Reduced Fertility Potential Research Articles

High Carbohydrate, Fat, and Protein Diets Have a Critical Role in Folliculogenesis and Oocyte Development in Rats.

To date, there is no comparative data on the effects of carbohydrates, fat, and proteins, which are macronutrients, on female reproductive functions. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of diets enriched with carbohydrates, fats, and proteins on folliculogenesis and oocyte development in female rats. 21-day-old rats that were just weaned were divided into 4 groups: control, carbohydrate, fat, and protein. The control group was fed with standard chow and the carbohydrate, fat, and protein groups were fed diets enriched with 75% carbohydrate, 60% fat, and 50% protein for 11 weeks, respectively. It was found that high-fat and high-protein diets caused an increase in the estrous cycle length compared to carbohydrate group (p < 0.05). Graafian follicle number decreased in the protein group compared to the control (p < 0.05). However, the atretic follicle number was higher in the fat group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In the carbohydrate group, Zp1 was found to be lower than the control and protein groups, Zp2 was found to be lower than the control, and Zp3 was found to be lower than the fat group (p < 0.05). While BMP15 was similar between groups (p > 0.05), GDF9 was lower in all diet groups compared to the control (p < 0.05). Foxo3a was lower in the protein group compared to carbohydrate and control (p < 0.05). GAS2 was found to be higher in the control group than the fat group, and higher in the carbohydrate group than the fat and protein groups (p < 0.05). FSH, LH, Progesterone, and E2 levels were higher in all three diet groups than in the control (p < 0.05). Also, significant differences were observed between the groups regarding adiponectin, resistin, and leptin levels. Taken together, high carbohydrate, fat, and protein intake are associated with impairment of the menstrual cycle, depletion of the developing follicle types, and altered expression of folliculogenesis-specific genes and hormones. Therefore, long-term macronutrient diets may result in shortened reproductive periods and reduced fertilization potential in females in the long run.

Implications of Exposure to Air Pollution on Male Reproduction: The Role of Oxidative Stress.

Air pollution, either from indoor (household) or outdoor (ambient) sources, occurs when there is presence of respirable particles in the form of chemical, physical, or biological agents that modify the natural features of the atmosphere or environment. Today, almost 2.4 billion people are exposed to hazardous levels of indoor pollution, while 99% of the global population breathes air pollutants that exceed the World Health Organization guideline limits. It is not surprising that air pollution is the world's leading environmental cause of diseases and contributes greatly to the global burden of diseases. Upon entry, air pollutants can cause an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by undergoing oxidation to generate quinones, which further act as oxidizing agents to yield more ROS. Excessive production of ROS can cause oxidative stress, induce lipid peroxidation, enhance the binding of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to their receptors, or bind to PAH to cause DNA strand breaks. The continuous and prolonged exposure to air pollutants is associated with the development or exacerbation of pathologies such as acute or chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative and skin diseases, and even reduced fertility potential. Males and females contribute to infertility equally, and exposure to air pollutants can negatively affect reproduction. In this review, emphasis will be placed on the implications of exposure to air pollutants on male fertility potential, bringing to light its effects on semen parameters (basic and advanced) and male sexual health. This study will also touch on the clinical implications of air pollution on male reproduction while highlighting the role of oxidative stress.

Fertility and Obstetric Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) in Women With Adenomyosis Following Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Therapy: A Single-Center Experience.

