Seminal Plasma Malondialdehyde Research Articles

MTHFRC 677T Gene Polymorphism and Homocysteine in North China Patients with Varicocele

To investigate the correlation between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T gene polymorphism, homocysteine, and male infertility with varicocele in North China. One Hundred infertile males with varicocele (VC; grade II-III, VC group) and 100 healthy males with normal semen parameters and no varicocele (NC group) were recruited for PCR microarray, blood and semen testing. Compared with the CC genotype in the NC group, the TT genotype in the NC group and the CC genotype in the VC group showed no significant changes in sperm motility (P=0.191; P=0.130), sperm density (P=0.591, P=0.643), plasma homocysteine level (P=0.511; P=0.677), and seminal plasma MDA (P=0.752; P=0.451). In contrast, VC patients with the TT genotype had higher plasma homocysteine level and seminal plasma MDA levels (P <0.001), lower partial pressure of oxygen in seminal pulse (PO2; P <0.001) and poorer sperm quality (P <0.001), as compared with the CC genotype. This suggests that MTHFR C677C>T may not be a risk factor for male Varicocele in North China. However, this may affect the oxidative stress associated with homocysteine expression, which in turn affects semen parameters in VC patients. Larger studies are needed to validate our findings.

Protective Effect of Curcuminoids Consumption on Cadmium-Induced Testicular Injury in Albino Rats

This study evaluated the protective effects of curcuminoids against cadmium-induced testicular injury in Albino rats. Male albino rats were divided into nine groups, group 1 (control), groups 2-4 received 120 mg/kg, 240 mg/kg, and 360 mg/kg curcuminoids daily for 28 days without testicular injury. Group 5 received 20 mg/kg cadmium chloride (CdCl2) solution every other day for 28 days (positive control), while group 6 received 20mg/kg CdCl2 + 240 mg/kg curcuminoids every other day for 28 days. Group 7 received 20mg/kg CdCl2 every other day for 28 days, then treated with 240 mg/kg for 14 days. Group 8 received 20 mg/kg CdCl2 solution every other day for 28 days, then treated with 240 mg curcuminoids for 28 days. Group 9 received 20 mg/kg CdCl2 solution every other day for 28 days and left to recover 28 days. Serum and seminal plasma malondialdehyde, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase were assayed using Spectrophotometry technique. Semen analysis was determined microscopically. Sperm motility and count were significantly reduced, acrosome defect and percent abnormal sperm morphology were increased among the positive control group when compared with negative control group (p<0.05). Serum GPX, GSH, and SOD, semen GPx , GSH and SOD were significantly reduced (p<0.001), while MDA was significantly increased (p<0.001) in CdCl2 administered rats than negative control. The supplementation of Curcumins resulted in the improvement of sperm quality indices in a dose-dependent manner. Curcumin supplementation may significantly reverse the adverse effects of cadmium chloride testicular injury.

Analyzing and Examining Smoking Effects and Oxidative Stress Markers in Seminal Plasma in Iraqi Infertility Men

The oxidative stress (OS) and sperm DNA fragmentation have been associated with sub-infertility in males and infertility due to a lack of means of protection and defense (antioxidants) for spermatozoa and an increase in reactive oxygen spices (ROS) related to wrong lifestyle (cigarettes and hookah) or what also known as Shisha. The study included (90) men between the ages of (23-40) years, (60), infertile men who smoked cigarettes and hookahs. They were divided into two groups, the first oligozoospermia and the second asthenozoospermia, according to the guidelines of the World Health Organization for seminal fluid analysis (SFA), 5 th edition, WHO(2010). Each group included (30) smoking infertile males, with a control group included (30) non-smoking fertile males. The study aimed to estimate the concentration level of Ascorbic Acid (AA) in the seminal plasma of two groups of infertile men smoking cigarettes and hookahs using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, with calculating the concentration of Malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as estimating the percentage of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) using sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD), Halo view. Compared with healthy fertile men of non-smokers of cigarettes and hookahs as one of the biomarkers of oxidative stress in infertile men in Nineveh Governorate-Iraq. The results indicated that there were significant differences at the probability level (p<0.01) for the studied parameters (AA, MDA, SDF) compared to the control group (fertile men). The results showed an increase in the percentage of sperm DNA fragmentation with increasing the concentration of MDA in seminal plasma and decreasing the concentration of AA. Cigarette and hookah smoking increased the generation of ROS with a decrease in the water-soluble non-enzymatic antioxidant Ascorbic acid (AA) and thus increased the oxidative processes of the plasma membranes of spermatozoa and the occurrence of oxidative stress and impaired fertility and caused infertility. Keywords: male infertility, oxidative stress, sperm DNA fragmentation, Ascorbic acid, MDA. Bionatura http://dx.doi.org/10.21931/RB/CSS/2023

