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Purpose: Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) represents the persistent absence of sperm in ejaculate without obstruction, stemming from diverse disease processes. This survey explores global practices in NOA diagnosis, comparing them with guidelines and offering expert recommendations. Materials and Methods:Materials and Methods: A 56-item questionnaire survey on NOA diagnosis and management was conducted globally from July to September 2022. This paper focuses on part 1, evaluating NOA diagnosis. Data from 367 participants across 49 coun-tries were analyzed descriptively, with a Delphi process used for expert recommendations. Results:Results: Of 336 eligible responses, most participants were experienced attending physicians (70.93%). To diagnose azoosper-mia definitively, 81.7% requested two semen samples. Commonly ordered hormone tests included serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (97.0%), total testosterone (92.9%), and luteinizing hormone (86.9%). Genetic testing was requested by 66.6%, with karyotype analysis (86.2%) and Y chromosome microdeletions (88.3%) prevalent. Diagnostic testicular biopsy, distinguishing obstructive azoospermia (OA) from NOA, was not performed by 45.1%, while 34.6% did it selectively. Differ-entiation relied on physical examination (76.1%), serum hormone profiles (69.6%), and semen tests (68.1%). Expectations of finding sperm surgically were higher in men with normal FSH, larger testes, and a history of sperm in ejaculate. Conclusions:Conclusions: This expert survey, encompassing 367 participants from 49 countries, unveils congruence with recommended guidelines in NOA diagnosis. However, noteworthy disparities in practices suggest a need for evidence-based, international consensus guidelines to standardize NOA evaluation, addressing existing gaps in professional recommendations.

Purpose: Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is a functional sperm abnormality that can impact reproductive potential, for which four assays have been described in the recently published sixth edition of the WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen. The purpose of this study was to examine the global practices related to the use of SDF assays and investigate the barriers and limitations that clinicians face in incorporating these tests into their practice. Materials and Methods: Clinicians managing male infertility were invited to complete an online survey on practices related to SDF diagnostic and treatment approaches. Their responses related to the technical aspects of SDF testing, current professional society guidelines, and the literature were used to generate expert recommendations via the Delphi method. Finally, challenges related to SDF that the clinicians encounter in their daily practice were captured. Results: The survey was completed by 436 reproductive clinicians. Overall, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) is the most commonly used assay chosen by 28.6%, followed by the sperm chromatin structure assay (24.1%), and the sperm chromatin dispersion (19.1%). The choice of the assay was largely influenced by availability (70% of respondents). A threshold of 30% was the most selected cut-off value for elevated SDF by 33.7% of clinicians. Of respondents, 53.6% recommend SDF testing after 3 to 5 days of abstinence. Although 75.3% believe SDF testing can provide an explanation for many unknown causes of infertility, the main limiting factors selected by respondents are a lack of professional society guideline recommendations (62.7%) and an absence of globally accepted references for SDF interpretation (50.3%). Conclusions: This study represents the largest global survey on the technical aspects of SDF testing as well as the barriers encountered by clinicians. Unified global recommendations regarding clinician implementation and standard laboratory interpretation of SDF testing are crucial.

Purpose: Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) has been associated with male infertility and poor outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART). The purpose of this study was to investigate global practices related to the management of elevated SDF in infertile men, summarize the relevant professional society recommendations, and provide expert recommendations for managing this condition. Materials and Methods: An online global survey on clinical practices related to SDF was disseminated to reproductive clinicians, according to the CHERRIES checklist criteria. Management protocols for various conditions associated with SDF were captured and compared to the relevant recommendations in professional society guidelines and the appropriate available evidence. Expert recommendations and consensus on the management of infertile men with elevated SDF were then formulated and adapted using the Delphi method.Results: A total of 436 experts from 55 different countries submitted responses. As an initial approach, 79.1% of reproductive experts recommend lifestyle modifications for infertile men with elevated SDF, and 76.9% prescribe empiric antioxidants. Regarding antioxidant duration, 39.3% recommend 4–6 months and 38.1% recommend 3 months. For men with unexplained or idiopathic infertility, and couples experiencing recurrent miscarriages associated with elevated SDF, most respondents refer to ART 6 months after failure of conservative and empiric medical management. Infertile men with clinical varicocele, normal conventional semen parameters, and elevated SDF are offered varicocele repair immediately after diagnosis by 31.4%, and after failure of antioxidants and conservative measures by 40.9%. Sperm selection techniques and testicular sperm extraction are also management options for couples undergoing ART. For most questions, heterogenous practices were demonstrated. Conclusions: This paper presents the results of a large global survey on the management of infertile men with elevated SDF and reveals a lack of consensus among clinicians. Furthermore, it demonstrates the scarcity of professional society guidelines in this regard and attempts to highlight the relevant evidence. Expert recommendations are proposed to help guide clinicians.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the predicting factors affecting sperm retrieval. We prospectively assessedthe relationship between sonographic and microdissection testicular sperm extraction (mTESE) findings in Klinefeltersyndrome (KS).Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, 44 azoospermic men with 47, XXY karyotypes participated in thisstudy. In order to evaluate the amount of blood supply in different parts of testicular tissue, a doppler ultra-sonographicwas performed. Also, for the detection of sperm in this group mTESE technique was performed.Results: The age average of positive mTESE and negative mTESE groups was 29.4 and 33.6 years, respectively. Bycomparing the testicle volume (based on the data obtained from the clinical examinations conducted by the urologist)it was determined that there is no significant difference between mTESE positive and negative groups. Folliclestimulatinghormone (FSH) levels in men with negative mTESE (P=0.03) and testosterone levels in men with positivemTESE significantly increased (P=0.017). The overall rate of testis vascularity was significantly higher in the positivemTESE group than in the negative mTESE group. The clinical pregnancy rate in positive mTESE men was 9% percycle, 16.6% per embryos were transferred (ET), and 12.5% per cycle.Conclusion: Totally, our observation indicated that there is not a significant relationship between sonographic and mTESEresults in KS patients. However, more investigations with bigger sample Size can be useful to validate our results.

Purpose: Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) testing was recently added to the sixth edition of the World Health Organization laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen. Many conditions and risk factors have been associated with elevated SDF; therefore, it is important to identify the population of infertile men who might benefit from this test. The purpose of this study was to investigate global practices related to indications for SDF testing, compare the relevant professional society guideline recommendations, and provide expert recommendations. Materials and Methods: Clinicians managing male infertility were invited to take part in a global online survey on SDF clinical practices. This was conducted following the CHERRIES checklist criteria. The responses were compared to professional society guideline recommendations related to SDF and the appropriate available evidence. Expert recommendations on indications for SDF testing were then formulated, and the Delphi method was used to reach consensus. Results: The survey was completed by 436 experts from 55 countries. Almost 75% of respondents test for SDF in all or some men with unexplained or idiopathic infertility, 39% order it routinely in the work-up of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), and 62.2% investigate SDF in smokers. While 47% of reproductive urologists test SDF to support the decision for varicocele repair surgery when conventional semen parameters are normal, significantly fewer general urologists (23%; p=0.008) do the same. Nearly 70% would assess SDF before assisted reproductive technologies (ART), either always or for certain conditions. Recurrent ART failure is a common indication for SDF testing. Very few society recommendations were found regarding SDF testing. Conclusions: This article presents the largest global survey on the indications for SDF testing in infertile men, and demonstrates diverse practices. Furthermore, it highlights the paucity of professional society guideline recommendations. Expert recommendations are proposed to help guide clinicians.

