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Male infertility is frequently caused by decreased sperm motility. Sperm of low progressive motility showed abnormal energy metabolism and elevated autophagy rate, although the specific mechanisms remain elusive. Hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α) is a transcription factor activated by hypoxia and plays a crucial role in regulating biological oxygen homeostasis. Negative correlation between sperm motility and HIF‐1α expression and a potential association with the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway were observed. To further explore the mechanisms by which HIF‐1α impacts sperm motility, normal human sperm were treated with cobalt chloride (CoCl2) or YC‐1. Sperm autophagy rate, ATP production, levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and HIF‐1α, p‐AKT, p‐mTOR, and LC3B were assessed. The results showed that CoCl2 or YC‐1 decreased sperm motility and increased sperm autophagy rate. The levels of intracellular ROS, HIF‐1α, p‐AKT, p‐mTOR, and LC3B were significantly increased, while the levels of sperm ATP and MMP reduced. These findings suggested that HIF‐1α might affect mitochondrial structure and energy generation, leading to increased autophagy rate and decreased motility in human sperm, with the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway potentially playing a role in this process by exerting an inhibitory effect on autophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To study the reproductive hormones, semen quality, psychology, and sexual function of childbearing age men after recovery from Corona Virus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection. Materials and Methods. We recruited 387 men of childbearing age who recovered from COVID-19 infection and underwent prepregnancy health checks at the Reproductive Center of Shandong Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January to March 2023 as study subjects. Routine semen analysis and reproductive hormones were performed. The clinical symptoms, anxiety, depression, erectile function, and premature ejaculation questionnaire were investigated during the COVID-19 infection period. A control group of 226 men of childbearing age who were not infected with COVID-19 between August 2022 and October 2022 were selected based on questionnaire responses, reproductive hormones, and semen parameters. Results. The main clinical symptoms during COVID-19 infection of the 387 research subjects were fever (342/387, 88.37%), muscle pain (155/387, 40.05%), anosmia (124/387, 32.04%), cough (106/387, 27.39%), throat pain (53/387, 13.70%), nausea and vomiting (16/387, 4.13%), and testicular discomfort (5/387, 1.29%). The rates of anxiety and depression were 11.37% (44/387) and 32.82% (127/387), respectively; erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) of the research subjects were accounted for 32.30% (125/387) and 6.98% (27/387). The IEF-5 score (P<0:001) decreased significantly compared to the control group, while the PHQ-9 score (P<0:001), the rate of increased ED (P<0:001), and the rate of depression increased (P<0:001). There were statistically significant differences in liquefaction time (P<0:05), the progressive sperm motility (P<0:05), total sperm motility (P<0:05), the rates of progressive sperm motility <32% (P<0:05), and total sperm motility <40% (P<0:05) between the 1 month, the 2 months after recovery from COVID-19 and controls. Circular cell counts (P<0:05) at 2 and 3 months were lower than in the controls. No changes in reproductive hormones before and after recovery from infection. Conclusion. COVID-19 infection exacerbates depression and ED. It has a sustained effect on sperm motility and liquefaction time in men. The effects of COVID-19 infection on semen persist for approximately 2 months, with recovery occurring in the third month. Reproductive hormone levels do not appear to be continuously affected after recovery from COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic condition characterized by destructive respiratory disease and laterality abnormalities due to randomized left–right body asymmetry. In men, PCD is also often associated with infertility due to immotile sperm owing to a malfunction of the sperm flagella. Pathogenic mutations have been found in more than 50 genes. Nonetheless, not all patients with PCD experience infertility. Therefore, to better understand the impact of PCD-associated mutations on male fertility, it is necessary to clarify the role of these genes in spermatogenesis. The CCDC103 p.His154Pro mutation has a high prevalence in PCD. Here, we present the identification and functional analysis of a biallelic mutation in CCDC103 identified in a familial case of PCD associated with male infertility. The biallelic CCDC103 mutations, NM_213607:c.161_162del(p.His55Serfs ∗9) and NM_213607:c.461A>C (p.His154Pro), were identified by whole-exome sequencing. Sanger sequencing validation was performed on all available family members, and the mutation was recessively separated with an infertility phenotype. The c.161_162del mutation breaks the reading frame of the protein and, therefore, is predicted to produce a nonfunctional protein. The tertiary structure of CCDC103-mutated protein indicated a significant conformational change that likely affected protein function. Transmission electron microscopy of spermatozoa showed that both the mid and principal regions of the flagellum lacked dynein arms, which was confirmed via immunofluorescence staining. Using the method of laser-assisted immotile sperm selection combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection, the patient’s wife has a successful clinical pregnancy. These results extend the phenotype spectrum of the CCDC103 mutation in PCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Declining semen quality has become one of the most serious public health problems worldwide; however, the spatial–temporal characteristics of semen quality of infertile men remain unknown. Objective. To explore spatial–temporal characteristics of semen quality of infertile men in Wenzhou from 2010 to 2018 and thereby provide a scientific basis for development of strategies to enhance male reproductive health. Methods. We obtained 22,978 semen sample data from 2010 to 2018 from the Reproductive Medicine Center and Urology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University in Wenzhou, China. Linear regression analyses and spatial autocorrelation analyses were used to study spatial–temporal characteristics of semen quality parameters. Results. Overall, from 2010 to 2018, mean values for total sperm number and semen volume showed linear increasing trends, and mean values for total sperm motility showed linear decreasing trend (all P < 0.05). Cold spot analyses of progressive sperm motility, total sperm motility, and normal sperm forms were also in main urban area of Wenzhou (Lucheng District, Ouhai District, Longwan District, and Dongtou District) and hot spot were also in nonmain urban area of Wenzhou (mainly including Taishun County, Pingyang County, and Wencheng County). However, hot spot analyses of total sperm number and semen volume were mainly in Dongtou District. Conclusions. The main urban area is the "harder-hit area" of semen quality, while for the islands area is the "high-withdrawal area." Government departments need to pay more attention to improve male reproductive health in the main urban areas and actively control the potential influencing factors of male reproductive health, such as occupational exposure and life stress. Good environmental quality and plenty of seafood intake may be beneficial to semen quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The probable relationship between serum vitamin D levels and male fertility is being increasingly investigated; however, the findings have been controversial. This review dealt with assessing the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and male fertility and sperm quality by executing systematic review and meta-analysis of the published data. Methods. The meta-analysis was executed as per the PRISMA 2020 statement. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022327583). Relevant literature was retrieved by searching online databases, including Embase, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, up to December 1st, 2022. Additionally, Google Scholar was searched to assess relevant articles. To ensure a more comprehensive review, unpublished articles, gray literature, and references of suitable articles were also assessed to find additional eligible publications. The articles that satisfied the inclusion criteria were evaluated for their quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool. Meta-analysis was conducted through STATA 12. Results. Twenty-four articles, comprising 7,345 participants in total, were chosen for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The resulting data indicated that serum vitamin D levels infertile males were remarkably elevated compared with that in infertile males (weighted mean difference (WMD) = 7.06, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 2.51–11.62, P = 0.002), and its deficiency (<20 ng/mL or 50 nmol/L) significantly reduced sperm concentration (WMD = 8.54, 95% CI = 4.01–13.06, P < 0.001), total sperm count (WMD = 14.43, 95% CI = 1.30–27.55, P = 0.031), sperm motility (WMD = 6.40, 95% CI = 3.15–9.64, P < 0.001), sperm progressive motility (WMD = 5.00, 95% CI 1.09–8.92, P = 0.012), and altered sperm morphology (WMD = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.20–1.27, P = 0.007). The data analysis determined that vitamin D did not remarkably influence sperm volume (WMD = 0.17; 95% CI = −0.00–0.34; P = 0.050). Conclusion. The acquired data implied that serum vitamin D is significantly associated with male fertility and sperm quality. This finding holds crucial implications for patients suffering from male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To discuss the experience with a novel surgical approach in the treatment of varicocele for fertility or pain in 772 patients. Methods. Retrospective analysis of 772 patients undergoing microsurgical sub-subinguinal (SSI) varicocelectomy in our hospital and the discussion of historical surgical approaches. Results. A total of 690 patients with left varicocele underwent surgical treatment for infertility (n = 519) and pain (n = 171). The sperm concentrations (mean ± standard deviation (SD)) of 519 patients measured preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and 12 months postoperatively were 19.24 ± 3.69 (106/ml), 27.42 ± 10.32 (106/ml), and 34.20 ± 16.29 (106/ml) ( ∗ ∗ P < 0.01), respectively. The sperm motilities (mean ± SD) of 519 patients measured preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and 12 months postoperatively were 13.78 ± 3.25, 20.98 ± 8.21, and 27.59 ± 13.71 (grade (a + b) %) ( ∗ ∗ P < 0.01), respectively. Pain was released surgically in 131 (76.6%) of the 171 patients. A total of 82 patients with bilateral varicocele underwent surgical treatment for infertility (n = 58) and pain (n = 24). The sperm concentrations (mean ± SD) of 58 patients measured preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and 12 months postoperatively were 19.21 ± 3.24 (106/ml), 27.36 ± 10.26 (106/ml), and 33.87 ± 15.20 (106/ml) ( ∗ ∗ P < 0.01), respectively. The sperm motilities (mean ± SD) of 58 patients measured preoperatively, 6 months postoperatively, and 12 months postoperatively were 13.54 ± 2.75, 20.75 ± 8.21, and 28.53 ± 14.83 (grade (a + b) %) ( ∗ ∗ P < 0.01), respectively. Pain was released surgically in 19 (79.2%) of the 24 patients. The probability of occurrence in one artery, two arteries, three arteries, and more than three arteries was 29.5%, 28.8%, 19.9%, and 1.9%, respectively. Conclusion. This surgical approach achieves a small and esthetic skin wound with fewer complications. The SSI approach is a safe and widely adopted surgical approach option for the treatment of varicocele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the motility characteristics of sperm from sex-sorted bull semen as a model for low-quality (expected low conception rate) sperm compared to that of sperm from non-sorted semen (expected average conception rate) using cluster analysis followed by discriminant analysis. The results indicated that sex-sorted semen contained sperm with hyperactivation-like motility as the main subpopulation immediately after thawing, and this subpopulation decreased after 2 h of incubation. The main subpopulation in the non-sorted semen had progressive motility that was maintained during incubation. A conventional comparison of the mean values of kinematic parameters could not distinguish the samples. In conclusion, discriminant analysis using data from a cluster analysis of motile sperm may accurately describe differences in the structures of sperm motility subpopulations between low and normal fertility semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tribulus terrestris L. (TT) is a traditional medicinal plant, which belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family. TT extracts have been widely used for diuretic, analeptic, aphrodisiac, and profertility properties. To quantitatively evaluate the profertility and aphrodisiac effects of Tribulus terrestris L., we undertook the present meta-analyses on published data. A thorough literature screening was performed to identify articles evaluating the effect of TT on spermatogenesis, male fertility, reproductive, and aphrodisiac parameters. We shortlisted 30 relevant studies conducted on humans and rodents. Meta-analyses were conducted to evaluate the quantitative impact of TT on various fertility parameters. In case of humans, the pooled analysis on 133 subjects showed significant improvements in sperm concentration (SDM = 0.624 , 95% CI = 0.13 to 1.117, p = 0.013) and sperm motility (SDM = 0.742 , 95% CI = 0.331 to 1.152, p = 0.001). TT resulted in nonsignificant increases in testosterone and LH and a nonsignificant decrease in FSH. Similar to the above, TT improved sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm viability in rodents with normal or compromised fertility. The effect on hormone levels was less credible with frequent variations across studies and animal models. The aphrodisiac activity was studied in castrated animal models or normal rodents, both of which showed significant improvements in mounting frequency and intromission frequency and significant declines in mounting latency and intromission latency. These meta-analyses suggested that TT possesses profertility and aphrodisiac activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The factors responsible for this reported fertility decline among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive men is yet to be determined. This study is aimed at investigating the impact of HIV or combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) on sperm cells, reproductive hormones, oxidative stress markers, apoptosis, and sperm DNA fragmentation of men living with HIV. Twenty‐one men living with HIV gave their written informed consent to participate in this study. Only 11 of the participants successfully donated blood and semen before and after 3 months of their treatment with cART. Semen, reproductive hormones, oxidative stress biomarkers, and DNA fragmentation were analysed. Data were subjected to Wilcoxon matched pairs signed rank test (ethical approval: CMUL/HREC/09/19/614). There was a significant decrease in viral load of HIV (p < 0.01), and a marked increase in progressive and total sperm motility. Total sperm count, morphology, and vitality had no significant change after 3 months of treatment with cART however, there was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in testosterone from 2.48 to 3.68 ng/ml, but luteinizing hormone decreased significantly (p < 0.05) from 9.6 to 6.5 mIU/ml. In addition, sperm DNA fragmentation increased significantly (p < 0.01). Conversely, viral load, and catalase decreased significantly, but no significant difference in malondialdehyde. This study showed that HIV depleted testosterone and impaired sperm motility which may negatively affect the fertility potential of men living with HIV. It also showed that adherence to cART (a combination of tenofovir, lamivudine, and dolutegravir) reduces the viral load and reverses the deleterious effects of cART albeit, cART appears to be toxic at subcellular spermatogenic levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) is commonly used in assisted reproductive technology to promote the development and maturation of follicles in female patients. However, there is no consensus on treating FSH in males with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (iOAT), especially in patients with normal serum FSH levels. To determine the role of FSH in improving semen quality in patients with iOAT, we conducted a detailed search in the commonly used database to find all studies on FSH in the treatment of iOAT. We compared the results, including semen volume, sperm count, sperm concentration, percentage of forward sperm motility, percentage of total sperm motility, percentage of normal forms and DNA fragmentation index (DFI) between the two groups treated with FSH or not. A total of 12 randomized controlled trials and one retrospective case‐control study, including 924 people, were included in our meta‐analysis. We found that sperm counts (MD 17.75; 95% CI 11.53–23.98 and p < 0.00001) were significantly increased in patients treated with FSH, along with improvements in sperm concentration (MD 4.52; 95% CI 1.46–7.58 and p = 0.004), percentage of normal forms (MD 2.87; 95% CI 0.19–5.56 and p = 0.04) and DFI (MD −12.62; 95% CI −19.27–5.97 and p = 0.002). However, we found no significant differences in the two groups' changes in other semen parameters. The use of FSH can improve some semen parameters in patients with iOAT, such as sperm count, percentage of normal forms, sperm concentration and DFI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of green coffee (GC), chlorogenic acid (CA) as an active ingredient of GC and exercise, alone or in a combination with exercise, on spermatogenesis and sperm function in pre‐diabetic mice. Results revealed