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Nguyen ND, Le MT, Tran NQT, Nguyen QHV, Cao TN. Micronutrient supplements as antioxidants in improving sperm quality and reducing DNA fragmentation. Basic Clin Androl 2023; 33:23. [PMID: 37704942 PMCID: PMC10500740 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-023-00197-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis and sperm quality may be negatively impacted by an increase in reactive oxygen species. This study investigates the efficacy of combined antioxidant therapy for treating male infertility, as measured by semen analyses and the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI). Infertile men with a high sperm DNA fragmentation index were instructed to take two oral micronutrient capsules daily for three months. Each antioxidant formulation contained 60 mg vitamin E, 400 µg folic acid, 30 mg selenium, 125 mg L-arginine, 220 mg L-carnitine, 7.5 mg coenzyme Q10, 40 mg L-glutathione, and 20 mg zinc citrate. At entry and post-treatment, the general characteristics, semen analysis, and sperm chromatin dispersion assays were recorded and compared. RESULTS After three months of treatment with antioxidant compounds, the quality of spermatozoa improved significantly, as indicated by a decrease in the mean DNA fragmentation index from 45.6 ± 17.2% to 34.8 ± 20.3%; an increase in sperm concentration from 29.7 × 106/mL to 35.7 × 106/mL (p < 0.001), an increase in a total number of spermatozoa from 72.1 × 106 to 95.5 × 106 (p = 0.012), and an increase in the vitality from 75.5 ± 17.1 to 81.1 ± 14.4% viable forms (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Micronutrient supplementation can improve sperm quality and DNA integrity in infertile men. Men with infertility and significant sperm DNA fragmentation who take antioxidants for three months experience a reduction in DNA fragmentation index and an increase in sperm quality as measured by the semen analysis. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04509583 . Registered 12 August 2020, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Ethics Committee-Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Dac Nguyen
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue, 53000, Vietnam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Minh Tam Le
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue, 53000, Vietnam.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam.
| | - Nhu Quynh Thi Tran
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue, 53000, Vietnam
| | - Quoc Huy Vu Nguyen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Thanh Ngoc Cao
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue, 53000, Vietnam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
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Choudhary S, Mishra V, Kumari P, Sheth H, Ahmad R, Haque M, Kumar S. Male Infertility: Causes and Management at a Tertiary Care Center in India. Cureus 2023; 15:e45584. [PMID: 37736241 PMCID: PMC10509730 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility and problems of impaired fecundity have been a concern through the ages and are also considerable clinical problems today, affecting many couples worldwide. Most infertility cases are primarily attributed to male factors, which play a significant role. Additionally, a substantial number of these patients exhibit suboptimal sperm parameters. The study is mainly designed for individual intervention and outcome. We aim to evaluate the demographics, etiology, utilization of treatments, and outcomes of males undergoing infertility treatment. Methodology We retrospectively enrolled infertile couples from January 2021 to March 2023, covering the past two years. All patients were evaluated and investigated per the study protocol to identify the cause of infertility. Results Two thousand three hundred forty-eight males were enrolled in the study, of whom 1,484 (63%) were found to have a standard semen analysis. A total of 868 (37%) had abnormal semen parameters. Two hundred and seventy-two (12%) patients completed the evaluation. All parameters, except for hypospermia, displayed lower percentages of motility compared to normozospermia. All semen parameters, except for hypospermia, showed a significantly lower normal morphology in comparison to normozospermia. This reduction increased by 10% for each year of age increment. Conclusions The study concluded by following a protocol for evaluating male patients. If an abnormal sperm parameter is identified before considering intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), it is recommended to conduct at least karyotyping and microdeletion analysis on the Y-chromosome's q arm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumesh Choudhary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Smt. G. R. Doshi and Smt. K. M. Mehta Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Center and Dr. H. L. Trivedi Institute of Transplantation Sciences, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Vineet Mishra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Smt. G. R. Doshi and Smt. K. M. Mehta Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Center and Dr. H. L. Trivedi Institute of Transplantation Sciences, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Pritti Kumari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Genetics, Smt. G. R. Doshi and Smt. K. M. Mehta Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Center and Dr. H. L. Trivedi Institute of Transplantation Sciences, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Hardik Sheth