The role of total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde of seminal plasma in the association between air pollution and sperm quality

Accumulating evidence has suggested that men exposed to air pollution are associated with decreased sperm quality, and seminal plasma plays a pivotal role in maintaining sperm viability. However, the role of seminal plasma in air pollution related sperm quality decline remain unestablished. In current study, we recruited 524 participants from couples who underwent in vitro fertilization treatment due to female factors at a fertility clinic in China from March to August 2020. Conventional sperm parameters, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), malondialdehyde (MDA) and testosterone were measured using semen samples. The six main air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2, CO, O3) during four key periods of sperm development (meiotic stage, spermiogenesis stage, epididymal stage and total sperm cycle period) were estimated using inverse distance weighting method. Multiple linear regression models were employed to investigate the exposure-outcome relationships. And we found that PM10 exposures were negatively related to sperm total motility and the exposures of PM2.5 and PM10 were inversely associated with sperm progressive motility during epididymal stage. Furthermore, PM2.5 and PM10 exposures were positively associated with seminal plasma MDA and PM10 was negatively related to seminal plasma T-AOC during epididymal stage. PM2.5, PM10 and CO exposures during total sperm cycle period might relate to increased seminal plasma testosterone. Mediation analysis indicated seminal plasma MDA and T-AOC partially mediated PM10 associated reduction of sperm motility during epididymal stage. Our study suggested MDA and T-AOC of seminal plasma played a role in air pollution associated decline of sperm motility.

The synergistic impact of Spirulina and selenium nanoparticles mitigates the adverse effects of heat stress on the physiology of rabbits bucks.

Heat stress has a detrimental effect on animal fertility, particularly testicular functions, including reduced sperm output and quality, which causes an economic loss in the production of rabbits. The present trial investigated the efficacy of dietary Spirulina (SP) (Arthrospira platensis), selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), and their combination (SP-SeNPs) on semen quality, haemato-biochemical, oxidative stress, immunity, and sperm quality of heat-stressed (HS) rabbit bucks. Sixty mature bucks (APRI line) were distributed into 6 groups of ten replicates under controlled conditions. Bucks in the 1st group (control-NC) were kept under normal conditions (11-22°C; 40-45% RH% = relative humidity), while the 2nd group (control-HS) was kept under heat stress conditions (32±0.50°C; 60-66% RH %). The control groups were fed a commercial pelleted diet and the other four heat-stressed groups were fed a commercial pelleted diet with 1 g SP, 25 mg SeNPs, 1 g SP+25 mg SeNPs, and 1 g SP+50 mg SeNPs per kg diet, respectively. The dietary inclusion of SP, SeNPs, and their combinations significantly increased hemoglobin, platelets, total serum protein, high-density lipoproteins, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and seminal plasma testosterone while decreased triglycerides, total cholesterol, urea, creatinine, and malondialdehyde compared with the control-HS. Red blood cells, packed cell volume, serum albumin, and testosterone significantly increased, while SeNPs, SP+SeNPs25, and SP+SeNPs50 significantly decreased low-density lipoproteins, aspartate, and alanine amino transferees. Total antioxidant capacity substantially increased in serum and seminal plasma, while seminal plasma malondialdehyde decreased in 25 or 50 mg of SeNPs+SP/kg groups. All supplements significantly improved libido, sperm livability, concentration, intact acrosome, membrane integrity, total output in fresh semen, and sperm quality in cryopreserved semen. SP-SeNPs50 had higher synergistic effect than SP-SeNPs25 on most different variables studied. In conclusion, the dietary inclusion of SP plus SeNPs50 has a synergistic effect and is considered a suitable dietary supplement for improving reproductive efficiency, health, oxidative stress, and immunity of bucks in the breeding strategy under hot climates.