Adenomyosis is an ambiguous disorder causing a wide variety of implications from dysmenorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility to pregnancy complications. Adenomyosis is associated with altered endocrine and inflammatory milieu, resulting in impaired implantation and reduced fertility potential. It is also associated with increased incidence of obstetric complications such as miscarriage, antepartum hemorrhage, placental mal-position, hypertensive disorders, small for gestational age-intrauterine growth restriction (SGA-IUGR), cesarean section, preterm labor, preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions. The aim of our study was to investigate the fertility and obstetric outcomes in women with adenomyosis treated with GnRH agonists compared to controls with normal uteri undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) at our center, thereby establishing the role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists in managing sub-fertile women with adenomyosis. We carried out a retrospective cohort study at our hospital to analyze the effects of adenomyosis on IVF and pregnancy outcomes. This study (n=83) involves women with adenomyosis between the ages of 21 and 37 years who were followed up at our center between 2013 and 2022. The controls (n=83) were selected from women who underwent IVF-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF-ICSI) for tubal or mild male factor infertility with normal appearing uterus within the same time frame. Women with adenomyosis were given GnRH agonist as long/ultralong agonist protocol before controlled ovarian stimulation or as down-regulated frozen embryo transfer (FET). The length of suppression was between one and six months based on the size of the uterus and response to treatment. Fertility and obstetric outcomes were analyzed. The implantation rates were found to be equivocal: 54.2% and 53% in the adenomyosis and control groups, respectively (p=0.208). The cumulative live birth rate was 50.6% and 48.2% in the study and control groups,respectively (p=0.341). The biochemical pregnancy rate and the first- and second-trimester miscarriage rates were not significantly different between the group with adenomyosis and the group with normal uterus. The incidence of preterm deliveries and antepartum hemorrhage was found to be significantly increased in the study group. Medical management in women with adenomyosis optimizes the live birth rates giving results at par with the control population.

Add-on effect of the Guizhi Fuling formula for management of reduced fertility potential in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Guizhi Fuling (GZFL) pill, a traditional Chinese herbal formula including Semen Persicae, Ramulus Cinnamomi, Poria, Radix Paeoniae Alba, and Cortex Moutan, has been widely applied in the management of gynecological diseases. To evaluate the add-on effect of the GZFL formula for treating reduced fertility potential in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Two reviewers independently searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, SinoMed, and CKNI databases until 09/11/2022. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the GZFL formula plus Western medicine versus the Western medicine for treating PCOS. The primary endpoint was the ovulation, pregnancy, and miscarriage rate. The secondary endpoints included the serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). There were 16 RCTs with 1,385 patients identified. The GZFL formula plus Western medicine significantly improved the ovulation rate (risk ratios [RR] 1.24; 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.15-1.34) and pregnancy rate (RR 1.53; 95% CI 1.38 to 1.69) than the Western medicine alone. Adjuvant treatment with the GZFL formula also significantly decreased the serum FSH (mean difference [MD] -0.48 U/l; 95% CI -0.80 to -0.15), total testosterone (standard mean difference [SMD] -1.07; 95% CI -1.71 to -0.44), LH level (MD -2.19 U/l; 95% CI -3.04 to -1.34), and HOMA-IR (MD -0.47; 95% CI -0.60 to -0.34). However, there was no significant difference in the miscarriage rate (RR 0.89; 95% CI 0.36-2.20) and serum estradiol level (SMD 0.34; 95% CI -0.25 to 0.94) between two groups. The GZFL formula as adjuvant therapy can improve the ovulation and pregnancy rates in women with PCOS. Its beneficial effects may correlate with reducing FSH, total testosterone, and LH and ameliorating insulin resistance. However, more well-designed RCTs with larger samples and multicenter trials are required to confirm the current findings due to uncertainty of the evidence. PROSPERO identifier, CRD42022354530.

STATE OF THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM AFTER COVID-19 (LITERATURE REVIEW)