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Smt. G. R. Doshi and Smt. K. M. Mehta Institute of Kidney Diseases and Research Center and Dr. H. L. Trivedi Institute of Transplantation Sciences, Ahmedabad, IND
| | - Rahnuma Ahmad
- Department of Physiology, Medical College for Women and Hospital, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Mainul Haque
- Department of Research, Karnavati Scientific Research Center (KSRC) Karnavati School of Dentistry, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar, IND
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, MYS
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Department of Periodontology and Implantology, Karnavati School of Dentistry, Karnavati University, Gandhinagar, IND
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Nguyen ND, Le MT, Dang HNT, Van Nguyen T, Nguyen QHV, Cao TN. Impact of semen oxidative stress on sperm quality: initial results from Vietnam. J Int Med Res 2023; 51:3000605231188655. [PMID: 37572034 PMCID: PMC10423449 DOI: 10.1177/03000605231188655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the relationship between oxidative stress (OS) measured by the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and the results of semen analysis among men from infertile couples. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 166 men from infertile couples, determined according to the World Health Organization guidelines. The general characteristics, semen analysis, sperm chromatin dispersion assay, and ORP of all subjects were evaluated and analyzed statistically. RESULTS Among 166 men from infertile couples, individuals with OS had a significantly higher DNA fragmentation index (DFI) than men without OS (22.37% ± 11.67% vs. 17.98% ± 8.98%). The sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility rate, and normal morphology were negatively correlated, while and an abnormal head and neck-tail were positively correlated with ORP. There was also a positive association between the DFI and OS level. The optimal ORP threshold for determining sperm quality was 0.77 mV/106 sperm/mL (sensitivity, 50.4%; specificity, 93.5%; positive predictive value, 52.9%; negative predictive value, 32.3%). CONCLUSIONS Determining the ORP suggests that OS has an adverse effect on the total sperm count, sperm motility, sperm concentration, morphology, vitality, and DNA fragmentation index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Dac Nguyen
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
| | - Minh Tam Le
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
| | - Hong Nhan Thi Dang
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
| | - Trung Van Nguyen
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
| | - Quoc Huy Vu Nguyen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
| | - Thanh Ngoc Cao
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Vietnam
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Rodak K, Kratz EM. PUFAs and Their Derivatives as Emerging Players in Diagnostics and Treatment of Male Fertility Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050723. [PMID: 37242506 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
About 15% of couples worldwide are affected by infertility, with the male factor responsible for approximately 50% of reproductive failures. Male fertility can be influenced by various factors, including an unhealthy lifestyle and diet, often associated with oxidative stress. These changes are frequently the reason for spermatozoan dysfunction, malformations, and lowered count. However, sometimes even with proper semen parameters, fertilization does not occur, and this is referred to as idiopathic infertility. Of particular importance may be molecules contained in the spermatozoan membrane or seminal plasma, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3 (docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids) and omega-6 (arachidonic acid) fatty acids and their derivatives (prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxanes, endocannabinoids, isoprostanes), which are vulnerable to the effects of oxidative stress. In the present review, we discuss the influence of these molecules on human male reproductive health and its possible causes, including disrupted oxidative-antioxidative balance. The review also discusses the potential use of these molecules in the diagnostics and treatment of male infertility, with a particular focus on the innovative approach to isoprostanes as biomarkers for male infertility. Given the high occurrence of idiopathic male infertility, there is a need to explore new solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Rodak
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Division of Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Maria Kratz
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Division of Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