Purpose: Despite all past efforts, the current guidelines are not explicit enough regarding the indications for performing azoospermia factor (AZF) screening and karyotype, burdening clinicians with the decision to assess whether such tests are meaningful for the infertile male patient. These assessments can be costly and it is up to the healthcare practitioner to decide which are necessary and to weigh the benefits against economic/psychological harm. The aim of this study is to address such gaps and provide update on current management options for this group of patients. Materials and Methods: To address such gaps in male infertility management and to elucidate whether AZF screening is indicated in individuals who concomitantly harbor chromosomal abnormalities we conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of 10,388 consecutive patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) and severe oligozoospermia. Results: Previously, it has been suggested that all NOA cases with chromosomal defects, except males with 46,XY/45,X karyotype, have no indication for AZF screening. Our findings revealed that cases carrying the following chromosomal abnormalities inv(Y)(p11.2q12); idic(Y)(q11.2); 46,XY,r(Y); idic(Y)(p11.2) and der(Y;Autosome) (76/169; 44.9%; 95% CI, 37.7– 52.5) should also be referred for AZF deletion screening. Here, we also report the correlation between sperm count and AZF deletions as a secondary outcome. In accordance with previously reported data from North America and Europe, our data revealed that only 1% of cases with >1×106 sperm/mL had Y chromosome microdeletions (YCMs). Conclusions: In the era of assisted reproduction, finding cost-minimization strategies in infertility clinics without affecting the quality of diagnosis is becoming one of the top prioritized topics for future research. From a diagnostic viewpoint, the results reflect a need to reconsider the different karyotype presentations and the sperm count thresholds in male infertility guidelines as indicators for YCM screening during an infertility evaluation.

Objective: Although the role of obesity and diabetes mellitus (DM) in male infertility is well established, little informationabout the underlying cellular mechanisms in infertility is available. In this sense, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-kB) hasbeen recognized as an important regulator in obesity and DM; However, its function in the pathogenesis of maleinfertility has never been studied in obese or men who suffer from diabetes. Therefore, the main goal of current researchis assessing NF-kB existence and activity in ejaculated human spermatozoa considering the obesity and diabeticscondition of males. Materials and Methods: In an experimental study, the ELISA technique was applied to analyze NF-kB levels in spermof four experimental groups: non-obese none-diabetic men (body mass index (BMI) 30 kg/m2; OB group; n=30), non-obese diabetic men (BMI 30 kg/m2; OB-DM group; n=30) who were presented to Royan Institute Infertility Center.In addition, protein localization was shown by Immunocytofluorescent assay. Sperm features were also evaluated usingCASA. Results: The diabetic men were older than non-diabetic men regardless of obesity status (P=0.0002). Sperm progressivemotility was affected by obesity (P=0.035) and type A sperm progressive motility was affected by DM (P=0.034). Theconcentration of sperm (P=0.013), motility (P=0.025) and morphology (P

Background: Increased sperm DNA damage is known as one of the causes of recurrent pregnancy loss(RPL) which can be due to increased levels of oxidative stress. In this study, the effect of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as an antioxidant soluble in water and fat was investigated on sperm parameters and sperm function tests in couples with a history of RPL. Materials and Methods: In this preliminary study, a total of 37 patients (n=12 and n=25 for placebo and ALA groups, respectively) were considered. Men with high sperm DNA damage were treated with ALA (600 mg/day) or placebo for 80 days. Semen samples were acquired from the participants before initiation and after completion of the medication course and assessed regarding conventional sperm parameters, DNA damage/integrity, intracellular oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and seminal antioxidant characteristics. Individuals were further followed up for twelve months for pregnancy occurrence and outcomes. Finally, after excluding patients with no history of RPL, the data was analyzed.Results: No statistically significant difference was observed between the baseline measures except for seminal volume. However, after the intervention, the mean sperm DNA damage (TUNEL), nuclear protamine deficiency, and persisted histones were significantly lower in the ALA group than placebo receivers (p

Purpose: Varicocele is a common problem among infertile men. Varicocele repair (VR) is frequently performed to improve semen parameters and the chances of pregnancy. However, there is a lack of consensus about the diagnosis, indications for VR and its outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore global practice patterns on the management of varicocele in the context of male infertility. Materials and Methods: Sixty practicing urologists/andrologists from 23 countries contributed 382 multiple-choice-questions pertaining to varicocele management. These were condensed into an online questionnaire that was forwarded to clinicians involved in male infertility management through direct invitation. The results were analyzed for disagreement and agreement in practice patterns and, compared with the latest guidelines of international professional societies (American Urological Association [AUA], American Society for Reproductive Medicine [ASRM], and European Association of Urology [EAU]), and with evidence emerging from recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Additionally, an expert opinion on each topic was provided based on the consensus of 16 experts in the field. Results: The questionnaire was answered by 574 clinicians from 59 countries. The majority of respondents were urologists/ uro-andrologists. A wide diversity of opinion was seen in every aspect of varicocele diagnosis, indications for repair, choice of technique, management of sub-clinical varicocele and the role of VR in azoospermia. A significant proportion of the responses were at odds with the recommendations of AUA, ASRM, and EAU. A large number of clinical situations were identified where no guidelines are available. Conclusions: This study is the largest global survey performed to date on the clinical management of varicocele for male infertility. It demonstrates: 1) a wide disagreement in the approach to varicocele management, 2) large gaps in the clinical practice guidelines from professional societies, and 3) the need for further studies on several aspects of varicocele management in infertile men.

Objective: Evidence suggests the contributory role of oxidative stress (OS) to sperm DNA damage and eventually, male infertility. Antioxidant supplementation has exhibited favorable results regarding seminal OS, sperm DNA damage, and chromatin integrity. We aimed to evaluate the effect of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation on semen analysis, sperm DNA damage, chromatin integrity, and seminal/intracellular OS in infertile men with high sperm DNA damage.Materials and Methods: In this randomized triple-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial study, we opted for a triple-blind controlled clinical trial design. Considering the study’s inclusion criteria for the level of sperm DNA fragmentation (higher than the threshold of 30 and 15%), 70% of participants were selected for this clinical research study. Subjects were divided into case and control groups receiving oral ALA (600 mg/day) and placebo for eighty days, respectively. Sperm parameters and functional tests were examined and compared before and after treatment. The final sample size was 34 and 29 for ALA and placebo receivers, respectively.Results: No significant differences were observed about anthropometrics and baseline measures of semen analysis, DNA damage, OS, and chromatin integrity between the two groups. Conventional semen parameters were enhanced insignificantly in both groups (P>0.05). DNA damage decreased significantly in the ALA group, as per sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA, P

