Progressive Motility Research Articles

Curcumin-loaded niosomal nanocarriers represent a promising approach to improve quality characteristics, apoptotic gene expression, and flow cytometry assessments of stallion spermatozoa following thawing.

The optimization of cryopreservation media to reduce oxidative damage on post-thaw spermatozoa is crucial. This research aimed to assess the antioxidant properties of curcumin-loaded niosomal nanocarriers (CurLNN) on the functional characteristics, the relative expression of apoptotic genes, and flow cytometry assessments of apoptotic-like changes, reactive oxygen species production (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential, and chromatin integrity in stallion spermatozoa following thawing. Twenty-five ejaculates were diluted in INRA96 freezing media supplemented with 20 μM of either curcumin (Cur) or CurLNN and then cryopreserved. Results demonstrated that spermatozoa treated with Cur, particularly CurLNN, exhibited higher percentages of total and progressive motility, as well as VAP, VSL, and STR kinematics. Additionally, the functionality of the plasma membrane was enhanced, and there was a decrease in spermatozoa abnormality (P < 0.05). The incorporation of cryo-diluent medium with Cur and CurLNN led to increased viability (P < 0.05), while simultaneously reducing the levels of MDA. Flow cytometry analysis revealed a significant enhancement in mitochondrial potential activity, a reduction (P < 0.05) in ROS production, and an increase (P < 0.05) in the proportion of live and a decrease in late apoptotic stallion post-thawed spermatozoa treated with both Cur and CurLNN. Moreover, the relative expression of the Bcl2 anti-apoptotic gene increased (P < 0.05) by the addition of cur and CurLNN in cryo-diluent extender, while inclusion of CurLNN in cryo-diluent medium resulted in a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the relative expression of the Bax pro-apoptotic gene in stallion post-thawed spermatozoa. In summary, the findings of this study demonstrated that CurLNN exhibits enhanced antioxidant properties, which contribute to the improved functional quality of spermatozoa by alleviating oxidative stress during the cryopreservation process.

Seminal Characteristics of Short-term Stored Spermatozoa of Indigenous Aseel Chicken in Bangladesh

The purpose of this study is to look at the seminal characteristics of short-term stored spermatozoa (at 4°C) from indigenous Aseel chickens in Bangladesh. The abdominal massage technique was utilized to collect semen from adult Aseel chickens at 3-day intervals and microscopically analyze the semen quality. The semen was then diluted with egg yolk-citrate (EYC) extender and stored at 4°C. They were then evaluated at various storage times, including Day 0 (0 hours), Day 1 (24 hours), Day 2 (48 hours), Day 3 (72 hours), Day 4 (96 hours), and Day 5 (120 hours). The findings of the study revealed that as storage time progressed, sperm motility, live spermatozoa, and the percentage of normal spermatozoa decreased. Total motility percentage significantly (P&lt;0.05) decreased with the extended storage time in case of all individual cock. Progressive motility percentage was significantly (P&lt;0.05) decreased from Day 0 (57.4±3.21) to Day 5 (0.11±3.21). On the contrary, non-motile sperm percentage significantly increased in Day 5 (99.3±4.85) compared to Day 1 (21.9±4.85). On the other hand, live spermatozoa were significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher (76.68±5.06%) on Day 0 (0 h) and gradually declined day after day and finally it was 0% on day 5 (120 h). Similarly, spermatozoa abnormalities were highest at Day 5 (11.29±1.69% head, 3.33±1.42% mid-piece and 7.26±1.66% tail) and head abnormalities were significantly (P&lt;0.05) affected by the storage time. Therefore, this study concluded that the storage duration had a substantial impact on the quality of Aseel chicken sperm, which may be used for artificial insemination (AI). The outcomes of this study may be valuable for the conservation and enhancement of the indigenous Aseel chicken breed in Bangladesh through the use of AI. J. of Sci. and Tech. Res. 6(1): 65-72, 2024

Non-invasive semen collection from rattlesnakes (Crotalus durissus terrififus)