Effect of Electroejaculation Protocols on Semen Quality and Concentrations of Testosterone, Cortisol, Malondialdehyde, and Creatine Kinase in Captive Bengal Tigers

The Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is critically endangered, so assisted reproductive technologies, including artificial insemination, are important conservation tools. For wild and domestic felids, electroejaculation (EE) is the most common semen collection method, with protocols optimized to obtain sufficient amounts of viable sperm for artificial insemination. However, less attention has been paid to ensuring animal wellbeing during the process. This study examined the effects of three EE protocols (Low, 2–5 volts; Medium, 3–6 volts; High, 4–7 volts) on semen quality, testicular size, serum testosterone, creatine kinase (CK), and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations, and serum cortisol as a proxy for stress. Blood samples were collected before, during, and after each EE series. Seminal plasma pH, and sperm motility, viability, and morphology were evaluated after each procedure. Seminal plasma and sperm pellet MDA concentrations were also determined. Primary sperm abnormalities and seminal plasma MDA were higher in the Low compared to Medium and High voltage groups (p < 0.05). Serum CK in the High voltage group increased during the EE series (p < 0.05), suggesting the potential for muscle damage. However, no significant changes were observed for serum cortisol, testosterone, or MDA concentrations. Results suggest the Medium voltage protocol produced good quality samples at lower voltages than the High protocol with no negative effect on muscle function, which might be better for animal welfare.

Evaluation of oxidative stress in idiopathic male infertility in the Iraqi population

Introduction and Aim: Idiopathic infertility accounts for at least 30% of all cases of infertility, and oxidative stress has been identified as a novel developing factor in idiopathic male infertility. Oxidative stress occurs when antioxidant defense mechanisms are outmatched by the creation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The purpose of this research was to examine the impact of enzymatic antioxidants (catalase and superoxide dismutase; CAT and SOD) on sperm DNA fragmentation and associated sperm alteration in Iraqi males with idiopathic infertility. Materials and Methods: One hundred infertile guys (50 oligozoospermia and 50 asthenozoospermia) and 50 normospermia) had their superoxide dismutase, catalase, and malondialdehyde levels tested. Results: Our study showed that the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) of patients who suffered from oligozoospermia and asthenozoospermia was higher than that of individuals who suffered from normozoospermia. Seminal plasma SOD and MDA levels were higher in infertile participants compared to controls (P < 0.001) .The concentration of CAT in the seminal plasma of oligozoospermic and asthenozoospermic men was not significantly different from that of normospermic men. DFI correlated negatively with seminal antioxidant status (SOD, CAT) and MDA, while CAT correlated positively with SOD and MDA. Conclusion: The impacts of oxidative stress include the breakage of DNA in sperm, with lipid peroxidation being the primary cause of idiopathic male infertility. This is associated with less successful fertility outcomes in couples. According to the findings that we obtained, the sperm DNA fragmentation index as well as malondialdehyde are substantially associated with the quality of the sperm.

Oxidative Stress in Seminal Plasma Negatively Influences Sperm Quality in Infertile Males

Objective: To investigate the association between malondialdehyde concentration in the seminal plasma of infertile men and sperm quality.Methods: This case-control study included 60 male participants ranging from 25-40 years old with half of them were fertile and the other half were infertile. Semen analysis was performed as per the WHO standards, and spectrophotometric measurement of seminal plasma malondialdehyde level was done.Results: Results showed that infertile men had significantly a higher mean level of malondialdehyde in their seminal plasma than fertile men (p<0.001), which was inversely associated with sperm count and motility. Also, malondialdehyde was positively associated with abnormal sperm morphology.Conclusions: Elevated malondialdehyde levels in seminal plasma are associated with poor sperm quality. Malondialdehyde testing can, therefore, be used to diagnose and predict the outcome of male infertility. Antioxidants should also be administered to men with infertility to help counteract the effects of oxidative stress.

