Sperm Form Research Articles

The highly divergent spermatozoon of the Palawan spiny rat, Maxomys panglima has an extremely long tail.

Sperm morphology varies greatly across mammalian species and this variability is especially evident in murid rodents with both sperm head shape and tail length being sexually selected traits. The Palawan spiny rat, Maxomys panglima has a longer sperm tail than that currently recorded for any other mammalian species. The aim of the current study was to determine the sperm morphology of an individual Palawan spiny rat, M. panglima . Light and transmission electron microscopy were carried out. We found that the sperm tail of M. panglima has an average length of 380μm with the midpiece being approximately 185μm in length with comparatively small mitochondria but very large coarse fibres. Furthermore, the sperm head has a less acutely flexed apical hook than that of most other murid rodents including those of several other Maxomys species. The Palawan spiny rat has a highly divergent sperm morphology with an extremely long tail. It may turn out to be an important species for testing various hypotheses of sperm form and function in mammals. These findings suggest markedly different selective pressures may have resulted in this unique sperm morphology, the functional significance of which remains to be determined.

MALE INFERTILITY ASSOCIATED WITH OBESITY

Obesity should be considered as a separate risk factor that contributes to the development of male infertility. Aim. To assess obesity impact level on semen disturbances. Methods. The study included 130 males with fertility disorders, who, depending on the level of body mass index (BMI), were divided into two groups. The first group included 67 men with a BMI of 22,7±2,9 kg/m². The second group included 63 men with 38,6±4,3 kg/m² (p <0.05). Results. The significant tendency to decrease in the levels of LH, FSH, testosterone and an increase in the level of estradiol in men with an increase in BMI compared to men with normal weight was established (p<0.05). In addition, obese men sperm motility was 8.2% worse (p<0.05). Conclusion. In men with obesity and fertility disorders, the concentration and number of motile forms of spermatozoa are significantly lower compared to men with a normal body mass index.

DISORDER OF SPERMATOGENESIS UNDER CONDITIONS OF EXPERIMENTAL CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE

Purpose - to estimate the disorder of spermatogenesis under conditions of experimentalchronic kidney disease (EChD).Material and methods. The study was carried out in two series of experiments on malemice with EChD, the model of which was created by immunizing animals with a kidneyhomogenate. The first series of experiments was devoted to the study of: sperm count(sperm concentration (mln / ml)) and the number of abnormal sperm forms; the ratio ofcells of different generations of spermatogenic epithelium (%) in the testes; pathways ofcell death of cells of the testes and epididymis (spermatocytes (primary) and spermatozoa).The fertile qualities of males were assessed in the second series of experiments, afterreplanting them to intact females. Pre- and post-implantation embryonic mortality andthe number of living fetuses per female mouse have been investigated. The research resultswere compared with the performance of animals in the control groups for each series.Results. No significant changes in the number of spermatozoa were found under EChDconditions (p> 0.05). An increase in the number of abnormal spermatozoa (22%) andthose with primary abnormalities (p <0.05) was found. Among the generations of testescells, a decrease in the number of spermatids and living spermatocytes (primary) (15%)was established, with an increase in the number of cells with apoptosis and necrosisamong them (p <0.05). The number of living cells of the epididymis (spermatozoa) alsodecreased (17.8%), with the growth of cells with apoptosis and necrosis among them (p<0.05). There was an increase in the pre- and post-implantation mortality of embryos (p<0.05); decrease in the number of living fetuses (p <0.05).Conclusions. Under conditions of four-time treatment with renal homogenate (EChD)there is a disorder of spermatogenesis in male mice. Experimental model of kidneydamage, proposed by us, can be useful for studying other aspects and consequences ofkidney pathology, and both for establishment of the features and detection of possiblepathogenetic links in the development of spermatogenesis disorder under conditions ofchronic kidney disease and search of the effective ways to correct it in future.

PHENOTYPIC VARIABILITY OF SPERM PRODUCTIVITY OF BULL-SIRES OF DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS OF PRODUCTIVITY