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Abd-Alameer M, Rajabibazl M, Esmaeilizadeh Z, Fazeli Z. SAG-dihydrochloride enhanced the expression of germ cell markers in the human bone marrow- mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) through the activation of GLI-independent hedgehog signaling pathway. Gene X 2023; 849:146902. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Levkova M, Radanova M, Angelova L. Potential role of dynein-related genes in the etiology of male infertility: A systematic review and a meta-analysis. Andrology 2022; 10:1484-1499. [PMID: 36057791 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The dynein-related genes may have a role in the etiology of male infertility, particularly in cases of impaired sperm motility. OBJECTIVES The goal of this review is to compile a list of the most important dynein-related candidate genes that may contribute to male factor infertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS Databases were searched using the keywords "dynein", "male", "infertility" and by applying strict inclusion criteria. A meta-analysis was also performed by using the eligible case-control studies. The odd ratios (OR), the Z-test score, and the level of significance were determined using a fixed model with a p value of 0.05. Funnel plots were used to check for publication bias. RESULTS There were 35 studies that met the inclusion criteria. There were a total of fifteen genes responsible for the production of dynein structural proteins, the production of dynein assembling factors, and potentially associated with male infertility. A total of five case-control studies were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Variants in the dynein-related genes were linked to an increased the risk of male infertility (OR = 21.52, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 8.34 - 55.50, Z test = 6.35, p < 0.05). The percentage of heterogeneity, I2 , was 47.00%. The lack of variants in the dynein genes was an advantage and this was statistically significant. DISCUSSION The results from the present review illustrate that pathogenic variants in genes both for dynein synthesis and for dynein assembly factors could be associated with isolated cases of male infertility without any other symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The genes addressed in this study, which are involved in both the production and assembly of dynein, could be used as molecular targets for future research into the etiology of sperm motility problems. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Levkova
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University Varna, Marin Drinov Str 55, Varna, 9000, Bulgaria.,Laboratory of Medical Genetics, St. Marina Hospital, Hristo Smirnenski Blv 1, Varna, 9000, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Radanova
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics, Medical University Varna, Tzar Osvoboditel Str 84b, Varna, 9000, Bulgaria
| | - Lyudmila Angelova
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University Varna, Marin Drinov Str 55, Varna, 9000, Bulgaria
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Amor H, Hammadeh ME, Mohd I, Jankowski PM. Impact of heavy alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking on sperm DNA integrity. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14434. [PMID: 35484935 DOI: 10.1111/and.14434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The purposes of the presents study were to investigate the impact of alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking on semen parameters and sperm DNA quality, as well as to determine whether tobacco smoking, or alcohol consumption causes more deterioration of sperm quality. Two hundred and eleven semen samples of men were included in this study. Four groups were studied: heavy smokers (N = 48), heavy drinkers (N = 52), non-smokers (n = 70), and non-drinkers (n = 41). Semen parameters were determined according to WHO guidelines, protamine deficiency assessed by chromomycin (CMA3) staining, and sperm DNA fragmentation (sDF) evaluated by TUNEL assay. Sperm parameters were significantly higher in non-smokers versus smokers and in non-drinkers versus drinkers (p < 0.005). However, protamine deficiency and sDF were significantly lower in non-smokers versus smokers and in non-drinkers versus drinkers (p < 0.0001). No significant difference in the semen analysis parameters was observed between heavy smokers and heavy drinkers (semen volume: 3.20 ± 1.43 vs. 2.81 ± 1.56 ml, semen count: 65.75 ± 31.32 vs. 53.51 ± 32.67 mill/ml, total motility: 24.27 ± 8.18 vs. 23.75 ± 1.75%, sperm vitality: 36.15 ± 18.57 vs. 34.62 ± 16.65%, functional integrity: 41.56 ± 18.57 vs. 45.96 ± 17.98% and the morphologically normal spermatozoa: 28.77 ± 11.82 vs. 27.06 ± 13.13%, respectively). However, protamine deficiency was significantly higher among drinkers than smokers (37.03 ± 9.75 vs. 33.27 ± 8.56%, p = 0.020). The sDF was also significantly higher among drinkers than smokers (22.37 ± 7.60 vs. 15.55 ± 3.33%, p < 0.0001). Thus, cigarette smoking, and heavy alcohol intake can deteriorate sperm quality. However, alcohol consumption deteriorates sperm maturity and damages DNA integrity at significantly higher rates than cigarette smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houda Amor
