Oxidative Stress In Infertile Men Research Articles

Effects of Varicocele Repair on Sperm DNA Fragmentation and Seminal Malondialdehyde Levels in Infertile Men with Clinical Varicocele: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Varicoceles can be a source of elevated seminal oxidative stress (OS) and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). However, it remains unclear whether varicocele repair (VR) could reduce these parameters. This systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA) aims to investigate the impact of VR on SDF and seminal malondialdehyde (MDA). A literature search was performed in Scopus, PubMed, Ovid, Embase, and Cochrane databases. This SRMA included randomized controlled trials and observational studies reporting the pre- and postoperative levels of SDF and seminal OS in infertile men with clinical varicocele that underwent VR. Subgroup analyses included techniques of VR and SDF testing. The effect size was expressed as standardized mean difference (SMD). Out of 1,632 abstracts assessed for eligibility, 29 studies with 1,491 infertile men were included. The analysis showed a significant reduction in SDF after VR, compared to preoperative values (SMD -1.125, 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.410, -0.840; p<0.0001) with high inter-study heterogeneity (I²=90.965%). Reduction in SDF was evident with microsurgical technique and non-microsurgical inguinal approaches (SMD -1.014, 95% CI -1.263, -0.765; p<0.0001, and SMD -1.495, 95% CI -2.116, -0.873; p<0.0001), respectively. Reduction in SDF was significant irrespective of testing was done by sperm chromatin dispersion (SMD -2.197, 95% CI -3.187, -1.207; p<0.0001), sperm chromatin structure assay (SMD -0.857, 95% CI -1.156, -0.559; p<0.0001) or TUNEL (SMD -1.599, 95% CI -2.478, -0.719; p<0.0001). A significant decrease in seminal MDA levels was observed following VR (SMD -2.450, 95% CI -3.903 to -0.997, p=0.001) with high inter-study heterogeneity (I²=93.7%). Using pre- and post-intervention data, this SRMA indicates a significant reduction in SDF and seminal MDA levels in infertile men with clinical varicocele treated with VR. These findings may have important implications for the future management of this selected group of infertile patients.

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&lt;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

P-566 Is the seminal oxidative stress the mirror of psychological stress perceived by infertile men?

Abstract Study question To assess the association between anxiety and depression scores and the levels of oxidative stress in seminal plasma of Tunisian infertile men. Summary answer Depression in hypofertile men is associated to higher levels of catalase in seminal plasma and thus to oxidative stress. What is known already Within the last decades, the knowledge concerning the link between psychological and oxidative stress in infertile men has been surging. In a limited number of studies aiming to elucidate the psychological aspect of male infertility, data related to increased incidence of depression and anxiety have been reported. It has also been reported that anxiety and depression may trigger the production of reactive free oxygen radicals leading to disruption of the balance between free radicals and antioxidants semen properties. Study design, size, duration This was a cross-sectional study performed in the Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology of Fattouma Bourguiba University Teaching Hospital (Monastir Tunisia). A total of 282 patients were assessed for levels of anxiety and depression and evaluated for semen parameters. Among these, 105 patients were assessed for levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and 51 patients were evaluated for the levels of catalase in seminal plasma from September 2022 to January 2023. Participants/materials, setting, methods Were included patients addressed for semen quality assessment. All patients with a previously diagnosed psychological disorder, those who presented severe depression and/or anxiety symptoms or had a stressful life event were not included. Informed consent was obtained from all the participants. The subjects were evaluated for anxiety and depression symptoms using the valid Arab version of the HAD (Hospital Anxiety and Depression) scale. Semen analysis and results interpretation were performed according to 2021 WHO guidelines. Main results and the role of chance The mean HAD-D (depression) and HAD-A (anxiety) scores were of 6.56 ± 3.07 (IIQ [4-8]) and 7.94 ± 3.73 (IIQ [5-10]) respectively. The mean levels of SOD and catalase were of 42.32 ± 24.08 and 19599.82 ± 12745.36 respectively. The results showed that patients exhibiting elevated HAD-D scores have higher levels of catalase in seminal plasma compared to those with normally ranging HAD-D scores (29856.07±15904.51 VS 17968.14±11564.79 respectively; p= 0.02). However, SOD levels were similar between the two groups and no correlation was found between seminal oxidative stress as assessed by catalase and SOD levels and both HAD-D and HAD-A scores. Limitations, reasons for caution The main limitation reason could be related to the limited number of patients evaluated for levels of catalase in seminal plasma (N = 51). Furthermore, assessing hormone’s levels (LH, FSH and testosterone) would be of great interest in elucidating the implicated pathways leading to oxidative stress and impaired semen quality. Wider implications of the findings Our results shed the light on the elevated levels of the catalase in patients with high depression scores. The absence of correlation between antioxidant enzymes and psychological well-being of infertile patients is a reassuring finding. However, awareness and recognition of depressive symptoms in infertile men is crucial when managing infertility. Trial registration number not applicable