Significant breeds and age features of sperm productivity were found in breeding bulls. The volume of ejaculate and the total number of sperm in it increases until the age of 8–9 years, depending on the breed. The ejaculate volume of 2-year-old bulls, depending on the breed, was 58.63–73.0% and 3-year-old bulls – 69.1–87.0% of the ejaculate volume of 6-year-old offspring, and the total number of sperm in the ejaculate – respectively 53.9–75.4 and 59.5–90.4% of this number of sperm in the ejaculate of 6-year-old bulls. These indicators with small fluctuations persist until 10–12 years of age of the offspring. Sperm concentration and motility also increase until 6–8 years of age and remain at this level with small fluctuations until 12 years of age. The resistance of sperm to freezing reaches its maximum values at the age of 5–6 years of bulls. Analysis of the data shows that the degree of influence of age on the volume of ejaculate, depending on the breed is in the range of 24.2–30.1%, on the concentration of sperm – 2.6–15.2, their total number in the ejaculate – 13.8–21.2, sperm motility – 4.3–18.3 and the resistance of sperm to freezing – 8.5–15.8%.
 According to the results of research, the correlation coefficient between age and ejaculate volume for bulls of the studied breeds was 0.43–0.60, and between age and the total number of sperm in the ejaculate – 0.37–0.48. There is a significant dependence of ejaculate volume and total sperm count on the live weight of the fetuses. The correlation coefficient between ejaculate volume and live weight, depending on the breed, was 0.51–0.75, and for the total amount in ejaculate – 0.45–0.55. The share of live weight on ejaculate volume was 25.0–43.1%, and on the total number of sperm in ejaculate – 20.8–36.9%. This close relationship can be explained by the fact that the weight of the testes has a high relationship with the live weight of the ovary (r = 0.89).
 The results of research show that the semen of breeding bulls of different breeds has different morphological composition. The largest number of sperm abnormalities occurs in isolated heads (3.5 ± 0.14%), curved bodies (2.7 ± 0.19%), twisted (1.6 ± 0.14%), bent (1.7 ± 0.14%) and folded (3.4 ± 0.40%) tails. The sum of primary anomalies was significantly less than the sum of secondary anomalies.
 When dividing pathological forms into pathology of the head, neck, body and tail, it was found that the total amount of abnormal forms of sperm was the largest in bulls of limousine breed (16.6 ± 2.19) and the smallest – in the offspring of Aberdeen Angus and Simmental breeds. The largest number of pathological forms of sperm heads were bulls of Hereford breed (7.0 ± 0.55%), and the smallest – the offspring of Aberdeen Angus breed (4.2 ± 0.83%), the difference is statistically significant at P < 0.005. The sum of primary anomalies was highest in bulls of Limousine breed (2.9 ± 1.03) and Dutch breed (2.1 ± 0.42), and secondary anomalies – in bulls of Limousine breed (13.7 ± 1.87) and Piemontese breed (13.7 ± 2.19%).
 During the correlation-regression analysis, the closest correlation was established between the motility of germ cells after thawing and the number of pathologies of the heads (r = -0.43 at P < 0.05), cervical sperm (r = -0.44 at P < 0,05) and the total amount of pathological forms (r = -0.45 at P < 0.005). Average correlations were observed between the number of pathologies of the heads and necks of sperm and the motility of germ cells in native semen (respectively r = -0.31 and r = -0.30 at P < 0.05), pathologies of the heads – -0.30 at P < 0.005) and the total amount of pathological forms of sperm (r = -0.23 at P > 0.05) and the amount of rejected sperm. The share of the influence of the age of bulls on the number of pathological forms of the heads was 24.0% (P < 0.05), pathologies of the necks – 4.0% (P > 0.05), the body – 26.0% (P < 0.05), tail – 37.0% (P < 0.01) and the total number of pathological forms of sperm – 59.0% (P < 0.001).
 Conclusions. Age and breed features of quantitative and qualitative indicators of sperm productivity, growth of genitals, morphological composition of spermatozoa and correlations between these indicators in bulls of different breeds have been established.

Epididymal sperm quality of Kacang goat preserved in low temperature for genetic material utilization in assisted reproductive technologies

Postmortem epidydimal preservation at low temperature (3-4°C), is a way to preserve and recover male genetic material. This effort aims for prolonging male function as sperm source, followed with its utilization in assisted reproductive technologies. This study aimed to observe the quality of sperm form cauda epididymis which preserved at low temperature for consecutive days. Sperm were retrieved from twelve cauda epididymis of Kacang Goat and its qualities namely motility, intact membrane, life/dead, and abnormality (all in %) were evaluated in every 2 days until 0% motility. Data were compared using analysis of variance at a = 0.05. Result shows significant (P<0.05) decrease in motility, intact membrane, and life/dead, but increase in abnormality during observation at day 0, day 2, day 4 and day 6, respectively. At the respective days, motility was 91.33±1.25%; 74.67±3.88%; 28.17±2.25% and 0.33±0.57%, intact membrane was 54.83±1.04%; 39±3.77%; 25.1±3.32% and 14.83±2.75%, life/dead was 55.17±4.01%; 36±3.5%; 24.3±3.25% and 12±2.78%, abnormality was 3.16±0.76%; 4.16±0.76%; 6.16±2.25% and 11±2.17%. According to the study, it is concluded that preserved sperm from cauda epididymis at low temperature shows decrease in quality and its utilization should rely on the quality status to select the most appropriate assisted reproductive technology.