that pre‐diabetic status can have a significant adverse effect on spermatogenesis (Johnson score), and sperm concentration, motility, DNA damage and persistent histone in compared to the control group. Although lipid peroxidation, intracellular ROS production, and persistent histones in sperm were high in pre‐diabetic mice, exercise only can improve sperm motility. GC alone only improved sperm motility in pre‐diabetic mice while CA alone, even did not have this beneficial effect. However, GC along with exercise, did not improve motility but reduce DNA damage, while CA with exercise, significantly improved motility compared to pre‐diabetic stage and to the level comparable to control. Therefore, based on this result in individuals with high DNA damage, GC supplementation and exercise could be useful approach while in asthenozoospermia, CA supplementation and exercise should be considered as an alternative approach. However, such an interpretation awaits validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of kisspeptin‐10 as antioxidant in cryodiluent were evaluated on post‐thaw quality of buffalo spermatozoa. Qualified semen samples from five bulls were pooled, divided into five aliquots and extended in Tris‐citric acid cryodiluent containing differential doses of kisspeptin‐10 (5, 10, 15, and 20 μmol L−1 and negative control. Extended sperm suspension was cooled to 4°C, packaged in 0.54 ml straws and cryopreserved. At post‐thawing, catalase (unit mg−1), peroxidase (unit mg−1) and reduced glutathione (μmol L−1) levels were highest (p < 0.05) with 20 μmol L−1 of kisspeptin‐10 as compared to negative control. Moreover, lipid peroxidation (nmol L−1 min−1 mg protein−1) level was lowest (p < 0.05) with 20 μmol L−1 of kisspeptin‐10. Sperm progressive motility (%), rapid velocity (%) and kinematics were higher (p < 0.05) with 15 and 20 μmol L−1 of kisspeptin‐10 as compared to negative control. Supra‐vital plasma membrane integrity (%), viable sperm with intact acrosome (%) and DNA integrity (%) were improved (p < 0.05) with all doses of kisspeptin‐10 as compared to negative control. It was concluded that the addition of 15 and 20 μmol L−1 kisspeptin‐10 in cryodiluent ameliorated the overall frozen‐thawed quality parameters of Nili‐Ravi buffalo spermatozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the association of 24 functionally important single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with male infertility. In this cross‐sectional study, we genotyped 24 functionally important single nucleotide polymorphisms in 24 infertility candidate genes in 500 oligo‐/astheno‐/oligoastheno‐/normo‐zoospermic infertile men with idiopathic infertility. Sequenom iPlex gold assay was used for genotyping. Sperm count and motility were compared between prevalent genotypes at each test locus. We did not observe any significant difference in the average sperm count between the alternate genotypes for the loci in the KLK3, LRRC6, MEIG1, HSF2, ESR2 and PTIP genes. However, we observed a significant difference in sperm motility between the alternate genotypes for the loci in the LRRC6, MEIG1, HSF2 and PTIP genes. Polymorphisms in the LRRC6 (rs200321595), MEIG1 (rs150031795), HSF2 (rs143986686) and PTIP (rs61752013) genes show association with sperm motility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to systematically review complications, and recurrence rate of varicocele treatment by comparing the surgical ligature versus sclero‐embolization techniques in children, adolescents and adults. The secondary outcomes were the evaluation of semen parameters and spontaneous pregnancy rate in adults. The review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses framework. Continuous variables were pooled using the inverse variance of the mean difference (MD) with a fixed effect, and 95% confidence interval (CI). The incidences of complications were pooled using the Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel Method with the random effect model and reported as Odds Ratio (OR), and 95% CI. Statistical significance was set two‐tail p‐value < 0.05. Twenty studies were included. Incidence of postoperative hydrocele was significantly higher in the surgical ligation group (OR 3.06 95% CI 1.06–8.88, p = 0.04). Incidence of postoperative orchiepidydimitys was significantly higher in sclero‐embolization group (OR 0.26 95% CI 0.08–0.85, p = 0.02). Presence of normal spermatozoa was significantly higher sclero‐embolization group compared with the surgical ligature group (MD 2.54% 95% CI 0.43–4.65, p = 0.02). No difference was found in overall complications, wound infection, testis pain, surgical site hematoma, total sperm count, sperm motility, pregnancy and recurrence rate. This review confirms that current data does still not support the superiority of one type of treatment over other ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prunus japonica var. nakaii is used in traditional Korean medicine to treat various conditions; however, it has not been investigated for treating male infertility. In this study, we investigated the in vitro effects of the ethanolic extract of P. japonica seeds on human sperm motility and identified its mechanism of action. Eleven male volunteers were selected, and the effects of the extract on human spermatozoa were assessed through a computer‐assisted semen analysis. The P. japonica seed extract increased the percentage of total and progressive motility of spermatozoa. To understand the mechanism of action, we monitored intracellular alkalization using flow cytometry and obtained electrophysiological recordings of human voltage‐gated proton channels hHv1 that were overexpressed in HEK‐293 cells. The extract shifted the activation curves in a concentration‐dependent manner. Two major constituents of the extract, linoleic acid and oleic acid, exhibited proton channel activity. Our in vitro experiments suggested that P. japonica seed extract could be potentially used to rescue sperm motility in idiopathic infertility patients via pharmacological modulation of the proton channels during capacitation. Therefore, our results indicate the therapeutic potential of P. japonica seed extract for treating male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the generalized anxiety levels and its association with semen quality in infertile men. We recruited male patients who visited the infertility outpatient departments of three teaching hospitals in North China and evaluated their generalized anxiety symptoms using the self‐administered 7‐item generalized anxiety disorder (GAD‐7) scale. Seminal analysis was performed as per WHO guidelines. A total of 378 infertile men (average age: 31.43 ± 5.85 years) were classified into the normal group (n = 174, 46%) and the anxiety group (n = 204, 54%) according to their GAD‐7 scale score. The proportion of patients with hyperlipidaemia in the normal group was significantly higher than that in the anxiety group (14.9% vs. 5.9%, p = 0.004). The other demographic characteristics were not statistically different between both groups. Patients with abnormal GAD‐7 scale scores had a significantly lower sperm count (202.48 vs. 166.80 million per ejaculate, p = 0.023), sperm concentration (54.75 vs. 46.54 million/ml, p = 0.033), and progressive motility (40.25 vs. 37.16, p = 0.020) than those with normal GAD‐7 scale scores. Multivariate linear regression models revealed that anxiety was significantly negatively associated with sperm concentration (percent change = −9.79, 95%CI: −12.38 to −7.12, p < 0.001), total sperm count (percent change = −13.07, 95%CI: −16.05 to −9.84, p < 0.001), progressive motility (β = −1.41, 95%CI: −1.86 to −0.96, p < 0.001), total sperm motility (β = −1.73, 95%CI: −2.38 to −1.08, p < 0.001), and normal sperm morphology (β = −0.16, 95%CI: −0.28 to −0.04, p = 0.009), respectively. Taken together, generalized anxiety disorder could significantly influence the clinical semen quality in infertile men in North China, and psychological stress management might be helpful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motility and morphology are two important characteristics of a fertile spermatozoon. CFAP44 gene encodes flagellar protein 44 involved in the formation and function of the flagella and cilia. Long non‐coding RNAs are regulatory elements involved in several processes, including reproduction. We aimed to study the alterations in the expressions of CFAP44 and CFAP44‐AS1 genes in infertile men with asthenozoospermia and terato‐asthenozoospermia. In this case–control study, a total of 105 subjects, including 35 TAZ patients, 34 AZ patients and 35 normozoospermic men, were enrolled. After RNA extraction from spermatozoa samples, quantitative real‐time PCR was performed to compare the expression of CFAP44 and CFAP44‐AS1 between the studied groups. A meaningful reduction in CFAP44 expression and a significant reduction in the expression of CFAP44‐AS1 were observed. Moreover, a positive correlation between both genes' expressions and normal sperm morphology was detected in NZ, AZ and TAZ groups. Also, there was a positive relation between CFAP44 gene expression and sperm motility in