane lipid peroxidation. Four groups were considered for performing this study: (1) Fresh sperm before cryopreservation; (2) cryopreserved control sperm without any supplementation; (3) cryopreserved sperm using freezing media supplemented with 50 μg/ml gallic acid and (4) cryopreserved sperm using freezing media supplemented with 100 μg/ml gallic acid. This study's results indicated that the addition of doses of 50 μg/ml gallic acid to cryopreservation medium significantly improved sperm morphology, motility, vitality, and DNA integrity and reduced DNA fragmentation and lipid peroxidation as compared to the medium without any gallic acid supplementation (p< 0.05); but, the concentration of 100 μg/ml gallic acid had no significant effects on the mentioned sperm parameters (p> 0.05). This study's findings represent the possibility of enhancing sperm characteristics and lowering detrimental effects of ROS on sperm DNA structure during cryopreservation by supplementing sperm freezing medium with gallic acid as a natural antioxidant. Therefore, Gallic acid may help improve the quality and subsequently fertilization potential of cryopreserved human sperm.

Effects of Ethanolic Seed Extract of Dacryodes Edulis on the of Paraquat Induced on Testicular Toxicity in Male Adult Wistar Rats

Dacryodes edulis, a multipurpose plant contains high concentrations of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents that protect against tissue damage. The study was aimed at determining the ethanolic seed extract of dacryodes edulis on the of paraquat induced on testicular toxicity in male adult wister rat. Fifty-four adult male albino wister rat weighing between 150-180g were used for the study. LD 50 was determined for both dacryodesedulis and paraquat. The rats used for this experiment were distributed into eight groups. Group A (control group) while B C D E F G H were the treated group. (group B paraquat 0.1ml only for4 weeks, group C paraquat only for 2 weeks, group D paraquat + 500mg/kg of dacryodes edulis, group E paraquat only for 2 weeks and discontinued, Group F paraquat +1000mg/kg of dacryodes edulis for 4 weeks’ group G and H received 500mg/kg and 1000mg/kg of dacryodes edulis for 4 weeks. At the end of the experiment animals were anesthetized and samples were collected for assessment. The result from this study shows that paraquat produces destructive effects on testes evaluations, There was significant increase in LH, FSH testosterone level, was high in group C E F. There was also a significant decrease in the body weight and relative organ weight throughout the period of administration. Histopathological finding reveals distortion of the testicular tissues with mild toxicity in group B. The treated group showed sign of recovery and reversal effect of paraquat. In conclusion the ethanolic seed extract of dacryodes edulis possess ability to improve sperm morphology in paraquat toxicity.

Premature germ cells in the ejaculate of a 4-year-old male Labrador Retriever

A healthy, 4-year-old, Labrador Retriever was presented for routine semen collection for cryopreservation. Ejaculate had an abundanceof atypical round cells along with substantial morphologically abnormal sperm. Atypical round cells were identified aspremature germ cells, indicating testicular insult or damage of unknown etiology. After multiple visits and a period (3 months) ofrest from heavy training, premature germ cells were not observed and noticeable improvement in sperm morphology was evident.Apparently, changes observed were induced by heat stress given the location and intensity of training, season of the year, historyand signalment of the patient, and the fact that all parameters improved following temperature management changes and restfrom training. This case illustrated the importance of recognizing an unusual cell type during a routine semen analysis and toarrive at a possible etiology and resolution of the clinical problem.

Irisin Improves High-Fat Diet-Induced Sexual Dysfunction in Obese Male Rats.

Obesity is known to cause sexual dysfunction including erectile dysfunction and poor semen quality. Lifestyle modifications such as exercise have increasingly been more recognized to lower the likelihood of having sexual dysfunction or infertility in obese men. In this context, as an exercise-mimetic hormone, irisin has a potential to improve obesity-related reproductive dysfunctions. We aimed to elucidate possible effects of irisin on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced reproductive dysfunction in obese male rats. Rats were divided into four groups: vehicle, irisin, obese, and obese + irisin. The rats in obese and obese+irisin groups were fed with HFD (60% kcal fat) pellets for 12 weeks to induce obesity, and then obesity-induced sexual dysfunction was confirmed by the sexual behavior test (SBT). Irisin and obese+irisin groups received irisin (100 ng/kg/day) infusion by an s.c. osmotic minipump for 4 weeks after HFD-induced obesity was formed. Irisin did improve a number of measures of copulation, including penile erection, ejaculation, and sexual performance, and also improved sperm morphology and motility and decreased fat-induced testicular damage. It decreased serum leptin levels. On the other hand, irisin did not affect serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone. It also increased gene expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and adrenoceptor alpha 1A (ADRA1A) in the medial preoptic area (mPOA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). Irisin provided a marked enhancement of HFD-induced decrease in libido, potency, sexual performance, and erection in SBT. Taken together, our results emphasize that irisin has a restorative and improver role in HFD-induced reproductive dysfunctions in obese male rats.