Abstract Whole body vibration (WBV) is a recognized occupational hazard for many workers such as drivers and operators of heavy and light machinery and exposure to it is accompanied by physical and mental repercussions. Only the limited studies have been done on the effects of vibration exposure on reproductive indices, however vibration exposure has been indicated as being a hazardous agents with the potential of being able to directly affect the reproductive system. Considering the importance of infertility, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating semen quality among taxi drivers in Tehran and determine the effect of exposure to WBV on sperm parameters. The study population consisted of 70 taxi drivers and 70 office employee who attended infertility clinics for diagnostic purposes in the past year. The participants had to meet the entry criteria of the study while also being willing to recruit. Data was collected in the form of demographic questionnaires and general health questionnaires as well as sperm analysis conducted in an infertility clinic according to standard laboratory guidelines. The 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) exposure to of WBV in automobile was measured as per ISO 2631-1. The TWA exposure to WBV among the taxi drivers and office employees were 0.697 ± 0.13 m/s2 and 0.068 ± 0.09 m/s2 respectively (P 0.05); moreover exposure to WBV resulted in the larger effect size (B) on sperm parameters than the demographic variables (P > 0.05). Being taxi drivers increase the chance of the decreased semen quality (P > 0.05). It is difficult to draw definitive conclusions regarding the effects of WBV while intervening factors exist, such as psychological stressors, quality of sleep, background issues as well as environmental factors such as chemical pollutants (heavy metals) or ergonomic factors (body posture and working while sitting down).

Purpose:Purpose: The success of vasectomy is determined by the outcome of a post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA). This article describes a step-by-step procedure to perform PVSA accurately, report data from patients who underwent post vasectomy se-men analysis between 2015 and 2021 experience, along with results from an international online survey on clinical practice. Materials and Methods:Materials and Methods: We present a detailed step-by-step protocol for performing and interpretating PVSA testing, along with recommendations for proficiency testing, competency assessment for performing PVSA, and clinical and laboratory sce-narios. Moreover, we conducted an analysis of 1,114 PVSA performed at the Cleveland Clinic’s Andrology Laboratory and an online survey to understand clinician responses to the PVSA results in various countries. Results:Results: Results from our clinical experience showed that 92.1% of patients passed PVSA, with 7.9% being further tested. A total of 78 experts from 19 countries participated in the survey, and the majority reported to use time from vasectomy rather than the number of ejaculations as criterion to request PVSA. A high percentage of responders reported permitting unpro-tected intercourse only if PVSA samples show azoospermia while, in the presence of few non-motile sperm, the majority of responders suggested using alternative contraception, followed by another PVSA. In the presence of motile sperm, the major-ity of participants asked for further PVSA testing. Repeat vasectomy was mainly recommended if motile sperm were observed after multiple PVSA’s. A large percentage reported to recommend a second PVSA due to the possibility of legal actions. Conclusions:Conclusions: Our results highlighted varying clinical practices around the globe, with controversy over the significance of non-motile sperm in the PVSA sample. Our data suggest that less stringent AUA guidelines would help improve test compli-ance. A large longitudinal multi-center study would clarify various doubts related to timing and interpretation of PVSA and would also help us to understand, and perhaps predict, recanalization and the potential for future failure of a vasectomy.

Retrograde ejaculation (RE) is a condition defined as the backward flow of the semen during ejaculation, and when present can result in male infertility. RE may be partial or complete, resulting in either low seminal volume or complete absence of the ejaculate (dry ejaculate). RE can result from anatomic, neurological or pharmacological conditions. The treatment approaches outlined are determined by the cause. Alkalinizing urinary pH with oral medications or by adding sperm wash media into the bladder prior to ejaculation may preserve the viability of the sperm. This article provides a step-by-step guide to diagnose RE and the optimal techniques to retrieve sperm.

Objective: Bromodomain testis associated (BRDT), a testis-specific member of the Bromo- and Extra-Terrminal domain (BET) protein family, is involved in spermatogenesis and, more specifically, chromatin remodeling. In the post-meiotic spermatogenic cells, BRDT protein binds to the hyperacetylated histones and facilitates their replacement with transition proteins (TPs), particularly protamines, which are essential for chromatin condensation. The current research was conducted to assess the expression and epigenetic profile of BRDT in the testis tissues of infertile men. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, three groups were included: positive control group: obstructive azoospermia (OA, n=10), round spermatid maturation arrest group (SMA, n=10) and negative control group: sertoli cellonly syndrome (SCOS, n=10). Using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the expression profile of BRDT was generated. Also, ChIP-real time PCR was used to measure the following histone marks: H3K9ac, H3K9me3, H3K4me3, H3K27me3 on the promoter region of BRDT. Results: Our data indicated that BRDT expression decreased in the SMA group in comparison with the positive control group and this finding is in line with the ChIP results obtained in this group. Conclusion: Based on these data, we postulate that BRDT gene has a vital role in the spermatogenesis and its decreased expression due to an aberrant epigenetic signaling might be associated with male infertility.

Background: The sperm DNA fragmentation has been considered an important index in the field of male infertility. Aims: Our study aims to evaluate the impact of different factors, including incubation time, storage time, storage medium and method of thawing, on DNA fragmentation of semen samples. Settings and Design: This study was designed as a before–after study in five experiments. Materials and Methods: Experiment 1 was conducted to assess the effect of storage time in liquid nitrogen on 15 semen samples. In experiment 2, DNA fragmentation was performed on 10 semen samples with different incubation times before freezing. In experiments 3, 4, two different storage media and thawing methods were applied respectively in two separate groups, each containing 30 samples and the DNA fragmentation index (DFI) was measured using the sperm chromatin structure assay method. Statistical Analysis: Data were analysed using Stata version 11. Results: There was a significant increase in sperm DNA fragmentation of samples stored in liquid nitrogen for 1 month. This increase occurred in the first 2 weeks. Furthermore, our results showed a significant increase in the DFI after 120 min of incubation at room temperature (RT) and also thawing in RT separately. Conclusion: It is better to use fresh samples to measure DNA fragmentation up to 2 h after ejaculation to achieve more accurate results. Furthermore, if sperm freezing is inevitable, the use of a water bath (37°C) to thaw will be the most appropriate option, as it can lead to less DNA damage.

Objective: Activator of CREM in the testis (ACT) is a tissue specific transcription factor which activates cAMP responsive element modulator (CREM), a key transcription factor in differentiation of round spermatids into mature spermatozoa. They bind to CRE region in the promoters of transition protein genes (TNP1, TNP2) and protamine genes (PRM1 and PRM2), which are essential for sperm chromatin compaction, and regulates their transcription. This study was conducted to consider the expression of ACT and CREM and their regulatory roles on the expression of PRM1, PRM2, TNP1 and TNP2 genes in testis tissues of infertile men. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, testicular biopsies were collected from 40 infertile men and classified into three groups: obstructive azoospermia (OA, n=10, positive control), round spermatid maturation arrest (SMA, n=20), Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS, n=10, negative control group). Using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the expression profile of ACT, CREM, TNP1, TNP2, PRM1 and PRM2 genes were assessed in testicular samples and incorporation of ACT and CREM proteins on the promoters of PRM1, PRM2, TNP1 and TNP2 genes were also evaluated by ChIP-real time PCR. Results: Our results demonstrated significant decrease in the expression levels of ACT, CREM and in their incorporations on their target genes in SMA group in comparison to control groups (P≤0.05). Conclusion: These data confirm that there is low expression and incorporation of ACT and CREM and of their target genes in infertilities which are associated with post-meiotic arrest.