AZ and TAZ groups. The expression of CFAP44‐AS1 was positively correlated with sperm motility and morphology. Present results confirm the role of CFAP44 and CFAP44‐AS1 in the motility and morphology of spermatozoon, and deregulation of these genes may contribute to male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ranitidine (brand name: Zantac), an acid reducer, belongs to histamine‐2 receptor antagonists. Since 1981, even though several adverse effects of this drug were reported in the body, still, its effects on human sperm parameters have yet to be confirmed. In this work, we attempted to measure sperm motility, sperm vitality and activity of seminal creatine kinase in the ejaculated human semen (n = 31) in the presence of ranitidine at a range of concentrations (0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 and 1.2 μg/ml) compared with control (without ranitidine). Sperm motility was measured using the Makler counter, whilst sperm vitality was assessed using the Eosin test. Creatine kinase activity was measured using the kinetic spectrophotometric method. Sperm motility (total and progressive) as well as sperm vitality was significantly (p <.05) reduced in the presence of ranitidine in human semen, particularly at the higher tested concentrations (0.6–1.2 μg/ml) compared with the control. On the other hand, creatine kinase activity was significantly increased (p <.05) in the presence of ranitidine at 0.6, 0.9 and 1.2 μg/ml. In conclusion, ranitidine at 0.6–1.2 μg/ml reduced sperm motility and vitality, but increased the activity of creatine kinase in ejaculated human semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apolipoproteins A1 (ApoA1), an important protein in initiating sperm capacitation, has been found in the oviduct liquid, whilst whether it expresses in human spermatozoa has not yet been defined. ApoA1 expression was detected by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and immunofluorescence in sperm cells. Sperms were incubated with different concentration of ApoA1 antibody to observe the changes of sperm motility and apoptosis including annexin V binding to the cell surface, mitochondrial membrane potential and ultrastructural changes. In addition, cholesterol levels of human spermatozoa and fertilization in vitro were completed to explore the role of ApoA1 in fertilization process. We identify ApoA1 mRNA is presented in spermatozoa, and the ApoA1 protein, the molecular weights of 31 kD, is located at the postacrosomal region and neck of human spermatozoa. ApoA1 antibody affects cholesterol efflux of human spermatozoa and inhibits fertilization in vitro. Moreover, ApoA1 antibody decreases sperm motility and increases sperm apoptosis. This work shows ApoA1 plays an important role in maintaining cholesterol stability and sperm motility, survival rate and fertilization process. Furthermore, ApoA1 implications in the clinical work and other reproductive areas are needed to be studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in various aspects of male reproductive function, for spermatozoa to acquire the ability to fertilize. However, the increase in ROS generation, both due to internal and external factors, can induce oxidative stress, causing alterations in the structure and function of phospholipids and proteins. In the nucleus, ROS attack DNA, causing its fragmentation and activation of apoptosis, thus altering gene and protein expression. Accumulating evidence also reveals that endogenously produced ROS can act as second messengers in regulating cell signalling pathways and in the transduction of signals that are responsible for regulating spermatogonia self‐renewal and proliferation. In the epididymis, they actively participate in the formation of disulphide bridges required for the final condensation of chromatin, as well as in the phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of proteins contained in the fibrous sheath of the flagellum, stimulating the activation of progressive motility in epididymal spermatozoa. In this review, the role of small amounts of ROS during spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm maturation was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of medicinal plants for fertility regulation has been prevalent worldwide for many centuries. They possess natural substances having antiandrogenic properties and can be used as source of contraception. In the current study, methanolic leaf extract of Hedera nepalensis was evaluated for antiandrogenic and antispermatogenic activity in adult male rats through various reproductive parameters. Experimental findings showed significantly increased oxidative stress with reduced antioxidant activity at highest dose regimens in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Increased ROS generation and lipid peroxidation lead to DNA damage in rat sperm. In vivo determination of sperm parameters exhibited notable reduction in sperm motility, viability and DSP in dose‐treated animals. Histopathological observations revealed reduced epithelial height and wider lumen having less number of spermatozoa in high‐dose‐treated groups. Additionally, a marked decline noted in Testosterone concentration in all extract treated groups, while plasma LH and FSH levels only in high‐dose‐treated groups were noted. The findings of the current study conclude that methanolic leaf extract of H. nepalensis has the potential to disturb male fertility by generating oxidative stress and hormonal imbalance leading to histological alterations and sperm DNA damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An in vitro spermicidal effect of aqua- methanolic (2:3) extract of Thevetia peruviana leaves on human spermatozoa was evaluated in a dose- dependent manner (20, 40, 80 and 160 mg/ml) at a 1:1 ratio. Sperm motility, viability, hypo- osmotic swelling (HOS) and acrosomal status and function tests were performed immediately (20 s), and after 5 and 10 min of exposure of the spermatozoa to the extract of Thevetia peruviana leaves at different dose concentrations. Nuclear chromatin decondensation (NCD) test, DNA fragmentation test and sperm revival test were also evaluated. The sperm motility was affected immediately at a dose of 20 mg/ml and reduced gradually at doses of 40 and 80 mg/ml of Thevetia peruviana extract. Complete immobilisation of spermatozoa was observed at 160 mg /ml dose of this extract treatment within 5 min. 50% immobilisation of spermatozoa (EC50) was observed at 28 mg/ml dose of Thevetia peruviana extract within 20 s. The sperm viability decreased significantly at a higher concentration of extract, and all spermatozoa were found to be non- viable after 10 min when treated with 160 mg/ml dose of Thevetia peruviana extract. HOS and NCD of spermatozoa also reduced gradually at a higher concentration of extract administration. The percentage of DNA damage in spermatozoa was four times greater than in the control group. The findings indicate that the hydro- methanolic extract of Thevetia peruviana leaves possesses appreciably potent spermicidal activity through an in vitro model, which may explore an effective vaginal contraceptive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revealing the effect of SARS- CoV- 2 infection on semen quality is a dynamic priority for many healthcare providers in the field as well as subfertile patients. Therefore, the collective summary in this research approach is still highly needed, especially with the continuous increase in original publications. Here, we provide an up- to- date review and discussion to collectively reveal the effect of SARS- CoV- 2 infection on human semen quality. To do this, we reviewed all articles and abstracts published in Scopus and PubMed using the keywords 'SARS- CoV- 2' and 'COVID' versus 'sperm' and 'semen'. In summary, it can be revealed that, at both symptomatic and recovery stages of infection, no investigational evidence of SARS- CoV- 2 shedding in human semen. Also, the mainstream of the up- to- date published work reveals a negative impact of SARS- CoV- 2 infection on semen quality parameters, particularly sperm count and motility. However, long- term post- recovery comparative studies seem very important in this particular setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryopreservation of small quantities of human spermatozoa whilst maintaining adequate post- thawing motility has been found an essential challenge for male fertility preservation. Therefore, the study used an effective, and convenient rapid- freezing method to freeze small amounts of human spermatozoa by adding self- prepared cryoprotectant (SPC) without animal component. In the feasibility experiment, no significant differences in progressive motility, normal sperm morphology, vitality or DNA fragmentation index between the conventional slow freezing and rapid freezing were realised. The present study prospectively analysed the effects of sperm freezing and resuscitation in 175 patients with severe oligozoospermia (sperm concentration <1 x 106/ml). We observed the 120 severe oligozoospermia specimens had a mean recovery rate of 60.19% ± 10.43% and a mean cryosurvival rate of 68.0% ± 