Correlation analysis of sperm DNA fragmentation index with semen parameters and the effect of sperm DFI on outcomes of ART

Routine semen analysis provides limited information about a man’s male reproductive potential and can not always fully explain male infertility. Many male infertilities are caused by sperm DNA defects that routine semen quality analyses fail to detect. In this study, we analyzed the association of sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) with the semen routine, sperm morphology, in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Further, we explored the predictive value of sperm DFI in evaluating male fertility and the outcome of IVF-ET/ICSI. Data on sperm DFI, sperm routine, and sperm morphology were collected from 1462 males with infertility. According to DFI levels, there were 468 cases in group I (DFI ≤ 15%), 518 cases in group II (15% < DFI < 30%), and 476 cases in group III (DFI ≥ 30%). The correlations of sperm DFI with semen routine and malformation rate were analyzed. Seminal plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed. Sperm DFI, semen routine, and sperm morphology were detected in male patients of 101 pairs of IVF-ET/ICSI infertile couples and subdivided into IVF-I group (DFI ≤ 15%), IVF-II group (15% < DFI < 30%), IVF-III group (DFI ≥ 30%), ICSI-I group (DFI ≤ 15%), ICSI-II group (15% < DFI < 30%) and ICSI-III group (DFI ≥ 30%) according to DFI value. The effect of sperm DFI on the outcome of IVF-ET/ICSI was analyzed. There were significant differences in sperm survival rate, sperm concentration, and PR% between groupIII and group II (P < 0.01). There were significant differences in sperm survival rate, sperm concentration and PR% between group III and group I (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in semen volume, age, abstinence days, or percentage of normal sperm between the three groups (P > 0.05). DFI was positively correlated with MDA content ( P < 0.01) and negatively correlated with TAC (P < 0.01). Sperm DFI was negatively correlated with sperm survival rate, sperm concentration, and PR% (P < 0.01). There was no correlation with age, abstinence days, semen volume, or percentage of normal-form sperm (r = 0.16, 0.05, 0.04, -0.18, p > 0.05). Compared with IVF-I group, the sperm concentration and PR were decreased in IVF-III group. The sperm malformation rate was higher in IVF-III group than that in IVF-II group. Comparatively, the PR was decreased in ICSI-III group. The sperm malformation rate was higher in ICSI-III group than that of the ICSI-I group (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in fertilization rate, cleavage rate, embryo rate, and clinical pregnancy rate between IVF group or ICSI group, and between all subgroups (P > 0.05). Sperm DFI is negatively associated with sperm survival rate, sperm concentration, and PR%. Antioxidants can decrease the rate of DNA fragmentation. Sperm DFI has proven to be very valuable in the male fertility evaluation, but its significance as a predictor of pregnancy outcomes following assisted reproductive technology. (ART) requires further investigation.

The association between reactive oxygen species and α-tocopherol treatment in a sample of infertile Iraq male

Male infertility estimated about 20-70% of couples or >30 million men worldwide. The goal of this study was to elucidate the interrelations between oxidative stress (O.S) in seminal fluid and antioxidant inducing disruption of spermatogenesis. Twenty four infertile patients aged (23-41) years were involved in this study. Which were received α- tocopherol (vitamin E). This group (vit E group) was sub classified according to the WHO criteria (2010) into three different subgroups: oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) Asthenoteratozoo- spermia (A.T), and Asthenozoospermia (Astheno.). The control group consist of samples obtained from healthy donors of proven fertility (n=23). The main parameters were determined in seminal fluid of infertile patients and healthy men are the sperm and seminal plasma Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, and vitamin E concentration in seminal plasma. The results showed that, there was a high significant decrease (p≤0.001) in sperm parameters (concentration, progressive motility and normal morphology), and vitamin E concentration in infertile group compared with that fertile group.After analyzing the statistically difference in the different measured parameters between the vit E group after treatment, in comparison with that of before treatment; the following was observed A high significant increase (p≤0.001) were found in progressive motility, sperm [MDA] (MDAp), vitamin E concentration, and significant increase (P ≤0.05) in the sperm concentration. From all of these observations, it can be concluded that O.S contributes most likely to sperm damage and may be responsible for poor seminal fluid characteristic of the infertile patients involved in the present study. Antioxidants α-tocopherol (vitamin E) plays an important role in the improvement of seminal fluid parameters.