The first case of a coronavirus infection called SARS CoV-2 and the disease caused by this virus, COVID-19, was recorded on December 8, 2019 in the city of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. On December 31, 2019, a death from a respiratory disease of unknown origin was registered and reported to WHO. The outbreak of this infection has reached pandemic proportions.&#x0D; Information available in the available literature about the impact of coronavirus infection on the female and male reproductive system is limited and contradictory.&#x0D; Research rationale. That the available data on the effect of SARS-CoV 2 on the female and male reproductive system are few and contradictory, which requires further study of the problem&#x0D; The purpose of the research. Conduct a systematic analysis of available modern literature on the impact of COVID-19 on the reproductive system of women and men.&#x0D; The materials and methods. The literature analysis was carried out on the basis of available scientific sources of the last years 2019-2023. The search strategy was related articles related to the impact of the transmitted SARS-CoV-2 infection on the female reproductive system by manual search in Pub-Med and Google Scholar databases.&#x0D; Research results. To date, there is no reliable data on the infection of ovarian tissue and endometrium, which affects oogenesis, embryo implantation processes, early embryogenesis, pregnancy in natural cycles and DRT programs. When infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the following mechanisms are possible: damage to the female reproductive system: damage to the ovarian tissue with a violation of ovulatory function, damage to the oocytes with the formation of aneuploid oocytes, damage to the endometrium with a violation of the embryo implantation process. In the available sources of literature at the moment, there are no reliable data confirming infection of ovarian tissues or endometrium affecting oogenesis, embryo implantation processes, early embryogenesis, onset of pregnancy in a natural cycle or DRT programs. Long-term follow-up of patients with COVID-19 is necessary to obtain reliable data. On the basis of experimental studies, it is possible to assume the possibility of the SARS CoV-2 virus affecting the reproductive system of a woman as follows: infection of ovarian tissue, violation of ovulatory function, and the formation of infected oocytes with reduced fertilization potential. Infection of oocytes with the SSARS CoV-2 virus affects the female reproductive system in the following ways: infection of ovarian tissues, violation of ovulatory function, formation of infected oocytes with reduced fertilization potential. Infection of oocytes with the SARS CoV-2 virus can contribute to the formation of aneuploid oocytes incapable of fertilization. Infection of the endometrium with the SARS CoV-2 virus can contribute to the disruption of embryo implantation processes. Despite the significant lack of publications on the effects of the SARS CoV-2 virus on the female reproductive organs in the available literature sources, there are more studies on the effects of this virus on the male reproductive system.&#x0D; Conclusions. Understanding the mechanisms of the impact of the SARS CoV-2 virus on the reproductive system will contribute to the development of ways to prevent infertility, reproductive losses and pregnancy complications in women who have experienced COVID-19. It should be noted that the available data on the impact of SARS-CoV 2 on the female and male reproductive system are also few and contradictory, which requires further study of the problem.

The Effects of Glycerophospholipid Nanomicelles on the Cryotolerance of Frozen-Thawed Rooster Sperm.

Semen banking is an efficient method of artificial insemination for commercial breeders. However, the cryopreservation process induces severe damages to plasma membranes, which leads to reduced fertility potential of thawed sperm. The replacement of membrane lipids with oxidized membrane lipids repairs the cell membrane and improves its stability. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of glycerophospholipid (GPL) nanomicelles on the cryosurvival of thawed rooster semen. Semen samples were collected from six 29-week Ross broiler breeder roosters, then mixed and divided into five equal parts. The samples were diluted with the Beltsville extender containing different concentrations of GPL according to the following groups: 0 (GPL-0), 0.1% (GPL-0.1), 0.5% (GPL-0.5), 1% (GPL-1), and 1.5% (GPL-1.5), then diluted semen was gradually cooled to 4°C during 3 hours and stored in liquid nitrogen. The optimum concentration of GPL was determined based on the quality parameters of thawed sperm. Our results showed sperm exposed to GPL-1 had significantly increased motion parameters and mitochondrial activity. The percentages of viability and membrane integrity were significantly higher in the GPL-1, and GPL-1.5 groups compared with the other groups (p < 0.05). Moreover, the lowest rate of apoptosis and lipid peroxidation were observed in the GPL-1 and GPL-1.5 groups in comparison with the frozen control group. Our findings indicated that membrane lipid replacement with GPL nanomicelles (1% and 1.5%) could substitute for damaged lipids in membranes and protect sperm cells against cryoinjury.

