ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the influence of Toxoplasma tachyzoites infection on motility of human spermatozoa in vitro, and explain its possible mechanism. Methods Semen samples obtained from 10 healthy volunteers by masturbation were prepared by the swim-up technique. The samples were then inoculated at 37 ℃ with different concentrations of live Toxoplasma tachyzoites varying among 1?103/ml (Group A), 1?104/ml (Group B), 1?105/ml (Group C), 1?106/ml (Group D), 1?107/ml (Group E) and Group F containing Ham’s F-10 only as the negative control. Motion parameters were analysed by Computer-aided sperm analyzer(CASA) in 0 hour, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours respectively. Modalities of spermatozoa and possible adherence and/or agglutination were observed under the light microscope. Results Distinct adhesion of spermatozoa to Toxoplasma tachyzoites and agglutination were noticed. In all the motion parameters, progressive motility was affected most and dependent upon the incubation time and tachyzoites concentration. Progressive motility showed a significant difference between Group E and the control (P