The main threats to the extinction of snakes are the loss and degradation of their natural habitat, mainly due to deforestation, urban expansion and fires. One of the ways of preserving snakes can be through the collection, analysis and cryopreservation of semen, and for collection, several techniques have been described, from compression and abdominal massage for ejaculation to the use of 1% lidocaine anesthetic solution for relaxation and direct access to the genital papilla. Therefore, the objective of the work was to revive the technique used in 1980, which consisted of abdominal massage and semen collection with the aid of a syringe. For the study, 5 snakes of the species Crotallus durissus terrificus (rattlesnake) were used, from APASS, in the city of Assis, state of São Paulo. The results obtained were an average seminal volume of 300 uL, with sperm motility of 68%, progressive motility: 3, sperm pathologies: 1, sperm concentration: 1.4 x 109 sptz/mL. Therefore, it is concluded that the non-invasive harvesting method using abdominal massage is still effective.

Effects of a semen extender treated with coenzyme Q10-ubiquinol on the quality of thawed ram sperm

Objective was to determine whether addition of coenzyme Q10 - ubiquinol to glycerol extender improved cryopreserved ram sperm quality. Semen was collected (electroejaculation) from mature Suffolk rams (n = 6) 6 times during the breeding season. Pooled semen from each session was processed and cryopreserved in extenders with 150 µmol/liter of ubiquinol (treated) and without (control). Thawed cryopreserved semen was evaluated using computer-assisted sperm analysis for motility and kinetic parameters. Sperm viability was determined via plasma membrane integrity. After thawing, measurements were obtained at 10, 20, 60, and 120 minutes. In treated samples, there were increases in progressive motility (p &lt; 0.0001), curvilinear velocity (p = 0.002), straight line velocity (p = 0.003) and time average velocity (p = 0.001), and sperm tended (p = 0.07) to have more viability. Furthermore, there were time-related decreases in all variables in treated control and samples. Ubiquinol improved cryopreserved ram sperm quality.

COVID-19 and Oncofertility: No SARS-CoV-2 in Semen but Inflammation Seems to Affect Sperm Parameters.

The COVID-19 pandemic, driven by SARS-CoV-2, led authorities to recommend halting assisted reproductive technology programs, focusing instead on fertility preservation, for cancer patients. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 in semen remains controversial. This multicentric prospective cohort study, conducted across 12 university medical centers, aimed to determine if SARS-CoV-2 is present in spermatozoa/seminal plasma in cancer patients by RT-PCR and to assess its impact on standard semen parameters. The levels of cytokines and TNF-α were measured in seminal fluid by ELISA. We enrolled 129 men who underwent sperm cryopreservation between July 7, 2020, and June 30, 2021. The 63 were included and tested for COVID-19 in nasal swab samples by RT-PCR and/or by serology. All patients were asymptomatic on the day of semen collection: 50 were uninfected, 8 had a positive nasal swab (PCR+) and 5 were seropositive. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was not detected in the seminal fluid or spermatozoa. Ejaculate volume was significantly lower in the PCR+ group compared to the uninfected group (median [IQR]: 2.6 mL [1.6-3.4] vs. 4.6 mL [2.6-5.2] p < 0.05). Total and progressive motility were lower in the PCR+ group compared to the seropositive group (32.5% [25.0-45.0] vs. 50% [49.0-55.0] p < 0.05, and 22.5% [10.0; 32.5] vs. 44.5% [40-49] p < 0.05). Higher TNF-α level was observed in the PCR+ group (1.9 pg/mL [0-3.9]) compared to the uninfected group (0 pg/mL [0-0.4]) p < 0.05. Although SARS-CoV-2 was not detected in the sperm samples of cancer patients who were PCR+, the infection appears to impact sperm parameters, likely due to inflammation.