P-017 Impact of yoga intervention on immunosenescence, fertility potential and quality of life in men with Rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract Study question Can a yoga intervention bring about alterations in immune aging, fertility potential and quality of life in men with Rheumatoid arthritis? Summary answer Yoga not only reduces disease severity, minimizes usage of drugs but also reduces the rate of immune aging and cellular aging. What is known already The complex mechanism of Rheumatoid arthritis with infertility in men involves interactions between endocrine, immune, and reproductive systems. Association of autoimmunity with dysregulated androgen (hypogonadism) levels may cause transient infertility in men. Furthermore, usage of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, sulphasalazine etc. may result into decreased quantity and quality of sperm, mitochondrial dysfunctions, reduced fertility potential and ultimately permanent infertility. These drugs can cross blood-testis-barrier and induce changes in sperm impairing spermatogenesis. Complementary and alternative medicine like yoga reduces seminal oxidative stress and its consequences like DNA fragmentation in sperm nuclear/mitochondrial genome. Study design, size, duration Fifty males with RA were enrolled in this 12-week prospective, open-label, single-arm exploratory study, designed to explore the impact of yoga intervention on immunosenescence, fertility potential and quality of life (QoL). Participants/materials, setting, methods The participants were evaluated for pre (day 0) and post (12th week) levels of inflammatory markers: IL-6, IL-17A, TGF-β and TNF-α. T cell sub-set populations along with their aged T cell profiles for immunosenescence as well as telomere length and telomerase activity for cellular aging were studied. Seminal reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels were estimated as per WHO 2010 guidelines. QoL was measured by WHOQOL-BREF Scale. Main results and the role of chance There was significant reduction in mean levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17A and elevation in TGF-β after 12 weeks. A significant reduction was seen in seminal ROS levels, 8-OHdG and DFI as well. There was a significant decline in aged T cell populations after yoga. There was no change seen in the telomere length but there was an improvement in the telomerase activity. The participants showed significant improvements in QoL after 12 weeks. Limitations, reasons for caution Compliance of patients for Yoga intervention was poor, hence we enrolled large number of patients to achieve the desirable sample size. Wider implications of the findings Adoption of yoga intervention holds the key to maintaining immune homeostasis, reduction of inflammation, reduction in the rate of cellular aging, improved overall QoL, and its associated consequences associated with physical, mental, and reproductive health. Trial registration number N/A

Spermatozoan Metabolism as a Non-Traditional Model for the Study of Huntington's Disease.

Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a fatal autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease manifested through motor dysfunction and cognitive deficits. Decreased fertility is also observed in HD animal models and HD male patients, due to altered spermatogenesis and sperm function, thus resulting in reduced fertilization potential. Although some pharmaceuticals are currently utilized to mitigate HD symptoms, an effective treatment that remedies the pathogenesis of the disease is yet to be approved by the FDA. Identification of genes and relevant diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic target pathways including glycolysis and mitochondrial complex-I-dependent respiration may be advantageous for early diagnosis, management, and treatment of the disease. This review addresses the HD pathway in neuronal and sperm metabolism, including relevant gene and protein expression in both neurons and spermatozoa, indicated in the pathogenesis of HD. Furthermore, zinc-containing and zinc-interacting proteins regulate and/or are regulated by zinc ion homeostasis in both neurons and spermatozoa. Therefore, this review also aims to explore the comparative role of zinc in both neuronal and sperm function. Ongoing studies aim to characterize the products of genes implicated in HD pathogenesis that are expressed in both neurons and spermatozoa to facilitate studies of future treatment avenues in HD and HD-related male infertility. The emerging link between zinc homeostasis and the HD pathway could lead to new treatments and diagnostic methods linking genetic sperm defects with somatic comorbidities.

Is fertility reduced in ovulatory women with polycystic ovary syndrome? An opinion paper.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility; however, whether women with PCOS and spontaneous or drug-induced ovulatory cycles have the same reproductive potential as non-PCOS controls is a matter of debate. In the present opinion paper, the author takes the opportunity to summarize the collective evidence supporting the hypothesis of reduced fertility potential in women with PCOS, regardless of ovulatory status, and speculate that reduced reproductive potential may be caused by altered oocytes, embryo and endometrial competence, and infertility-related co-morbidities as well as an increased risk of pregnancy complications.