9.17%. In addition, 55 cryptozoospermia specimens were analysed. The small- volume cryopreservation showed advantages. The total sperm recovery, motility recovery and sperm loss rates were 98.48%, 50.17% and 1.52% respectively. In short, the SPC is safe and effective, and can be used to rapidly freeze severe oligozoospermia specimens. That is useful for successful sperm freezing whilst avoiding the risk of azoospermia in the later stages and promoting comprehensive fertility preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human semen is a heterogeneous group containing a portion of low- motility sperm, which may determine the sperm quality evaluation. Abnormally expressed proteins in low- motility spermatozoa will be the candidates for sperm biology research. By comparing proteomes of high- or low- motility spermatozoa from the same semen of normal fertile men, 21 differentially expressed proteins were identified. Proteins with molecular chaperone function were significantly over- represented, of which HSPA1L and HSPA9 significantly decreased in low- motility sperm. Compared with young adult testes with normal spermatogenesis, HSPA1L and HSPA9 had decreased expressions in elderly testis characterised with poor spermatogenesis, suggesting their associations with spermatogenesis. Decreased expressions of HSPA1L and HSPA9 in low- motility spermatozoa were validated by Western Blot and immunofluorescence quantification analysis. HSPA1L was mainly expressed on sperm post- acrosome and midpiece, whilst HSAP9 was mainly expressed on acrosome and sperm tail. HSPA1L antibody could inhibit sperm motility validated by antibody blocking experiment, whilst HSPA9 antibody showed no significant effect on sperm motility. The study demonstrated that low- motility spermatozoa from fertile men had poor sperm quality, in which differential expressed proteins were promising markers for evaluating sperm quality, understanding mechanism of male infertility with unexplained causes, and providing new idea for male infertility research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryopreservation is an effective method to spread qualified ram spermatozoa for reproductive goals in different farms, but cryopreservation's shocks reduce sperm quality. This study investigated the efficacy of the new mitochondria‐targeted antioxidant Mito‐TEMPO on post‐thawed quality of spermatozoa in sheep. Collected samples were divided into five groups and after dilution, received different doses of Mito‐TEMPO (0, 0.5, 5, 50 and 500 µM), and frozen. Thawed sperm motility parameters, malondialdehyde content, membrane functionality, abnormal morphology, mitochondria activity, acrosome integrity, DNA fragmentation, ROS concentration, viability and apoptotic‐like changes, were evaluated. According to the results, Mito‐TEMPO (5 and 50 μM) improved (p ≤ 0.05) motility parameters, average path velocity, membrane functionality, mitochondria activity and viability compared with the other groups. Moreover, apoptotic‐like changes, lipid peroxidation and ROS concentration were lower (p ≤ 0.05) in groups received 5 and 50 μM Mito‐TEMPO. Mito‐TEMPO showed no effect (p > 0.05) on sperm acrosome integrity, morphology and DNA fragmentation. In conclusion, Mito‐TEMPO as a targeted antioxidant could be an efficient cryo‐additive to enhance quality parameters of post‐thawed ram semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LEV improves the percentage of forward‐motion spermatozoon and total sperm motility in patients with oligozoospermia or asthenospermia in clinical settings. However, the mechanism of action of levocarnitine (LEV) in the treatment of spermatogenic dysfunction was unclear. Based on in vitro and in vivo experiments, we used Glucosides of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (GTW) to construct a cell model (using spermatogenic GC‐1 spg cells) and an animal model (using rats) of spermatogenic dysfunction. LEV and LY294002 (a PI3K pathway inhibitor) were then administered. By assessing apoptosis and sperm quality and motility, the underlying mechanism was explored. We found that GTW induced spermatogenic dysfunction, and LEV ameliorated the GTW‐induced spermatogenic dysfunction. LEV inhibited GC‐1 spg cell apoptosis and improved the sperm count and percentages of PR (forward motion) + NP (non‐forward motion) (p <.01). Besides, the morphology of testicular tissue in the GTW + LEV and LY + LEV groups was superior to that in the GTW group. We can to the conclusion that LEV may operate via the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, with increases in PI3K, p‐AKT, and BCL‐2 protein and mRNA expression, so that the percentages of GC‐1 spg cells apoptosis decrease, and the sperm count and motility improve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unhealthy lifestyle and environmental factors may influence semen parameters via oxidative stress, functional hypogonadism and xenobiotics. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of a diet supplement containing glutathione and herbs with antioxidative and antioestrogenic activity, in combination with lifestyle improvement, on semen parameters. Data from the medical records of 50 men aged 24–52 (median 35.0) with idiopathic abnormalities in semen parameters were retrospectively analysed. The inclusion criteria comprised sperm concentration >5 mln/ml, disorders in sperm motility and/or vitality and/or morphology, good general health, no present nor previous diseases or treatment which may influence fertility, and normal testicular volume. Patients were advised to change their lifestyle and take the supplement for three months. Basic semen analysis and serum FSH, LH and testosterone levels were performed before and after the prescribed therapy. After three months of treatment, median serum concentrations of FSH significantly increased by 70%, LH by 67% and testosterone by 79%, and all mean semen parameters were significantly increased (total sperm count by 68%). It seems that lifestyle changes supported by consumption of herbs with antioxidative and antioestrogenic activity may be suitable for the first‐line therapy for patients with mild idiopathic abnormalities in semen parameters or serum concentrations of reproductive hormones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of hCG therapy in hypogonadotropic hypogonadic (HH) azoospermic males along with dissecting the prognostic value of Y‐deletion analysis in these patients. Fifty‐eight azoospermic infertile males with diminished testosterone levels (≤400 ng/dl) and hypogonadism symptoms were subjected to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) therapy, and Y‐deletion analysis was undertaken. Post‐treatment, 43% (25/58) patients showed improvement in sperm count with 8.6% (5/58) turning severe oligozoospermic, 24.14% (14/58) patients turning oligozoospermic and 10.54% (6/58) turning normozoospermic. Among responders, the mean sperm concentration was 8.47 ± 13.16 million/ml, sperm count was 17.05 ± 26.17 million, sperm motility was 52.59% ± 25.09% and sperm progressive motility was 26.91% ± 20.51%. Seventeen out of 25 (68%) responders and 11/33 (33%) nonresponders showed an improvement in libido post‐therapy. A Y‐deletion was observed in 8% (2/25) responders and in 39.39% (13 out of 33) nonresponders. The Y‐deletions were more often found in nonresponders in comparison with the responders (Fisher's exact probability test, p =.007, one tailed). We conclude that hCG therapy in hypogonadotropic azoospermic males is effective in improving andrological parameters and sperm production and that Y‐chromosome deletion analysis has prognostic significance in predicting the success of hCG therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is an important factor affecting the quality of spermatozoa during liquid storage of boar semen; however, monitoring of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that provides direct insight into the oxidative status is not yet attempted. This study aimed to monitor ROS in boar sperm during liquid semen storage to determine its correlation with sperm motility and free thiol (SH) content, and seasonality. Ejaculate was collected from mature Duroc boars in a commercial farm in autumn and spring, diluted in Mulberry III extender, stored at 15°C, and examined daily for sperm ROS level, SH content and motility. The ROS levels in spermatozoa prepared during autumn and spring were constantly low until days 4 and 5 of storage, respectively, which thereafter progressively increased in association with the loss of sperm motility. The increased sperm ROS level correlated with the higher SH level and lower motility, which was accentuated from day 4 of storage and was higher in September, or early autumn. This study indicates that increased sperm ROS levels during liquid storage results in oxidative damage, causing loss of sperm motility, presumably through decreased sperm viability, suggesting that sperm ROS monitoring effectively evaluates the quality of boar semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the semen can lead to oxidative protein damage as they react with the amino acids' side chains in the