MАR-test and Spermiological Research Indices

Antisperm antibodies are detected in 3% to 25% of cases in men and women diagnosed with infertility. They can also be diagnosed in 1–10% of healthy fertile men. The presence of a high titer of AST is one of the factors of male infertility, which can be «hidden», i. e. not cause symptoms and deterioration of the overall spermogram. The objective: to analyze the results of sperm testing in men with antisperm antibodies, which were detected by MAR-test. Material and methods. A retrospective analysis of the examination results of 555 men was conducted on the basis of the Medical Center for Infertility Treatment in Chernivtsi. Spermograms were examined according to WHO recommendations in 2000, using an inverted microscope Olympus CKX41 in a Broker chamber. Determination of the percentage of sperm coated with antisperm antibodies was performed using the MAR-test (MAR-test, MAR-mixed antiglobulin reaction). Results. If we calculate the percentage of patients in whom we assume the connection between the presence of antisperm antibodies and undertaken surgery, genital infections and allergy history, we get only 48.3% of cases. It has been found that most changes in sperm counts correlate with the percentage of sperm that are coated with IgG. These data indicate that increased IgG levels play an important role in the development of pathospermia. A negative medium-strength correlation was found between the percentage of Category A sperm and the percentage of IgG-coated sperm. Persistence of IgG in semen is accompanied by a probable decrease in the morphological quality of sperm. Conclusion. In 52% of patients it was not possible to establish the etiological factor for the presence of Ig in the ejaculate. It has been found that most changes in sperm counts correlate with the percentage of sperm that are coated with IgG. It has been determined that an increase in the level of IgA and IgG leads to a probable increase in the percentage of pathological sperm forms and decrease in sperm motility. In the presence of 30% of sperm that are coated with IgG, with a probability of 95%, the ejaculate of patients will have 100% of pathologicoalr mf s of sperm.

Postcopulatory sexual selection is associated with sperm aggregate quality in Peromyscus mice.

In some species, sperm form coordinated groups that are hypothesized to improve their swimming performance in competitive contexts or to navigate through the viscous fluids of the female reproductive tract. Here we investigate sperm aggregation across closely related species of Peromyscus mice that naturally vary by mating system to test the predictions that sperm aggregates 1) are faster than solitary sperm in species that females mate multiply to aid cells in sperm competition, and 2) outperform solitary sperm cells in viscous environments. We find significant variation in the size of sperm aggregates, which negatively associates with relative testis mass, a proxy for sperm competition risk, suggesting that postcopulatory sexual selection has a stabilizing effect on sperm group size. Moreover, our results show that sperm aggregates are faster than solitary sperm in some, but not all, species, and this can vary by fluid viscosity. Of the two species that produce the largest and most frequent groups, we find that sperm aggregates from the promiscuous P. maniculatus are faster than solitary sperm in every experimentally viscous environment but aggregation provides no such kinematic advantage under these same conditions for the monogamous P. polionotus. The reduced performance of P. polionotus aggregates is associated with less efficient aggregate geometry and the inclusion of immotile or morphological abnormal sperm. Our cross-species comparison yields insight into the evolution of sperm social behaviors, provides evidence of extensive variation in the Peromyscus lineage, and reveals that differences in sperm aggregate quality associate with postcopulatory sexual selection.

P–011 Automated sperm morphology assessment using artificial intelligence technology

Abstract Study question Can LensHooke X1 PRO semen analyzer be used to evaluate sperm morphology in men with infertility? Summary answer Morphology results generated by X1 PRO are highly reliable when normal sperm forms are ≥4% and therefore they can be reported in such cases . What is known already Most laboratories rely on manual evaluation of sperm morphology smears, which is a time-consuming procedure and its results are subjected to a relatively high variability. However, in recent years the computer-assisted semen analyzers are being increasingly used to evaluate sperm morphology. The X1 PRO semen quality analyzer was designed for in vitro diagnostic use to analyze sperm concentration, total, progressive and non-progressive motility as well as sperm morphology based on WHO 5th edition criteria. Evaluation of sperm morphology using X1 PRO based on AIOM (Artificial Intelligence Optical Microscopic)-based technology requires no fixation steps or staining unlike the manual method. Study design, size, duration This cross-sectional study used 31 semen samples from 8 normozoospermic healthy volunteers and 5 infertile men with a minimum abstinence period between 2 - 3 days. While the 8 healthy semen donors produced a total of 26 ejaculates, which were split into 88 aliquots, the 5 infertile patients produced 5 ejaculates that were split into 13 aliquots. Participants/materials, setting, methods A total of 101 aliquots were prepared from the native semen samples either by dilution or concentration using seminal plasma of the respective donors. Automated semen analysis was performed by the X1 PRO semen analyzer and the results of sperm morphology were compared with manual morphology results using Diff-Quik staining. Statistical analysis was carried out to calculate the positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of X1 PRO semen analyzer. Main results and the role of chance The X1 PRO sperm morphology results show a weak non-significant (P = 0.2441) correlation (r = 0.119) with the manual results. However, X1 PRO demonstrated a high PPV (97.7%) and a low NPV (9.1%) for correct assessment of sperm morphology (≥4%) when compared to manual results. Due to its high PPV, laboratories can report the morphology results generated by X1 PRO in all such cases when normal sperm forms are ≥4%. However, a manual evaluation is necessary in patients with abnormal morphology (&amp;lt;4%). Limitations, reasons for caution One of the limitation of this study is that X1 PRO morphology values did not correlate with manual results. The low NPV seen in our study is due to the inclusion of very few samples with abnormal sperm forms (&amp;lt;4%) in the analysis. Wider implications of the findings: The X1 PRO’s combination of speed, ease of use, accuracy and portability makes it a good choice of device for small medical offices to large IVF centers. High PPV of X1 PRO allows it to correctly identify normal sperm forms for diagnostic use. Trial registration number 18–771