Purpose: The use of antioxidants is common practice in the management of infertile patients. However, there are no estab-lished guidelines by professional societies on antioxidant use for male infertility. Materials and Materials and Methods:Methods: Using an online survey, this study aimed to evaluate the practice pattern of reproductive specialists to determine the clinical utility of oxidative stress (OS) testing and antioxidant prescriptions to treat male infertility. Results:Results: Responses from 1,327 participants representing 6 continents, showed the largest participant representation being from Asia (46.8%). The majority of participants were attending physicians (59.6%), with 61.3% having more than 10 years of experience in the field of male infertility. Approximately two-thirds of clinicians (65.7%) participated in this survey did not order any diagnostic tests for OS. Sperm DNA fragmentation was the most common infertility test beyond a semen analysis that was prescribed to study oxidative stress-related dysfunctions (53.4%). OS was mainly tested in the presence of lifestyle risk factors (24.6%) or sperm abnormalities (16.3%). Interestingly, antioxidants were prescribed by 85.6% of clinicians, for a duration of 3 (43.7%) or 3?? months (38.6%). A large variety of antioxidants and dietary supplements were prescribed, and scientific evidence were mostly considered to be modest to support their clinical use. Results were not influenced by the physician?셲 age, geographic origin, experience or training in male infertility. Conclusions:Conclusions: This study is the largest online survey performed to date on this topic and demonstrates 1) a worldwide under-standing of the importance of this therapeutic option, and 2) a widely prevalent use of antioxidants to treat male infertility. Finally, the necessity of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines from professional societies is highlighted.

Introduction: MiRNA expression alterations are closely related to growth, proliferation, and cell development. In addition, miR-187 has been found to regulate cellular proliferation. Further, spermatogenesis is a highly complicated process which is regulated through several genes targeted by miRNAs. However, no study has completely addressed the etiology of spermatogenic impairments. Accordingly, the present study examined the expression pattern of Homo sapiens (human) microRNA (hsa-mir-187) in the testicular biopsies of infertile men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) and Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) subtype in comparison with those with obstructive azoospermia (OA). Methods: Quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis was performed to assess the expression level of hsa-mir-187 using the ΔΔCt method. Results: Our data indicated that hsa-mir-187 was significantly up-regulated in the testis of the SCOS group (P˂ 0.05) in comparison with the OA group. Conclusion: In general, the findings suggest that the differential expression of hsa-mir-187 is linked with male infertility and shed more light on molecular defects that underlie spermatogenic impairments.

Background Microdeletions of the Yq chromosome are among the most frequent genetic etiological factor of male infertility which spans the azoospermia factor regions (AZFa, AZFb and AZFc). Microdeletions are mostly seen in the AZFc region and usually cover genes actively involved in spermatogenesis. Partial AZFc microdeletions may also occur with various spans, namely gr/gr, b2/b3 and b1/b3. It is known that the outcome of microtesticular sperm extraction (TESE), the surgical process for sperm retrieval from the testis in infertile azoospermic men, may be pre- dicted based on the type of AZF microdeletion. We therefore aimed to evaluate the correlation between partial AZFc microdeletions and microTESE results. Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional study, 200 infertile azoospermic men referred to the Royan Institute were examined for the presence of partial AZFc microdeletions before undergoing microTESE. Partial AZFc micro- deletions were detected by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of seven different sequence-tagged site (STS) markers. The data were analyzed with the Chi-square test. Results Among the 90 patients (45%) with a positive microTESE outcome, 9 (10%) showed a partial microdeletion in AZFc region. Of the 110 (55%) patients with a negative microTESE outcome, 7 (6.3%) had an AZFc partial micro- deletion. With respect to the span of the microdeletions, among the 200 patients, 11 (5.5%) were gr/gr and 5 (2.5%) were b2/b3. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between the patients with and without partial AZFc microdeletions with respect to microTESE outcome. Conclusion Partial AZFc microdeletions is not a predictor of microTESE outcome in azoospermic men.

Background: The role of the screening protocol for viral hepatitis and human immuunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections among infertile couples were seldom investigated. Objective: The present study was performed to assess the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV infections among infertile couples referring to infertility clinic of Royan Institute. Materials and Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was performed on 21673 infertile couples referring to infertility clinic of Royan Institute between 2009 and 2014. Serological findings for viral hepatitis B, C and HIV infection were gathered herewith demographic data of the study participants through the study checklist. Ultimately, 302 couples who had at least one positive result in their serological tests were included in the statistical analysis. Results: The HBV and HCV infections prevalence among study participants were 0.57% and 0.148% respectively; only two cases had HIV infection. HBV and HCV infections prevalence had significant association with the gender of participants, but there was no significant relationship between these infections and infertility types. Conclusion: Viral hepatitis infections screening among infertile couples undergoing assisted reproductive techniques needs more attention.

Background The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of varicocelectomy on serum testoster- one levels and semen quality in infertile men who suffer from varicocele. Materials and Methods This prospective study enrolled 115 subjects with clinical varicocele grades II and III and 240 fertile men as the control group. Total volume of testosterone serum level (ng/dl) and semen quality were com- pared before and after microscopic varicocelectomy. We normalized testosterone serum levels for age, grade, and testis size basis. SPSS 20 software was used to analyze the data. All results of continuous variables were reported as mean ± SD. Statistical significance was set at a P < 0.05. Results The mean ages of individuals who participated in the treatment (32.2 ± 5.23) and control (32.8 ± 5.27) groups were similar. There were similar mean values for adjusted testosterone levels between the varicocele (567 ± 222 ng/ml) and control (583 ± 263 ng/ml) groups. In the varicocele group, the adjusted testosterone levels insig- nificantly increased to 594 ± 243 ng/ml. Among semen parameters, only mean sperm concentration significantly increased after varicocelectomy. Conclusion Despite increases in sperm concentration, adjusted testosterone levels did not significantly improve after varicocelectomy.

Objective: This study evaluated the effects of exogenous testosterone molecule-1 (CADM1) pathological defect during early and chronic periods of spinal cord injury (SCI). Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, testosterone was administered immediately or after one week of SCI induction. Along with quantification of CADM1 gene expression and its immunoreactivity, we evaluated sperm parameters and serum testosterone level post-SCI. Results: Different grades of abnormalities in sperm parameters and testis architecture were observed along with significant reductions in the level of CADM1 expression and its immunoreactivity in the seminiferous tubules of both acute and chronic SCI groups. Exogenous testosterone, by compensating the serum testosterone level. reduced the percentage of apoptotic and both short head and abnormal sperm froms in the caudal epididymis. Importantly, the beneficial effects of immediate administration of testosterone were prominent. Increases in the level of CADM1 transcription and its immunoreactivity in the testis of SCI mice treated with testosterone were accompanied by improvement of sperm motility as well as testicular Johnsen’s and Miller’s criteria. Conclusion: Since immediate testosterone treatment improved the immunoreactivity and transcription level of CADM1, the observed beneficial effect of exogenouse testosterone can be attributed to its effect on CADM1 dynamics.