Alpha-Lipoic Acid Ameliorates Sperm DNA Damage and Chromatin Integrity in Men with High DNA Damage: A Triple Blind Randomized Clinical Trial.

Evidence suggests the contributory role of oxidative stress (OS) to sperm DNA damage and eventually, male infertility. Antioxidant supplementation has exhibited favorable results regarding seminal OS, sperm DNA damage, and chromatin integrity. We aimed to evaluate the effect of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation on semen analysis, sperm DNA damage, chromatin integrity, and seminal/intracellular OS in infertile men with high sperm DNA damage. In this randomized triple-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial study, we opted for a triple-blind controlled clinical trial design. Considering the study's inclusion criteria for the level of sperm DNA fragmentation (higher than the threshold of 30 and 15%), 70% of participants were selected for this clinical research study. Subjects were divided into case and control groups receiving oral ALA (600 mg/day) and placebo for eighty days, respectively. Sperm parameters and functional tests were examined and compared before and after treatment. The final sample size was 34 and 29 for ALA and placebo receivers, respectively. No significant differences were observed about anthropometrics and baseline measures of semen analysis, DNA damage, OS, and chromatin integrity between the two groups. Conventional semen parameters were enhanced insignificantly in both groups (P>0.05). DNA damage decreased significantly in the ALA group, as per sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA, P<0.001). Moreover, chromomycin A3 (CMA3) staining results indicated a decrease in nuclear protamine deficiency post-ALA therapy (P=0.004). Lipid peroxidation decreased significantly after treatment with ALA (P=0.003). Further, seminal antioxidant capacity/activity did not differ significantly in either of the groups (registration number: IRCT20190406043177N1). An 80-day course of oral ALA supplementation (600 mg/day) alleviates sperm OS, DNA damage, and chromatin integrity in men with high sperm DNA damage.

Coenzyme Q10, oxidative stress markers, and sperm DNA damage in men with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia.

ObjectiveOxidative stress (OS) plays a key role in the etiology of unexplained male infertility. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a potent antioxidant that may improve semen quality and OS in infertile men with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia (OAT), but the underlying mechanism is unknown. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of CoQ10 on OS markers and sperm DNA damage in infertile patients with idiopathic OAT.MethodsThis prospective controlled study included 50 patients with idiopathic OAT and 50 fertile men who served as controls. All patients underwent a comprehensive medical assessment. Patients and controls received 200 mg of oral CoQ10 once daily for 3 months. Semen and blood were collected and analyzed for sperm parameters, seminal CoQ10 levels, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, total antioxidant capacity, catalase, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), and serum hormonal profile.ResultsThe administration of CoQ10 to patients with idiopathic OAT significantly improved sperm quality and seminal antioxidant status and significantly reduced total ROS and SDF levels compared to pretreatment values.ConclusionCoQ10, at a dose of 200 mg/day for 3 months, may be a potential therapy for infertile patients with idiopathic OAT, as it improved sperm parameters and reduced OS and SDF in these patients.

The effects of lycopene supplement on the spermatogram and seminal oxidative stress in infertile men: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Infertility is a major, worldwide problem that is affected, and mediated, by several factors, in particular, oxidative stress. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of lycopene supplementation on spermatogram and seminal oxidative stress. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial study, 44 infertile men with oligozoospermia were randomly divided into two groups: The experimental group was supplemented with 25 mg of lycopene, and the control group received placebo for 12 weeks. Anthropometric, physical activity and dietary assessment, semen analysis, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde, and glutathione peroxidase were measured pre- and post-intervention. At the end of the study, there was a significant increase in total sperm count and concentration in the lycopene group, and the latter total count remained significant after adjustment (p < .05). Intragroup analysis showed a significant increase in ejaculate volume, total sperm count, concentration total motility, nonprogressive, and nonmotility in lycopene group (p < .05). The TAC changes, in both groups, remained significant after adjustment (p < .05). Also, within-group analysis showed a significant increase in TAC levels (p < .05). Lycopene supplement can improve sperm parameters and oxidative stress biomarkers in oligozoospermia infertile men; however, further studies with larger sample size and duration are required.