Assessment of Seminal Plasma Creatine Kinase Activity and Malondialdehyde Concentration among Normozoospermia but Infertile Men

Background: Despite the considerable research efforts that have been made by Reproductive Biologists to understand the etiologies of male infertility, idiopathic male factor infertility still remains unexplained. It occurs in about 10% cases of infertility. Since the etiologies cannot be identified using routine semen analysis, it is important to identify cellular and sub-cellular sperm complications that may help to explain the cause(s) of the infertility, thus stimulate caregivers to direct the further work-up, diagnosis and counseling of affected individuals. The objective of this study was to determine seminal plasma creatine kinase (CK) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration among normozoospermia but infertile males. Materials and Methods: After routine semen analysis, seminal plasma CK activity and MDA were determined among 75 normozoospermia but infertile men and 50 men of proven fertility using spectrophotometric method. Unpaired Students-t-test and regression analysis were used to compare and associate CK activity and MDA concentration with sperm characteristics. Results: Significantly higher (p&lt;0.001) level of MDA and CK activity were observed among infertile subjects than control group. Sperm count, percent motility, and viability were significantly lower (p&lt;0.05) among study participants than control subjects. Similarly, percentage abnormal morphology was significantly higher (p&lt;0.05) among infertile subjects than control group. The Odds of elevated CK activity to impair sperm motility, viability and morphology were 9.12(CI 102.6, 318.3), 3.18 (CI 129.9, 170.8) and 1.9 (CI 192.2, 208.1) times respectively higher among infertile group than controls. Similarly, the Odds of higher levels of MDA to impair sperm cell motility, viability and morphology were 5.02(CI 2.14, 4.6), 2.26(CI 2.34, 3.64) and 2.9 (CI 2.12, 3.73) times respectively higher among infertile group than control subjects. Conclusions: The seminal plasma CK activity and MDA constitute good indicators of functional metabolic activity and fertility potentials of spermatozoa among subjects with unexplained infertility.

Effects of alpha-lipoic acid on sperm quality in patients with varicocele-related male infertility: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial

BackgroundVaricocele is a high incidence and is considered to be the most common and correctable cause of male infertility. Oxidative stress (OS) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of varicocele-related male infertility. In addition to varicocelectomy, antioxidant supplementation seems to be an effective scheme for the treatment of varicocele-related male infertility, but it is still controversial. The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation on sperm quality in patients with varicocele-related male infertility.MethodsIn this randomized controlled clinical trial, we will randomize 80 patients with varicocele-related male infertility from Guilin People’s Hospital. The non-surgical observation group (n = 20) will receive ALA, the non-surgical control group (n = 20) will receive vitamin E, the surgical observation group (n = 20) will receive ALA after the operation, and the surgical control group (n = 20) will receive vitamin E after the operation. The course of treatment will be 3 months. The results will compare the changes in semen parameters, sex hormones, testicular volume, sperm DNA fragment index (DFI), seminal plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) between the groups at baseline and after 3 months of antioxidant supplementation.DiscussionWhether it is necessary to use antioxidants in varicocele-related male infertility, how potent antioxidants should be used, postoperative application or non-surgical independent application still needs to be explored. This study attempts to compare the effects of two antioxidants (ALA and vitamin E) on sperm quality in patients with varicocele-related male infertility (surgical or non-surgical) and attempted to answer the above questions.Trial registrationChinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) ChiCTR2100054958. Registered on 29 December 2021

Correlation of Certain Biochemical Constituents of Seminal Plasma with Semen Characteristics in Pantja Buck

Background: Pantja is a dual purpose indigenous goat breed, reared in Tarai region of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. There is a lack of thorough study about the seminal characteristics of this goat breed. Hence, the present study was conducted to evaluate the level of certain biochemical constituents and their relationship with macroscopical and microscopical semen characteristics in Pantja buck. Methods: A total thirty two ejaculates from four sexually mature Pantja buck were analysed. The ejaculates were evaluated for volume (0.36±0.06 ml), mass activity (4.47±0.22), concentration (3.54±0.13 x 109/ml), individual motility (85.28±1.17%), viability (88.28±0.78%), morphological abnormalities (4.70±0.17%), plasma membrane integrity (86.31±0.62%) and acrosome integrity (94.31±1.05%) by standard semen evaluation protocol. Seminal plasma ALT (18.10±0.45 U/L), AST (124.04±0.86 U/L), ALP (49.98±0.38 U/L), LDH (216.36±1.78 U/L), GSH-Px (10.90±0.21 U/ml), MDA (2.14±0.05 nmol/ml), albumin (2.29±0.03 gm/dl), globulin (2.52±0.02 gm/dl), total proteins (4.81±0.05 gm/dl), calcium (11.07±0.18 mg/dl) and phosphorus (12.34±0.20 mg/dl) were determined spectrophotometrically. Two tailed Pearson’s correlation was applied to check the relationship among the above attributes. Result: A significant correlation was observed among the biochemical constituents of seminal plasma and seminal attributes of Pantja bucks. The selected biochemical constituents also showed significant correlation with each other.