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Mohamad Eid Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Izzaddin Mohd
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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Sharif Z, Akhtar MF, Sharif H, Saleem A, Khan MI, Riaz A. Endocrine disruption: Reproductive toxicity of glyceryl trinitrate and isosorbide mononitrate in male Wistar rats. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14482. [PMID: 35648594 DOI: 10.1111/and.14482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) and isosorbide mononitrate (IM) are organic nitrates which release nitric oxide upon metabolism with potential to adversely affect male reproductive function. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the sub-chronic effect of these organic nitrates on reproductive system in male rats. Wistar rats were separately treated with GTN and IM at 2.5, 5 and 7.5 mg/kg/day by oral gavage for 45 days. At the end of treatment, serum blood samples were taken from anaesthetized rats for assessment of hormonal profile. Epididymis was removed to analyse sperm parameters. Rat testes were dissected to perform histopathological evaluation and oxidative stress biomarkers. The GTN and IM treated groups showed a significant decrease in sperm parameters (count, motility and viability) and serum testosterone in comparison to normal control group. The GTN and IM treatment also altered sperm morphology such as bent tail and head deformities as compared to control. A significant decrease in catalase activity and, increase in nitric oxide and malondialdehyde were observed in high dose drug treated groups. Moreover, a significant increase in follicle stimulating hormone and decrease in testosterone levels were evident in all drug treated groups. The level of luteinizing hormone was raised in rats treated with medium doses of drugs while it decreased at the highest dose of both drugs. Histological study showed vacuolization and degeneration of seminiferous tubules. It is concluded that GTN and IM treatment adversely affected the male reproductive function by altering sperm parameters and disrupting the reproductive hormone profile which may be attributed to the increased level of nitric oxide and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zumna Sharif
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Furqan Akhtar
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hamna Sharif
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Shaikh Zayed Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ammara Saleem
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran Khan
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Amjad Riaz
- Department of Thriogenology, University of Veterinary and Animal Science, Lahore, Pakistan
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Pachetti M, D’Amico F, Zupin L, Luppi S, Martinelli M, Crovella S, Ricci G, Pascolo L. Strategies and Perspectives for UV Resonance Raman Applicability in Clinical Analyses of Human Sperm RNA. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313134. [PMID: 34884939 PMCID: PMC8658360 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing a deeper knowledge about the impact of DNA and RNA epigenetic mutations on sperm production and fertilization performance is essential for selecting best quality samples in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). Indeed, sperm RNAs adenine and guanine are likely to be methylated in low quality RNA sperm samples and their study requires the employment of techniques able to isolate high quality nucleic acids. UV resonance Raman spectroscopy represents a valuable tool that is able to monitor peculiar molecular modifications occurring predominantly in nucleic acids, being less sensitive to the presence of other biological compounds. In this work, we used an UV Resonance Raman (UVRR) setup coupled to a synchrotron radiation source tuned at 250 nm, in order to enhance sperm RNAs adenine and guanine vibrational signals, reducing also the impact of a fluorescence background typically occurring at lower energies. Despite that our protocol should be further optimized and further analyses are requested, our results support the concept that UVRR can be applied for setting inexpensive tools to be employed for semen quality assessment in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pachetti
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (S.L.); (M.M.); (G.R.); (L.P.)
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (F.D.)
| | - Francesco D’Amico
- Elettra—Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., SS14—km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (F.D.)
| | - Luisa Zupin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (S.L.); (M.M.); (G.R.); (L.P.)
| | - Stefania Luppi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (S.L.); (M.M.); (G.R.); (L.P.)
| | - Monica Martinelli
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (S.L.); (M.M.); (G.R.); (L.P.)
| | - Sergio Crovella
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Qatar, P.O. Box 2713, Doha 122104, Qatar;
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (S.L.); (M.M.); (G.R.); (L.P.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Lorella Pascolo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (S.L.); (M.M.); (G.R.); (L.P.)