Effects of N-acetyl-cysteine supplementation on sperm quality, chromatin integrity and level of oxidative stress in infertile men

BackgroundInfertile men have higher levels of semen reactive oxygen species (ROS) than fertile men. High levels of semen ROS can cause sperm dysfunction, sperm DNA damage and reduced male reproductive potential. This study investigated the effects of supplementation with N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) on the sperm quality, chromatin integrity and levels of oxidative stress in infertile men.MethodsThe study was carried out in the unit of ACECR Infertility Research Center, Qom, Iran. The patients consisted of 50 infertile men with asthenoteratozoospermia who received NAC (600 mg/d) orally for 3 months, after which they were compared with pre-treatment status. Semen was analyzed according to WHO (2010), followed by the assessment of protamine content [chromomycin A3 (CMA3)] and DNA integrity [terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)]. Oxidative stress markers, i.e. total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as hormonal profile (LH, FSH, Testosterone and Prolactin) were determined by ELISA kit.ResultsAfter NAC treatment, patients’ sperm count and motility increased significantly whereas abnormal morphology, DNA fragmentation and protamine deficiency showed significant decreases compared to pre-treatment levels (P < 0.05). Hormonal profile improvement was associated with lowered FSH and LH levels and increased amount of testosterone (P < 0.05). TAC significantly increased and MDA decreased with an inverse significant correlation between TAC and MDA (P < 0.05).ConclusionNAC oral supplementation may improve sperm parameters and oxidative/antioxidant status in infertile males.

Randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial examining the effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplement on the spermatogram and seminal oxidative stress in infertile men

To evaluate effects of supplementation with alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on the spermatogram and seminal oxidative stress biomarkers. Randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Infertility clinic. Infertile men. ALA (600 mg) or placebo for 12 weeks. Semen analysis, anthropometric, dietary, and physical activity assessments, total antioxidant capacity, and malondialdehyde. At the end of study, the total sperm count, sperm concentration, and motility in the intervention group were significantly higher than in the control group. In the ALA group, the total sperm count, sperm concentration, and motility levels were also significantly increased at the end of study compared with baseline values. However, there were no significant differences in ejaculate volume, normal morphology percentage, and live sperm between groups. ALA supplementation also resulted in a significant improvement in seminal levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde compared with the placebo. According to the results, medical therapy of asthenoteratospermia with ALA supplement could improve quality of semen parameters. However, further investigation is suggested in this regard. IRCT2013111010181N3.

Investigation on the Origin of Sperm DNA Fragmentation: Role of Apoptosis, Immaturity and Oxidative Stress.

Sperm DNA fragmentation (sDF) represents a threat to male fertility, human reproduction and the health of the offspring. The causes of sDF are still unclear, even if apoptosis, oxidative assault and defects in chromatin maturation are hypothesized. Using multicolor flow cytometry and sperm sorting, we challenged the three hypothesized mechanisms by simultaneously evaluating sDF and signs of oxidative damage (8-hydroxy, 2'-deoxyguanosine [8-OHdG] and malondialdehyde [MDA]), apoptosis (caspase activity and cleaved poly[ADP-ribose] polymerase [cPARP]) and sperm immaturity (creatine phosphokinase [CK] and excess of residual histones). Active caspases and c-PARP were concomitant with sDF in a high percentage of spermatozoa (82.6% ± 9.1% and 53.5% ± 16.4%, respectively). Excess of residual histones was significantly higher in DNA-fragmented sperm versus sperm without DNA fragmentation (74.8% ± 17.5% and 37.3% ± 16.6%, respectively, p < 0.005), and largely concomitant with active caspases. Conversely, oxidative damage was scarcely concomitant with sDF in the total sperm population, at variance with live sperm, where 8-OHdG and MDA were clearly associated to sDF. In addition, most live cells with active caspase also showed 8-OHdG, suggesting activation of apoptotic pathways in oxidative-injured live cells. This is the first investigation on the origin of sDF directly evaluating the simultaneous presence of the signs of the hypothesized mechanisms with DNA breaks at the single cell level. The results indicate that the main pathway leading to sperm DNA breaks is a process of apoptosis, likely triggered by an impairment of chromatin maturation in the testis and by oxidative stress during the transit in the male genital tract. These findings are highly relevant for clinical studies on the effects of drugs on sDF and oxidative stress in infertile men and for the development of new therapeutic strategies.