Background Assessing the net-results of microsurgical varicocelectomy in infertile men with non-obstructive azoosper- mic (NOA) and clinical varicocele in five years at Royan Institute. Materials and Methods This is a descriptive retrospective cohort study. A backward-looking review of patients treated for NOA and varicocele from march 2011 to march 2016 was performed. In addition, MDTESE results of 57 patients with NOA and clinical varicocele, with 537 NOA patients without varicocele were compared. Results Of 57 patients who underwent varicocelectomy, eight patients (14%) had sperm on sperm analysis post-opera- tively. One of the eight patients was single, and one of them had spontaneous pregnancy (1/7) 14%, and one had a child by microinjection (1/7) 14%. Out of these 8 patients, 6 had hypospermatogenesis pathology. Of 38 patients who under- went MDTESE, 14 patients (36%) had sperm on their testis tissues, but one of them had no egg fertilization. Therefore, the fertilization rate was (92%). Of the remaining 13 patients, 3 had live child birth (3/13) 23%. Sperm retrieval rate (SRR) in NOA men without clinical varicocele was lower from those who had varicocele and NOA (22 vs. 36%). Also live birth rate in NOA men with varicocelectomy was higher than NOA men without varicocele (23 vs. 11%). Conclusion Microsurgical varicocelectomy in NOA men may have positive effects on post-operative sperm in ejacu- late and natural or assisted pregnancies, but it seems that the effect is more significant on MDTESE results and follow- ing successful microinjection. Meanwhile, SRR and live birth rate was higher in our patients compare to NOA men without clinical varicocele.

Identification of molecular markers which can predict the outcome of sperm retrieval non-invasively in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) are valuable in clinical andrology. Jumonji domain-containing 1a (JMJD1A) is a significant epigenetic regulator during spermatogenesis, which plays an important role in the differentiation of post-meiotic germ cells into mature spermatozoa. We therefore aimed to examine the potential association between JMJD1A expression and the outcome of sperm retrieval in patients with NOA. Testicular biopsy specimens from 50 NOA patients with either successful sperm retrieval (sperm+, n=22) or failed sperm retrieval (sperm-, n=28) were collected and then examined for JMJD1A expression by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). In addition, conventional clinical parameters including luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, age, and testicular volume were compared between the two NOA groups. The expression of JMJD1A in the sperm+ group was significantly higher than in the sperm- group (P

Objective: Toll-like receptors (TLRs) on Sertoli cells are thought to have essential roles in sperm protection. This study was conducted to investigate the expression of TLR2 and TLR3 in Sertoli cells of men with azoospermia. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, testicular biopsies were taken from ten azoospermic men. Following enzymatic dissociation, the samples were moved to lectin coated petri dishes. After a few passages, all cells were cultivated and Seroli cells were sorted by flow cytometry. To confirm Sertoli cell purification, alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and immunohistochemistry assays were employed. The expression of TLR2 and TLR3 at the transcript and protein levels was examined with real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-QPCR) and western blot, respectively. Results: Isolation, purification and cultivation of human Sertoli cells were performed successfully. Efficacy of purification of Sertoli cells by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) sorter was ~97%. The type of cultured cells was confirmed by vimentin and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor markers. Furthermore, the existence of anti- Müllerian hormone in culture was confirmed. RT-PCR showed that both genes were expressed in Sertoli cells. Consistently, proteins of both were also expressed in Sertoli cells. Moreover, QPCR showed that the relative expression of TLR3 transcripts was significantly higher than TLR2 in Sertoli cells. Although both genes are expressed in fibroblast cells, their level of expression was significantly lower than in Sertoli cells. Conclusion: This study confirmed expression of TLR2 and TLR3 in human Sertoli cells. This may be an indicator of their roles in developing immunity against pathogens as well as allo- and auto-antigens or viral antigens in seminiferous tubules.

Background The most common chromosomal abnormality due to non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is Klinefelter syndrome (KS) which occurs in 1-1.72 out of 500-1000 male infants. The probability of retrieving sperm as the outcome could be asymmetrically different between patients with and without KS, therefore logistic regression analysis is not a well-qualified test for this type of data. This study has been designed to evaluate skewed regression model analysis for data collected from microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) among azoospermic patients with and without non-mosaic KS syndrome. Materials and Methods This cohort study compared the micro-TESE outcome between 134 men with classic KS and 537 men with NOA and normal karyotype who were referred to Royan Institute between 2009 and 2011. In addition to our main outcome, which was sperm retrieval, we also used logistic and skewed regression analyses to compare the following demographic and hormonal factors: age, level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone between the two groups. Results A comparison of the micro-TESE between the KS and control groups showed a success rate of 28.4% (38/134) for the KS group and 22.2% (119/537) for the control group. In the KS group, a significantly difference (P < 0.001) existed between testosterone levels for the successful sperm retrieval group (3.4 ± 0.48 mg/mL) compared to the unsuccessful sperm retrieval group (2.33 ± 0.23 mg/mL). The index for quasi Akaike information criterion (QAIC) had a goodness of fit of 74 for the skewed model which was lower than logistic regression (QAIC=85). Conclusion According to the results, skewed regression is more efficient in estimating sperm retrieval success when the data from patients with KS are analyzed. This finding should be investigated by conducting additional studies with different data structures.

Background and Aim: Infertility is a major problem of modern medicine as it affects almost 20% of reproductive-aged couples. The cause of this problem is attributed to the male partner in nearly 40%-50% of these cases. The role of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in male infertility has been investigated using the sensitive methods. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HSV-1, 2 DNA in the semen, blood and urine of idiopathic infertile men and its association with altered semen parameters. Materials and Methods: A total of 150 semen, blood and urine samples from infertile men were collected in the Shariati hospital, Tehran (2012-2014). Sample analysis and diagnostic PCR using specific primers was performed for detection of HSV-1, 2 DNA in the specimens. Results: Analysis showed six groups of infertile men, including HSV-1, 2 positive and negative groups in semen, blood and urine samples. HSV-1, 2 DNA was detected in 38 (18.66%) semens, (6.66%) 10 in blood and 2 (1.33%) in urine. Only HSV-1, 2 positive samples of semen had abnormal semen parameters. Conclusion: Using a powerful molecular method, we detected a high prevalence of HSV-1, 2 DNA in the semen of asymptomatic infertile patients. Although HSV-1, 2 infections were not associated with motility and morphology defects of the sperms, it was related with decreased sperm count in the semen fluid. In addition there was not a significant role for detection of HSV-1, 2 DNA in blood and urine samples of infertile men and abnormal semen parameters.

