Search

There has recently been an explosion of studies implicating the human microbiome in playing a critical role in many disease and wellness states. The etiology of abnormal semen analysis (SA) parameters is not identified in 30% of cases; investigations involving the semen microbiome may bridge this gap. Here, we explore the relationship between the semen microbiome and alterations of sperm parameters. We recruited men presenting for fertility evaluation or vasectomy consultation with proven biological paternity. SA and next generation sequencing was performed. Differential abundance testing using Analysis of composition of Microbiota with Bias Correction (ANCOM-BC) was performed along with canonical correlational analysis for microbial community profiling. Men with abnormal (N = 27) sperm motility showed a higher abundance of Lactobacillus iners compared to those with normal (N = 46) sperm motility (mean proportion 9.4% versus 2.6%, p = 0.046). This relationship persisted on canonical correlational analysis (r = 0.392, p = 0.011). Men with abnormal sperm concentration (N = 20) showed a higher abundance of Pseudomonas stutzeri (2.1% versus 1.0%, p = 0.024) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (0.9% versus 0.7%, p = 0.010), but a lower abundance of Pseudomonas putida (0.5% versus 0.8%, p = 0.020), compared to those with normal sperm concentration (N = 53). Major limitations are related to study design (cross-sectional, observational). Our results suggest that a small group of microorganisms may play a critical role in observed perturbations of SA parameters. Some of these microbes, most notably Lactobacillus iners, have been described extensively within other, fertility-related, contexts, whereas for others, this is the first report where they have potentially been implicated. Advances in our understanding of the semen microbiome may contribute to potentially new therapeutic avenues for correcting impairments in sperm parameters and improving male fertility.

Aim Design Results Conclusions To compare clinical outcomes using short and long co‐incubation protocols in sibling oocytes based on embryo morphokinetic outcomes measured by time‐lapse incubator with stratification based on a woman's age and sperm quality.Our study included 72 cycles with >6 oocytes retrieved. Sibling oocytes were distributed for two parallel protocols: short (3 h; n = 421) or long (16–20 h; n = 434) insemination, using the same amount of spermatozoa from the same prepared sample. Oocytes were then washed and incubated for 5 days. Time‐lapse annotations of embryos were performed by experienced embryologists and artificial intelligence‐based Known Implantation Data scores for day 3 and day 5 were calculated with EmbryoScope software.Short‐insemination group exhibited a higher blastulation rate, better morphokinetic indicators, and higher Known Implantation Data scores on day 3 and day 5 of the utilized embryos. However, the fertilization rate and clinical pregnancy rate per embryo transfer did not differ between experimental groups. A higher rate of abnormal fertilization (>2 pronuclei) after long insemination was recorded in women under 35 years old or with a total motile sperm count above 5 million and above 40% motility after preparation. A higher rate of usable embryos was observed after short insemination with a total motile sperm count above 30 million before preparation or 5 million and over 40% motility after preparation.Our results suggest that a short insemination protocol results in better embryo quality and should be considered as a favorable protocol, especially in young female patients or male patients with high sperm quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the effect of switching to a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) preparation other than that to which infertile male patients have not had an effective response. Patients and methods: Seventy-four normogonadotropinemic, non-obstructive, oligozoospermic patients who were poor responders to the administration of highly purified FSH (hpFSH) (Group 1 (n = 22) and Group 3 (n = 15)) or to recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) (Group 2 (n = 22) and Group 4 (n = 15)) were selected for this prospective study. After 3 months of washout from treatment with the first FSH preparation of choice, rhFSH was administered to patients in Groups 1 and 4 and hpFSH to those in Groups 2 and 3. Serum luteinizing hormone, FSH, total testosterone levels, conventional sperm parameters, testicular volume, and the number of pregnancies were evaluated at study entry and after the first and second treatment cycles. Results: Comparing treatment groups, the greatest improvement in sperm parameters was recorded in the groups of patients prescribed the switch in FSH preparation. Group 1 had the greatest benefit from therapy, with the highest pregnancy rate after the second treatment cycle. Indeed, eight couples achieved pregnancy (36.4%), compared to Groups 2 (n = 4; 18.2%), 3 (n = 1; 6.7%), and 4 (n = 2; 13.3%) (p = 0.04). Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that a therapeutic scheme involving the "switching" of the FSH preparation yields better results than a protocol using the same FSH preparation for six months. These findings, if confirmed by further studies, will help us better design a treatment strategy with FSH for infertile patients with oligozoospermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

\nHIGHLIGHTSInfertility affects 8–12% of couples globally, with male factors contributing to around 40% of cases. Common male infertility issues include erectile dysfunction (ED) and low sperm count or quality, which account for over 90% of cases. These problems often result from anatomical, hormonal, or genetic abnormalities. This review focuses on natural aphrodisiac herbs commonly used to address ED, providing detailed information on their botanical characteristics, metabolic pathways, recommended dosages, phytochemical properties, side effects, origins, and traditional uses. It also reviews recent studies on medicinal herbs that boost sexual desire and treat urological conditions. By compiling reliable findings from the past decade, the study aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for individuals dealing with sexual health issues. Through careful evaluation of each herb, it offers insights into their effectiveness and limitations, emphasizing the potential of natural treatments as complementary alternatives to conventional therapies for male infertility and related conditions.Anatomy, hormone abnormalities and genetic flaws may contribute to male infertility.The most popular natural aphrodisiac herbs used in the treatment of infertility were revised.Unique and reliable references to sexual desire and urological problems were provided.Safe aphrodisiac herbs including phytochemical products were emphasized.Plants were investigated for their potential as aphrodisiacs and fertility enhancersAnatomy, hormone abnormalities and genetic flaws may contribute to male infertility.The most popular natural aphrodisiac herbs used in the treatment of infertility were revised.Unique and reliable references to sexual desire and urological problems were provided.Safe aphrodisiac herbs including phytochemical products were emphasized.Plants were investigated for their potential as aphrodisiacs and fertility enhancers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Infertility is a global health issue and nutrition plays a significant role in fertility outcomes. We aimed to investigate the cross-sectional and prospective associations of glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) with semen quality parameters in a cohort of healthy young men. Materials and Methods: The study included 106 men aged 18–35 years from the FERTINUTS trial. Dietary intake was estimated through 3-day dietary records and several semen parameters were assessed. Multivariable linear regression analysis with the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) approach was employed. Results: The cross-sectional analysis revealed positive associations between GI and GL and total sperm count, sperm concentration, and total motility. In the prospective analysis, baseline GI was associated with increases in pH, vitality, immotile sperm or abnormal midpiece and decreases in total sperm count and motility. Conversely, GL was positively associated with changes in vitality and total sperm count. Conclusions: While these findings suggest that GI may have adverse effects on several sperm quality parameters, the results were not consistently observed in the cross-sectional analysis. However, GL was consistently associated with better sperm quality in both analyses. The impact of carbohydrate quality and quantity on fertility remains uncertain and larger prospective studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies on male infertility reveal a growing worry: more infertile men are dealing with inflammation in the testis. Analyzing testicular biopsies from infertile men highlights a significant presence of inflammation. This connection, supported by clinical and pathological evidence, emphasizes that testicular inflammation hampers sperm production, leading to lasting declines in sperm count and quality. However, the exact reasons behind male infertility due to orchitis, a type of testicular inflammation, are still uncertain. Understanding these fundamental aspects of molecular signals and cellular mechanisms in testicular inflammation is crucial. Our review delves into recent literature with a dual objective: elucidating potential mechanisms involving immune cells, non-immune cells, and cytokines that link orchitis to male infertility, while also paving the way for precise interventions and solutions to address the challenges of male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known the prevalence of varicoceles in adolescent men is 14–29% but there is debate surrounding implications on fertility. As obtaining a semen analysis (SA) may be challenging, there is need for objective tests as measures of fecundity. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between testicular volume differential (TVD), varicocele grade, and total testicular volume (TTV) on seminal parameters including total motile sperm count (TMSC). We conducted a retrospective single-center chart review over 14 years of 486 Tanner V adolescent males. Three hundred and four met inclusion of palpable, non-operated left-sided varicocele who underwent at least one SA and ultrasound. Abnormal TMSC was defined by World Health Organization 2010 criteria for minimal reference ranges. Multivariate logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic analysis with Youden J-statistic and descriptive statistics were performed. Three hundred and four Tanner V adolescents with median age of 18.0 years (18.0–19.0), median TTV of 34.5 cc (28.9, 40.2) and median TMSC of 62.5 million/ejaculate (25.4, 123.4) were evaluated. TTV cutoff of 29.5 cc was found to predict TMSC of <9 million/ejaculate with negative predictive value of 96.2% and odds ratio of 6.08 ([2.13–17.42], p < 0.001). TVD greater than 20% did not reach statistical significance with an odds ratio of 1.66 ([0.41–6.62], p = 0.50). In clinical practice, each patient will need to have an individualized plan. Based on our data, for older adolescents (17 or 18 years) with varicocele and an abnormal TTV, clinicians may have a lower threshold for advising SA, and if unable to obtain, surgical intervention and/or closer surveillance should be stressed. Patients should be informed of their six-fold increase in abnormal SA. Patients with normal TTV should be advised they are at lower risk of having abnormal SA. Younger patients with varicocele and an initial TVD>20%, should be followed closely but intervention delayed until 17 or 18 to better assess TTV. The importance of trending patient data should be emphasized as a single measurement has low predictive value for developing adolescents. Limitations of our study include a retrospective design and the lack of uniform correlation between adolescent SA and paternity. Total testicular volume less than 29.5 cc increased odds of abnormal semen analysis by over six times and had a negative predictive value of 96.2%. Ultrasound results may be useful for risk stratification and counselling on appropriateness of surgical intervention. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most prevalent endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and there is widespread concern about the adverse effects of EDCs on human health. However, the exact mechanism of these toxicities has still not been fully deciphered. Additionally, studies have reported the toxicological effects at far low doses to the generally considered no‐observed‐adverse‐effect level (NOAEL) dose. The present study investigates the effects of a sub‐acute (28 days) exposure to BPA (10, 50 and 100 mg/kg/day) in adult male mice on various hormones levels, sperm motility, sperm count, functional integrity of sperm plasma membrane, testicular histological changes, oxidative stress markers and DNA damage. The key proteome signatures were quantified by LC‐MS/MS analysis using Orbitrap Fusion Lumos Tribrid Mass Spectrometer equipped with nano‐LC Easy‐nLC 1200. Data suggest that the BPA exposure in all doses (below/above NOAEL dose) have greatly impacted the hormone levels, sperm parameters (sperm count, motility and membrane integrity) and testicular histology. Mass spectrometry‐based proteomics data suggested for 1352 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs; 368 upregulated, 984 downregulated) affecting biological process, cellular component, and molecular functions. Specifically searched male reproductive function related proteins suggested a complex network where 46 potential proteins regulating spermatogenesis, sperm structure, activity and membrane integrity while tackling oxidative stress responses were downregulated. These potential biomarkers could shed some more light on our current understanding of the reproductive toxicological effects of BPA and may lead to exploration of novel interventions strategies against these targets for male infertility. Highlights: Bisphenol A (BPA), a potent endocrine disruptor has known reproductive toxicitiesIt shows varied degree of responses and toxicities in doses well below no‐observed‐adverse‐effect level.Sub‐acute BPA exposure leads sperm count, motility and structure alterations46 potential proteins relevant to spermatogenesis and testes tissue were downregulated by BPARedox reaction, hormonal changes, cell cycle and structural proteins affected by BPA [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Valproic acid (VPA) is a widely used antiepileptic drug (AED) often prescribed as a first-line treatment for many idiopathic and symptomatic generalized epilepsies. Several studies have highlighted the side effects of VPA on male fertility and reproductive factors in males, although the specific underlying etiology of these abnormalities is not clear. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the preclinical and clinical evidence concerning the impact of VPA on male fertility and reproductive factors. Methods: The scientific literature was reviewed for eligibility using PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO, encompassing preclinical and clinical studies. Factors related to male fertility and reproduction, such as differences in sperm count, sperm motility, and the percentage of abnormal sperm, were compared between the experimental groups treated with VPA (in both preclinical and clinical) and the control groups using the Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Additionally, differences in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were explicitly assessed in clinical studies. Results: Male fertility data were extracted from 7 preclinical studies (112 animals) and 5 clinical studies (274 male individuals). The results of animal studies found that the sperm count (SMD = -2.28, 95% CI: -3.39 to -1.18, P = 0.335) and sperm motility (SMD = -2.32, 95% CI: -3.34 to -1.30, P = 0.368) were decreased in the treated groups compared to the control groups. The percentage of abnormal sperm (SMD = 3.27, 95% CI: 1.98 to 4.56, P = 0.019) was significantly increased, while a non-significant reduction was revealed in the weight of the testis (SMD = -2.73, 95% CI: -4.23 to -1.23, P = 0.673) in treated groups. The outcomes of clinical studies indicated a non-significant decrease in sperm count (SMD = -0.78, 95% CI: -1.58 to 0.03, P = 0.286) among patients with epilepsy treated with VPA compared to control subjects. However, a significant reduction in sperm motility (SMD = -1.62, 95% CI: -2.81 to -0.43, P = 0.033 was observed. The percentage of abnormal sperm showed a non-significant increase (SMD = 0.93, 95% CI: -0.97 to 2.84, P = 0.616) after being treated with VPA. Furthermore, there was a non-significant reduction in the levels of FSH (SMD = -1.32, 95% CI: -2.93 to 0.29, P = 0.198) and LH (SMD = -0.96, 95% CI: -1.95 to 0.04, P = 0.211) observed in clinical participants. Conclusion: This meta-analysis of both preclinical and clinical studies revealed that VPA causes a significant reduction in male fertility and reproductive factors among male patients with epilepsy. Clinical neurologists should be more cautious when prescribing VPA, especially to young male adult patients with epilepsy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objective Materials and Methods Results Discussion and Conclusions Primary spermatogenic disorders represent a severe form of male infertility whereby sperm production is impaired due to testicular dysfunction, leading to reduced quality or quantity of spermatozoa. Gene‐centered research has certainly demonstrated the importance of the genetic factor in the etiology of both poor sperm morphology or motility and reduced sperm count. In the last decade, next‐generation sequencing has expanded the research to whole exome which has transformed our understanding of male infertility genetics, but uncertainty persists in its diagnostic yield, especially in large unrelated populations.To evaluate the utility of exome sequencing in detecting genetic factors contributing to various traits of primary spermatogenic disorders, which is a crucial step before interpreting the diagnostic yield of the platform.We manually curated 415 manuscripts and included 19 research studies that predominantly performed whole exome sequencing in cohorts of unrelated cases with primary spermatogenic defects.The detection rate, defined as the fraction of cases with an identifiable genetic cause, typically remained below 25% for quantitative defects of spermatozoa, whereas improved rates were observed for traits of abnormal sperm morphology/motility and in populations enriched with consanguineous families. Unlike the quantitative defects, the genetic architecture of the qualitative issues of spermatozoa featured a small number of recurrent genes describing a large fraction of studied cases. These observations were also in line with the lower biological complexity of the pathways affected by the reported genes.This review demonstrates the variability in detection rates of exome sequencing across semen phenotypes, which may have an impact on the expectations of the diagnostic yield in the clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male factors may be present in up to 50–70% of infertile couples and the prevalence of male infertility accounts for 20–30% of infertility cases. Understanding the mechanisms and causes behind male infertility remains a challenge, but new diagnostic tools such as DNA fragmentation might aid in cases where the routine semen analysis is insufficient. DNA fragmentation, which refers to damages or breaks of the genetic material of the spermatozoa, is considered one of the main causes of male infertility due to impaired functional capability of sperm. The aim of the present narrative review is to investigate and enlighten the potential correlation between DNA fragmentation and male infertility parameters such as the seminal profile and the reproductive outcomes. Comprehensive research in PubMed/Medline and Scopus databases was conducted and 28 studies were included in the present review. Fourteen studies provided data regarding the impact of DNA fragmentation and seminal parameters and showed a correlation of significantly lower sperm count, lower concentration, motility, and abnormal morphology with an increased DNA fragmentation index (DFI). Similarly, 15 studies provided data regarding the impact of DFI on reproductive outcomes. Two studies showed higher aneuploidy rates with higher DFI values, and seven studies showed significantly lower pregnancy rates and live birth rates with higher DFI values. Ultimately, the studies included in this review highlight, collectively, the importance of measuring sperm DFI in the assessment of male infertility. Further studies are needed to explore the effectiveness of interventions aiming to reduce DFI levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past several decades, a trend toward delayed childbirth has led to increases in parental age at the time of conception. Sperm epigenome undergoes age-dependent changes increasing risks of adverse conditions in offspring conceived by fathers of advanced age. The mechanism(s) linking paternal age with epigenetic changes in sperm remain unknown. The sperm epigenome is shaped in a compartment protected by the blood-testes barrier (BTB) known to deteriorate with age. Permeability of the BTB is regulated by the balance of two mTOR complexes in Sertoli cells where mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) promotes the opening of the BTB and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2) promotes its integrity. We hypothesized that this balance is also responsible for age-dependent changes in the sperm epigenome. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed reproductive outcomes, including sperm DNA methylation in transgenic mice with Sertoli cell-specific suppression of mTORC1 (Rptor KO) or mTORC2 (Rictor KO). mTORC2 suppression accelerated aging of the sperm DNA methylome and resulted in a reproductive phenotype concordant with older age, including decreased testes weight and sperm counts, and increased percent of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa and mitochondrial DNA copy number. Suppression of mTORC1 resulted in the shift of DNA methylome in sperm opposite to the shift associated with physiological aging – sperm DNA methylome rejuvenation and mild changes in sperm parameters. These results demonstrate for the first time that the balance of mTOR complexes in Sertoli cells regulates the rate of sperm epigenetic aging. Thus, mTOR pathway in Sertoli cells may be used as a novel target of therapeutic interventions to rejuvenate the sperm epigenome in advanced-age fathers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Since the discovery of COVID-19 in December 2019, the novel virus has spread globally causing significant medical and socio-economic burden. Although the pandemic has been curtailed, the virus and its attendant complication live on. A major global concern is its adverse impact on male fertility. Aim: This study was aimed to give an up to date and robust data regarding the effect of COVID-19 on semen variables and male reproductive hormones. Materials and methods: Literature search was performed according to the recommendations of PRISMA. Out of the 852 studies collected, only 40 were eligible for inclusion in assessing the effect SARS-CoV-2 exerts on semen quality and androgens. More so, a SWOT analysis was conducted. Results: The present study demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 significantly reduced ejaculate volume, sperm count, concentration, viability, normal morphology, and total and progressive motility. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 led to a reduction in circulating testosterone level, but a rise in oestrogen, prolactin, and luteinizing hormone levels. These findings were associated with a decline in testosterone/luteinizing hormone ratio. Conclusions: The current study provides compelling evidence that SARS-CoV-2 may lower male fertility by reducing semen quality through a hormone-dependent mechanism; reduction in testosterone level and increase in oestrogen and prolactin levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Over the past few decades, there has been growing concern about the concurrent trends of increasing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) prevalence and declining sperm quality. These trends represent significant public health challenges that warrant thorough investigation of their underlying causes and implications. Objectives: The primary objectives of this study are to analyze trends in ASD prevalence and sperm quality parameters from 2000 to 2024, assess the statistical significance and effect size of these trends, explore potential correlations between ASD prevalence and sperm quality parameters, and identify significant predictors among sperm quality parameters that influence ASD prevalence. Methods: This study employed a longitudinal approach using multiple regression, time series analysis, ANOVA, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), hierarchical clustering, logistic regression, and cross-correlation analysis. Data on ASD prevalence were sourced from the CDC Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, while sperm quality data were collected from various published studies. Results: The findings reveal significant negative associations between ASD prevalence and sperm quality parameters such as sperm concentration and motility, suggesting that better sperm quality is linked to lower ASD rates. Conversely, parameters like sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), volume of ejaculate, pH level, and semen viscosity show positive associations with ASD prevalence, indicating higher values in these parameters correlate with higher ASD rates. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of maintaining reproductive health to potentially mitigate ASD risk and calls for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms driving these trends. These findings support the hypothesis that reproductive health factors play a crucial role in ASD etiology and suggest potential biological markers for assessing ASD risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & objectives: Notably, 17-hydroxy progesterone (17-OHP) (17-OHP) is a precursor for testosterone (T) synthesis, and intratesticular testosterone (ITT) is essential for spermatogenesis. Varicocele (Vx) has an estimated prevalence of 15% in the general population and 35% in those with primary infertility. We aimed to evaluate the correlation between changes of serum 17-OHP after sub-inguinal micro-varicocelectomy and improvement of semen parameters. Patients and methods: The current prospective study included 45 infertile men attending the andrology clinic form February 2021 to August 2021. Two semen analyses and hormonal profile were evaluated. Colored duplex ultasonography (CDUS) was done in standing and supine position for accurate measurements of testicular volumes and confirmation of Vx. Patients underwent sublinguinal micro-varicocelectomy using a surgical microscope HB Surgitech. We followed them prospectively up for three months following micro-varicocelectomy with serum TT and 17-OHP. Results: Sperm concentration improved significantly from 8.36 ± 5.04 million/ml to 12.52 ± 8.42 million/ml after 3 months following sub-inguinal micro-varicocelectomy (p = 0.001), with normalization of concentration in 15/45 (33%) patients. Total motility did not improve significantly but progressive motility improved significantly from 8.62 ± 8.74% to 16.24 ± 14.45% (p = 0.001). Abnormal forms significantly declined from 96.67 ± 2.03% to 95.75 ± 2.47% (p = 0.009). Serum 17 OHP and 17 OHP/total testosterone (TT) improved significantly from 1.21 ± 0.45 ng/ml and 0.26 ± 0.09 to 1.42 ± 0.76 ng/ml and 0.3 ± 0.16 (p = 0.013, p = 0.004), respectively, while serum TT did not improve significantly. A significant correlation was found between improvement in sperm concentration and both serum 17 OHP and 17 OHP/TT ratio (p = 0.001, p = 004). Furthermore, change in abnormal sperm forms showed significant correlations with changes in both 17-OHP and 17-OHP/TT. Conclusions: 17 OHP and 17OHP/ TT ratio can be used as biomarkers to detect improvement in semen parameters following sub-inguinal micro-varicocelectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is enriched with active biological components which showed proliferative and cytoprotective properties in healing different injuries in medicinal fields. This study was designed to assess the cryoprotective effects of autologous PRP on the quality of oligoasthenoteratospermia (OAT) samples during freezing and thawing procedure. Materials and Methods: The present study is an experimental research. Twenty OAT semen samples were ob- tained from individuals and prepared by discontinuous density – gradients technique DGC). The control group is sperm samples after DGC. After the procedure, the specimen was divided into four groups. The Freeze group which has no additive and the other three groups were cryopreserved with different concentrations of PRP (1×105 / µL, 0.5×105 /µL and 0.25×105 /µL). Autologous PRP was provided by each participant. After thawing, sperm pa- rameters, DNA fragmentation by sperm chromatin dispersion test (SCD), protamine deficiency by (Chromomycin A3) CMA3 staining, acrosome integrity and malondialdehyde (MDA) level were evaluated. Results: Cryopreservation resulted in a significant decrease in all factors compared to the control group. There were no significant changes in sperm count, morphology, non-progressive motility and acrosome reaction by adding PRP as a cryoprotectant in comparison with the freeze group. PRP at all three concentrations showed a significant increase in progressive motility (3.05 ± 2.01 vs. 14.05 ± 4.13, 12.35 ± 4.90 and 12.15 ± 9.65, P < 0.001) and viability (36.85 ± 10.25 vs. 47.85 ± 5.86, 51.30 ± 5.54 and 50.05 ± 5.67, P < 0.001) compared to the sperm samples without PRP. The percentage of immotile sperms decreased at all PRP concentrations compared to the freeze group. Moreover, PRP at 1×105 /µL concentration showed cryoprotective effects on DNA fragmentation, protamine deficiency and MDA level compared to the other three concentrations. Conclusion: Cryopreservation and thawing procedures may exert adverse effects on biological factors of sperm samples. Therefore, adding PRP as cryoprotectant at all three concentrations especially 1×105 /µL can be promising strategy to reduce adverse effects of cryopreservation on OAT samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of hesperidin (HES) on testicular histopathological changes, biochemical changes, and semen characteristics in rats exposed to glyphosate (GLP). The control group was given a normal diet devoid of GLP and HES, the HES group was given 100 mg/kg/day HES with the normal diet, the GLP group was given GLP at the LD50/10 dose of normal feed, which was 787.85 mg/kg/day, and the GLP + HES group was given normal feed containing 787.85 mg/kg/day LD50/10 dose of GLP in addition to 100 mg/kg/day HES. GLP administration reduced sperm motility, sperm plasma membrane integrity, glutathione levels, and total antioxidant levels in the testicular tissues of rats. Moreover, it caused an increase in right testis and left epididymis weights, abnormal sperm counts, malondialdehyde levels, total oxidant status, and DNA damage. The HES treatment showed curative effects on these parameters. Furthermore, HES was effective in lessening the histopathological damage that was caused by GLP. The results showedthat HES protects spermatological parameters and DNA integrity, improves antioxidant defenses, and lowers the damage and lipid peroxidation caused by GLP in testicular tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertility control has traditionally been applied in zoos to control captive populations, and reversible contraception is important. However, contraceptive methods for male bears have not been reported. We aimed to establish a reversible contraceptive for male brown bears by investigating the effects of a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccine (Improvac®) that was developed for the immune castration of pigs. We vaccinated six bears with two sequential doses of 400 (n = 2) or 600 μg Improvac® (n = 4) with a 1‐month interval during the pre‐breeding season (February to April). We compared the reproductive parameters (testosterone levels and semen parameters) of the six vaccinated and four non‐vaccinated (control) bears once during the breeding season (May or June). To investigate whether the reproductive performance could be restored in the following year of contraception, we also compared the reproductive parameters once during the breeding season in two bears between the year with GnRH vaccination and the following year without vaccination. Vaccination treatments suppressed reproductive parameters in 5 bears, although vaccination with 400 μg of Improvac® was not effective in one bear. Testosterone levels and the rate of progressive sperm motility were significantly lower, and total sperm count and testis size tended to be lower in vaccinated bears, compared with the controls. Blood biochemical findings and direct observations after Improvac® vaccination did not reveal side effects. Moreover, testosterone levels and spermatogenic scores of two bears were restored in the following year. We confirmed that the Improvac® vaccine elicited a reversible contraceptive effect in male brown bears. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate whether the DNA methylation profiles of GNAS(20q13.32), MEST(7q32.2), MESTIT1(7q32.2), IGF2(11p15.5), H19 (7q32.2), and CEP41(7q32.2) genes are related to the transcriptomic and epigenomic etiology of male infertility. Methods: The DNA methylation levels of spermatozoa were obtained from fertile (n = 30), oligozoospermic (n = 30), and men with normal sperm count (n = 30). The methylation status of each CpG site was categorized as hypermethylated or hypomethylated. Expression levels of target gene transcripts were determined using real-time PCR. Results: The oligozoospermia showed a higher frequency of hypermethylation at GNASAS 1st, 3rd, and 5th CpG dinucleotides (66.7%, 73.3%, 73.3%) compared to the fertile group (33.3%, 33.3%, 40%, respectively). The normal sperm count exhibited a higher frequency of hypermethylation at the 3rd CpG of CEP41 (46.7%) than the fertile group (16.7%). Normal sperm count was predicted by CEP41 hypermethylation (OR = 1.750, 95%CI 1.038–2.950) and hypermethylation of both CEP41 and GNASAS (OR = 2.389, 95%CI 1.137–5.021). Oligozoospermia was predicted solely by GNASAS hypermethylation (OR = 2.460, 95%CI 1.315–4.603). In sperms with decreased IGF2 expression in the fertile group, we observed hypomethylation in the 2nd CpG of IGF2 antisense (IFG2AS), and hypermethylation in the 1st, 2nd, and 4th CpGs of H19. No significant relationship was found between IGF2 expression and methylation status of IGF2AS and H19 in infertile groups. Conclusion: The disappearance of the relationship between IGF2 expression and IGF2AS and H19 methylations in the infertile group provides new information regarding the disruption of epigenetic programming during spermatogenesis. A better understanding of sperm GNASAS and CEP41 hypermethylation could advance innovative diagnostic markers for male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Spermatozoa are susceptible to oxidative radicals when antioxidant defenses are inadequate. The extent to which oxidative radicals contribute to sperm damage in patients with acromegaly remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate and elucidate this relationship. Methods The overall status of oxidants and antioxidants in both seminal plasma and serum of patients with acromegaly compared to a control group of healthy individuals was investigated. In addition, sperm parameters, including important measures such as growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations. Results Twenty-two patients with acromegaly with controlled disease and 14 healthy controls were included. The total oxidant status was significantly higher in the semen samples of the patients with acromegaly. A negative correlation was found between sperm total oxidant status and total sperm count and sperm concentration. Similarly, a negative correlation was found between the total sperm count and the sperm oxidative stress index. In individuals diagnosed with acromegaly, there was a statistically significant increase in sperm growth hormone levels. Conversely, the level of insulin-like growth factor 1 was significantly increased in the sperm of the control group, which consisted of healthy individuals. The correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between venous total oxidant status and growth hormone levels in semen. Conclusion The elevated levels of reactive oxygen radicals in individuals with acromegaly suggest a possible link between oxidative stress and its effects on semen quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sperm cryopreservation potential can be explored in diverse conditions to hamper future fertility. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were among the prime candidate responsible for vulnerability of the sperms due to lack of intracellular antioxidants defense. Aim: The study aim to investigate the association between DNA fragmentation index and antioxidant enzyme. Methods: This controlled observational hospital based study was conducted on men participants (n=100). The semen specimens with normal sperm count and motility post fertility work up was collected in a sterile vial containing cryoprotectant and thereafter stored in a freezer having liquid nitrogen -196 °C for 7 days at controlled rate. Sperm morphology, DNA fragmentation and motility along with malondialdehyde and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured before and after cryopreservation. Results: Semen specimens post cryopreservation demonstrated significant decrease in sperm motility, number and malondialdehyde level (p<0.001). There was a significant increase in DNA fragmentation and total antioxidant capacity levels (p<0.001). Conclusion(s): Sperm cryopreservation may lead to deleterious variations of structure and function(s) due to generation of ROS that contribute in DNA fragmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in human pregnancy is widely considered as an important cause of adverse changes in male reproductive health due to impaired foetal androgen production/action. However, the epidemiological evidence supporting this view is equivocal, except for certain phthalates, notably diethyl hexyl phthalate (DEHP). Maternal phthalate exposure levels associated with adverse reproductive changes in epidemiological studies are several thousand-fold lower than those needed to suppress foetal androgen production in rats, and direct studies using human foetal testis tissue show no effect of high phthalate exposure on androgen production. This conundrum is unexplained and raises fundamental questions. Human DEHP exposure is predominantly via food with highest exposure associated with consumption of a Western style (unhealthy) diet. This diet is also associated with increased exposure to the most common EDCs, whether persistent (chlorinated or fluorinated chemicals) or non-persistent (phthalates, bisphenols) compounds, which are found at highest levels in fatty and processed foods. Consequently, epidemiological studies associating EDC exposure and male reproductive health disorders are confounded by potential dietary effects, and vice versa. A Western diet/lifestyle in young adulthood is also associated with low sperm counts. Disentangling EDC and dietary effects in epidemiological studies is challenging. In pregnancy, a Western diet, EDC exposure, and maternal living in proximity to industrial sites are all associated with impaired foetal growth/development due to placental dysfunction, which predisposes to congenital male reproductive disorders (cryptorchidism, hypospadias). While the latter are considered to reflect impaired foetal androgen production, effects resulting from foetal growth impairment (FGI) are likely indirect. As FGI has numerous life-long health consequences, and is affected by maternal lifestyle, research into the origins of male reproductive disorders should take more account of this. Additionally, potential effects on foetal growth/foetal testis from the increasing use of medications in pregnancy deserves more research attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is the first to formulate and investigate potential of papaya seed chloroform extract based solid lipid nanoparticles (PSCEN) as antifertility agents on male Bandicota bengalensis. The prepared nanoparticles were spherical of size 300–600 nm. The release kinetics showed a controlled release of the drug with major release over 48 h. To assess the antifertility effects of PSCEN, adult male rats were fed a diet containing two different concentrations of PSCEN (5% and 10%) for 15 days under bi-choice conditions. The mean total active ingredient ingestion of the rats in the two treated groups ranged from 2.13–3.31 and 3.92–5.87 g/100g body weight, respectively. No adverse effects of treatment on body weight were observed. Also, no mortality of rats was observed. The treatment had a significant effect on the weight of the testis and the epididymis, but not on the other organs. Sperm motility (%), sperm viability (%), sperm count (millions/ml), sperm mitochondrial activity (%), sperm nuclear chromatin de-condensation (%) and sperm hypo-osmotic swelling (%) were significantly decreased, and sperm abnormality (%) significantly increased compared to the vehicle control group. The reproductive success rates of male rats treated with 5% and 10% PSCEN and mated with untreated female rats were 20.00–66.67% and 16.67%, respectively, while in untreated female rats mated with male rats of vehicle control group, reproductive success rate was 33.33 to 80%. The study found a maximal antifertility effect of the 10% PSCEN containing bait, which was irreversible up to 105 days after stopping treatment, suggesting long-term efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infertility is a major reproductive health problem. Approximately 50% of all documented cases of infertility are attributable to male factors, such as poor testicular function and semen quality. The recent significant global decline in sperm counts has serious implications for male fertility, but the armamentarium for improving testicular function and semen quality is limited. Natural products have a wide range of activities and are a major source of drugs for disease prevention and treatment. To provide ideas and a theoretical basis for the research and development of therapeutic drugs for male infertility, this review summarizes natural products (mostly monomers) that have been shown to improve testicular function and semen quality and their possible mechanisms of action. These natural products primarily improve testicular function and semen quality via antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti‐inflammatory effects, in addition to increasing serum testosterone and reducing DNA damage in spermatozoa and testicular cells. Prospects for the application of natural