Utility of anti-Mullerian hormone in clinical decision making in BRCA mutation carriers

Objectives: BRCA1/2 mutations increase cancer risk and may also confer risk for reduced fertility potential, posing a dilemma for BRCA mutation carriers desiring future fertility. On December 19, 2016, the FDA approved the use of Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) assay for use in the assessment of ovarian reserve. AMH serum concentration accurately reflects the size of the pool of antral follicles, representing the quantity of the remaining primordial follicles and is not dependent on timing in the menstrual cycle. The purpose of this study is to determine the frequency of AMH testing to monitor ovarian reserve and utility in clinical decision making among patients with BRCA1/2 mutations. Methods: BRCA1/2 mutation carriers were retrospectively identified from electronic medical records using ICD-10 codes, and BRCA1/2 mutation carriers between the ages of 18 and 50 seen between January 1, 2017 and August 1, 2020 were included in the study. CPT codes were used to identify patients with prior AMH testing; for patients who received testing, AMH levels and clinical data were abstracted from medical records. AMH levels were categorized as low or normal based on reported age-dependent reference ranges1. Referral to REI and cryopreservation were outcomes of interest and were compared between patients with low vs. normal AMH levels using Fisher's exact test. Results: Of 1,186 BRCA1/2 mutation carriers of reproductive age seen at NYU Langone Health, 73 (6.2%) received AMH laboratory testing. Of the 73 patients who had AMH testing, 39 (53.4%) had BRCA1 mutation and 36 (49.3%) had BRCA2 mutations; two patients (2.7%) carried mutations on both genes. AMH tests were ordered by the following providers: 64 (87.7%), gynecologic oncologists; 7 (9.6%), general gynecologist; and 2 (2.7%), reproductive endocrinologists (REI). Of the 73 women, 53 (72.6%) were interested in future fertility and 11 (15.1%) were unsure. The median age at the time of AMH testing was 30 years (Interquartile range [IQR] 27-34 years), and the median AMH level was 3.6 ng/mL (IQR 1.9-6.0 ng/mL). Twenty-nine patients (39.7%) had low AMH levels and of patients with low AMH levels, 14 (48.3%) received REI referrals and 9 (31.0%) patients were seen by REI. Significantly more patients with low AMH underwent cryopreservation compared to patients with normal AMH (17.2% vs 2.3%, p=0.03). One patient decided to undergo risk reducing surgery following a very low AMH value of Conclusions: Only 6% of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers of reproductive age at our institution received AMH testing. Incorporation of AMH monitoring into the screening and preventative care of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers desiring future fertility may help guide patient decision making regarding oocyte cryopreservation and timing of risk reducing surgery; further prospective evaluation in needed to better assess the role of AMH in these patients.

Are Infertile Men Less Healthy Than Fertile Men? An Analysis of the National Survey for Family Growth

ObjectiveTo characterize the general health status of infertile men in the United States using a nationally representative sample of men. MethodsUsing the National Survey for Family Growth from 2011 to 2017, infertile subgroups were created using a range of inclusion criteria. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted comparing these men to fertile men. ResultsUsing population estimates, 6.5 million men with reduced fertility potential were compared to 26 million fertile men. After controlling for demographic and healthcare utilization factors, these groups did not have significantly different rates of key medical co-morbidities, including cancer, obesity, and overall disability. Looking at the subset of men who had received a specific infertility diagnosis, estimated as a population of nearly 600,000 men, this pattern held, in that there were no significant differences in the rates of medical co-morbidities. Notably, the rate of male infertility evaluation among potentially infertile men was only 50%. These findings also persisted after a propensity-matched analysis. ConclusionIn this cohort, there was no significant relationship between infertility and specific medical co-morbidities. We must consider the influence of sample selection as we continue to investigate the relationship between medical co-morbidities and reduced fertility potential. Given the persistent low rates of infertility evaluation, even among men who seek medical advice to conceive, we must continue to search for ways to characterize the infertile male population while simultaneously working to improve access.