Objective Microdeletions of the Y chromosome long arm are the most common molecular genetic causes of severe infertility in men. They affect three regions including azoospermia factors (AZFa, AZFb and AZFc), which contain various genes involved in spermatogenesis. The aim of the present study was to reveal the patterns of Y chromosome microdeletions in Iranian infertile men referred to Royan Institute with azoospermia/ severe oligospermia. Materials and Methods Through a cross-sectional study, 1885 infertile men referred to Royan Institute with azoospermia/severe oligospermia were examined for Y chromosome microdeletions from March 2012 to March 2014. We determined microdeletions of the Y chromosome in the AZFa, AZFb and AZFc regions using multiplex Polymerase chain reaction and six different Sequence-Tagged Site (STS) markers. Results Among the 1885 infertile men, we determined 99 cases of Y chromosome microdeletions (5.2%). Among 99 cases, AZFc microdeletions were found in 70 cases (70.7%); AZFb microdeletions in 5 cases (5%); and AZFa microdeletions in only 3 cases (3%). AZFbc microdeletions were detected in 18 cases (18.1%) and AZFabc microdeletions in 3 cases (3%). Conclusion Based on these data, our results are in agreement with similar studies from other regions of the world as well as two other recent studies from Iran which have mostly reported a frequency of less than 10% for Y chromosome microdeletions.

Background: Although the effectiveness of ginger as an antioxidant agent has been exploited, little human research has been conducted on its activity on male reproductive functions. Objective: This study was designed to investigate the effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale) on sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) in infertile men. Materials and Methods: This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with a 1:1 allocation was performed on 100 infertility treatment candidates who were admitted to Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, Tehran, Iran. Patients were randomly assigned to receive one of two treatments: ginger and placebo. Patients were given a 3-month oral treatment (members received capsules containing 250 mg of ginger powder twice a day in ginger and a placebo in other group). Before and after treatment, standardized semen samples were obtained to determine sperm concentration, motility, and SDF according to World Health Organization. Results: There was no significant difference between two groups regarding SDF at baseline (53.48. 95%CI: 37.95-69.02) in cases and (56.75, 95%CI: 40.01-73.5) in controls. The average positive percentage of SDF in patients receiving ginger (17.77, 95%CI: 6.16-29.39) was lower compared with placebo (40.54, 95%CI: 23.94-57.13) after three month of treatment (p=0.02). In multivariate analysis, SDF was significantly lower in patients receiving ginger compared with placebo (mean difference: 3.21, 95%CI: 0.78-5.63, p=0.009). There were no significant differences between two groups regarding to semen parameters. Conclusion: The present study has demonstrated that ginger in a controlled study of efficacy was effective in decreasing SDF in infertile men.

Background: The availability of testis specific genes will be of help in choosing the most promising biomarkers for the detection of testicular sperm retrieval in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Testis specific chromodomain protein Y 1 (CDY1) is a histone acetyltransferase which concentrates in the round spermatid nucleus, where histone hyperacetylation occurs and causes the replacement of histones by the sperm-specific DNA packaging proteins, TNPs and PRMs. Objective: The aim was to evaluate CDY1 gene as a marker for predicting of successful sperm retrieval in NOA patients. Materials and Methods: This research was conducted on 29 patients with NOA who had undergone testicular sperm extraction (TESE) procedure. NOA patients were subdivided into patients with successful sperm retrieval (NOA+, n=12) and patients with unsuccessful sperm retrieval (NOA-, n=17). Relative expression of CDY1 gene and chromatin incorporation of CDY1 protein were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and ELISA assay, respectively. Results: Quantification of mRNA relative expression and incorporation of CDY1 protein in chromatin showed significant lower expressions and protein levels of CDY1 in testis tissues of NOA- in comparison to NOA+ group. Conclusion: The findings in this study demonstrated a correlation between the low levels of CDY1 function and unsuccessful sperm recovery in the testicular tissues of NOA- compared to NOA+ patients. Therefore, it can be reasonable to consider CDY1 as a potential biomarker for predicting the presence of spermatozoa, although the claim needs more samples to be confirmed.

Background Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes infertility in male patients through erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory dysfunction, semen and hormone abnormalities. Oxidative stress (OS) is involved in poor semen quality and subsequent infertility in males with SCI. The aim of this study is to examine the effects of SCI on the level of testosterone hormone. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, we evaluated the effects of exogenous testosterone on the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) as well as the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonylation (PCO), as markers of OS, in 10 groups of SCI mice. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was determined using the 2,29-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline- 6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical cation assay. Results Exogenous testosterone administration in mice with SCI significantly reduced SOD and GPx enzyme activities and MDA level. There was no significant decrease in PCO content. In addition, TAC remarkably increased in the sham and SCI groups not treated with testosterone but remained unchanged in all other experimental groups. Exogenous testosterone also reduced serum testosterone levels in all groups except the positive control group. Conclusion Our cumulative data indicated that SCI could cause sterility by disturbing the plasmatic testosterone balance. The normal level of endogenous testosterone was not completely restored by exogenous testosterone administration.

Introduction: Bilateral vassal agenesis (CBAVD) is a rare cause of male infertility. Also one of the nonobstructive cause of azoospermia and infertility in men is microdeletion in long arm of Y chromosome. In this case report we have reported a rare case of CBAVD, LT renal agenesis and AZFc microdeletion. Patient Information: 28 years old man, who was farmer with history of 6 years of infertility presented to our andrology clinic in Royan institute. In physical examination there was not any palpable vas deferens bilaterally, also The semen analysis was azoospermia. In sonographic evaluation, LT kidney wasn’t seen in its anatomic location. The patient candidate for diagnostic PESA and bilateral PESA were negative. After that, the patient candidate for bilateral TESE and fascinatingly TESE was negative too. After genetic evaluation microdeletion was detected in AZFc subregion of Y chromosome. Conclusion: In men with obstructive azoospermia mostly testicular spermatogenesis is normal but this is not the rule because seldom spermatogenic dysfunction maybe present like our patient. We emphasize about the importance of consideration of obstructive and nonobstructive azoospermia together in a patient for urologists.

Introduction: Infertility affects an estimated 15% of couples globally and in Iran, a quarter of couples experiences primary infertility. Males are found to be individually responsible for 20-30% of infertility cases and contribute to 50% of cases totally. When assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are used to acquire pregnancy, a sufficient (epi) genetic diagnosis of male infertility (MI) is of main matter to consider if a genetic abnormality will be transmit-ted to offspring. Infertility centers together with Infertility research centers had been founded since 1994 in Iran and many articles from research projects have been published. Materials and Methods: This literature investigated the possible genetic causes mechanisms underlying Iranian male infertility by extensive article searches. First, we reviewed available data from the Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, IranMedex, MEDLIB, IranDoc and Scientific Information Database were searched for articles published until 2018, using the MeSH terms for a variety of chromosome abnormalities, Y-chromosome microdeletions, gene mutations, expression and polymorphisms, Male infertility and/or Iranian, regional and international population, to provides the evidence- based and a comprehensive, up-to- date evaluation of the multifactorial factors involved in Iranian infertile men. Results: According to the strategy adopted initially, 274 manuscripts were found. After reviewing the titles, abstracts and manuscripts entirely cited, the total of 139 articles were obtained and selected according to the eligibility criteria. The 139 studies were divided into four predetermined categories that mentioned above. Studies have good methodological validity. The sample is quite heterogeneous, given the very different design of the studies. Conclusion: MI is a complex, multi-factorial disease and the underlying reasons frequently remain unknown. It seems that the first line of genetic diagnosis in Iranian male infertility is similar to Global One. In all investigations conducted in Iran, there are vacancies in studies such as epigenetic modification studies, RNA (lncRNA, miRNA and piRNA) abnormalities, mutation detection and polymorphism studies in other genes involved in the spermatogenesis process. At present, we have a little information for some polymorphisms (MTHFR, GST, ER, and DAZL) and mutations (mtDNA, CATSPER) which require more extensive studies. Such articles help to find a better insight into the causes of infertility in the Iranian men's community and will provide valuable visions into the development of targeted personalized treatments for patients and the ascertainment of the reasons of idiopathic infertility.