Semen biomarker TEX101 predicts sperm retrieval success for men with testicular failure

Background: Azoospermia could be due to either obstruction (obstructive azoospermia: OA) or spermatogenic failure (non-obstructive azoospermia: NOA). Close to 50% of men with NOA have small pockets of sperm in the testis which could be retrieved surgically and then injected into oocytes in a program of intra-cytoplasmic sperm insertion. Presently, there are no accepted non-invasive tests allowing clinicians to predict the success rates of sperm retrieval. Previously, we have identified a germ cell-specific protein TEX101 in semen found in the primary spermatocytes and more mature sperm forms, but not in spermatogonia, Sertoli or Leydig cells. We hypothesized that the semen concentration of TEX101 could be used to predict sperm production in men with NOA. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study on men with NOA being treated at a male infertility centre. Men with NOA planning sperm retrieval provided 1–3 semen samples prior to surgery. Semen TEX101 concentrations were measured by an in-house-developed ELISA assay and compared with the results of the surgery to retrieve sperm. Results: 20/60 karyotypically normal men with NOA had semen TEX101 &lt; LOD (&lt;0.2ng/mL). Of these, 0% had successful sperm retrieval(0-17%: 95% CI) . In contrast, of the 40 men with TEX101&gt; LOD, sperm was found in 50% (34-66%: 95% CI, sig diff. Fisher’s exact test, p&lt;0.05). Conclusions: Undetectable (&lt;0.2 ng/mL) semen TEX101 is highly predictive of sperm retrieval failure for karyotypically normal men with NOA and is the single strongest non-invasive predictor of sperm retrieval failure reported so far. Semen TEX101 concentration will help couples decide their individual chances of successful sperm retrieval.

Sperm bauplan and function and underlying processes of sperm formation and selection.

The spermatozoon is a highly differentiated and polarized cell, with two main structures: the head, containing a haploid nucleus and the acrosomal exocytotic granule, and the flagellum, which generates energy and propels the cell; both structures are connected by the neck. The sperm's main aim is to participate in fertilization, thus activating development. Despite this common bauplan and function, there is an enormous diversity in structure and performance of sperm cells. For example, mammalian spermatozoa may exhibit several head patterns and overall sperm lengths ranging from ∼30 to 350 µm. Mechanisms of transport in the female tract, preparation for fertilization, and recognition of and interaction with the oocyte also show considerable variation. There has been much interest in understanding the origin of this diversity, both in evolutionary terms and in relation to mechanisms underlying sperm differentiation in the testis. Here, relationships between sperm bauplan and function are examined at two levels: first, by analyzing the selective forces that drive changes in sperm structure and physiology to understand the adaptive values of this variation and impact on male reproductive success and second, by examining cellular and molecular mechanisms of sperm formation in the testis that may explain how differentiation can give rise to such a wide array of sperm forms and functions.

Effect of gold nanocomposite treatment on male reproductive function

Recently, it has been proved that polymers with a dextran core and grafted polyacrylamide chains dextran–polyacrylamide are effective in photodynamic chemotherapy, which gives confidence in the prospect of drug nanosystem. However, further research is needed to determine the effect of the treatment on male reproductive function. Experiments have been conducted on 50 male and 50 females Albino white laboratory mice (25–30 g). Copolymer dextran-graft-polyacrylamide in nonionic (D-g-PAA) and anionic forms (D-g-PAA(PE) was used as a polymer matrix for in situ synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). D-g-PAA consists of dextran core and five grafted PAA chains. The copolymer in anionic form was prepared by alkaline hydrolysis. Polymer/AuNP systems contain AuNPs of 2–11 nm in size and have spherical shape. The treatment of substances was carried out in the following way: D-g-PAA and D-g-PAA(PE) (10,00 mg/kg), D-g-PAA/AuNPs and D-g-PAA(PE)/AuNPs (9.78 mg/kg), saline solution was introduced intravenously (in the tail vein, in 0.3 mL) once a day, five times. For the first time, it has been shown that treatment with D-g-PAA, D-g-PAA(PE), and D-g-PAA/AuNPs did not affect reproductive function in male mice. Disorder of the male reproductive function occurs under conditions of treatment with D-g-PAA(PE)/AuNPs. Significant changes in the values of were established in: (1) pre- and post-implantation mortality of embryos; (2) the number of live newborns (pups); (3) sperm and abnormal sperm forms (%); (4) spermatocytes (primary) and spermatids (%); (5) living, apoptotic and necrotic cells in the testis (spermatocytes (primary)) and in the epididymis (spermatozoa).