Swine spermatozoa trigger aggregated neutrophil extracellular traps leading to adverse effects on sperm function

In pigs, the number of PMN in uterus lumen increases within few hours after natural or artificial AI resulting in early PMN-derived innate immune reactions. Sperm-NETs formation was recently reported to occur in various mammalian species. Aim of this study was to investigate direct interactions of boar spermatozoa with swine PMN, the release of sperm-mediated NETs, and to assess NET-derived effects on sperm functionality. Sperm-triggered NETs were visualized by SEM- and immunofluorescence analyses. Sperm-mediated NETosis was confirmed by presence of extruded DNA with global histones and NE. Largest sizes of sperm-mediated aggNETs were detected after 5 h thereby resulting in effective massive sperm entrapment. The number of aggNETs increased from 3 h onwards. Kinetic studies of swine sperm-mediated NETosis showed to be a time-dependent cellular process. In addition, number of NETs-entrapped spermatozoa increased at 3 h of exposure whilst few free spermatozoa were detected after 3 h. Anchored NETs also increased from 3 h onwards. The cytotoxicity of NETs was confirmed by diminution of the total motility and the progressive motility. Spermatozoa membrane integrity and function loss exposed to NETs was confirmed from 3 h. Experiments revealed NETs-derived damaging effects on swine spermatozoa in membrane integrity, motility and functionality. We hypothesize that swine sperm-triggered aggNETs might play a critical role in reduced fertility potential in swine reproductive technique. Thus, aggNETs formation needs to be considered in future studies about uterine environment as well as advance of sperm in the porcine female reproductive tract.

Identification of circulating small non-coding RNAs in relation to male subfertility and reproductive hormones

Male subfertility is often associated with sub-optimal health status and traditional semen and hormone analysis reveal only limited information about the reduced fertility potential. Circulating small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are paracrine and endocrine messengers, with prognostic potential. Here, we utilised small RNA-Seq to identify novel cell-free circulating sncRNAs that could act as potential biomarkers of male subfertility.We analysed sera from twelve subfertile men and four controls. The subfertile men were further sub-divided into the three groups based on reproductive hormone levels: group 1 (n = 4): hormone levels similar to the controls, group 2 (n = 4) showing elevated FSH levels, and group 3 (n = 4) with low total testosterone (TT). Total RNA was extracted from serum and sequenced to identify miRNAs and piRNAs. Selected sncRNAs were qPCR validated in a larger and independent cohort of subfertile men (n = 57) and normozoospermic controls (n = 19).RNA-Seq resulted in the identification of 1123 and 330 circulating miRNAs and piRNAs, respectively. Several miRNAs and piRNAs were differentially (p = 0.05) present between controls and subfertile men. Subfertile men with low TT appeared to have a distinct sncRNA profile, compared to group 1 and 2. Validation of two miRNAs (hsa-miR-542-5p and hsa-let-7i-3p) and one piRNA (hsa-piR-26399) in an independent cohort confirmed a significant difference in circulating levels between subfertile and control men. Enrichment analysis of the putative miRNA targets showed association with steroid biosynthesis pathway highlighting a potential regulatory role of these miRNAs. We propose that circulating sncRNAs may represent new important functional biomarkers in male reproductive endocrinology.

Stress Hormone and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers Link Obesity and Diabetes with Reduced Fertility Potential.

Objective Tilting the balance in favor of antioxidant agents could increase infertility problems in obese and diabetic individuals. The aim of this study was to evaluate oxidative stress status in semen of men with type 2 diabetes and obesity to investigate whether excessive amounts of oxidative stress, as a result of diabetes and obesity, influence infertility potential. Materials and Methods A case-control study was conducted in men (n=150) attending the Infertility Center of Royan Institute between December 2016 and February 2017. Participants were categorized into four groups; normal weight (BMI<25 kg/m2) and non-type-2 diabetic (control=40), obese and non- type-2 diabetic (obese=40), non-obese and type- 2 diabetic (Nob-DM=35), and obese and type-2 diabetic (Ob-DM=35). The semen analysis was performed according to the World Health Organization criteria. Oxidative stress, DNA fragmentation, sperm apoptosis, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were evaluated in semen samples of men. Serum glucose, HbA1c, cortisol, and testosterone levels were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Results Compared with the control group, sperm motility, progressive motility, and normal morphology were significantly decreased in the obese, Nob-DM, and Ob-DM groups (P<0.01). The obese, Nob-DM, and Ob-DM groups showed significantly lower levels of TAC and higher amounts of oxidative stress, early apoptotic sperm, and the percentage of DNA fragmentation as compared with the control group (P<0.05). Testosterone concentration was decreased in the obese, Nob-DM, and Ob-DM groups when compared with healthy individuals (P<0.05), whereas the cortisol level was significantly increased in the Nob-DM and Ob-DM groups in comparison to the obese and control group (P<0.01). ConclusionIncreased amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and DNA fragmentation in men affected by either diabetes or obesity could be considered prognostic factors in sub-fertile patients, alerting physicians to an early screen of male patients to avoid the development of infertility in prone patients.