Protective effect of epidermal growth factor on cryopreservation of dromedary camel epididymal spermatozoa: Evidence from in vitro and in silico studies

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays a crucial role in maintaining male reproductive capacity in mammals, however, its protective effects on cryopreserved dromedary camel epididymal spermatozoa have not been thoroughly investigated. This study aims to investigate the potential protective role of EGF on cryopreserved camel epididymal spermatozoa, supported by evidence from a molecular docking study. We assessed sperm motility, kinematics parameters, oxidative stress, ultrastructural changes, apoptosis, and molecular docking markers in camel epididymal spermatozoa following cryopreservation. Camel epididymal spermatozoa (n=30 pairs of testes) were collected from local slaughterhouses. The epididymal spermatozoa were diluted with a freezing medium (SHOTOR extender) supplemented with different concentrations of EGF; 0 (EGF0), 50 (EGF50), 100 (EGF100), 200 (EGF200), and 400 (EGF400) ng/mL in SHOTOR extender and cryopreserved using a standard protocol. All EGF groups showed significant improvements in sperm progressive motility, viability, and sperm membrane function after equilibration at 5 °C for 24hours. Regarding frozen-thawed samples, sperm progressive motility and some kinematic parameters (DAP, VSL, VCL and AHL) were significantly higher in the EFG400 group compared to the other groups (P < 0.01). A significant increase in the percentage of live/acrosome-intact sperm was observed, accompanied by a significant decrease in malondialdehyde levels in all EGF groups (P < 0.05). Both the EGF200 and EGF400 groups showed significantly higher sperm viability and significantly lower percentages of apoptotic and necrotic sperm compared to the other groups (P < 0.05). EGF supplementation preserved the ultrastructural integrity and cryotolerance of epididymal camel spermatozoa. The docking analysis indicated that EGF exhibited higher binding affinity with apoptosis sperm markers, including caspase-3 and bcl-2-associated X (Bax) proteins, with binding energies of -502.0 and -621.0kcal/mol, respectively. In conclusion, the addition of EGF to SHOTOR extender was found to have beneficial effects on sperm motility, kinematics parameters, sperm viability, acrosome integrity, sperm ultrastructural features, and reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis-like changes in cryopreserved epididymal camel sperm.

Correlation between abnormal lipid profile and semen parameters in infertile males: Experience at a Tertiary care hospital.

Objective: To determine the correlation between abnormal lipid profile and semen parameters in infertile males. Study Design: Observational Cross-sectional Study. Setting: Department of Urology and Pathology, Sheikh Zayed Hospital (SZH), Rahim Yar Khan. Period: January 2022 and December 2023. Methods: Infertile males between 18 to 45 years of age visiting the outdoor clinic subjected to semen analysis as work up of infertility. Infertile males with high BMI (&gt;25kg/m2), family history of dyslipidemia and family history of high BMI were subjected to the estimation of lipid profile. A total of 127 infertile males with abnormal lipid profile were included. Serum total cholesterol &gt;200 mg/dl, serum triglycerides &gt;150 mg/dl, serum LDL &gt;50 mg/dl, and serum HDL &lt;40 mg/dl were the markers for an abnormal lipid profile. The study examined the correlation between aberrant lipid profile and characteristics related to semen, including sperm concentration (millions/ml), total sperm quantity (millions/ejaculate), morphology (percentage of normal forms), motility (percentage of progressive motility), and vitality (percentage of live). P-value less than 0.05 was deemed significant. Results: Mean age of the total 127 study subjects was 33±5.414years. Positive correlation of serum cholesterol has been found with respect to total sperm number (r=1.040), morphology (r=1.622), motility (r=0.832) and vitality(r=1.471). Positive correlation of triglyceride was found with respect to age (r=1.280) and sperm concentration (r=1.729). Positive correlation of HDL-c found with respect to sperm concentration (r=1.116). LDL-c shows positive correlation with respect to age (r=1.342), sperm concentration(r=0.856), total sperm number (r=1.757) and vitality(r=1.347). Statistically significant difference of serum cholesterol with respect to vitality (p value: 0.004), HDL-c with respect to sperm concentration (p value: 0.024), LDL-c with respect to age (p value: 0.037) and total sperm number (p value: 0.049) has been found. Conclusion: On the basis of our study, it has been concluded that abnormal lipid profile is positively correlated with semen parameters with significant correlation of LDL-c with total sperm number. Infertile males should have their lipid profile assessed to determine whether it adversely affects the characteristics of their semen parameters.