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Torki A, Amirmozafari N, Talebi M, Talebi A. Using the PCR and Blood Agar in Diagnosis of Semen Bacterial Contamination of Fertile and Infertile Men. Rep Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 10:402-411. [PMID: 34981017 PMCID: PMC8718771 DOI: 10.52547/rbmb.10.3.402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the causes of male infertility is Genital tract infections (GTI). Considering the importance of GTI, widespread recognition of them seems necessary. we aimed to characterize and compare semen microbial populations in fertile and infertile men who referred to an infertility clinic in Yazd, Iran. METHODS Semen samples were collected from two groups of fertile (268) and infertile (210) men. Sperm analysis (concentration, morphology, viability and motility parameters) were performed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2010 guidelines laboratory manual. Bacterial isolation was performed in Sheep Blood Agar and Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) agar plates. For PCR, samples were analyzed with genus specific primers. RESULTS All semen characteristics were poor in the infertile group compared to those in the fertile men (p-value< 0.05). Enterococcus spp. (18.7%, 17.1%; p= 0.814), E. coli (7.9%, 11.4%; p= 0.486), Staphylococcus aureus (6.4%, 2.9%; p= 0.398) and Proteus mirabilis (0%, 2.9%; p= 0.002) were the most common agents, respectively. Also, the results obtained from PCR were confirmed using culture-base method. CONCLUSION Proteus mirabilis contamination was identified in the infertile group. While no significant association was observed between male infertility and semen microbial populations, p. mirabilis may be the leading cause of reproduction impairment in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Torki
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Nour Amirmozafari
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Malihe Talebi
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Alireza Talebi
- Andrology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
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Noh S, Go A, Kim DB, Park M, Jeon HW, Kim B. Role of Antioxidant Natural Products in Management of Infertility: A Review of Their Medicinal Potential. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E957. [PMID: 33036328 PMCID: PMC7600260 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9100957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility, a couple's inability to conceive after one year of unprotected regular intercourse, is an important issue in the world. The use of natural products in the treatment of infertility has been considered as a possible alternative to conventional therapies. The present study aimed to investigate the effects and the mechanisms of various natural products on infertility. We collected articles regarding infertility and natural products using the research databases PubMed and Google Scholar. Several natural products possess antioxidant properties and androgenic activities on productive factors and hormones. Antioxidants are the first defense barrier against free radicals produced by oxidative stress (OS). They remove reactive oxygen stress (ROS), reducing insulin resistance, total cholesterol, fat accumulation, and cancer growth. Moreover, various natural products increase endometrial receptivity and fertility ability showing androgenic activities on productive factors and hormones. For example, Angelica keiskei powder and Astragalus mongholicus extract showed anti-infertility efficacies in males and females, respectively. On the other hand, adverse effects and acute toxicity of natural products were also reported. Tripterygium glycoside decreased fertility ability both in males and females. Results indicate that management of infertility with natural products could be beneficial with further clinical trials to evaluate the safety and effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungjin Noh
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-dong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 05253, Korea; (S.N.); (A.G.); (D.B.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Ara Go
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-dong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 05253, Korea; (S.N.); (A.G.); (D.B.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Da Bin Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-dong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 05253, Korea; (S.N.); (A.G.); (D.B.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Minjeong Park
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-dong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 05253, Korea; (S.N.); (A.G.); (D.B.K.); (M.P.)
| | - Hee Won Jeon
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-dong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 05253, Korea;
| | - Bonglee Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-dong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 05253, Korea; (S.N.); (A.G.); (D.B.K.); (M.P.)
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-dong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 05253, Korea;
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegi-dong Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 05253, Korea
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12
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Zupin L, Pascolo L, Luppi S, Ottaviani G, Crovella S, Ricci G. Photobiomodulation therapy for male infertility. Lasers Med Sci 2020; 35:1671-1680. [PMID: 32483749 DOI: 10.1007/s10103-020-03042-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is a worldwide critical condition that affects about the 7.5% of males in Europe leading to an increment of the couples referring to reproductive medicine units to achieve pregnancy. Moreover, in the recent years, an increased number of patients have required to freeze their gametes in order to preserve their fertility. Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy is a potential treatment that has been used for different clinical application basically aimed at biostimulating cells and tissues. Here, we report a deep overview of the published studies, focusing on PBM mechanism of action, with the aim of expanding the knowledge in the field of laser light for a rational utilization of irradiation in the clinical practice. In the field of reproductive science, PBM was employed to increment spermatozoa's metabolism, motility, and viability, due to its beneficial action on mitochondria, leading to an activation of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and to the ATP production. This treatment can be particularly useful to avoid the use of chemicals in the spermatozoa culture medium as well as to promote the spermatozoa survival and movement especially after thawing or in largely immotile sperm samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Zupin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Lorella Pascolo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefania Luppi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giulia Ottaviani