protein, leading to the generation of carbonyl groups. This study aimed to investigate the effect of protein carbonyl (PC) concentration on sperm motility and the laboratory intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes. A total of 150 couples from the ICSI cycle were enrolled in this study and were divided into three groups (G) according to the PC concentration as following, G1 included samples with PC concentrations <0.65 nmol/mg, G2 included samples with 0.65≤PC≤2.23 nmol/mg and G3 included samples with PC>2.23 (nmol/mg). PC concentrations were measured in all semen samples, and the laboratory ICSI outcomes were evaluated for all injected oocytes. The Kruskal–Wallis p‐values for the differences in the medians of sperm motility, fertilisation rate, embryo cleavage score and embryo quality score were <0.05. Furthermore, Dunn's post hoc test showed a significant difference between all groups, p‐values <0.05, except for the medians of embryo quality score between G2 and G3. In conclusion, our results showed that sperm motility and laboratory ICSI outcomes are affected negatively by higher concentrations of PC in the semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to verify that Xuefu Zhuyu decoction (XFZYD) can improve asthenozoospermia caused by asthma, and explore its potential mechanism. Ovalbumin solution is used to induce asthma rat models. Sperm concentration and motility are used to evaluate semen quality. Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting and real‐time reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) are used to detect proteins and mRNA related to rat testis tissue. Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to observe changes in testicular tissues. Through network pharmacology, eriodictyol, 18‐β‐glycyrrhetinic acid, naringenin, chrysin and Hispidulin were prominent active ingredients of XFZYD. We found that XFZYD regulates the expression levels of albumin (ALB), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), interleukin 6 (IL‐6) protein and mRNA, thereby improving the histopathological morphology of the testis, increasing the concentration and motility of spermatozoa. We suggest that future research can increase the detection of hormones and oxidative stress and other related indicators, so as to conduct more in‐depth exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MUSASHI (MSI) family plays the main role in the spermatogenesis process. The purpose of this study was the assessment of sperm MSI1 and MSI2, and sperm functional tests in infertile men (n = 30) with varicocele and fertile men (n = 30). Furthermore, MSI1 and MSI2 proteins were assessed in testicular tissue of azoospermic men (n = 9) as well as epididymal spermatozoa and testis of mice. Expression of MSI1 and MSI2 was assessed at RNA and protein levels in human spermatozoa. Sperm concentration and motility were significantly lower, while abnormal sperm morphology, lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation and protamine deficiency were significantly higher in men with varicocele compared to fertile individuals. Any significant difference was not observed in the expression of MSI1 and MSI2 mRNA between the two groups. Unlike MSI1 protein that was not detectable in humans, the relative expression of MSI2 protein was similar in varicocele and fertile individuals. The expression level of both Msi1 and Msi2 proteins was also observable in mouse spermatozoa. No significant relationship was observed between sperm functional parameters with expression of these genes. The data of this study demonstrated that although MSI1 and MSI2 play important roles during spermatogenesis, their relative expression in spermatozoa was not affected by varicocele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kidney transplantation has been considered as the most effective therapy for patients with end‐stage renal disease. However, less attention was attached to infertility. The present meta‐analysis was conducted to compare the semen quality between patients with dialysis and patients after kidney transplantation. An extensive search in MEDLINE, PubMed and Web of Science was conducted from inception to March 2021. The data extracted for meta‐analysis included sample size and characteristics, main reported outcomes like semen quality and hormone levels. For the semen quality and hormone levels, the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidential interval (CI) were calculated to evaluate the effect size. Finally, 5 studies were included in meta‐analysis. Kidney transplantation could improve the sperm density of patients undergoing dialysis (SMD 1.58 [0.02, 3.15]). Additionally, the sperm motility was also improved after the kidney transplantation (SMD 3.26 [0.73, 5.79]). The sperm density of kidney transplantation patients was lower than that in healthy subjects (SMD −0.75 [−1.42, −0.07]), same as the sperm motility (SMD −0.50 [−0.80, −0.20]). Our meta‐analysis suggests kidney transplantation could improve semen quality of patients with ESRD, including sperm density and sperm motility. Of note, semen quality of renal transplantation recipient still is inferior to healthy subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The present study aimed to compensate dilution effect using additional seminal plasma (SP) in conventional (80 million (M) spermatozoa/ml) dose and low spermatozoa/dose (8M spermatozoa/ml). We also attempted to confirm whether removal of SP before the extension of ejaculates affects post‐thaw sperm quality of buffalo semen. For this, semen ejaculates (N = 15) were divided into four groups: control (CON), removal of SP by centrifugation (NSP), resuspension of the centrifuged semen pellet into SP (CEN) and extra supplementation of SP (ESP). All groups were diluted into two different semen doses to 20 and 2M spermatozoa/0.25 ml using tris egg yolk extender and subsequently cryopreserved. We found that neither addition nor removal of SP affected sperm motility, kinematics, longevity, mitochondrial superoxide production and high mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Further, the addition or removal of SP was not able to compensate dilution effect in 2M groups resulting in a significantly (p <.05) reduction in sperm motility, kinematics, sperm longevity, membrane integrity, MMP, and an increase production of mitochondrial superoxide. In conclusion, it appears that role of SP in the sperm cryopreservation process is insignificant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaporins play a crucial in transportation of water and solutes across cell membranes but their roles in male fertility are controversial. This study aimed to determine association of the expression level of aquaporin‐3 (AQP3) and caspase‐3 (CASP3) activity with sperm motility in asthenozoospermic individuals. Thirty‐five asthenozoospermic and 35 normozoospermic individuals, participated in this study. Sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) for estimating of the DNA‐damaged spermatozoa and Fluorescein‐labelled inhibitors of caspases for assessment of active CASP3 were used by flow cytometry. Gene and protein expressions of AQP3 and CASP3 were assessed by real‐time PCR and flow cytometry respectively. The AQP3 gene expression level in asthenozoospermic individuals was significantly lower than that of normozoospermic group whereas it was higher for the CASP3 gene expression (p <.01). The SCSA data in asthenozoospermic was significantly higher than that of normozoospermic group (p <.01). There was a negative and significant correlation between attenuated AQP3 protein level with activated CASP3 and SCSA in the asthenozoospermic group. We showed that the attenuated AQP3 level may contribute to low sperm motility via reducing glycerol for energy production in sperm tails of asthenozoospermia. Increasing CASP3 activity could indirectly show the status of active apoptosis in individuals with asthenozoospermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to reveal predictors for fertility recovery after varicocelectomy in subfertile men. This retrospective study recruited 93 men with clinical varicocele and pathozoospermia who underwent microsurgical varicocelectomy. Stepwise discriminant analysis was performed to identify predictors of spontaneous pregnancy (SP) after surgery. 'Clinically significant improvement' (CSI) following varicocelectomy was defined as an increase in total progressively motile sperm count (TPMSC) by at least 12.5 million (calculated from WHO‐2010 reference values). 