Taxifolin: A flavonoid in the freezing medium augments post-thaw semen quality and in vivo fertility potential of buffalo bull spermatozoa

This comprehensive study was carried out to investigate the effects of taxifolin in the freezing medium on post-thaw semen quality, and fertility potential of buffalo bull spermatozoa. Taxifolin was also evaluated for radical scavenging activity through DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), and Nitric oxide (NO) inhibition (%) during in vitro conditions. Collected semen samples from four buffalo bulls were initially evaluated (consistency, volume, motility, and concentrations); the accepted samples were pooled, and diluted in extenders containing different doses of taxifolin (0 μM [control], 2 μM, 5 μM, 10 μM, and 20 μM). Diluted semen was gradually cooled (2 h, 4 °C), equilibrated (4 h, 4 °C), and then frozen in liquid nitrogen (−196 °C). Data analysis revealed that taxifolin supplementation (10 μM) displayed the highest DPPH-scavenging ability, and NO inhibition compared to the control (% DPPH, 67.31 vs. 13.50; and % NO, 78.25 vs. 21.25) respectively. Moreover, taxifolin supplementation (10 μM) significantly (P < 0.05) improved progressive motility (%), average path velocity (μm/sec), straight-line velocity (μm/sec), and seminal plasma glutathione peroxidase (μM), and superoxide dismutase (U/mL) of buffalo bull spermatozoa than control. Sperm plasma membrane integrity, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, acrosome integrity (%) and seminal plasma adenosine triphosphate (nmol/million), and total antioxidant capacity (μM/L) were enhanced significantly with taxifolin (10 and 20 μM) supplementing group. Lastly, taxifolin supplementation significantly improved the fertility rate (%, 69.09 vs. 40.38) compared to the control. Further studies to assess mechanisms by which taxifolin improves semen quality and fertility of buffalo spermatozoa are warranted.

Evaluating the effect of semen storage and dilution rate on boar sperm quality

ABSTRACT This study analyzed the effect of boar semen storage and dilution rate on sperm motility, swimming patterns and kinematics. It used 35 sexually mature, healthy boars, with an average age of 19.0 ± 10.34 months and known fertility. Samples were separated into four treatments according to dilution ratio (1:1, 1:4, 1:8 and 1:16; v:v) with Androstar Plus® and refrigerated at 17°C in the dark for 96 h. Subsamples were analyzed at 12, 24, 28, 72 and 96 h using the ISAS®v1 Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis System (CASA). Total and progressive motility decreased (P < 0.05) as semen storage time increased. The percentage of morphological abnormalities increased after 48 h of semen storage. Samples diluted 1:1 (v:v) had higher values of total motility and faster spermatozoa compared to other dilution rates. It was concluded that sperm motility, swimming patterns and plasma membrane integrity showed a significant downward pattern as semen storage time and dilution rate increased.

Cryoprotective Assessment of Lycopene in Tris-based Extender on Freezability of Bull Semen

Background: Intensive use of artificial insemination is the demand of the present era, it deals with cryopreservation. During this process many changes, especially oxidative damages, which affect fertility and can be neutralized by supplementing some antioxidants. Methods: To conduct this study, a total of thirty-two ejaculates collected from four bulls were preliminary evaluated. Based on progressive motility and viability, qualified samples were processed for cryopreservation. Diluted ejaculates with Egg yolk tris glycerol (EYTG) were split into four aliquots and grouped as Group I: control (without lycopene), Group II, Group III and Group IV as treatment group with 0.25 mM, 0.5 mM and 1 mM lycopene respectively. Post-thaw evaluation for progressive motility, viability, plasma membrane integrity, capacitation status, motility and kinematics, in vitro cervical mucus penetration and antioxidative enzymes activity was performed. Result: The treatment group containing 0.25 mM lycopene showed significant (P less than 0.05) improvement in post-thaw sperm progressive motility (%), viability (%), HOS response (%), capacitation status (%), motility and kinematics (CASA), bovine cervical mucus penetration and antioxidant activity (SOD, GST, MDA). This study concluded that lycopene supplementation in bull semen protects spermatozoa from cryo-injury and oxidative stress during the freezing-thawing process.

Localization and expression analysis of sperm-specific glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase in bull spermatozoa with contrasting sperm motility.