Effects of a new thyrotropic drug isolated from Potentilla alba on the male reproductive system of rats and offspring development

BackgroundThe dysfunction of the thyroid gland is a common medical condition. Nowadays, patients frequently use medicinal herbs as complementary or alternative options to conventional drug treatments. These patients may benefit from treatment of thyroid dysfunctions with Potentilla alba L. preparations. While it has been reported that Potentilla alba preparations have low toxicity, nothing is known about their ability to affect reproductive functions in patients of childbearing age.MethodsMale Wistar rats were orally treated with a thyrotrophic botanical drug, standardized Potentilla alba Dry Extract (PADE), at doses 8 and 40 times higher than the median therapeutic dose recommended for the clinical trials, for 60 consecutive days. Male Wistar rats receiving water (H2O) were used as controls. After completing treatment, half of the PADE-treated and control males were used to determine PADE gonadotoxicity, and the remaining half of PADE-treated and control males were mated with intact females. Two female rats were housed with one male for two estrus cycles. PADE effects on fertility and fetal/offspring development were evaluated.ResultsHerein, we report that oral treatment of male Wistar rats with PADE before mating with intact females instigated marked effects on male reproductive organs. Treatment significantly decreased the motility of the sperm and increased the number of pathological forms of spermatozoa. Additionally, a dose-dependent effect on Leydig cells was observed. However, these PADE effects did not significantly affect male fertility nor fetal and offspring development when PADE-treated males were mated with intact females.ConclusionsPADE treatment of male rates negatively affected sperm and testicular Leydig cell morphology. However, these changes did not affect male fertility and offspring development. It is currently not known whether PADE treatment may affect human male fertility and offspring development. Therefore, these results from an animal study need to be confirmed in humans. Results from this animal study can be used to model the exposure-response relationship and adverse outcomes in humans.

CHARACTER AND SPECIFICS OF THE STRUCTURAL ALTERATION OF THE PARENCHYMA AND BLOODSTREAM OF THE TESTES OF WHITE RATS WITH PROLONGED ADMINISTRATION OF HIGH DOSES OF PREDNISOLONE

The aim: To investigate the nature of morphofunctional changes in the parenchyma and bloodstream of the testes of white rats with prolonged administration of high doses of prednisolone. Material and methods: The experiments were performed on rats fed daily for 1, 3, 7, 14 and 28 days. prednisolone was administered intramuscularly at a rate of 0.4 mg / kg. Massometric, organometric, histological and morphometric studies were performed. Results: Administration of high doses of prednisolone resulted in a significant increase in body weight and testicular weight and volume. As the drug was administered, spermatogenesis was activated. The number of immature forms of germ cells increased significantly. At the same time, the specific number of mature forms of sperm decreased. This led to a significant increase in the diameter of the convoluted tubules, the thickness of the spermatogenic epithelium, as well as the index of spermatogenesis. The increase in indicators was especially intense until the 7th day of observation, after which its rate decreased, although the dynamics remained unchanged. The thickness of the protein shell tended to decrease. The detected changes occurred against the background of dilation and plethora of arteries, especially up to 7-14 days of the experiment, after which their intensity decreased slightly. This was accompanied by a simultaneous reversible narrowing of the lumen of small arteries and arterioles. Conclusion: Thus, long-term administration of high doses of prednisolone promotes the activation of spermatogenesis with an increase in immature forms of germ cells and a simultaneous decrease in the proportion of mature sperm. Increased vascular blood supply, especially in the early period. In the long run, the capacity of small arteries and arterioles is reduced, as well as the degree of activation of spermatogenesis.

Efficacy of Phala Ghrita and cow ghee in the management of oligozoospermia

BACKGROUND: Oligozoospermia is one of the major causes of infertility in males. A special branch of Ayurveda called Vajeekarana (aphrodisiac therapy) is specially related to management of infertility. Phala Ghrita (PHG) is an Ayurved formulation specially indicated in infertility due to oligospermia, and it is also narrated that cow ghee (CG) also possesses spermatogenic efficacy. Therefore, the present work was planned to compare the clinical efficacy of PHG and CG on oligozoospermia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety-nine male patients suffering from oligospermia and having sperm count less than 15 million/mL were selected for the study. Patients’ underwent Ayurveda Bio-cleansing procedure by using Haritakyadi Yoga–a laxative Ayurveda formulation. PHG and CG at a dose of 10 g, twice daily were administered in 51 and 42 patients, respectively, with warm milk for 8 weeks. Assessment of seminal parameters were done before and after completion of treatment. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Statistical data showed that PHG and CG showed a significant (P &lt; 0.001) change in sperm such as increase in sperm motility, decrease in abnormal forms of sperm, and increase in semen volume. However, the effect of PHG is found to be better than CG except in increasing semen volume. CONCLUSION: PHG and CG both have significant spermatogenic potential when administered after bio-cleansing of body by using Haritakyadi Yoga. Study registration: CTRI/20164/01/006559