52% of patients showed CSI, and 28% reported SP after surgery. Patients who reported SP (group II), compared to that remained infertile (group I), were younger (27.3 ± 2.9 versus 30.2 ± 4.2 years; p <.01), had less infertility period (24.1 ± 14.0 versus 44.4 ± 32.9 months; p <.05) and had initially higher TPMSC (median (25% −75%) = 34 (11–67) versus 9.5 (0–33) mln; p <.05). The stepwise discriminant analysis showed that male age (coefficient value = −0.157), total sperm motility (0.024) and postoperative increase in TPMSC (0.010) were the significant predictors of SP. The predictive ability, sensitivity and specificity of the discriminant function were 84%, 87%, 76% respectively. This algorithm can be recommended after varicocelectomy in decision‐making on natural conception or the ART protocols usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even though the effect of caffeine on humans' health has been revealed in various research studies, its effect on semen quality has yet to be well explained. Here, we measured the effect of caffeine at 1, 5, 10 and 20 mM on motility of human spermatozoa in normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic semen samples, level of seminal nitric oxide, chelation of seminal calcium ions and activity of seminal creatine kinase. Fifty‐one normozoospermic and ten asthenozoospermic semen samples were recruited in this study. Sperm motility was evaluated by Makler counter, and seminal nitric oxide, seminal‐free calcium and activity of seminal creatine kinase were measured spectrophotometrically. Caffeine at 10 mM significantly (p <.05) increased progressive motility of spermatozoa in both tested groups. Also, caffeine significantly increased (p <.05) activity of creatine kinase and insignificantly (p >.05) altered nitric oxide and free calcium levels in seminal plasma. In conclusion, progressive motility of human spermatozoa was found to be higher in the presence of caffeine at 10 mM in normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic semen samples; this increase, albeit partially, could be due to increased activity of seminal creatine kinase, but not to increased production of nitric oxide or chelation of free calcium ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our ability to predict the potential of testicular spermatozoa to support embryonic development is still limited. Although motility of testicular spermatozoa is associated with embryo development, the impact of morphology and the presence of spermatozoa in the testicular sample has not been previously researched. Moreover, while the majority of data indicate no effect of cryopreservation, there are studies reporting impaired clinical outcomes due to testicular cryopreservation. In a retrospective study, 118 ICSI‐TESE cycles were analysed to study the impact of (a) total quality of testicular tissue, (b) testicular tissue cryopreservation and (c) presence/motility/morphology of testicular spermatozoa in fertilisation rate, embryonic development, clinical pregnancy (CPR), ongoing pregnancy (OPR) and live birth rate (LBR). Results showed that fertilisation rate was significantly affected by both total quality of testicular tissue (p <.05) and rare presence of spermatozoa (p <.01). Moreover, total tissue quality (p <.01), cryopreservation of low‐quality samples (p <.01), absence of motile testicular spermatozoa (p <.01) and poor spermatozoa morphology (p <.05) had a negative impact on the number of good quality day 3 embryos. CPR, OPR or LBR was not affected by any parameters examined. Our data suggest that the quality of testicular tissue influences both fertilisation rate and embryo development. Moreover, cryopreservation of low‐quality testicular samples has a negative impact on the number of available embryos for transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has a high incidence rate in both males and females. HPV infection in women has been shown to affect fertility and lead to foetal death and pregnancy loss. However, research on HPV infection in men is limited. The aim of this study was to study the effect of HPV infection in semen on sperm quality and present the findings of previous studies through a meta‐analysis. Databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, WanFang data and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched for relevant studies. A systematic review and meta‐analysis were performed, and 17 studies were included for analyses based on a set criterion. Meta‐analyses indicated that HPV infection in semen significantly reduced sperm concentration (SMD = −0.12, 95% CI: −0.21 to −0.03, p =.009), sperm motility (SMD = −0.55, 95% CI: −0.780 to −0.33, p =.000), sperm viability (SMD = −0.55, 95% CI: −0.780 to −0.33, p =.000) and sperm morphology (SMD = −0.34, 95% CI: −0.61 to −0.07, p =.015). The high‐risk HPV (HrHPV) infection could significantly reduce sperm count (SMD = −0.65, 95% CI: −1.11 to −0.18, p =.007) compared with high‐risk HPV (LrHPV) infection. In conclusion, HPV infection in semen significantly reduced sperm quality, and the HrHPV infection could significantly reduce sperm count compared with LrHPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Korean herbal formulation, MYOMI‐14, has been reported to improve the idiopathic male infertility condition with poor semen. In this study, four MYOMI formulations were modified from MYOMI‐14 by reducing the number of constituents. We investigated the therapeutic effect of MYOMI formulations on cyclophosphamide‐induced male infertility using mice model. Cyclophosphamide treatment significantly decreased body weight, testicular weight, sperm count, normal‐shaped sperm rate and sperm motility compared to untreated control group, whereas MYOMI formulations restore the cyclophosphamide‐induced dysfunction, as determined by increased sperm count and motility, and decreased abnormally shaped spermatozoa. In addition, treatment with MYOMI formulations reduced cyclophosphamide‐induced apoptosis of germ cells and oxidative stress. MYOMI‐treated mice also showed improved spermatogenesis as shown by the increased expression of spermatogenesis‐related genes, as cAMP‐responsive element modulator (CREM) and cAMP response element‐binding (CREB) protein. Among the MYOMI formulations, MYOMI‐7 showed better results in terms of recovering CP‐induced damages to testis and improving the fertility. Taken together, this study is expected to make significant contribution to the literature by exploring various formulations that reduced constituents of MYOMI‐14, a Korean herbal medicine, in treating CP‐induced male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through network pharmacology research, we found that CYP19, CYP17, AR and SRD5A2 were potential targets for lycium chinense‐cuscutae semen (LC‐CS) treatment of oligoasthenozoospermia. Using in vitro and in vivo experiments, tripterygium glycosides were used to induce spermatogenic dysfunction models in GC‐1spg cells and SD male rats, respectively, and LC‐CS was used to intervene in a spermatogenic dysfunction model. In vitro, LC‐CS could repair the ultrastructure of GC‐1spg cells damaged by tripterygium glycosides (TG). Compared with TG group, LC‐CS could upregulate protein and mRNA expression of CYP19, CYP17, AR and SRD5A2. In vivo, compared with TG, the body mass, testicular mass and epididymal weights of rats in TG + LC‐CS increased. Progressive motility + nonprogressive motility spermatozoon (PR + NP) of TG + LC‐CS were upregulate than TG. The levels of FSH, LH and testosterone in TG + LC‐CS were upregulate than TG. LC‐CS can repair the ultrastructure of spermatogonia damaged by TG (the above results are statistically significant, p <.05). Results of H&E staining and TEM showed that the morphology and ultrastructure of testicular tissue in TG + LC‐CS were better than that in TG. Compared with TG, LC‐CS could upregulate the expression of CYP19, CYP17, AR and SRD5A2 proteins and mRNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the protective role of oyster peptide (OP) on the occurrence of Exercise‐Hypogonadal Male Condition. Male rats were given heavy‐load swimming training and / or OP was supplemented for 6 consecutive weeks. After heavy‐load training, sperm count, sperm viability and sperm motility in epididymis, testosterone in serum and testis, glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐px) and androgen receptor (AR) in testis and mating times were remarkably decreased, malondialdehyde (MDA), capture latency and mating latency were significantly increased, mRNA expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) and P450 cholesterol side‐chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) were obviously down‐regulated, but serum follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) were not statistically changed. Conversely, when OP was supplemented at heavy‐load training, sperm count, sperm viability and sperm motility in epididymis, serum FSH, LH, testosterone, GSH‐px, superoxide dismutase (SOD), testosterone, AR in testis and mating times were dramatically increased, while testicular MDA, capture latency and mating latency were significantly decreased, and mRNA expression of StAR, StARD7, P450scc and 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β‐HSD) were significantly up‐regulated. In conclusion, heavy‐load training causes testicular spermatogenic and steroidogenic disorders by enhancing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can be protected by the co‐administration of OP by enhancing the function of pituitary gonad axis and lowering ROS generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, because of the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effect of the Ziziphus jujuba (ZJ), we assessed the protective properties of the ZJ extract