Poor sperm motility leading to male infertility has become a profound crisis to be addressed in this contemporary era. In many cases, the origin of poor sperm motility remains unexplained. Few studies reported the indispensable role of sperm-specific glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDHS) in sperm motility, however, studies on GAPDHS are severely confined. The present study aimed to assess the localization patterns, expression levels, and enzyme activity of GAPDHS in normal and asthenozoospermic bulls and to examine their association with sperm functional parameters. The bull semen samples were classified into high-motile and low-motile groups (n=7 per each group) based on the ejaculate rejection rate. Sperm kinetic parameters were assessed using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). Sperm viability, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and intracellular calcium levels were measured through flow cytometry. Subsequently, GAPDHS localization was observed via immunocytochemistry. The expression levels and enzyme activity of GAPDHS were estimated using western blotting and a GAPDHS activity assay kit. Sperm viability, MMP, ROS, and live sperm intracellular calcium levels did not differ significantly between high and low motile groups. A significant positive correlation was found between MMP and sperm viability, whereas no significant association was found between MMP and sperm progressive motility. The GAPDHS was localized in the principal piece, head-midpiece junction, and at the acrosome region of bull sperm. GAPDHS localization intensity, expression levels, and enzyme activity were found significantly (p<0.05) higher in the high motile group than in low motile group. Furthermore, we noticed a significant positive correlation between GAPDHS activity and sperm kinetic parameters. The analysis of GAPDHS localization patterns, expression levels, and enzyme activity indicated its potential role in sperm motility, suggesting that GAPDHS could serve as a candidate biomarker for sperm motility and male fertility.

Elevated Seminal Plasma TLR-2 Levels are Associated with Leukocytospermia

Introduction: Leukocytospermia is associated with male infertility, but its underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the association between seminal plasma toll-like receptor 2 (TLR-2) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels and leukocytospermia in infertile Iraqi men, and to evaluate their potential as differential biomarkers. Methods: Eighty infertile men attending an infertility clinic in Iraq were enrolled. Semen analysis was performed according to WHO 2010 criteria. TLR-2 and PGE2 levels in seminal plasma were quantified using ELISA. Participants were categorized based on leukocytospermia status, varicocele presence, and smoking habits. Statistical analyses included correlation tests and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: Seminal plasma TLR-2 levels were significantly higher in leukocytospermic patients compared to non-leukocytospermic men (15.14 ± 1.06 vs. 9.27 ± 1.42 ng/mL, p &lt; 0.05). TLR-2 levels showed strong negative correlations with sperm concentration (r = -0.675), total sperm count (r = -0.673), progressive motility (r = -0.669), and normal morphology (r = -0.616) (all p &lt; 0.001). Positive correlations were observed between TLR-2 and round cell concentration (r = 0.684) and white blood cell count (r = 0.668) (both p &lt; 0.001). Smoking and varicocele did not significantly influence TLR-2 levels. ROC analysis revealed high diagnostic accuracy for TLR-2 in identifying leukocytospermia (AUC = 0.993, p &lt; 0.05). In contrast, PGE2 levels showed no significant differences or correlations with semen parameters. Discussion: The elevated TLR-2 levels in leukocytospermic samples and strong correlations with semen parameters suggest a potential role for TLR-2 in inflammationrelated male infertility. The persistence of this association regardless of smoking status or varicocele presence further supports TLR-2’s specificity as a biomarker for leukocytospermia. Conclusion: Elevated seminal plasma TLR-2 levels are associated with leukocytospermia and poor semen parameters in infertile Iraqi men. TLR-2 shows promise as a differential biomarker for male infertility, particularly in cases of leukocytospermia.

Factors affect progressive sperm motility.

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of age, body mass index, and diet factors on sperm parameters and developing a novel index (Artuklu Sperm Quality Index [ASQI]). The study incorporated a total of 115 patients who sought medical attention due to infertility and underwent semen analysis (spermiogram). The ASQI score was developed. About 73% reported eating three meals daily, while 62% consume fruits a few times a week. When considering grain consumption, 30% rarely do, mirroring the 25% who never do. Carbonated drinks are consumed a few times in 15 days by 39% of respondents. Salt consumption showed 47% taking very little, whereas 42% consume caffeine very minimally. Sausage/salami is minimally consumed by 44%, and 32% of participants reported never being exposed to air pollution. ASQI score ranges from 6 to 61 point. A lower score indicates good nutrition and quality of life, while a higher score suggests deteriorating nutrition and increasing unhealthy habits. Cronbach alfa value was noted as 0.72. A negative correlation was found between ASQI and sperm progressive motility (p < 0.001, r = -0.405). This study revealed a clear negative correlation between the ASQI score, which signifies deteriorating nutrition and escalating unhealthy habits, and sperm progressive motility.