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Sergio Crovella
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.,Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.,Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149, Trieste, Italy
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Adeneye AA, Olagunju JA, Murtala BA. Evaluation of Male Fertility-Enhancing Activities of Water Seed Extract of Hunteria umbellata in Wistar Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2019; 2019:7693010. [PMID: 31485248 PMCID: PMC6710732 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7693010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this study, the male fertility-enhancing activity of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day of Hunteria umbellata water seed extract (HU) in Wistar rats was studied for 60 days. In doing this, effect of repeated doses of HU was studied on the weight gain pattern, gonadosomatic index (GSI), serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (TS), prolactin (PRL), and estradiol (ES)} as well as testicular antioxidant status of the treated rats as a way of elucidating the mechanism(s) of action of HU. METHOD Thirty-six (36) male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (I-VI) of six rats per group. Group I rats were gavaged with 10 ml/kg/day of distilled water and served as an untreated control; Group II rats were gavaged with 0.3 mg/kg/day of clomiphene in distilled water; Groups III-V rats received 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of HU, respectively, and Group VI rats received 20 mg/kg/day of Vitamin C all in distilled water. All treatments were for 60 days after which the treated rats were humanely sacrificed. Sera of blood samples were processed for the above stated hormonal profile. Similarly, testicular tissues obtained were processed for semen analysis and complete antioxidant profile of the HU-treated testicles by assaying for superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and Thiobarbituric Reactive Species (TBARS). RESULTS Prolonged treatments with 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of HU for 60 days induced dose dependent reductions in weight gain pattern with the most significant (p<0.001) effect recorded with the highest dose of HU. Conversely, significant (p<0.001) increase was recorded for GSI at the same HU dose. Clomiphene and HU also induced significant (p<0.01, p<0.001) dose dependent increases in the total sperm count, %live sperm, but reverse effects on %dead sperm and %abnormal sperm. On the hormonal profile, oral treatment with 100 mg/kg/day, 200 mg/kg/day, and 400 mg/kg/day of the extract induced profound (p<0.05, p<0.01, and p<0.001) dose related increases in the sera TS, LH, and FSH while it caused reverse effect on serum PRL but caused no significant alterations in the serum ES levels. Similarly, oral treatment with vitamin C and 100-400 mg/kg/day of HU induced profound (p<0.05, p<0.01, and p<0.001) increases in the antioxidant enzyme activities. CONCLUSION Overall, prolonged oral treatment with 100-400 mg/kg body weight of HU for 60 days significantly improved sperm function which was mediated via enhanced spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, and antioxidant mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adejuwon Adewale Adeneye
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics & Toxicology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Lagos State University College of Medicine, 1-5 Oba Akinjobi Way, G.R.A, Ikeja 100001, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Joseph Abayomi Olagunju
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Lagos State University College of Medicine, 1-5 Oba Akinjobi Way, G.R.A, Ikeja 100001, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Babatunde Adekunle Murtala
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Lagos State University College of Medicine, 1-5 Oba Akinjobi Way, G.R.A, Ikeja 100001, Lagos, Nigeria
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Miner SA, Daumler D, Chan P, Gupta A, Lo K, Zelkowitz P. Masculinity, Mental Health, and Desire for Social Support Among Male Cancer and Infertility Patients. Am J Mens Health 2018; 13:1557988318820396. [PMID: 30585112 PMCID: PMC6775564 DOI: 10.1177/1557988318820396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
By surveying men who are currently infertile ( N = 251) and men who are potentially infertile (i.e., men with cancer; N = 195), the mental health consequences of reproductive masculinity, or the cultural assumption that men are virile and should be fathers, were investigated. There was no difference in depression levels between these two groups when controlling for demographic variables, suggesting that both groups of men have similar mental health needs. Since gendered notions of masculinity also suggest that men do not want to discuss their fertility health, their desire for online fertility-related social support was assessed. These findings suggest that most men do want to talk to others about fertility, which indicates that there is a need for more fertility-related social support. This research challenges some conceptions regarding masculinity, as men revealed an interest in accessing online social support related to fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skye A Miner
- 1 Department of Sociology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,2 Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Davis Daumler
- 2 Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada.,3 Department of Sociology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Peter Chan
- 4 McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Abha Gupta
- 5 Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kirk Lo
- 6 Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Phyllis Zelkowitz
- 2 Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada.,7 Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,8 Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
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