Background: Varicocele is recognized as the most common cause of male factor infertility and is found in 15% of the general population. This prevalence increases to 35% in men presenting with primary infertility and between 70 to 80% in men presenting with secondary infertility. The effect of varicocele on Leydig cell function and testosterone production has been always a question. In this study we examined the effect of varicocelectomy on serum testosterone. Methods: This research protocol was approved by the institutional review board at Royan Institute in infertility department and also this study has been done in Royan Institute (Tehran, Iran) during one year since September 2012 till October 2013. In this cross-sectional study, Serum levels of total testosterone in 79 men with clinical varicocele and in 70 fertile men who served as a control group were compared. Men aged 23–46 years with clinically palpable varicoceles as determined by physical examination were studied. Three to 6 months, testosterone levels were measured again after varicocelectomy, then testosterone levels were compared before and after varicocelectomy. Results: The mean of serum testosterone levels before surgery in infertile men with varicocele and fertile men were 590(230) vs. 583(237) ng/dl respectively. No statistically significant changes were noted in serum testosterone levels for any groups. Three month after varicocelectomy mean serum testosterone levels were significantly increased in infertile men with varicocele compared with preoperative levels from 590 (230) to 663 (242) ng/dl (P=0.009). Also the testis volume of patients were examined, which were divided into two groups included the men with testis volume less than 16 ml (

Background: Male infertility is a multifactorial disorder, which affects approximately 10% of couples at childbearing age with substantial clinical and social impact. Genetic factors are associated with the susceptibility to spermatogenic impairment in humans. Recently, SEPT12 is reported as a critical gene for spermatogenesis. This gene encodes a testis specific member of Septin proteins, a family of polymerizing GTP-binding proteins. SEPT12 in association with other Septins is an essential annulus component in mature sperm. So, it is hypothesized that genetic alterations of SEPT12 may be concerned in male infertility. Objective: The objective of this research is exploration of new single nucleotide polymorphism G5508A in the SEPT12 gene association with idiopathic male infertility in Iranian men. Materials and Methods: In this case control study, 67 infertile men and 100 normal controls were analyzed for genetic alterations in the active site coding region of SEPT12, using polymerase chain reaction sequencing technique. Fisher exact test was used for statistical analysis and p

Background During spermatogenesis, the H2B family, member W (H2B.W) gene, en- codes a testis specific histone that is co-localized with telomeric sequences and has the potential role to mediate the sperm-specific chromatin remodeling. Previously H2B.W genetic variants were reported to be involved in susceptibility to spermatogenesis im- pairment. In the present study, two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 5΄UTR and exon 1 of H2B.W gene were examined to investigate possible association of these polymorphisms with male infertility in Iranian population. Materials and Methods This case control study was conducted in Royan institute during four-year period (2010–2013). Genetic alteration of two SNPs loci, −9C>T and 368A>G, in H2B.W gene were indicated in 92 infertile men who were divided into two main groups includ- ing azoospermia (n=46) and sever oligozoospermia (n=46), while there was 60 fertile men as control group. Azoosperima was also divided into three sub-groups including sertoli cell only syndrome (SCOS, n=21), complete maturation arrest (CMA, n=17) and hypo spermatogenesis (n=8) according to testicular biopsy. For analysis, polymerase chain reaction-restriction frag- ment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique was applied. Results The frequency of allele −9T was significantly higher in CMA group than in patients with SCOS (P < 0.05). The haplotype TA (corresponding to simultaneous occur- rence of −9T and 368A) compared with haplotype CA (corresponding to simultaneous occurrence of −9C and 368A) in patients suffering from CMA significantly increased, compared with patients had SCOS (P < 0.05). However, statistical studies indicated that in general, the distribution frequencies of −9C>T and 368A>G had no significant difference between the infertile groups and control (P=0.859 and P=0.812, respectively). Conclusion This investigation showed that SNP −9C>T might be contribute to CMA in azoo- spermic patients and SNP 368A>G had no correlation with male infertility in Iranian population.

Background To evaluate predictive factors of successful microdissection-testicular sperm extraction (MD-TESE) in patients with presumed Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS). Materials and Methods In this retrospective analysis, 874 men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), among whom 148 individuals with diagnosis of SCOS in prior biopsy, underwent MD-TESE at Department of Andrology, Royan Institute, Tehran, Iran. The predictive values of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone (T) levels, testicular volume, as well as male age for retrieving testicular sperm by MD-TESE were analyzed by multiple logistic regression analysis. Results Testicular sperm were successfully retrieved in 23.6% men with presumed SCOS. Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, it was shown that sperm retrieval rate in the group of men with FSH values >15.25% was 28.9%. This was higher than the group of men with FSH ≤15.25 (11.8%). Conclusion Sperm retrieval rate (SRR) was 23.6% in men with presumed SCOS and FSH level can be a fair predictor for SPR at MD-TESE. MD-TESE appears to be recommendable in such cases (SCOS with high FSH concentration) with reasonable results.

Background: Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one the most common methods in infertility treatment, but its efficiency in infertile couples with male factor is controversial. This study is a retrospective study about correlation between semen parameters and male and female age with successful rate of IUI in patients attending to Royan Institute.Methods: A total of 998 consecutive couples in a period of 6 months undergoing IUI were included. They were classified into two groups: couples with successful and unsuccessful pregnancy. Main outcome was clinical pregnancy. Data about male and female ages and semen analysis including concentration, total sperm motility, class A motility, class B motility, class A+B motility and normal morphology was extracted from patients’ records. Semen samples were collected by masturbation or coitus after 2 to 7 days of abstinence. Their female partners were reported to have no chronic medi-cal conditions and have normal menstrual cycles.Results: One hundred and fifty seven of total 998 cycles (15.7%) achieved pregnancy. The average of female age in successful and unsuccessful group was 28.95±4.19 and 30.00±4.56 years, respectively. Mean of male age was 33.97±4.85 years in successful group and 34.44±4.62 years in unsuccessful group. In successful and unsuccessful groups, average of sperm concentration was 53.62±38.45 and 46.26±26.59 (million sperm/ml), normal morphology of sperm was 8.98±4.31 (%) and 8.68±4.81 (%), sperm total motility was 47.24±18.92 (%) and 43.70±20.22 (%) and total motile sperm count was 80.10±63.61 million and 78.57±68.22 million, respectively.Conclusion: There was no significant difference in mean of females’ age and males’ age between successful and unsuccessful groups (P