Impacts of adding sucrose or trehalose to extenders with different glycerol concentrations on freezablility and fertility of buffalo bull semen

This experiment was conducted to determine the most suitable glycerol concentration (3 or 6%) and/or non-penetrating cryoprotectants (trehalose and sucrose) for the cryopreservation of buffalo semen, with the aim of enhancing the cryopreservation protocol. Semen of Egyptian buffalo were pooled and diluted with eight Tris extenders supplemented with either 6% glycerol (control group, GL6), 3% (low level, GL3), sucrose (SU, 50 mM), trehalose (TR, 50 mM), 6% glycerol together with 50 mM of sucrose (GL6SU) or 50 mM of trehalose (GL6TR), and 3% of glycerol together with 50 mM of sucrose (GL3SU) or 50 mM of trehalose (GL3TR), then frozen following the standard protocol. Findings indicated that GL3 extender resulted in the highest values of progressive motility, sperm kinematics, sperm membrane integrity, and viability of post-thawed semen (37 °C for 30 s). On the contrary, the Tris extender enriched only with SU and TR groups had the lowest values of sperm quality compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). All GL supplemented groups showed higher intact acrosome levels and lower detached acrosome and dead sperm with intact acrosome compared to those with TR and SU alone (p < 0.05). A significant increase in viable sperm was observed in the GL3, GL6, and GL3SU groups compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). The Tris extender supplemented with low glycerol (3%) significantly reduced the levels of MDA. In the in vivo fertility trial, it was shown that the pregnancy rate was higher in the GL6SU group (72%) than in the GL3SU group (68%; p > 0.05). Collectively, these results suggest that there is potential in using low glycerol (3%) as a cryoprotective agent in the medium for buffalo sperm cryopreservation without significant adverse effects compared to the addition of 6% glycerol. This study supported the sustainability of materials used in assisted reproductive technology by reducing the glycerol content in the freezing medium. Further research is needed to confirm this hypothesis.

Prolonged maintenance of stallion semen by optimization of cooling conditions

Bottlenecks to the success of equine assisted reproductive technologies (ART) include suboptimal conditions for prolonged storage of stallion sperm. Shipped stallion sperm are transported in cooling devices designed to maintain temperature for up to 48 h. Increasing the storage time of cooled semen while maintaining acceptable motility would relieve logistical ART challenges. Experiments were conducted to test the hypothesis that external regulation of shipment container temperature would prolong storage time of cooled stallion semen. Initial experiments determined the effect of pre-freezing cooling cans at -20 °C or -80 °C on sperm motility. Fresh sperm was extended in INRA96 and placed in commercial Equitainers for 3.5 days (84 h). Quantification of sperm kinematics was determined every 12 h. Sperm held in Equitainers with -20°C cans maintained higher total and progressive motility than -80 °C conditions at 60 h (63 %, 29 % vs. 32 %, 17 %, respectively). Internal monitoring of Equitainers containing -20 °C freezer can temperature identified 20 °C as the threshold for rapidly decreased motility. In the second experiment, sperm were maintained in Equitainers containing -20 °C freezer cans and placed in two different conditions: 1) ambient temperature for 48 h (23 °C) or 2) 5 °C for external temperature regulation up to 8 days, or when total motility dropped below 50 %. Sperm kinematics was determined every 24 h. Total motility from samples held with external temperature regulation (5 °C) remained above 50 % for more than 7 days. These findings suggest that cooled stallion semen can be advanced beyond traditional 48 h constraints by improving temperature maintenance of storage conditions.

Effect of dehydroleucodine (DhL) on the acrosome reaction in sperm of Chinchilla lanigera: signalling pathways involved.