Вплив прооксидантно-антиоксидантного гомеостазу на функціональну активність сперміїв кнурів за корекції мінерального живлення

The use of chelated compounds of trace elements as an alternative to mineral salts can increase their conversion, reduce the content in feed and prevent environmental pollution. However, it remains relevant to study the effect of these substances on the reproductive capacity of pigs. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of prooxidant-antioxidant homeostasis (PAH) on the functional activity of sperm of boars in the correction of mineral nutrition. The study used adult boars of the Large White breed. The duration of the experiment was 120 days, including: preparatory - 30, basic - 60 (feeding lactates of Zinc, Selenium, Copper and Iron) and final - 30 days. In the main period of the experiment, the diet of animals in the control group remained unchanged, and two experimental were with the addition of lactates Zinc, Selenium, Copper and Iron. The level of biologically active components in the diet of the experimental groups was higher by 10% and 20% compared with the control group. In the obtained blood samples it was determined the state of PAG. The functional activity of sperm in stored spermatozoa at 170C after 3 hours of incubation was determined by their activity and survival by testing for heat resistance, heat stress resistance, the number of anomalies and the integrity of acrosomes. It was found that the introduction of lactates of Zinc, Selenium, Copper and Iron in the feed mixture to boars significantly changes the state of PAG in blood depending on the number of additionally fed lactates of trace elements. The addition of these biologically active substances by 10% above the norm after 60 days of feeding helps to preserve the content of antioxidant vitamins, reduced glutathione, stimulates the functional activity of superoxide dismutase by 50% and catalase by 23.6% and is accompanied by a slight decrease in peroxidation processes. conjugates and TBC-active complexes. The addition of lactates of micronutrients to the feed mixture is by 20% more than norma for boars, compared with the control group, after 30 days of use stimulates peroxidation, accompanied by intensive use of non-enzymatic - vitamin A (p &lt;0,05-0,01) and activation of enzymatic antioxidants - superoxide dismutase (p &lt;0.05-0.01) and catalase, which lasts for 90 days. The viability of sperm is significantly correlated with the number of additionally fed lactates of trace elements. The addition of these biologically active substances by 10% more than normal after 60 days of feeding helps to increase the functional activity of sperm for 3 hours at a temperature of 170C storage, heat resistance (p &lt;0.05), heat stress resistance, increases their ability to fertilize. The addition of lactates of micronutrients in the feed mixture is by 20% more than the norm for boars in comparison with the control group after two months of feeding increases the number of pathological forms of sperm (p &lt;0,005), acrosome damage (p &lt;0,05), reduces heat resistance and heat stress resistance of sperm &lt;0.05), which reduces their fertility. It was found the fact that the processes of peroxidation in blood of boars are significantly interrelated with the functional activity of sperm in stored spermatozoa. The content of primary and secondary peroxidation products significantly correlates with the fertilizing ability of sperm in the range of r = 0.95… 0.99. The activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase are significantly interrelated with the fertilizing ability of sperm: in animals of the second group, the correlation coefficients were respectively r = 0.98 and r = 0.97, the third - r = 0.12 and r = 0.96, the first - r = - 0.58 and r = 0.80.