Reduced Fertility Potential in Young Patients Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Despite Reduced Intensity Conditioning

Reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) is increasingly used for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). Risk of infertility and primary gonadal insufficiency secondary to standard myeloablative (MAC) HCT is high, but little is known of these complications following use of RIC HCT.

88 - Reduced Fertility Potential in Young Patients Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Despite Reduced Intensity Conditioning

88 - Reduced Fertility Potential in Young Patients Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Despite Reduced Intensity Conditioning

Redox Regulation of Fertility in Aging Male and the Role of Antioxidants: A Savior or Stressor.

Oxidative stress (OS), an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant scavengers, is considered an important underlying mechanism associated with ageing, age-related chronic diseases and reproductive decline in males. However, OS is an important regulator of numerous molecular pathways essential for homeostasis within cells, tissues and systems. A fine balance between factors promoting OS and those that scavenge ROS is critically important. In the male reproductive tract and ejaculate, ROS are critical molecular players in essential reproductive processes, including spermatogenesis, epididymal transport, spermatozoa maturation and post-ejaculation processes such as motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Increasing evidence suggests there is an overlap between age-related OS and male reproductive tract dysfunction correlating with reduced fertility potential due to semen quality decline, endocrine changes and sexual dysfunction. With increasing life expectancy in many regions of the world, together with an increasing paternal age and associated risk of for infertility, pregnancy complications and reduced health potential in the offspring, it is becoming increasingly important to fully understand the mechanism linked with these associations. This review considers the role of ROS and OS in fertility regulation, the ageing process, the role for OS in age-related reproductive decline, the approach to assessment in male infertility and the current use of antioxidants as a therapeutic option. Although evidence suggests exogenous antioxidant supplementation is useful in male infertility, caution to excessive or unnecessary use of these approaches is required to avoid the paradox of antioxidants inhibiting essential and beneficial ROS activities in male reproductive biology.

Reduced Fertility Potential in Young Females Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Despite Reduced Intensity Conditioning

Reduced Fertility Potential in Young Females Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Despite Reduced Intensity Conditioning