Effect and mechanisms of reproductive tract infection on oxidative stress parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation, and semen quality in infertile males

Recent years have seen a rising incidence of male infertility, mostly caused by the decline of sperm quality. The ratio of infertile males to infertile females has escalated from 3:7 in 2013 to current 5:5, which turns male infertility into the research focus of reproductive medicine. This study aimed to clarify the effect of reproductive tract infection by ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) and chlamydia trachomatis (CT) on the DNA integrity and routine semen parameters of infertile males. A retrospective study was performed. A total of 259 infertile males who were treated at the Andrological Laboratory Examination and Reproductive Medicine Center in our hospital were analyzed. qRT-PCR was used to examine the infection status of CT and UU. According to the eligibility criteria, we evaluated the semen parameters and biochemical data of 253 men. Based on the results of PCR, the subjects were divided into four groups: Group I (CT positive, 63 cases), Group II (UU positive, 60 cases), Group III (CT positive and UU positive, 62 cases), and Group IV (no infection, 68 cases). DNA fragmentation index (DFI), sperm count, vitality and morphology, elastase level, seminal plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were assessed. Compared to Group IV, three groups (Group I, Group II and Group III) showed difference in semen volume, proportion of sperm with normal morphology, sperm motility, progressive motility, and vitality (P < 0.05). Compared to Group IV, Group II and Group III showed difference in DFI (P < 0.05). Compared to Group IV, Group II and Group III showed difference in elastase level (P < 0.05). VCL, VSL, VAP, WOB, ROS, TM, HDS showed differences between groups of abnormal/normal WBC (*P < 0.01).UU infection significantly increased the level of seminal leukocytes only in Group II, but not in the other three groups, indicating that UU is a factor to increase the level of seminal leukocytes. Compared with the normal leukocyte group, there were significant differences in total motility, forward motility and normal sperm ratio between the two groups. The proportion of sperm with abnormal morphology (mostly in the head) showed obvious difference between groups of high and normal seminal leukocytic levels. At the same time, in this study, SCGE and SCD verified that leukocytes could damage sperm DNA by increasing ROS, which ultimately affects male fertility.

Assessment of correlation between asthenozoospermia and mitochondrial DNA mutations in Egyptian infertile men

BackgroundAsthenozoospermia is a chief reason for male seminal pathologies with an impression of around 19% of infertile patients. Spermatozoa mitochondrial DNA variations seem to link with low sperm motility. The objective of the study was to assess the relation between mitochondrial mutations and male sterility, especially in asthenozoospermia. The patient semen samples were investigated by studying the sperm physical characters; motility, viability, and morphological parameters were then classified into normozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. In addition, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) as a bio-indicator of lipid peroxidation, seminal fructose, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were estimated. For molecular analysis, DNA from the semen samples was extracted using a DNA extraction kit. ND1, ND2, and ATPase6 genes were amplified by using a specific primer. After the purification procedure, each PCR product was sequenced to identify the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in selected genes. ResultsA significant negative correlation between seminal plasma malondialdehyde levels and sperm motility was detected. Meanwhile, TAC analysis revealed significantly lower activity (p ≤ 0.05) in the sample of asthenozoospermic than in normozoospermic men. As regards the seminal plasma fructose, there was no significant difference in the fructose level of normozoospermia and asthenozoospermia cases. At the molecular level, 31 diverse nucleotide substitutions were recognized in mitochondrial DNA. Only ten (10) mutations led to amino acid transformation: four have deleterious effects, four are benign, and the other two have conflicting effectiveness. ConclusionsThis study is the first in Egypt that is concerned with studying the relationship between the mitochondrial DNA mutations in human spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic patients and fertility. The results displayed scientific indications evidenced that there is an association between mitochondrial mutations and male infertility.

REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF HEAT-STRESSED NEW ZEALAND WHITE RABBIT BUCKS IN RESPONSE TO DIFFERENT ZINC SOURCES

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of zinc supplementation from different sources to heat-stressed New Zealand White rabbit buck diets on some reproductive traits including semen quality, conception rate and litter size. Twenty four mature bucks were randomly assigned into four groups, with six males each. The first group reared under mild condition and received the basal diet with no supplementation. The other three groups were raised under heat stress condition and received the basal diet only or the basal diet supplied with 75 mg zinc either as zinc sulphate (inorganic zinc) or as zinc picolinate (organic zinc), for the second, third and fourth groups, respectively. It was found that dietary zinc supplementation reduced the heat stress-related increases in reaction time, and seminal plasma levels of alanine transaminase (ALT) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Decreased values of serum and seminal plasma testosterone, sperm count, sperm motility and conception rate induced by heat stress conditions were restored by zinc supplementation. Seminal plasma zinc and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were significantly increased in zinc-treated groups when compared to both control groups in different conditions. Organic source of zinc was more potent than inorganic one in restoring levels of serum testosterone, seminal plasma MDA and testosterone, and sperm motility. From these results, it could be concluded that dietary zinc addition from different sources, especially zinc picolinate (organic form), is helpful in alleviating the negative effect of heat stress on reproductive traits of New Zealand White rabbit bucks.

In Vivo Efficacy of TXCB, a Vietnamese Herbal Medicine Prescription, on Seminal Quality, Serum Testosterone, and Malondialdehyde Concentration in Rabbits

The efficacy of Truong Xuan Cao Bang (TXCB), a Vietnamese herbal medicine prescription, on the quality of semen, serum testosterone (TES), and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in rabbits whose reproductive ability were impaired by fluconazole was investigated. Mature male rabbits were randomly assigned into control (G1), fluconazole (G2), fluconazole and 180 mg/kg/day (G3), and 360 mg/kg/day TXCB (G4) groups. The reaction time (RT), ejaculate volume (EV), sperm concentration (SC), total sperm output (TSO), total sperm motility (TSM), progressive sperm motility (PSM), nonprogressive sperm motility (NPSM), sperm immobility (SIM), dead sperm (DS), and abnormal sperm (AS) levels were determined after TXCB administration. After 60 days, G3 showed a significant increase in serum TES and a significant decrease in the concentrations of serum MDA (SMDA) and seminal plasma MDA (SPMDA) compared with G1, in addition to increase in EV, SC, TSO, TSM, PSM, and serum TES, and decrease in RT, SIM, DS, AS, SMDA, and SPMDA compared with G2. G4 showed a steep rise in EV, SC, and serum TES and a downturn in DS, SMDA, and SPMDA compared with G1, and, compared with G2, a significant increase in EV, SC, TSO, TSM, PSM, and serum TES and a significant decrease in RT, SIM, DS, AS, SMDA, and SPMDA. Taken together, TXCB rehabilitates and simultaneously enhances spermatogenesis in rabbits whose reproductive ability was impaired by fluconazole.

Dietary flaxseed oil improve boar semen quality, antioxidant status and in-vivo fertility in humid sub-tropical region of North East India