COMBINED TREATMENT OF PATHOSOSPERMIA WITH ADJUVANT THERAPY WITH SPEROTON COM- PLEX IN PATIENTS WITH VARICOCELE

OBJECTIVE&#x0D; To evaluate the effectiveness of combined treatment of pathozoospermia in patients with varicocele by performing micro- surgical phlebectomy of varicose veins of the spermatic cord in combination with adjuvant therapy with the Speroton complex&#x0D; MATERIAL AND METHODS&#x0D; Twenty microsurgical phlebectomies of varicose veins of the spermatic cord were performed in patients with pathozoo- spermia (oligoasthenospermia) against the background of varicocele with the appointment of the Speroton complex in the postoperative period for 3 months with an assessment of spermogram parameters before and after the operation in comparison with a group of 20 men with pathozocelemia without the use of adjuvant therapy. The study of morphological and functional parameters of spermogram of men of reproductive age (18-49 years) without signs of immune infertility (MAR-test IgG &lt;10%) before and after the start of treatment was carried out. The average age of men was 33 ± 2.3 years (M ± m).&#x0D; RESULTS&#x0D; All patients with infertility in combination with varicocele had oligoasthenozoospermia before treatment. Three months after the start of treatment in the study groups, there was a statistically significant improvement in sperm counts due to an increase in the concentration of spermatozoa in 1 ml of ejaculate, an increase in the number of progressively mobile forms and total motility of spermatozoa by 50-68%, an increase in the number of live sperm by 19-20% and a decrease in the num- ber of dead forms of spermatozoa by 30-35%. A statistically significant decrease in the DNA fragmentation index by 34-52% (p &lt;0.05) was found in all study groups. It was found that combination therapy, including microsurgical phlebectomy of the spermatic cord veins using the Speroton complex for 3 months, statistically significantly led to an increase in the concentration of spermatozoa in 1 ml of ejaculate (38.6 [38.2; 69.4]), an increase in progressively mobile forms (49.2 [26.7; 47.2]%) and general motility (72.2 [35.3; 64.7]%) of spermatozoa and viable forms (67.8 [39.3; 81.7] %), a decrease in the DNA fragmenta- tion index compared with the spermogram indicators of patients who underwent only microsurgical phlebectomy (p &lt;0.05 for all study indicators). In the group of patients after combined treatment with the inclusion of adjuvant therapy of the Speroton complex, there was a statistically significant decrease in the sperm DNA fragmentation index to almost normal values (12.1 ± 1.1%) compared with the group of patients who underwent only surgery (17.2 ± 0.8%) (p = 0.01). Combined treatment (micro- surgical phlebectomy of the veins of the spermatic cord in combination with adjuvant therapy Speroton) of pathozoospermia in men of reproductive age with infertility on the background of varicocele can significantly improve the morphofunctional parameters of spermogram after 3 months from the start of treatment compared to men who underwent only surgical correction of varicocele.

Ethical-anthropological dilemmas of gamete and embryo donation: commodification, altruism, morality, and the future of the genetic family

ART and, in particular, IVF and ICSI, are essentially a laboratory experiment, but which, due to its specificity, goes beyond the disciplinary boundaries, explicitly acquiring an ethical-axiological dimension in the interaction zone of the members of a particular community involved in child-bearing. At the same time, it is noted that the activity and choice of a way to solve problems with childbirth has a characteristic severity, due to the traditions and level of civil and social maturity of a country, due, among other things, to the level and achievements of technical equipment in this industry of knowledge and practice. According to foreign studies, about half of all subfertile people (having problems with childbirth, but potentially able to become parents) in developed countries are trying to overcome their infertility with the help of medicine, and research data indicate that the proportion of such individuals is growing. The most difficult problems of reproduction are associated with low quality of oocytes (eggs) or low ovarian reserve (both age and hereditary, as well as associated with past diseases or iatrogenic); aspermia and deep teratozoospermia (the presence of only pathological forms of sperm in the ejaculate), can not give hope to a couple (or individual) to have genetically related offspring. However, donor programs create additional opportunities for social (non-biological) motherhood / paternity. Donation of oocytes (ova) is found in ART programs at least 3 times more often than donation of spermatozoa (for heterosexual couples, but not for single women). At the moment, donation of gametes and embryos raises a number of ethical, legal, medical and socio-psychological issues that require competent support from experts of a wide range of specialists, as well as competent, non-commercial, primarily due to the interaction between donors and recipients. The analysis of possible modifications of family and kinship ties is based on the idea of transforming social relations, in which assisted reproductive technologies (ART) play a fundamental role, building a system of “new kinship and new family.” By entering into the intimate process of the birth of life and acting as a regulator of the composition of participants in this process through the stimulation of responsibility to present and future relatives, reproductive technologies affect the initial moral requirements in the community, redefining universal values based on the specific situation. Scenarios of childbearing through ART with the involvement of additional participants (donors of sperm, oocytes or embryos) are possible in the context of the legal field, but legally fixed anonymity of the donor (except for the relative of the recipient) leaves many unresolved issues related to the problems of hereditary diseases, genetic abnormalities and epigenetic changes; in addition, there is a problem associated with the possibility of unintentional incest, as well as the difficulties of the child’s self-identification and the closeness of his genealogy. Solutions to these issues are postponed until later, thereby initiating future dramatic situations, ethical conflicts and dilemmas with a poorly predictable positive outcome.