MP07-18 IMPACTS OF SMOKING ON THE GLYCOCALYX OF HUMAN SPERMATOZOA

You have accessJournal of UrologyInfertility: Basic Research & Pathophysiology I1 Apr 2017MP07-18 IMPACTS OF SMOKING ON THE GLYCOCALYX OF HUMAN SPERMATOZOA Rick Paschold, Susanne Bour, Armin Becker, Christian Stief, and Matthias Trottmann Rick PascholdRick Paschold More articles by this author , Susanne BourSusanne Bour More articles by this author , Armin BeckerArmin Becker More articles by this author , Christian StiefChristian Stief More articles by this author , and Matthias TrottmannMatthias Trottmann More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2017.02.284AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES About 10-15% of all infertility patients are diagnosed with idiopathic infertility. Particularly, long term smokers often suffer from a reduction of basic sperm parameters (Ramlau-Hansen, 2007). The effects of smoking on male fertility are still discussed controversially. It was shown, that the essential binding between sperm and oviduct is based on a lectine-carbohydrate interaction (Koelle, 2012). A functional reduction of fertility could occur due to a lack of binding capacity. Therefore, our group characterized the proteins on glycocalyx of human spermatozoa that are capable to bind sugar residues. Further it was evaluated, if smokers show a restricted sugar-binding ability compared to non-smokers. METHODS We separated two study populations (smokers, non-smokers) out of 78 fresh human ejaculate samples. A direct staining with Mitotracker DeepRed, NucBlue (DAPI) and FITC-conjugated sugar residues (sialic acid- (SA), mannose- (MA) and fucose- (FU)) was performed. We used confocal microscopy to examine the fluorescence-marked samples. The fluorescent cells were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively within the study populations.Additionally, we extracted the sperm's proteins from smokers and control group which we applied on SDS-Page (4-12.5 %). Western Blot was used to proof the presence of LMAN2 and CatSper1 proteins on the plasma membrane surface. RESULTS We located proteins at the middle part of the spermatozoa's head that are capable of binding sugar residues.The ratio of fluorescence-labelled cells to the total cell count, which correspond to the capacity of binding sugar residues, was measured. We showed a significant difference between the groups: For smokers, we counted a proportion of 0.07±0.006 (SA), 0.05±0.006 (MA), 0.05±0.005 (FU) compared to 0.15±0.01 (SA), 0.20±0.02 (MA), 0.19±0.02 (FU) for the non-smokers (p<0.05). Fluorescence intensity did not vary significantly between the groups.Protein candidates were found in Western Blot but first experiments did not show a significant difference in the amount between smokers and non-smokers. CONCLUSIONS Our results point out, that smoking could possibly lead to a reduction of sugar binding proteins on the human sperm glycocalyx. This could be a reason for a decreased binding capacity of sperms to the female reproductive tract which could lead to a reduced fertility potential of smokers. Further work is necessary to lighten the exact molecular interaction between spermatozoa and female reproductive tract. Based on these facts it might be possible to examine new diagnostic and therapeutic approach in the future. © 2017FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 197Issue 4SApril 2017Page: e88-e89 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2017MetricsAuthor Information Rick Paschold More articles by this author Susanne Bour More articles by this author Armin Becker More articles by this author Christian Stief More articles by this author Matthias Trottmann More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

4-Nonylphenol induces disruption of spermatogenesis associated with oxidative stress-related apoptosis by targeting p53-Bcl-2/Bax-Fas/FasL signaling.

4-Nonylphenol (NP) is a ubiquitous environmental chemical with estrogenic activity. Our aim was to test the hypothesis that pubertal exposure to NP leads to testicular dysfunction. Herein, 24 7-week-old rats were randomly divided into four groups and treated with NP (0, 25, 50, or 100 mg/kg body weight every 2 days for 20 consecutive days) by intraperitoneal injection. Compared to untreated controls, the parameters of sperm activation rate, curvilinear velocity, average path velocity, and swimming velocity were significantly lower at doses of 100 mg/kg, while sperm morphological abnormalities were higher, indicating functional disruption and reduced fertilization potential. High exposure to NP (100 mg/kg) resulted in disordered arrangement of spermatoblasts and reduction of spermatocytes in seminiferous tubules, while tissues exhibited a marked decline in testicular fructose content and serum FSH, LH, and testosterone levels. Oxidative stress was induced by NP (50 or 100 mg/kg) as evidenced by elevated MDA, decreased SOD and GSH-Px, and inhibited antioxidant gene expression (CAT, GPx, SOD1, and CYP1B1). In addition, NP treatment decreased proportions of Ki-67-positive cells and increased apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Rats treated with 100 mg/kg NP exhibited significantly increased mRNA expression of caspase-1, -2, -9, and -11, decreased caspase-8 and PCNA1 mRNA expression, downregulation of Bcl-2/Bax ratios and upregulation of Fas, FasL, and p53 at the protein and mRNA levels. Taken together, NP-induced apoptosis, hormonal deficiencies, and depletion of fructose potentially impairs spermatogenesis and sperm function. p53-independent Fas/FasL-Bax/Bcl-2 pathways may be involved in NP-induced oxidative stress-related apoptosis. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 739-753, 2017.