Lipid Peroxidation, Sperm DNA Fragmentation Total Antioxidant Capacity and Semen Quality in Male Infertility

Infertility is a major clinical problem, affecting people medically and psychosocially. Male factor plays a significant role in about 50% of infertile couples. Recent reports indicate that increasing male infertility could be due to genomic abnormalities. The etiology of sperm DNA damage is multi-factorial but compromised due to nuclear defects, protamine deficiency and oxidative stress. The present study was aimed to evaluate sperm DNA integrity and oxidative stress in infertile men. The study is prospective, comprises 96 infertile patients and 30 fertile controls. Sperm DNA integrity was assessed by flowcytometry. MDA and TAC were evaluated spectrophotometrically. The percentage of DNA Fragmentation Index and MDA were found to be significantly increased while TAC was significantly decreased in infertile men as compared to control. DFI and MDA were negatively correlated with TAC levels. Present study indicates significant increases in seminal MDA and sperm DNA damage in infertile men. Seminal MDA was significantly correlated with sperm DNA damage, TAC and standard sperm parameters. The elevated levels of seminal OS observed in these infertile patients could be responsible for poor sperm quality and sperm DNA fragmentation. Hence evaluation of DFI, MDA and TAC can be used for diagnosis, prognosis of male infertility in addition to routine semen parameters to decide the treatment strategies.

Relationship of semen hyperviscosity with IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10 and ROS production in seminal plasma of infertile patients with prostatitis and prostato-vesiculitis

Changes in levels of oxidative damage products in semen and their relationship to seminal fluid viscosity (SFV) have recently received increasing research interest. We analysed whether SFV was associated with ROS generation, levels of cytokines TNF-alpha (TNF-α), IL-6 and IL-10 and seminal leucocyte concentration, and whether ROS production was related to the extent of infections/inflammations at one (prostatitis) or two (prostato-vesiculitis) male accessory glands. We studied 169 infertile patients, with chronic bacterial prostatitis (PR, n=74) and/or bilateral prostato-vesiculitis (PV, n=95), as diagnosed by the ultrasound (US) criteria. Healthy fertile men (n=42) served as controls. In the PV patient group, SFV, semen characteristics and ROS production had median values that were significantly higher than those found in PR patients and controls, although other sperm variables had values significantly lower than those found in PR patients or controls. In PV infertile patients, ROS generation and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels were higher than those found in PR infertile patients and controls, although seminal IL-10 levels in PV and PR patients were lower than those found in the controls. In PR patients, the levels of SFV were positively related to TNF-α (r=0.67; P<0.01), fMLP-stimulated ROS production in the 45% Percoll fraction (r=0.687, P<0.01) and the 90% Percoll fraction in basal condition (r=0.695, P<0.01), and after fMLP-stimulation (r=0.688, P<0.01). Thus, our data indicated that seminal hyperviscosity is associated with increased oxidative stress in infertile men and increased pro-inflammatory interleukins in patients with male accessory gland infection, more when the infection was extended to the seminal vesicles.

Seminal Soluble Fas Relationship With Oxidative Stress in Infertile Men With Varicocele

To assess seminal plasma soluble Fas (sFas) relationship with oxidative stress and varicocele (Vx) grade in infertile men. In all, 230 men were prospectively investigated: fertile men without Vx, fertile men with Vx, infertile men without Vx, and infertile men with Vx. In their semen, seminal oxidant (malondialdehyde [MDA]), antioxidants (ascorbic acid, glutathione peroxidase [GPx], catalase [CAT], and superoxide dismutase [SOD]), and seminal sFas were assessed. Either fertile or infertile men with Vx demonstrated significantly higher seminal oxidants (MDA) and significantly lower seminal antioxidants (SOD, GPx, CAT, and ascorbic acid), sFas compared with fertile or infertile men without Vx. Infertile men with or without Vx had significantly higher seminal MDA and significantly lower seminal antioxidants, sFas compared with fertile men with or without Vx. Men with Vx grade III had significantly higher seminal MDA and significantly lower antioxidants, sFas compared with Vx grade II and I, respectively. Seminal sFas demonstrated significant positive correlation with sperm count, sperm motility, sperm normal forms, seminal ascorbic acid, SOD, GPx, and CAT and significant negative correlation with seminal MDA. Down regulation of seminal sFas in Vx associated men is related to increased oxidative stress and is correlated with Vx grade.