products in the treatment of male infertility are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Although the nutritional composition of organic food has been thoroughly researched, there is a dearth of published data relating to its impact on human health. Objective This systematic review aimed to examine the association between organic food intake and health effects, including changes in in vivo biomarkers, disease prevalence, and functional changes. Data Sources PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception through Nov 13, 2022. Data Extraction Both observational and interventional studies conducted in human populations were included, and association between level of organic food intake and each outcome was quantified as "no association," "inconsistent," "beneficial correlation/harmful correlation," or "insufficient". For outcomes with sufficient data reported by at least 3 studies, meta-analyses were conducted, using random-effects models to calculate standardized mean differences. Data Analysis Based on the included 23 observational and 27 interventional studies, the association between levels of organic food intake and (i) pesticide exposure biomarker was assessed as "beneficial correlation," (ii) toxic metals and carotenoids in the plasma was assessed as "no association," (iii) fatty acids in human milk was assessed as "insufficient," (iv) phenolics was assessed as "beneficial", and serum parameters and antioxidant status was assessed as "inconsistent". For diseases and functional changes, there was an overall "beneficial" association with organic food intake, and there were similar findings for obesity and body mass index. However, evidence for association of organic food intake with other single diseases was assessed as "insufficient" due to the limited number and extent of studies. Conclusion Organic food intake was found to have a beneficial impact in terms of reducing pesticide exposure, and the general effect on disease and functional changes (body mass index, male sperm quality) was appreciable. More long-term studies are required, especially for single diseases. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022350175. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Research in Agricultural Sciences is the property of Ataturk University Coordinatorship of Scientific Journals and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Electrónica de Psicología Iztacala is the property of Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Infertility represents a significant health concern, with sperm quantity and quality being crucial determinants of male fertility. Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) is characterized by reduced sperm motility, lower sperm concentration, and morphological abnormalities in sperm heads and flagella. Although variants in several genes have been implicated in OAT, its genetic etiologies and pathogenetic mechanisms remain inadequately understood. In this study, we identified a homozygous nonsense mutation (c.916C>T, p.Arg306*) in the coiledcoil domain containing 146 (CCDC146) gene in an infertile male patient with OAT. This mutation resulted in the production of a truncated CCDC146 protein (amino acids 1–305), retaining only two out of five coiled-coil domains. To validate the pathogenicity of the CCDC146 mutation, we generated a mouse model (Ccdc146mut/mut) with a similar mutation to that of the patient. Consistently, the Ccdc146mut/mut mice exhibited infertility, characterized by significantly reduced sperm counts, diminished motility, and multiple defects in sperm heads and flagella. Furthermore, the levels of axonemal proteins, including DNAH17, DNAH1, and SPAG6, were significantly reduced in the sperm of Ccdc146mut/mut mice. Additionally, both human and mouse CCDC146 interacted with intraflagellar transport protein 20 (IFT20), but this interaction was lost in the mutated versions, leading to the degradation of IFT20. This study identified a novel deleterious homozygous nonsense mutation in CCDC146 that causes male infertility, potentially by disrupting axonemal protein transportation. These findings offer valuable insights for genetic counseling and understanding the mechanisms underlying CCDC146 mutant-associated infertility in human males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural integrity of the sperm flagellum is essential for proper sperm function. Flagellar defects can result in male infertility, yet the precise mechanisms underlying this relationship are not fully understood. CCDC181, a coiledcoil domain-containing protein, is known to localize on sperm flagella and at the basal regions of motile cilia. Despite this knowledge, the specific functions of CCDC181 in flagellum biogenesis remain unclear. In this study, Ccdc181 knockout mice were generated. The absence of CCDC181 led to defective sperm head shaping and flagellum formation. Furthermore, the Ccdc181 knockout mice exhibited extremely low sperm counts, grossly aberrant sperm morphologies, markedly diminished sperm motility, and typical multiple morphological abnormalities of the flagella (MMAF). Additionally, an interaction between CCDC181 and the MMAF-related protein LRRC46 was identified, with CCDC181 regulating the localization of LRRC46 within sperm flagella. These findings suggest that CCDC181 plays a crucial role in both manchette formation and sperm flagellum biogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Psoriasis, affecting approximately 2% of the world's population, often necessitates systemic treatments, with methotrexate (MTX) as a cornerstone therapy. Despite documented systemic side effects of MTX, concerns about its impact on male reproductive health persist. We aim to investigate low-dose MTX effect on hormonal, cellular and functional ability of male reproductive system. Materials and methods: Our prospective study on 40 male psoriasis patients receiving low-dose MTX (<15mg/week) comprehensively investigates its effects on erectile function, sex hormones, and spermiogram parameters. Results: After six months of MTX treatment, a significant decline in erectile function (p < 0.001) decreased total testosterone levels (p = 0.03) were observed. No significant reduction in sperm count was noted after six months of MTX treatment. Conclusions: Our study highlights a significant decline in erectile function following low-dose MTX therapy, warranting further investigation into this potential side effect. While reassuring for sperm quantity and quality, the findings emphasise the necessity for larger cohorts and longer follow-up times to validate results and comprehend the complex interactions between MTX and male sexual health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Male infertility due to spermatogenesis defects affects millions of men worldwide. However, the genetic etiology of the vast majority remains unclear. The present study was undertaken to assess the association of DNAH6 and ATPase6 genes in asthenozoospermia patients in the northern region of India. Methods: A total of 60 semen samples were collected for the study, of which 30 were from the case group and 30 were from the control group. The semen samples for the case group (asthenozoospermia) and control groups were collected from IVF and Reproductive Biology Centre, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi. Sperm count and motility were classified as per World Health Organization (WHO 2021) protocol. A total genomic DNA was extracted as per the stranded TRIZOL method with little modification. Results: In-vitro molecular characterizations of DNAH6 and ATPase6 genes in both groups were checked by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The 675 bp and 375 bp amplicons were amplified using PCR for ATPase6 and DNAH6 genes. Our study results showed a significant (P ≤ 0.05) null deletion of DNAH6 and ATPase6 genes in asthenozoospermia patients as compared to the control. We found the significant null deletion of DNAH6 in case 45.0%, and the control group was 11.7%. However, in the case of APTase6, it was 26.7% and 10.0%, respectively. Conclusions: Our study concluded that the presence of DHAH6 and ATPase6 genes had a significant impact on male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alcohol consumption is widely known to have detrimental effects on various organs and tissues. The effects of ethanol on male reproduction have been studied at the physiological and cellular levels, but no systematic study has examined the effects of ethanol on male reproduction-related gene expression. Results: We employed a model of chronic ethanol administration using the Lieber-DeCarli diet. Ethanol-fed mice showed normal testicular and epididymal integrity, and sperm morphology, but decreased sperm count. Total RNA sequencing analysis of testes from ethanol-fed mice showed that a small fraction (∼ 2%) of testicular genes were differentially expressed in ethanol-fed mice and that, of these genes, 28% were cell-type specific in the testis. Various in silico analyses were performed, and gene set enrichment analysis revealed that sperm tail structure-related genes, including forkhead box J1 (Foxj1), were down-regulated in testes of ethanol-fed mice. Consistent with this result, ethanol-fed mice exhibited decreased sperm motility. Conclusion: This study provides the first comprehensive transcriptomic profiling of ethanol-induced changes in the mouse testis, and suggests gene expression profile changes as a potential mechanism underlying ethanol-mediated reproductive dysfunction, such as impaired sperm motility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Prostatic urethral lift has been an effective ejaculation sparing treatment for benign prostatic hypertrophy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect on male semen parameters. Methods: Between July 2014 and January 2022, 20 young men with urinary symptoms of BPH, unresponsive to drug treatment and motivated to preserve ejaculation for eventual paternity, underwent UroLift. Semen analysis was performed before and 6 month after surgery with evaluation of pH, volume, sperm concentration, total motility, vitality and morphology according to WHO 2011. All underwent digital rectal examination, transrectal prostate ultrasound to measure prostate volume, PSA, uroflowmetry, cystoscopy and urodynamics test if necessary. Objective and subjective urinary function was scheduled at 1, 3, 6, 12 month than yearly with UFM, IPSS, IIEF-5, and MSHQ-EjD-SF. Results: At a mean follow-up of 36 month (range 12 to 63), no retroejaculation or changes in seminal parameters occurred. Mean age was 44.5 (range 36.5 to 48) years. Mean operative time was 15 (range 10 to 20) min and 2.5 (range 2 to 4) implants per patients were used. At 6 month there were no difference in terms of total sperm count, volume, pH, motility, vitality, morphology, liquefaction, leucocytes (p = 0.9; p = 0.8; p = 0.7; p = 1; p = 1; p = 1; p = 0,2; p = 0.5). At last, Q-max increased by 64.4% (p = 0.001), post-void residual volume decreased by 66.6% (p = 0.016), and IPSS decreased by 60% (p < 0.001). IIEF and MSHQ-EjD-SF were preserved (p = 0.14, p = 0.4). Conclusions: UroLift appears safe technique to correct LUTS from BPH in young men desirous to preserve seminal analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male infertility affects approximately 17% of all men and represents a complex disorder in which not only semen parameters such as sperm motility, morphology, and number of sperm are highly variable, but also testicular phenotypes range from normal spermatogenesis to complete absence of germ cells. Genetic factors significantly contribute to the disease but chromosomal aberrations, mostly Klinefelter syndrome, and microdeletions of the Y‐chromosome have remained the only diagnostically and clinically considered genetic causes. Monogenic causes remain understudied and, thus, often unidentified, leaving the majority of the male factor couple infertility pathomechanistically unexplained. This has been changing mostly because of the introduction of exome sequencing that allows the analysis of multiple genes in large patient cohorts. As a result, pathogenic variants in single genes have been associated with non‐syndromic forms of all aetiologic sub‐categories in the last decade.This review highlights the contribution of exome sequencing to the identification of novel disease genes for isolated (non‐syndromic) male infertility by presenting the results of a comprehensive literature search. Both, reduced sperm count in azoospermic and oligozoospermic patients, and impaired sperm motility and/or morphology, in asthenozoospermic and/or teratozoospermic patients are highly heterogeneous diseases with well over 100 different candidate genes described for each entity. Applying the standardized evaluation criteria of the ClinGen gene curation working group, 70 genes with at least moderate evidence to contribute to the disease are highlighted. The implementation of these valid disease genes in clinical exome sequencing is important to increase the diagnostic yield in male infertility and, thus, improve clinical decision‐making and appropriate genetic counseling.Future advances in androgenetics will continue to depend on large‐scale exome and genome sequencing studies of comprehensive international patient cohorts, which are the most promising approaches to identify additional disease genes and provide reliable data on the gene–disease relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ubiquitous existence of microplastics and nanoplastics raises concerns about their potential impact on the human reproductive system. Limited data exists on microplastics within the human reproductive system and their potential consequences on sperm quality. Our objectives were to quantify and characterize the prevalence and composition of microplastics within both canine and human testes and investigate potential associations with the sperm count, and weights of testis and epididymis. Using advanced sensitive pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, we quantified 12 types of microplastics within 47 canine and 23 human testes. Data on reproductive organ weights, and sperm count in dogs were collected. Statistical analyses, including descriptive analysis, correlational analysis, and multivariate linear regression analyses were applied to investigate the association of microplastics with reproductive functions. Our study revealed the presence of microplastics in all canine and human testes, with significant inter-individual variability. Mean total microplastic levels were 122.63 µg/g in dogs and 328.44 µg/g in humans. Both humans and canines exhibit relatively similar proportions of the major polymer types, with PE being dominant. Furthermore, a negative correlation between specific polymers such as PVC and PET and the normalized weight of the testis was observed. These findings highlight the pervasive presence of microplastics in the male reproductive system in both canine and human testes, with potential consequences on male fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on gonadotoxicity of chemotherapies are essential to better counsel young females and males about the risk of infertility and to better indicate fertility preservation measures before cancer therapies. However, such data have not recently been reviewed for bone cancer. Therefore, a systematic literature search was conducted considering papers published since 2000. This study is part of the FertiTOX® project, which aims to improve the lack of data regarding gonadotoxicity of cancer therapies to enable more accurate counseling regarding fertility preservation. Only relapse-free women and men were included. Gonadotoxic therapy-induced suspected infertility was defined as very low anti-mullerian hormone, high gonadotropin concentration, amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, azoospermia, or oligozoospermia. The quality of the individual studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). In total, 11 out of 831 studies were included in the review. Suspected infertility was found in 10/190 (5.1%, range 0%–66%) of female patients with osteosarcoma (six studies), in 24/46 (52.2%, range 46%–100%) of male patients with osteosarcoma (three studies), in 18/138 (13.0%, range 3%–18%) of female patients with Ewing's sarcoma (three studies), and in 34/38 (89.5%) of male patients with Ewing's sarcoma (one study). A risk calculation in relation to specific chemotherapies was not possible. Risk of suspected infertility tends to be higher in Ewing's sarcoma in which all patients received chemotherapies with alkylating agents. Two of the 11 included studies received a high NOS quality score, whereas the remaining nine studies received a low quality score, mainly because of the lack of a comparator group. Published data are too limited for precise estimation of the gonadotoxicity. However, data indicate clinically relevant risk for infertility, supporting counseling patients before chemotherapy about fertility preservation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) administration is applied in the management of subjects affected by hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Whilst this application is widely recognized and established alone or in combination with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a similar strategy is empirically advocated in idiopathic male factor infertility (MFI). In this setting, FSH therapy has been used to increase sperm quantity, quality, and pregnancy rate when FSH plasma concentrations are below 8 IU/L and when the seminal tract is not obstructed. In the literature, several studies suggested that giving FSH to patients with idiopathic MFI increases sperm count and motility, raising the overall pregnancy rate. However, this efficacy seems to be limited, and about 10–18 men should be treated to achieve one pregnancy. Thus, several papers suggest the need to move from a replacement approach to an overstimulating approach in the management of FSH therapy in idiopathic MFI. To this aim, it is imperative to determine some pharmacologic markers of FSH efficacy. Furthermore, it should be useful in clinical practice to distinguish, before starting the treatment, among patients who might respond or not to FSH treatment. Indeed, previous studies suggest that infertile men who have normal levels of gonadotropins in plasma might not respond to FSH treatment and about 50% of patients might be defined as "non-responders". For these reasons, identifying predictive markers of FSH action in spermatogenesis and clinical markers of response to FSH treatment is a fascinating area of study that might lead to new developments with the aim of achieving personalization of the treatment of male infertility. From this perspective, seminal parameters (i.e., spermatid count), testicular cytology, genetic assessment, and miRNA or protein markers in the future might be used to create a tailored FSH therapy plan. The personalization of FSH treatment is mandatory to minimize side effects, to avoid lost time with ineffective treatments, and to improve the efficacy, predicting the most efficient dose and the duration of the treatment. This narrative review's objective is to discuss the role of the different putative factors which have been proposed to predict the response to FSH treatment in idiopathic infertile men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Sachet water is the most common form of portable water commercially available in Nigeria. Methodology Using the murine sperm count and sperm abnormality assay, the germ cell toxicity of five common commercially available sachet waters in Nigeria was assessed in this study. The levels of hormones such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Total Testosterone (TT); and activities of catalase (CAT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated. The heavy metal and physicochemical parameters of the sachet waters were also analyzed. Healthy male mice were allowed to freely drink the sachet waters for 35 days after which they were sacrificed. Results The findings indicated that the concentrations of some heavy metals (As, Cr, and Cd) in the sachet waters exceeded the limit by regulatory organizations. The data of the total carcinogenic risk (TCR) and total non-carcinogenic risk (THQ) of some heavy metals associated with the ingestion of sachet water for adults and children showed that the values exceeded the acceptable threshold, and thus, is indicative of a high non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks. The data of the sperm abnormality assay showed that in the exposed mice, the five sachet waters induced a statistically significant (P  < 0.05) increase in abnormal sperm cells and a significantly lower mean sperm count. Additionally noted were changes in the serum activities of TT, FSH, ALP, AST, ALT, and LH. Conclusion Thus, the sachet waters studied contained agents that can induce reproductive toxicity in exposed humans. This is of public health importance and calls for immediate action by regulatory bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the ten-year trend in semen quality among couples referred to the Infertility Center in Kerman between 2008 and 2017. The study included 2952 semen samples from men 18 to 60 years old referred to the infertility center as infertile couples living in Kerman province, Iran, whether they had normal or abnormal semen analysis. A total of 2952 sperm samples were included. Statistically significant changes were observed in semen parameters. Particularly, significant changes were observed for volume (−0.08 mL/year), sperm concentration (−2.34 (mio/mL)/year), total sperm count (−13.17 (mio/ejaculate)/year), progressive motility (−2.62%/year), non-progressive motility (−0.59%/year), immotile sperm (2.49%/year), and normal morphology (−0.134%/year). In bivariate analysis, the prevalence of oligozoospermia in this study showed a statistically significant association with age (OR = 1.019; 95% CI = 1.007−1.032; p = 0.003). Likewise, there was a statistically significant association with the year (OR = 1.087; 95% CI = 1.050−1.125; p = 0.000). Semen quality parameters showed a downtrend during the last 10 years in this study, emphasizing the importance of male reproductive health monitoring and warning public health coordinators to pay more attention to this important issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, is known to cause teratogenesis. Environmental exposure of BaP has led to wide public concerns due to their potential risk of reproductive toxicity. However, the exact mechanism is still not clear. We aimed to explore the alterations of oxidative stress and DNA hydroxymethylation during BaP‐impaired reproductive function. BALB/c mice were intragastrically administered with different doses of BaP (0.01, 0.1, and 1 mg/kg/day, once a day), while control mice were administered with corn coil. Then, the reproductive function, alterations of oxidative stress, DNA methylation, and DNA hydroxymethylation of testis tissues were evaluated. We found that BaP caused obvious histopathological damages of testis tissues. As for sperm parameters after BaP administration, testis weight and the rate of teratosperm were increased, as well as sperm count and motility were decreased. In mechanism, BaP upregulated HO‐1 and MDA levels and downregulated SOD and CAT activity and GSH content in testis tissues, indicating that oxidative stress was induced by BaP. Furthermore, a significant induction of hydroxymethylation and inhibition of methylation were observed in testis tissues after BaP exposure. Collectively, BaP‐induced oxidative stress and hydroxymethylation were involved in impairing reproductive function, which may be the mechanism of the male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a medicine that has mainly been used to treat malaria. During the recent Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) period, an abrupt spike in the sale of HCQ has been found. The repurposing of this drug in the treatment of COVID-19 was not only found to be ineffective but also showed many side effects. The adverse effects of the enormous exposure to this drug should be unveiled. Aim: To evaluate the acute effect of HCQ exposure on the male reproductive system by analysing the changes in antioxidant enzyme levels in testicular tissue, sperm quality, and histopathological assessment of testicular tissue using male albino rats as the subject model. Materials and Methods: The present experimental study was done by using male albino rats as the subject model. It was conducted in the laboratory of the Department of Human Physiology at Raja NL Khan Women’s College (Autonomous) in Medinipur, West Bengal, Kolkata, India, from the last week of June 2023 to the first week of August 2023. A total 10 male albino rats were obtained and randomly divided into two groups (n=5 in each group), control and HCQ-treated, and were given plain drinking water and 33 mg/kg/day HCQ, respectively, for six consecutive days through oral gavage. After the treatment tenures, rats were euthanised, and antioxidant enzymatic activity was measured by a spectrophotometer. Sperm quality and testicular histopathology were studied. A two-tailed t-test was used to compare the parameters of the control and HCQ-treated groups. Results: The total testicular weight of the control group was 2.37±0.17 g, in contrast treated group had a significantly lower testicular weight of 1.98±0.19 g. A significant decrease in total testicular protein in the treated group was found, i.e., 28.86±3.03 mg/g of tissue, compared to the control group, i.e., 60.46±2.85 mg/g of tissue. The sperm count of the control group was 4.51±0.06 million/ml of suspension, while the treated group had a significantly lower sperm count, i.e., 2.73±0.11 million/mL of suspension. The percentages of sperm motility and viability in the control group were 86±1.63% and 94±1.33%, respectively, but in the treated group, the percentages were significantly lower, i.e., 22.66±1.35% and 24±1.78%, respectively. The increasing sperm anomalies after HCQ exposure indicate poor sperm quality. Conclusion: Infertility or reduced fertility can result from testicular dysfunction, in continuation, decrease in sperm count, motility, viability, together with abnormalities in sperm morphology, was observed after this exposure. Thus, the present study provides insight into the adverse effects of the use of this drug, which might be associated with male infertility.

This research was designed to study the effect of silymarin dosage on the histological structure of the testicle in rabbits and the impact it has on the level of sperm production in these animals. Thirty adult male rabbits were used to complete this work. Their ages ranged between 5 to 6 months, while their weight ranged between 1,500 to 1,700 grams. The animals were divided into three groups based on the amount of dose of silymarin given as follows (C- 10 rabbits given free diet served as a control group: T1-10 rabbits treated with an oral daily dose of 0.5 ml per kg B.W. T2-10 rabbits treated with orally daily dose 1 ml per kg B.W.). The various types of cells were identified in this study based on several criteria, the most important of which are the external appearance of these cells during the series of divisions, the size of the cell, and the shape of the nucleus. The results showed an improvement in the architecture of seminiferous tubule epithelium, the disappearance of vacuolar degenerations in more than 95% of this epithelium, and an increase in the number of mature sperm in the center of each tubule in addition to increasing all parameters of Leydig cells. In conclusion, the testicles in rabbits exposed to silymarin are positively affected, leading to improved sperm production.

Chemotherapeutic drugs have demonstrated effectiveness in treating various neoplastic conditions; however, they can also have detrimental effects on male gonadal function and fertility. Consequently, interest has grown in identifying novel approaches that can mitigate chemotherapy-induced testicular damage. Thymoquinone (TQ), the chief active component of the volatile oil of Nigella sativa (NS), has a wide range of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. The aim of this systematic review was to identify experimental animal studies that have evaluated the protective effects of TQ against testicular complications associated with chemotherapy. In accordance with the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a thorough search was performed across several databases (PubMed, EBSCOhost, Sage and Scopus) to identify experimental studies published from 2010 to May 2022 that focused on rodent models and compared the effects of TQ versus other chemotherapeutic drugs. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria, comparing TQ with methotrexate (MTX), 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), cyclophosphamide (CPA), bleomycin (BL), doxorubicin (DOX) or busulfan (BUS). The results of these studies consistently demonstrated that TQ significantly improved sperm parameters, the levels of oxidative stress (OS) markers, apoptosis markers, and hormones and testicular histopathology, indicating that TQ has protective effects against chemotherapy-induced damage. TQ mitigated chemotherapy-induced testicular toxicity by decreasing lipid peroxidation and enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes within chemotherapy-treated testes. These findings highlight the potential of TQ as a therapeutic agent that can ameliorate testicular complications associated with chemotherapy, thereby providing a basis for further research and potential therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to evaluate fresh seminal attributes of Surti bucks and their interrelationships. Fresh semen was collected from four Surti bucks twice a week for 8 weeks, i.e., 64 ejaculates (16/buck). Ejaculates of 4 bucks were pooled and extended with TEYCG extender. Fresh semen was observed pale yellow having mean pH of 6.8. The overall mean semen volume, density, mass activity/ motility, sperm concentration and total sperm count/ejaculate were 0.50±0.02 mL, 3.39±0.08, 3.45±0.09, 4032.81±34.00 millions/mL and 1986.25±86.03 million, respectively. Percentages of individual sperm motility, live sperms, abnormal sperms and HOST reacted sperms in pooled extended Surti bucks semen were 80.63±1.76, 83.06±1.64, 9.56±0.47 and 78.06±0.96. Ejaculate volume and total sperm count significantly (p<0.05) varied between bucks. Moreover, significant correlations were observed for volume with density (-0.281), sperm concentration (-0.247) and total sperm count (0.975) as well as density with sperm concentration (0.247) and total sperm count (-0.260). The coefficient of variation was minimum for sperm concentration and maximum for total sperm count. In pooled and extended semen, individual sperm motility was significantly and positively correlated only with live sperms % (r=0.899). The coefficient of variation (%) was highest for abnormal sperms and lowest for HOST reacted sperms. Conclusively the study established normal values of fresh semen of Surti bucks and their interrelationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The dilation and torsion of testicular veins in the plexus pampiniformis causes Varicocele, which is a surgically repairable cause of male infertility. This study assessed the impact of varicocelectomy on semen characteristics, total motile sperm count (TMSC) and sperm DNA integrity in patients with severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT). Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, semen samples of 360 men with severe OAT who underwent varicocelectomy according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria 2021 were studied (pre-operatively and at 6, 12, and 18 months post-operatively). Results: The average age of our patients was 38.5 years. The mean spermatozoa concentration was found to be 1.60 ± 0.83 million/ml pre-operatively, while the mean post-operative concentration was 5.17 ± 1.23 million/ml at 6 months, 8.32 ± 0.98 million/ml at 12 months, and 13.51 ± 1.48 million/ml at 18 months (P<0.0001). The mean percentage of A+B motile spermatozoa was 2.92 ± 1.17% pre-operatively, 6.10 ± 1.51% at six months, 9.58 ± 1.49% at 12 months and 13.92 ± 1.88% at 18 months postoperatively (P<0.0001). The mean Modified David's morphology score was 3.80 ± 1.43% pre-operatively, 5.95 ± 1.23% at 6 months, 7.94 ± 1.18% at 12 months, and 10.82 ± 1.91% at 18 months post-operatively (P<0.0001). The mean of total motile sperm count (TMSC) was statistically improved after varicocelectomy (P<0.001). The mean of DNA fragmentation index (DFI) of the spermatozoa was 31.40 ± 0.52% pre-operatively, and post-operatively at 28.20 ± 0.32% at 6 months, 25.90 ± 0.31% at 12 months and 20.50 ± 0.40% at 18 months (P<0.001). Conclusion: Varicocelectomy was associated with significant improvement of sperm parameters and DNA fragmentation resulting in significant improvement of spermatogenesis quality. We believe that universalization in the routinely used sperm dispersion chromatin (SDC) test could be beneficial in the treatment of infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Age, smoking, sleep duration, sleep quality, and obesity are risk factors that can affect the amount of sperm concentration, morphology, and motility. The aim of this study is to assess the lifestyle effects: of age, smoking, sleep duration, sleep quality, and obesity on the amount of concentration, morphology, and motility of sperm. Materials and Methods: The study utilized an analytical observational approach with a cross-sectional design. The study subjects comprised 70 male partners of infertile couples admitted to the Sekar Fertility Clinic at the Dr. Moewardi General Hospital between March and August 2022. The study assessed variables including age, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, sleep duration, sleep quality, sperm concentration, sperm morphology, and sperm motility. Furthermore, the data were analyzed using univariate, bivariate, and multivariate methods with SPSS 25 software. Results: The research findings demonstrate that obesity is significantly associated with abnormal sperm concentration [odds ratio (OR)=40.07, confidence interval (CI)=3.90-411.67, P=0.002]. Furthermore, moderate or heavy smoking is significantly associated with abnormal sperm concentration (OR=17.45, CI=1.83-166.15, P=0.013) and sleep quality with severe disorders (OR=5.73, CI=1.12-29.21, P=0.036). Moreover, obesity is significantly associated with abnormal sperm motility (OR=12.97, CI=2.66-63.15, P=0.002), while moderate or heavy smoking (OR=5.89, CI=1.23- 28.20, P=0.026) and poor sleep duration (OR=6.21, CI=1.43-26.92, P=0.015) also exhibit significant associations with abnormal sperm motility. However, no significant findings were observed regarding sperm morphology. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that obesity, moderate or heavy smoking, and sleep quality have statistically significant effects on sperm concentration, while obesity, moderate or heavy smoking, and sleep duration have statistically significant effects on sperm motility. However, no statistically significant influence was observed on sperm morphology. Further research with larger sample sizes and more diverse populations is needed to validate these findings and explore other potential factors that may impact male fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reproductive system of males is adversely impacted by lead (Pb), a toxic heavy metal. The present study examined arbutin, a promising hydroquinone glycoside, for its potential ameliorative impact against Pb-induced testicular impairment in rats. The testicular injury was induced by the intraperitoneal administration of Pb acetate (20 mg/kg/day) for 10 consecutive days. Thirty-six rats were divided into six experimental groups (n = 6 per group): control, control treated with oral arbutin (250 mg/kg), control treated with intraperitoneal arbutin (75 mg/kg), untreated Pb, Pb treated with oral arbutin, and Pb treated with intraperitoneal arbutin. The treatments were administered daily for 10 days. Arbutin was administered by the oral and intraperitoneal routes to compare the efficacy of both routes in mitigating Pb acetate-induced testicular dysfunction. The current data revealed that both oral and intraperitoneal administration of arbutin significantly enhanced serum testosterone and sperm count/motility, indicating the amelioration of testicular dysfunction. In tandem, both routes lowered testicular histopathological aberrations and Johnsen's damage scores. These favorable outcomes were driven by dampening testicular oxidative stress, evidenced by lowered lipid peroxidation and increased glutathione and catalase antioxidants. Moreover, arbutin lowered testicular p-JAK2 and p-STAT3 levels, confirming the inhibition of the JAK2/STAT3 pro-inflammatory pathway. In tandem, arbutin suppressed the testicular NLRP3/caspase-1/NF-B axis and augmented the cytoprotective PK2/PKR2 pathway. Notably, intraperitoneal arbutin at a lower dose prompted a more pronounced mitigation of Pb-induced testicular dysfunction compared to oral administration. In conclusion, arbutin ameliorates Pb-evoked testicular damage by stimulating testicular antioxidants and the PK2/PKR2 pathway and inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 and NLRP3/caspase-1 pro-inflammatory pathways. Hence, arbutin may be used as an adjunct agent for mitigating Pb-induced testicular impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a medicine that has mainly been used to treat malaria. During the recent Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) period, an abrupt spike in the sale of HCQ has been found. The repurposing of this drug in the treatment of COVID-19 was not only found to be ineffective but also showed many side effects. The adverse effects of the enormous exposure to this drug should be unveiled. Aim: To evaluate the acute effect of HCQ exposure on the male reproductive system by analysing the changes in antioxidant enzyme levels in testicular tissue, sperm quality, and histopathological assessment of testicular tissue using male albino rats as the subject model. Materials and Methods: The present experimental study was done by using male albino rats as the subject model. It was conducted in the laboratory of the Department of Human Physiology at Raja NL Khan Women’s College (Autonomous) in Medinipur, West Bengal, Kolkata, India, from the last week of June 2023 to the first week of August 2023. A total 10 male albino rats were obtained and randomly divided into two groups (n=5 in each group), control and HCQ-treated, and were given plain drinking water and 33 mg/kg/day HCQ, respectively, for six consecutive days through oral gavage. After the treatment tenures, rats were euthanised, and antioxidant enzymatic activity was measured by a spectrophotometer. Sperm quality and testicular histopathology were studied. A two-tailed t-test was used to compare the parameters of the control and HCQ-treated groups. Results: The total testicular weight of the control group was 2.37±0.17 g, in contrast treated group had a significantly lower testicular weight of 1.98±0.19 g. A significant decrease in total testicular protein in the treated group was found, i.e., 28.86±3.03 mg/g of tissue, compared to the control group, i.e., 60.46±2.85 mg/g of tissue. The sperm count of the control group was 4.51±0.06 million/ml of suspension, while the treated group had a significantly lower sperm count, i.e., 2.73±0.11 million/mL of suspension. The percentages of sperm motility and viability in the control group were 86±1.63% and 94±1.33%, respectively, but in the treated group, the percentages were significantly lower, i.e., 22.66±1.35% and 24±1.78%, respectively. The increasing sperm anomalies after HCQ exposure indicate poor sperm quality. Conclusion: Infertility or reduced fertility can result from testicular dysfunction, in continuation, decrease in sperm count, motility, viability, together with abnormalities in sperm morphology, was observed after this exposure. Thus, the present study provides insight into the adverse effects of the use of this drug, which might be associated with male infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A breeding bull is used to serve many females; therefore, for overall herd fertility, the bull’s fertility is more important than female fertility. Methods: The present study was carried out to compare the effects of species, season, period, and interaction between species and season on the semen quality traits of Murrah buffalo and crossbred cattle bulls. For the 25-year study period, a total of 26205 ejaculation records of 389 bovine breeding bulls, including Murrah buffalo and crossbred cattle bulls, were analysed that were maintained at an organised farm. Result: Species and period of semen collection had a highly significant effect on all the traits (P<0.01). Season of semen collection and interaction between season and species had a highly significant effect (P<0.01) on semen volume (SV), consistency, mass activity (MA), total sperm count (TSC), initial motility (IM) and post-thaw motility (PTM), a significant effect (P<0.05) on age at first semen collection (AFSC) and non-significant effect on the semen colour and age at first semen freezing (AFSF). Overall, semen quality was good at the organised farm during all seasons. In bovine breeding bulls, PTM during the rainy and summer seasons was comparatively low. An overall increase in semen quality in the later periods showed progressive improvement in management at the organised farm over the period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scenario of the fertile spermatozoa with high fertilizing capability is basically dependent on gene expression‐based epididymal function. The current investigation aimed to declare the varied expression of different candidate genes (PLA2G4D, LCN15, CLUAP1, SPP1, AQP12B, DEFB110 and ESR1) relevant to spermatozoa features between the different epididymal segments in the mature dromedary camels (n = 30). Scrotal contents were collected post‐slaughtering, during the breeding season and the epididymis was separated from the testicles and divided into three segments (caput, corpus and cauda) based on its morphology and anatomical characteristics. Epididymal spermatozoa were harvested from each epididymal portion and evaluated for motility, count, viability and morphology. Samples were grouped depending on their epididymal sperm cells features into high‐fertile (n = 15) and low‐fertile (n = 15) groups. The gene expression of the candidate genes was defined in the isolated RNA from each epididymal portion tissue. The segmental sperm motion and count were significantly (p <.05 and p <.01) higher in the three epididymal parts of high‐fertile camels than the lower ones. There were some candidate genes markedly up‐regulated in its expression in epididymal head of high‐fertile camels (PLA2G4D and LCN15) and low fertile (CLUAP1), while others in the body region of the high‐fertile group (SPP1, AQP12B and DEFB110). Nevertheless, ER1 did not differ in the expression among the epididymal segments. In conclusion, the variant expression patterns of these epididymal genes in relation to the regional spermatozoa features might suggest important roles of these genes in sperm maturation process in the epididymis and focusing more interest on their potential utility as markers for male camel fertility prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]