The secondary metabolites of several plant species, particularly sesquiterpenic lactones (SLs) have been studied by different research groups for over 30 years. This group of metabolites presents numerous biological activities such as antibacterial, antiviral, antiulcer, cell proliferation inhibitor, and oocyte activator with participation in exocytosis processes. This study aims to assess some sperm parameters in epididymal gametes of Chichilla lanigera exposed to increasing concentrations (0 to 2 mM) of DhL for various incubation times from 10 to 40 minutes. We determined the participation of different cell signalling pathways in the induced acrosome reaction. Our results showed an alteration in the progressive motility pattern and cell viability depending on DhL concentration and exposure time of gametes. When analyzing acrosomal status, higher percentages than the negative control were obtained in all tested doses. Both isolated and joint inhibition tests of PKA and phospholipases (PLC and PLA2) showed a greater participation of PI-PLC. This is the first report concerning the effects of this lactone on the medium of sperm incubation. Consequently, further studies will be necessary to determine the molecular implications of this lactone on the fertilizing potential of the sperm.

Acoustotaxis‑based pump-less separation of highly motile human sperm by a SAW-in-capillary acoustofluidic platform

In artificial reproductive technologies mirroring in vivo fertilization, there is a correlation between sperm motility and fertilization outcomes. Here, we present a technology for separating sperm based on motility, which uses a biocompatible, pump-less, and simple acoustofluidic approach. Our developed and fabricated sperm separation configuration is an acoustofluidic platform consisting of a circular glass capillary tube mounted on top of a ZnO-based surface acoustic wave (SAW) device. It can separate highly motile sperm from small volumes of normal raw human semen samples. This configuration allows the generated traveling SAW to couple into the capillary, causing highly motile sperm cells to swim against the propagation direction of the traveling SAW along the capillary tube. We term this fascinating acoustic-induced sperm swimming behavior acoustotaxis in analogy with the well-known rheotaxis, in which sperm orientate to swim against a continuous fluid flow frequently generated by using an external pump in the microfluidic systems. Here, we benefit from the acoustotaxis for a pump-less separation of an effective highly motile sperm concentration from raw human semen samples at low volumes of up to 20–30 µL within a short period of about 4 minutes free from any centrifugation step. This sperm separation device exhibits a successful selection capability that leads to sperm progressive motility increase by 45 %, sperm curvilinear velocity by 23 %, sperm average path velocity by 69 %, and sperm linearity by 78 % in the selected cells in comparison with the raw sample. This acoustotaxic sperm selection separation approach provides an easy-to-use and effective method for the selection of highly motile sperm cells without adversely affecting sperm viability, paving the way for efficient and rapid sperm separation platforms, applicable for patients with low semen volumes, and up-scalable for a large volume of raw semen processing in a short time.

The Impact of NADPH Oxidase 5 Activity and Reactive Oxygen Species on Ca-pacitated Human Sperm

Background: Progesterone (P4) activates sperm calcium channels (CatSper), allowing calcium to enter the cell, which activates NADPH Oxidase-5 (NOX5) and produces reactive oxygen species (ROS). While calcium and ROS are essential for sperm capacitation, the role of NOX5 in capacitated sperm is unclear. This study investigated NOX5 activity in capacitated human sperm. Methods: Forty semen samples from fertile men were processed, with motile sperm separated and divided into nine groups: control (Ham's F-10), solvent (DMSO), progesterone, diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI, NOX5 inhibitor), phorbol-12-my-ristate 13-acetate (PMA, NOX5 activator), P4+DPI, P4+PMA, Trolox, and P4+ Trolox. Sperm kinematics, membrane integrity, survival rate, and ROS production was evaluated. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests, p£ 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Progressive motility significantly decreased with DPI (56.2±2.1%) and PMA (56.5±2.1%), both alone and combined with progesterone (58.0±2.0% and 57.4±2.2%), compared to the progesterone group (66.0±1.9%). No significant change was observed in the Trolox groups. Progesterone, alone or combined with DPI, PMA, and Trolox, significantly reduced sperm linearity from 0.6±0.01 to 0.5± 0.01%. Straight-line velocity decreased in P4+PMA and P4+Trolox groups (88.2± 4.4 and 89.7±3.9 μm/s) compared to the control group (105.0±5.5 μm/s). Trolox reduced ROS content, while other treatments had no effect on ROS levels. Conclusion: NOX5 does not play a prominent role in capacitated sperm. The negative effects of PMA and DPI on sperm motility appear independent of their actions on NOX5 and ROS production. Trolox did not affect sperm motility and survival, indicating that capacitated sperm require little or no ROS.