Background To determine the differences in sperm quality and results of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles between three groups of male factor infertile couples: oligozoospermic, obstructive azoospermic and non-obstructive azoospermic. Materials and Methods In this prospective cohort study, 628 male factor infertile couples who underwent ICSI cycles from April 2004 to March 2006 were enrolled. Three hundred fourteen oligozoospermic patients (group I), 180 obstructive azoospermic patients (group II) and 134 non-obstructive azoospermic patients (group III) were included. Fertilization, cleavage, implantation and clinical pregnancy, early abortion rates were assessed. Chisquare and analysis of variances with Post Hoc (Tukey test) were used for data analysis. Results Fertilization rates were significantly different in the three groups (group I: 66.6%; group II: 51.8%; group III: 47.7%; p=0.004). There were differences in the implantation rates (I: 19.5%; II: 17.6%; III: 6.4%; p=0.001). The cleavage rates were found to be 55.1% (group I), 47.5% (group II), 45.5%(group III), respectively. The clinical pregnancy rate was the lowest in the third group (I: 37.6%; II: 28.9%; III: 13.4%; p=0.001). There was no significant difference in early abortion rates between the three groups: (I: 10.7%; II: 9.8%; III: 8%; p=0.776). Conclusion It can be concluded that patients with oligozoospermia may benefit the most from ICSI treatment. ICSI cycles which use spermatozoa from non-obstructive azoospermic patients have a lower chance for successful outcome. The results of this study suggest, in cases of failure to achieve pregnancy after 1 or 2 cycles in non-obstructive azoospermic patients, embryo donation would be a better alternative.

Background Infertility can be a major concern for couples trying to conceive, and occupational hazards may constitute a main cause of infertility in men. Studies conducted throughout the world indicate that physical and chemical hazards in the workplace can have a negative impact on male fertility. The main objective of this study was to determine the frequency of occupational categories of men who attended an infertility clinic, and to evaluate the differences in the semen quality parameters among occupational categories. Materials and Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1164 males who were referred to the Infertility Research Center in Tehran for treatment of infertility in order to evaluate the effects of certain occupations on infertility. The participants were divided into several categories according to their occupations and evaluated by means of a questionnaire for duration of infertility, BMI, sperm count, percentage of normal sperm morphology and percentages of sperm with class A and class B motilities. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, and correlations were conducted using SPSS 16.0 for Windows. Results There were no statistically significant differences in the mean sperm count or sperm morphology between occupational categories. Assessment of the differences in the frequency of sperm motility classes between occupational categories revealed a significant difference only in the frequency of sperm with class B motility. The lowest mean percentages of sperm with class B motility were seen in those involved in the transportation industry, a finding in agreement with a number of other researches. Conclusion Our findings revealed an association between occupation and sperm motility. Since our study population was relatively small and in many cases exposures to work hazards were brief, a larger study group must be evaluated in order to support the preliminary results of this study.

Objective: Infection with genital Mycoplasmas may have harm effects on the reproductivehealth of men, thus leading to male infertility. This study was performed to detectthe prevalence of these bacteria and to study the sperm parameters in infertile men whoreferred to Royan Institute during 2009.Materials and Methods: Semen samples were collected from 220 infertile men and dividedinto three sections. The first section was used for semen analysis, the second sectionfor polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in which U4 and U5 primers were used for theamplification of the urease gene of U. urealyticum, and RNAH1 and RNAH2 primers wereused for amplification of the 16S rRNA gene of M. hominis.Results: From a total of 220 semen samples cultured, 15.5% of M. hominis and 40.5% ofU. urealyticum were isolated. Evaluation of semen parameters showed a lower pH in theU. urealyticum positive group and the group which was positive for both bacteria, ratherthan the group which contained no bacteria (p=0.007 and p=0.000, respectively). Also,the mean sperm motility was lower in the group which was positive for both bacteria whencompared with the U. urealyticum positive group (p=0.009).Conclusion: The results of this study show that a high percent of infertile men are infectedwith these bacteria which may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility,thus isolation of these bacteria in infertile couples with no clinical symptoms is necessaryand can be a part of a sexual transmitted disease (STD) control program.

Background: The present study offers our contribution on the topic by a retrospective analysis of the prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities in a population of Iranian infertile men attending assisted reproduction programs.Materials and Methods: Cytogenetic analysis was performed according to standard methods on cultured cells obtained from the patient peripheral blood. In all, 874 files belonging to male partner of each couple were classified as follows: azoospermic, oligozoospermic and patients with low sperm quality in respect of morphology and motility.Results: Chromosomal abnormalities were observed in 136(15.5%) individuals of the whole population studied including 12.0 %, 1.2 % and 2.0% of azoospermic, oligozoospermic and patients with low sperm quality, respectively. Of those, 116 (13.2%) had sex chromosome abnormalities and 20(2.3%) had autosomal chromosome abnormalities.Conclusion: We observed high frequency of aneuploidy and sex chromosomal mosaicism in azoospermic men and high structural aberrations in males with low sperm quality. We suggested that type of chromosomal abnormalities had an inverse relation to sperm count. So that, high chromosomal aneuploidy was detected in males with lower sperm count and high structural aberration was detected in males with low sperm quality. Chromosomal abnormalities are a major cause of male infertility. Consequently, Genetic testing and counselling is indicated for infertile men with abnormal semen parameters with either abnormal karyotype or normal karyotype before applying assisted reproductive techniques.

Genitourinary involvement with sarcoidosis is very rare. The objective of this report was to present a case of a patient with testicular swelling. The patient was an infertile 42-year-old man with bilateral testicular swelling. Semen analysis in the past 10 years revealed no abnormality; however, gradually he became azoospermic in 3 years. A diagnosis of sarcoidosis made on the basis of hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy in chest CT scan was confirmed through testicular and epididymal biopsy. Testicular masses vanished after administering steroids, and azoospermia recovered. To conclude, although genitourinary sarcoidosis is rare, it must be kept in mind in patients with confirmed sarcoidosis.

Non‐obstructive azoospermia (NOA) resulting from primary spermatogenic failure represents one of the most severe forms of male infertility, largely because therapeutic options are very limited. Beyond their diagnostic value, genetic tests for NOA also hold prognostic potential. Specifically, genetic diagnosis enables the establishment of genotype‐testicular phenotype correlations, which, in some cases, provide a negative predictive value for testicular sperm extraction (TESE), thereby preventing unnecessary surgical procedures. In this study, we employed whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) to investigate two generations of an Iranian family with NOA and identified a homozygous splicing variant in TDRKH (NM_001083965.2: c.562‐2A>T). TDRKH encodes a conserved mitochondrial membrane‐anchored factor essential for piRNA biogenesis in germ cells. In Tdrkh knockout mice, de‐repression of retrotransposons in germ cells leads to spermatogenic arrest and male infertility. Previously, our team reported TDRKH involvement in human NOA cases through the investigation of a North African cohort. This current study marks the second report of TDRKH's role in NOA and human male infertility, underscoring the significance of the piRNA pathway in spermatogenesis. Furthermore, across both studies, we demonstrated that men carrying TDRKH variants, similar to knockout mice, exhibit complete spermatogenic arrest, correlating with failed testicular sperm retrieval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]