GLUTATHION AS AN IMPORTANT COMPONENT OF THIOSULFID SYSTEM OF INFERTILITY PATHOGENESIS IN OVERWEIGHT MEN

To study the glutathionic part of thiosulfid system and oxidative stress in infertile men with different body mass index. Examined 60 infertile men with normal and overweight, and 40 healthy men with proven fertility. Active components of the antioxidant defense system of the body was assessed by the level of reduced and oxidized glutathione by the method of PY Hissin, determination of TBA-active products was carried out by the method VB Gavrilova. In the analysis of inter-group differences for independent samples was used parametric Student criterion. The oxidative stress in obese men was characterized by significant elevation of oxidized form of glutathione (GSSG) in comparison with its reduced form. We discussed our results in the context of GSSG "quantivalence" to numerous of cellular processes in the setting of metabolic disorders in infertile and obese men. The ratio of reduced glutathione to oxidized infertile men decreased by 1,5 times in patients with obesity and 1,2 times in those with normal body mass index. Glutathione is the most important link in the study of oxidative stress in men with infertility. Raising the level of oxidized glutathione is due to the presence of his additional functions that are implemented at higher values of body mass index, especially in association with infertility.

Effect of Smoking Status on Seminal Parameters and Apoptotic Markers in Infertile Men

We assessed semen parameters, sperm apoptotic markers and seminal plasma cotinine in infertile smokers. A total of 160 men were divided into 4 equal groups, including fertile smokers, fertile nonsmokers, infertile smokers and infertile nonsmokers. Smoking was classified as mild--fewer than 10, moderate--10 to 20 or heavy--more than 20 cigarettes daily. All men underwent semen analysis, and assessment of sperm caspase-9, Smac/DIABLO, DNA fragmentation and seminal plasma cotinine. Infertile men, particularly smokers, have significantly lower semen variables and significantly higher sperm Smac/DIABLO, caspase-9 activity, the percent of DNA fragmentation and seminal plasma cotinine. The mean number of cigarettes smoked daily and smoking duration significantly correlated positively with sperm Smac/DIABLO, caspase-9 activity, the percent of DNA fragmentation and seminal plasma cotinine, and significantly correlated negatively with tested semen variables. Heavy smoking was associated with a significant increase in sperm Smac/DIABLO, caspase-9 activity and seminal plasma cotinine, and with a significant decrease in tested semen variables compared with those in moderate or mild smokers. Smoking has a negative impact on semen variables. It is associated with increased sperm caspase-9, Smac/DIABLO and the percent of DNA fragmentation, especially in infertile heavy smokers.

Effects of advancing paternal age on oxidative stress in infertile men

Effects of advancing paternal age on oxidative stress in infertile men

Seminal antioxidants level and the clinical diagnosis: is there a correlation with fertility?

OBJECTIVE: Human spermatozoa are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and are therefore susceptible to reactive oxygen species attack. To counteract the harmful effects of ROS, seminal plasma prossess a number of antioxidant systems that scavenge ROS and prevent internal cellular damage. We assessed whether any group of infertile men is more likely to have high seminal oxidative stress. DESIGN: Cohort study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one fertile donors and 112 infertile patients were included in the study. We divided our infertile patients into 3 different groups according to the clinical diagnosis: group A, varicocele (n = 62); group B, infection (n = 18); group C, idiopathic infertility (n = 32). Semen characteristics, Catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) were assessed in samples from patients with various clinical diagnoses and controls. RESULTS: Sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were reduced in groups A and B compared to the controls (p = 0.04). Lower levels of SOD (14.67 ± 7.27) and catalase (14.87 ± 1.95) were seen in infertile patients compared to fertile donors (SOD = 38.03 ± 21.65) (Catalase = 34.03 ± 20.65) (P = 0.02). Patients in group A have a trend (but not statistically different) to have lower SOD levels (12.2 ± 5.4) and Catalase levels (12.6 ± 1.7) compared to the other groups of infertile men (p = 0.05).Table 1Sperm concentration, motility, and morphology in groups A and B compared to the controlsClinical diagnosisConcentrationMotilityMorphologySODCatalaseControl53.4 ± 5.2259.93 ± 5.3132.05 ± 1.4138.03 ± 21.6534.03 ± 20.65Varicocele19.89 ± 3.77 (p = 0.04)33.2 ± 2.33 (p = 0.04)21.1 ± 4.1 (p = 0.04)12.2 ± 5.4 (p = 0.01)12.6 ± 1.7 (p = 0.01)Infection19.18 ± 6.1 (p = 0.04)29.97 ± 2.43 (p = 0.04)19.12 ± 4.44 (p = 0.04)15.12 ± 8.21 (p = 0.02)16.32 ± 2.12 (p = 0.02)Idiopathic infertility48.53 ± 6.35 (p = 0.1)37.93 ± 3.36 (p = 0.07)31.2 ± 2.65 (p = 0.09)14.9 ± 5.45 (p = 0.02)17.24 ± 1.54 (p = 0.02)Infertile group (Overall)31.2 ± 8.35 (p = 0.06)34.26 ± 3.67 (p = 0.08)23.2 ± 4.56 (p = 0.07)14.67 ± 7.27 (p = 0.02)14.87 ± 1.95 (p = 0.02)P Values compared to controls. Open table in a new tab P Values compared to controls. CONCLUSIONS: Irrespective of the clinical diagnosis and semen characteristics, the presence of seminal oxidative stress in infertile men suggests its role in the pathophysiology of infertility.