against testis toxicity caused by Adriamycin in the rat. Twenty rats were grouped into (a) control, (b) Adriamycin, (c) ZJ group and (d) treatment group in which Adriamycin was administrated and the ZJ hydroalcoholic extract was used for three weeks. On the 21st day, two testes were removed to determine the oxidation markers and pathological evaluation. The levels of sex hormones were determined. Epididymis also was crushed, and its spermatozoa were evaluated as concentration, motility and normality. Adriamycin increased oxidative stress markers as well as Luteinising hormone, and follicle‐stimulating hormone and decreased testosterone levels compared to control. In the treated group, the levels of the above markers improved. The decreased number and motility of spermatozoa in treatment group increased, and the increased rate of abnormal spermatozoa in this group decreased. Pathological evaluations also show the healing process of damaged testicular tissue in the group receiving the ZJ extract. The ZJ extract relatively improves oxidative stress, sperm characteristics, hormonal alternation and pathological changes. These findings reveal the probable role of ZJ effective compounds in repairing tissue damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transducin (β)‐like 1 X‐linked receptor 1 (TBL1XR1) is an evolutionarily conserved protein related to spermatozoa. To clarify its role and mechanism of action in spermatozoa, qRT‐PCR was used to analyse the expression of TBL1XR1 in human spermatozoa and mouse testes. The mice were established as an animal model by injecting the mice testes with small interfering RNA against TBL1XR1 or control siRNA. Our results indicated that deficiency of TBL1XR1 in mice reduced the motility of spermatozoa and disrupted the histone‐to‐protamine transition. We also found the decreased expression of TBL1XR1 in the spermatozoa of human patients with asthenozoospermia (AZ) compared with that in the spermatozoa of healthy males. Moreover, we carried out chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses and found that genes downstream of TBL1XR1 were related to sperm motility. Thus, TBL1XR1 might be related to sperm motility and might function through its downstream genes. Our data highlight the role of TBL1XR1 involved in spermatozoa and provide new molecular insights into the intricate systems required for male fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the prominent health problems caused by Aluminium was the decrease in male fertility rates. In the study, the protective effect of Esculetin (ESC) against the reproductive toxicity induced by Aluminium chloride (AlCl3) was investigated. For this purpose, AlCl3 was administrated to Wistar Albino rats at a dose of 34 mg/kg and ESC was administrated at a dose of 50 mg/kg for 70 days. It was determined that AlCl3 treatment reduced sperm motility and concentration, increased dead/live rate and abnormal sperm rate. It decreased serum testosterone level, and co‐treatment of ESC significantly regulated these values. In the AlCl3‐treated group, MDA level increased and GSH level, GPx and CAT activities decreased compared with those of the control group. However, co‐treatment of ESC showed an amelioratory effect on the values except for CAT activity. It was observed that the expression level of NRF‐2 increased in the ESC and AlCl3 + ESC groups, and NF‐κB increased in the AlCl3 group with the control group. It was determined that Caspase‐3 expression decreased, and Bcl‐2 expression increased in AlCl3 + ESC group compared to AlCl3 group. It was also determined that AlCl3‐induced tissue injury was significantly prevented by ESC co‐treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to improve the quality of frozen‐thawed equine sperm by the addition of caffeine to it. Semen from nine stallions was frozen and different concentrations of caffeine (3, 5 and 7.5 mM) were added to frozen‐thawed semen. The sperm kinetic parameters, membrane functionality and integrity, and acrosome integrity and spontaneous acrosome reacted sperm were evaluated with a computer‐assisted sperm analysis, a hypoosmotic swelling test and epifluorescent microscopy, respectively. Nitrite and hydroperoxide concentrations of frozen‐thawed semen were measured using spectrophotometry. Sperm fertility was evaluated by artificial insemination (AI) of 16 mares with thawed ejaculates (control and 5 mM caffeine‐treated groups). Compared to that in the control, the addition of 5 mM caffeine induced an increase in sperm motility (38.9 ± 2.8 versus 32.6 ± 3.4%), and a decrease in nitrite concentration (11.4 ± 2.1 versus 12.8 ± 2.9 µM/µg protein, p <.05). Moreover, the pregnancy rate from AI in the caffeine group was significantly higher (62.5%) than that in the control group (12.5%). These data suggest that caffeine reduced the nitrite concentration and enhanced sperm motility in thawed equine sperm, thus increasing the fertility rate in mares inseminated with caffeine‐treated equine semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Induction of oxidative stress during the sperm preparation process for assisted reproductive techniques (ART) in men can weaken sperm parameters. Vitamin E (VE) is considered a factor in boosting male fertility. This experimental study (in vitro) aimed to assess the impact of VE supplementation on sperm quality and lipid peroxidation during sperm sampling at different times. For this mention, semen samples were collected from 50 asthenoteratozoospermic men. Samples were divided into control and test groups for 2, 4 and 6 hr that the test group was incubated with VE (2 mM). In two groups, total motility, progressive motility and viability based on the WHO 2010 criteria were assessed. Moreover, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were evaluated in each group. In the control group, total and progressive motility and sperm viability were decreased significantly after 2 hr; however, MDA levels were increased significantly after 6 hr. Also, in the test group, sperm parameters were increased significantly after 2 hr, and MDA levels were decreased significantly after 6 hr compared to the control group. In outcome, in vitro VE supplementation may protect spermatozoa from the adverse effect of oxidative stress during sperm preparation via preservation antioxidant processes in normal condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to investigate, by a validated in vitro model, the effect of diabetic plasma on ejaculated human spermatozoa. Plasma of 51 male diabetic patients (mean age 62.28 ± 9.28 years) was selected according to their HbA1c level: low HBA1c ≤ 5% (31 mmol/mol), moderate HBA1c 6%–8% (42–64 mmol/mol) and high HBA1c ≥ 10% (86 mmol/mol). The plasma was tested on eighteen normal semen samples by analysing gametes motility using a computer Sperm Class Analyzer® and their corresponding oxidative stress (OS) status using thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances assay. The results indicated that diabetic plasma affected all sperm motility parameters with high HbA1c showing the most important deleterious effects. Low gametes' straight‐line velocity was observed in high HbA1c level, mainly after 20 min of co‐incubation (8.78 ± 0.47 µm/s). Also, the highest lipid peroxidation (nmoles MDA/108 SPZ) was observed in high HbA1c values (0.92 ± 0.09), higher than those in spermatozoa treated with H2O2 (0.85 ± 0.04). Conclusively, a direct impact of diabetic plasma on spermatozoa is revealed with overexpression of OS as the underlying mechanism. These findings suggested that it is strongly recommended to control clinically the glycaemic level and OS in diabetic patients for the maintenance of male fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to compare ICSI outcomes of cycle using fresh versus thawed TESE spermatozoa obtained during the previous fresh TESE. All consecutive couples undergoing ICSI cycles using fresh TESE spermatozoa, followed by ICSI cycle using cryopreserved sperm remaining from the previous fresh TESE procedure were included. Ovarian stimulation (OS)/laboratory variables and cycle outcome were assessed and compared between those utilising fresh versus thawed TESE spermatozoa. Seventy‐five couples were evaluated, with no in‐between groups differences in OS nor embryological variables. While implantation and LBR per embryo transfer were nonsignificantly higher in the frozen as compared to the fresh TESE, there was a trend towards higher LBRs per patient in the frozen TESE group. The cumulative miscarriage rate (4% versus 14.7%, p <.022 respectively) was significantly lower and the cumulative LBR (34.7% versus 16%, p <.007 respectively) was significantly higher using frozen TESE spermatozoa. Moreover, significantly higher proportion of frozen TESE sperm samples used pentoxifylline to enhance sperm motility. In conclusion, the results of ICSI cycles using frozen TESE spermatozoa are as good, or even better than using fresh TESE spermatozoa. Further studies are required to explore the factors responsible for the improved ICSI outcome, while using frozen versus fresh TESE sperm samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]