Our experience of application of low-level laser therapy in red spectrum in male idiopathic secretory infertility

Introduction. Due to insufficient efficacy of medical therapy of idiopathic secretory male infertility there is a need to develop and apply more resultative methods of treatment.&#x0D; The aim of our study was to assess the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in red spectrum on sperm parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDNAF) and MAR-test rate in men with idiopathic infertility.&#x0D; Patients and methods. 85 men with idiopathic infertility were examined, 50 of them (first group) were treated with LLLT and 35 (second group) didnt have course of LLLT. Average age of patients of the first and second groups was 31.4 1.3 and 32.3 1.4 years. LLLT was performed in red spectrum on a Rubin-C device (Russia). 10 laser therapy procedures were carried out every two days with active luminescence for 10 minutes of both testicles. Male hormone panel, semen analysis, MAR-test, SDNAF were assessed before and after the treatment.&#x0D; Results. LLLT in patients of the first group resulted in significant increase in ejaculate volume, sperm viability, number of morphologically normal sperm forms (by an average of 11, 9 and 23% respectively), and active mobile sperm forms by an average of 14 and 19% one and two months after the therapy respectively. In 12 patients of the first group with initially increased SDNAF its level became normal after the treatment. Significant decrease of MAR-test we searched out in patients of the first group with its initial level less than 30%. As a result of the treatment, pregnancies developed in 10 (20%) out of 50 couples in the first group.&#x0D; Conclusions. LLLT in red spectrum leads to significant improvement of sperm quality in patients with idiopathic infertility, normalizes sperm DNA-fragmentation level and decreases MAR-test level.

Вплив фетоплацентарної недостатності матерів на стан сперматогенезу самців нащадків

The demographic situation in most countries of the European region, which includes Ukraine, is characterized as quite complex. Nowadays the question of the long-term effects of maternal fetoplacental insufficiency on the functioning of human body systems, in particular on the reproductive system of male offspring, remains open. It is known that negative factors during pregnancy can affect the development and existence of the individual. The purpose of the work was to study the long-term effects of fetoplacental insufficiency on the functioning of the reproductive system of adult male offspring born by mothers of different ages. Material and methods. The study was performed on healthy adult female Wistar rats, young (3 months) and mature (10 months) of reproductive age. 4 groups were formed: the 1st and the 2nd groups included intact animals of young and mature age; the 3rd and the 4th had females with experimental fetoplacental insufficiency of young and mature reproductive age. Modeling of fetoplacental insufficiency was performed by daily subcutaneous injection to females from the 12th to the 18th day of pregnancy 50% oil solution of carbon tetrachloride at a dose of 2 ml/kg body weight. We studied the state of spermatogenesis, weight of internal organs, sex hormones in mature male offspring of 3 months of age after decapitation. Results and discussion. Fetoplacental insufficiency leads to lower testosterone levels in all offspring born to mothers of different reproductive ages. The total level of estradiol remained almost unchanged, but still, in animals there was a shift in the ratio of sex hormones in the direction of hyperestrogenism. Experimental fetoplacental insufficiency in females of different reproductive ages also affected the mass of the testes, epididymis and adrenal glands in their male offspring. According to the indicators of the functional state of epididymal sperm in animals born by reproductively young females, the share of pathological forms of sperm decreased by 45%, in the offspring born by reproductively mature females with fetoplacental insufficiency decreased the number of motile sperm by 46% compared to the intact group of animals. Conclusion. The penetration of toxic substances into the mother's body leads to varying degrees of total xenobiotic load, followed by induction of neutralization reactions and the development of metabolic forms of fetoplacental insufficiency, changing the function of the endocrine system and causing adverse effects on the reproductive system. Fetoplacental insufficiency affects the reproductive function of adult male offspring born to mothers of different reproductive ages, which is manifested in a decrease in testosterone levels and deterioration of the spermogram, which in turn can lead to problems with impregnation

Study of the effect of the xenobiotic hormone on the reproductive function of rats

The aim is to study the effect of the xenobiotic of Nonylphenol on functional and morphological indices of the reproductive system of males of rats.Materials and methods. Experimental modelling of gonadotoxic effects of the xenobiotic was performed by inhalation of Nonylphenol at a concentration of 500 mg/m3 for 30 days, 5 days a week, 5 hours a day in conditions of the seed chamber. Male rats ejaculate were obtained by the method of electrostimulation seed tubercle in the mucous membrane of the rectum. The number of sperm in the ejaculate and their mobility were determined in the Hemocytometer 1, 7, 14 and 30 days after the start of the experiment. Macroscopic study of the testes included the assessment of external signs of damage, the determination of the mass and length of the testes.Results. It is established that the introduction of Nonylphenol to rats males leads to a gradual dynamical reduction of the total number and the number of mobile forms of sperm cells compared to intact animals. At the end of the experiment the number of mobile forms of sperm was 2.1 times below the original data. Long-term effect of Nonylphenol has also led to a significant decrease of body weight growth, which confirms its high toxicity. In the study found that intoxication in Mature rats Nonylphenol were significant changes in the reproductive system, which is primarily characterized by decreased weight of the testes and the appendages of the testis, and changes in linear dimensions of the bodies downward. These violations indicate a feminizing effect of this hormone-like xenobiotic and its role in the development of male infertility.Conclusions. Quantitative and qualitative parameters of the ejaculate of sexually mature male rats can serve as a valid criterion for adaptive and maladaptive processes occurring in the organism under the influence of the xenobiotic. In conditions of prolonged exposure to Nonylphenol (within 30 days) the changes in mass of the testes and reduce their linear dimensions