Superoxide dismutase and catalase levels in seminal plasma according to the clinical diagnosis

ObjectiveHuman spermatozoa are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and are therefore susceptible to reactive oxygen species (ROS) attack. To counteract the harmful effects of ROS, seminal plasma possesses a number of antioxidant systems that scavenge ROS and prevent internal cellular damage. The objective of our study was to examine and assess if seminal oxidative stress can differentiate men with various clinical diagnosis.DesignProspective study.Materials and methods12 infertile patients were included in the study. Infertile patients were divided into 3 groups according to the clinical diagnosis: group 1: varicocele (n = 62); group 2: infection (n = 18) and group 3: idiopathic infertility (n = 32). The control group consisted of 21 volunteers with normal healthy sperm. Semen characteristics and antioxidant levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were assessed in samples from patients with various clinical diagnoses and controls.ResultsTabled 1Table 1.Clinical diagnosisConcentrationMotilityMorphologySODCatalaseControl53.4 ± 5.2259.93 ± 5.3132.05 ± 1.4138.03 ± 21.6534.03 ± 20.65Varicocele19.89 ± 3.77 (P = 0.04)33.2 ± 2.33 (P = 0.04)21.1 ± 4.1 (P = 0.04)12.2 ± 5.4 (P = 0.01)12.6 ± 1.7 (P = 0.01)Infection19.18 ± 6.1 (P = 0.04)29.97 ± 2.43 (P = 0.04)19.12 ± 4.44 (P = 0.04)15.12 ± 8.21 (P = 0.02)16.32 ± 2.12 (P = 0.02)Idiopathic Infertility48.53 ± 6.35 (P = 0.1)37.93 ± 3.36 (P = 0.07)31.2 ± 2.65 (P = 0.09)14.9 ± 5.45 (P = 0.02)17.24 ± 1.54 (P = 0.02)Infertile group (Overall)31.2 ± 8.35 (P = 0.06)34.26 ± 3.67 (P = 0.08)23.2 ± 4.56 (P = 0.07)14.67 ± 7.27 (P = 0.02)14.87 ± 1.95 (P = 0.02)∗P<0.05 was considered significant compared to control Open table in a new tab ConclusionsPresence of seminal oxidative stress in infertile men irrespective of the clinical diagnosis and semen characteristics, suggests its role in the pathophysiology of infertility. ObjectiveHuman spermatozoa are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and are therefore susceptible to reactive oxygen species (ROS) attack. To counteract the harmful effects of ROS, seminal plasma possesses a number of antioxidant systems that scavenge ROS and prevent internal cellular damage. The objective of our study was to examine and assess if seminal oxidative stress can differentiate men with various clinical diagnosis. Human spermatozoa are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and are therefore susceptible to reactive oxygen species (ROS) attack. To counteract the harmful effects of ROS, seminal plasma possesses a number of antioxidant systems that scavenge ROS and prevent internal cellular damage. The objective of our study was to examine and assess if seminal oxidative stress can differentiate men with various clinical diagnosis. DesignProspective study. Prospective study. Materials and methods12 infertile patients were included in the study. Infertile patients were divided into 3 groups according to the clinical diagnosis: group 1: varicocele (n = 62); group 2: infection (n = 18) and group 3: idiopathic infertility (n = 32). The control group consisted of 21 volunteers with normal healthy sperm. Semen characteristics and antioxidant levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were assessed in samples from patients with various clinical diagnoses and controls. 12 infertile patients were included in the study. Infertile patients were divided into 3 groups according to the clinical diagnosis: group 1: varicocele (n = 62); group 2: infection (n = 18) and group 3: idiopathic infertility (n = 32). The control group consisted of 21 volunteers with normal healthy sperm. Semen characteristics and antioxidant levels of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were assessed in samples from patients with various clinical diagnoses and controls. ResultsTabled 1Table 1.Clinical diagnosisConcentrationMotilityMorphologySODCatalaseControl53.4 ± 5.2259.93 ± 5.3132.05 ± 1.4138.03 ± 21.6534.03 ± 20.65Varicocele19.89 ± 3.77 (P = 0.04)33.2 ± 2.33 (P = 0.04)21.1 ± 4.1 (P = 0.04)12.2 ± 5.4 (P = 0.01)12.6 ± 1.7 (P = 0.01)Infection19.18 ± 6.1 (P = 0.04)29.97 ± 2.43 (P = 0.04)19.12 ± 4.44 (P = 0.04)15.12 ± 8.21 (P = 0.02)16.32 ± 2.12 (P = 0.02)Idiopathic Infertility48.53 ± 6.35 (P = 0.1)37.93 ± 3.36 (P = 0.07)31.2 ± 2.65 (P = 0.09)14.9 ± 5.45 (P = 0.02)17.24 ± 1.54 (P = 0.02)Infertile group (Overall)31.2 ± 8.35 (P = 0.06)34.26 ± 3.67 (P = 0.08)23.2 ± 4.56 (P = 0.07)14.67 ± 7.27 (P = 0.02)14.87 ± 1.95 (P = 0.02)∗P<0.05 was considered significant compared to control Open table in a new tab ∗P<0.05 was considered significant compared to control ConclusionsPresence of seminal oxidative stress in infertile men irrespective of the clinical diagnosis and semen characteristics, suggests its role in the pathophysiology of infertility. Presence of seminal oxidative stress in infertile men irrespective of the clinical diagnosis and semen characteristics, suggests its role in the pathophysiology of infertility.