Impact of salinity and body size on sperm motility in three California smelt species

Three smelt species in California, USA—the endangered delta smelt Hypomesus transpacificus and longfin smelt Spirinchus thaleichthys and the introduced wakasagi H. nipponensis—experience ecological pressures, including habitat alterations, temperature changes, and fluctuating salinity levels that can affect their survival and reproductive success. The present study investigates how salinity during the spawning process influences sperm motility by analyzing 13 sperm motility traits across three salinity levels (0.4, 5, and 10 ppt). Using Principal Component Analysis, we found that the first two principal components accounted for over 65 % of the total variance. Consequently, two predominant traits from each principal component were selected to evaluate sperm motility. Specifically, the amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH), linearity coefficient (LIN), curvilinear velocity (VCL), progressive motility (PM), and wobble coefficient (WOB) predominantly contributed to these components for both longfin smelt and wakasagi. Results showed that the salinity significantly impacts these traits, except for ALH in delta smelt and longfin smelt, and WOB and LIN in wakasagi. In addition, we found the salinity and temperature difference between the activating water and extender interact differently across species. In delta smelt, interactions between the activating water and extender temperatures significantly affected most traits, whereas in wakasagi, only the interaction between activating water salinity and extender temperature showed significant effects. No significant influence from these interactions was observed in longfin smelt. Additionally, the impact of body size (e.g., fork length) on sperm motility varies across species, with a significant influence observed in longfin smelt, while no effect was detected in delta smelt and wakasagi. Future research should focus on exploring the physiological mechanisms behind the observed effects of salinity, temperature, and body size on sperm motility, as well as examining these interactions in other species to develop broader conservation strategies under changing environmental conditions.

Impact of adalimumab on erectile dysfunction, sperm parameters and hormonal profile in male psoriasis patients: a six-month observational study.

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, is associated with systemic complications that extend beyond cutaneous lesions, including cardiovascular risks and sexual dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is notably more prevalent in male psoriasis patients, likely driven by both systemic inflammation and psychological stress. Adalimumab (ADA), a tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitor, has been shown to effectively reduce psoriasis severity, but its effects on sexual and reproductive health remain underexplored. This study investigates the impact of ADA on erectile function, sperm parameters, and hormonal profiles in male psoriasis patients. This six-month prospective observational study included 33 biologic-naïve male patients aged 18-50 years with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index [PASI] > 10). Patients received ADA according to standard clinical protocols. Erectile function was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Sperm parameters, including ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, vitality, and morphology, were analyzed following World Health Organization (WHO) 2010 criteria. Hormonal profiles (testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, and prolactin) were measured via standardized assays. Statistical analyses were performed using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, with p-values < 0.05 considered significant. ADA significantly improved erectile function, as the mean IIEF-5 score increased from 21.3 ± 2.2 to 22.2 ± 1.9 (p = 0.03). The percentage of patients with ED decreased from 51.5% at baseline to 36.4% post-treatment (p < 0.001). Progressive sperm motility and vitality showed statistically significant improvement post-treatment (p = 0.02 and p = 0.04, respectively), while other sperm parameters remained unchanged. Total testosterone levels significantly increased from 3.4 ± 0.4 ng/ml to 3.5 ± 0.4 ng/ml (p = 0.02), while LH, FSH, estradiol, and prolactin levels showed no significant changes. The anti-inflammatory properties of adalimumab, through the inhibition of TNF-α, not only reduce psoriasis severity but also appear to exert positive effects on male sexual and reproductive health. Our study demonstrated significant improvements in erectile function, sperm motility, vitality, and testosterone levels in male psoriasis patients after adalimumab therapy. These findings suggest that beyond its role in controlling psoriatic skin lesions, adalimumab may help mitigate the systemic inflammatory burden that contributes to sexual dysfunction and impaired spermatogenesis. Future long-term studies are essential to further explore the sustained impact of TNF-α inhibition on male fertility and reproductive outcomes.