Environmental stress in the form of high temperature humidity index (THI) in tropical and sub-tropical region negatively affects semen quality and fertility of boar. Therefore, the present study was done to evaluate the effect of supplementing flaxseed oil (FLO) to boar’s diet on its semen quality, antioxidant status, fatty acid composition of seminal plasma and fertility under sub-tropical climate. For this purpose, six Hampshire crossbreed (50% Hampshire and 50% Gunghroo) boars were divided into two groups i.e control (CON) and treatment (FLO). In FLO and CON group, flaxseed and vegetable oil, respectively, was top dressed at the rate of 3% in basal diets for each boar on daily basis for 16 weeks during monsoon season. A total of 60 ejaculates, comprising 30 ejaculates from each group (ten ejaculates from each boar) were collected. Semen samples were evaluated for sperm quality parameters (SQPs: motility, viability, abnormality, acrosomal integrity and Hypo-osmotic swelling test) and velocity attributes by computer assisted semen analysis (CASA) at fresh and after 72 h of preservation at 17 °C. Antioxidant (glutathione peroxidase; GPx, catalase; CAT, total antioxidant capacity; TAC and malondialdehyde; MDA) were analyzed in seminal plasma and serum. Fatty acid compositions of seminal plasma were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In-vivo fertility study was also conducted. Reaction time and false mounts were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in FLO group as compared to CON group. Semen quality parameters were significantly (p < 0.05) improved at fresh stage and after 72 h of liquid storage in FLO group as compared to CON group. Velocity attributes (VAP, VSL, VCL, ALH, BCF and LIN) were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in FLO group. Flaxseed oil supplementation significantly (p < 0.01) enhanced serum GPx and CAT concentration. Serum and seminal plasma MDA concentration decreased significantly (p < 0.01) in FLO group. Similarly, GPx, TAC and CAT were significantly (p < 0.01) elevated in seminal plasma of FLO group. The study revealed that feeding of flaxseed oil altered the fatty acid composition of seminal plasma and significantly (p < 0.05) improved the farrowing rate. In summary, flaxseed oil supplementation improved the semen quality parameters and fertility of boars in sub-tropical climate by improving the antioxidant capacity and altering the fatty acid composition of seminal plasma.

Seasonal variation in testicular blood flow dynamics and their relation to systemic and testicular oxidant/antioxidant biomarkers and androgens in rams.

The environmental temperature increased during summer and decreased during winter to the limits that might negatively affect animal and human reproduction. The responses of Egyptian rams to either hot or cold climatic conditions were studied in six mature rams subjected to weekly testicular Doppler ultrasonographic examination, blood sampling, seminal plasma collection and semen evaluation. The maximum environmental temperature and the relative humidity were used to classify the climatic condition according to the heat stress equation of sheep into hot months where temperature-humidity index (THI) was >26 (31.67±0.54), and cold months where THI was <22 (18.39±0.41). Testosterone, estradiol, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and lipid peroxide product (malondialdehyde, MDA) were measured in both blood and seminal plasma, while catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were measured in blood and seminal plasma, respectively. Results revealed that, during the hot months, rams displayed significantly decreased testicular blood flow, increased seminal plasma MDA, decreased seminal plasma (SOD, GPx and GSH) and blood CAT antioxidant enzymes. The present study evidenced two novel findings: (a) the marked decrease in testicular blood flow volume, that is remarkable increase in both resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) values, during hot months could be negatively affected both seminal plasma enzymatic activities and seminal attributes, and (b) the SOD and GPx activities in seminal plasma of such animals were suitable predictive markers for seminal attribute evaluation.

Association between seminal granulysin and malondialdehyde in infertile men with varicocele and the potential effect of varicocelectomy.

This study assessed the seminal plasma granulysin and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in patients suffering from varicocele-associated infertility prior to and after varicocelectomy. This study was conducted on 34 infertile men with varicocele (group A) and same patients after varicocelectomy (group B) and 32 fertile normozoospermic males (group C). A detailed history taking, clinical examination, scrotal doppler ultrasound for varicocele diagnosis and grading, semen analysis and estimation of seminal granulysin and MDA before and after varicocelectomy were done to all participants. The mean (SD) granulysin and MDA levels in patients with varicocele were higher than in controls with highly significant differences. Post-operatively, there was a significant reduction in mean (SD) granulysin and in MDA level. Basal seminal granulysin positively correlated with basal seminal MDA, abnormal forms and negatively correlated with basal sperm count, concentration, and progressive motility. The receiver operating characteristic curve of seminal granulysin and MDA levels were conducted for discrimination between infertility cases with varicocele and control groups. Excellent AUCs were found for both markers (AUC=0.971, 0.991 respectively). We concluded that high levels of granulysin and MDA in the semen of infertile males with varicocele negatively impact their spermatogenesis. Varicocelectomy leads to the improvement of semen parameters and significantly decreases seminal plasma granulysin and MDA levels. Hence, seminal granulysin and MDA could be used as a prognostic test in infertile patients with varicocele.