Sperm selection by swim-up in terms of deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation as measured by the sperm chromatin dispersion test is altered in heavy smokers

Toxic habits and their relationship with male factor infertility have been a matter of investigation in recent years, and smoking is one of the most common lifestyle toxic exposures to harmful substances. The analysis of sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation after capacitation detected a detrimental effect produced by tobacco, and this deleterious effect alters the sperm swim-up selection process in smokers, although the molecular and cellular basis of this phenomenon remain to be elucidated.

P-844: Relationship between seminal viscosity and oxidative stress in infertile men

P-844: Relationship between seminal viscosity and oxidative stress in infertile men

Alterations in mitochondria membrane potential and oxidative stress in infertile men: a prospective observational study

Objective To evaluate the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) of spermatozoa and its correlation with semen parameters and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in infertile men and healthy donors. Design Controlled prospective study. Setting Male infertility clinic, Glickman Urological Institute, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio. Patient(s) Nineteen infertile men and 7 healthy volunteers. Intervention(s) Standard semen analysis, assessment of MMP and ROS production in spermatozoa. The MMP was assessed by flow cytometry using the probe carbocyanine DiOC 6(3) and ROS was measured with chemiluminescence assay using luminol. Main outcome measure(s) The results of MMP are reported as the median interquartile range (IQR) number of cells counted in different areas of fluorescence. Results of ROS measurement are expressed as ×10 6 counted photons per minute per 20 million sperm (cpm). Results The patients with abnormal semen parameters had a significantly lower MMP [1337.7 (1066.38, 1879.2)], and higher ROS [1.12 (0.26, 3.86)] than the donors [MMP: 2482.9 (2162.5, 3520.6)] and [ROS: 0.10 (0.01, 0.14)]. The MMP was positively correlated with sperm concentration (r = 0.62) and negatively correlated with the ROS produced (r = −0.45). Conclusion(s) Measuring MMP in spermatozoa provides useful information about a man's fertility potential. Increased ROS production by spermatozoa is associated with a decreased MMP.