Research progress in prevention and treatment of repeated implantation failure by TCM compounds based on "Yu Pei Qi Sun" theory / 国际中医中药杂志

Women undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) may experience repeated implantation failure (RIF). Under the guidance of "Yu Pei Qi Sun" theory, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) compounds can improve the quality of sperm and eggs of both husband and wife by anti-oxidative stress, improving mitochondrial function and reducing excessive apoptosis before IVF-ET to obtain high-quality embryos; TCM compounds can also promote angiogenesis, anti-oxidative stress, regulation of estrogen and progesterone receptor content, regulate immunity to improve female endometrial receptivity to facilitate embryo implantation; it can also invigorate the spleen and kidney after transplantation and caring for the fetus to help implantation, as well as alleviate the anxiety of patients during transplantation.

Dimethyl acetamide and dimethyl sulfoxide associated at glucose and egg yolk for cryopreservation of Pseudoplatystoma corruscans semen

This study aimed to develop a protocol for the cryopreservation of Pseudoplatystoma corruscans semen. For this, mature males were hormonally induced with a single dose of carp pituitary extract (5 mg/kg body weight). Semen was collected and evaluated. Two cryoprotectants were tested to compose the diluents: dimethyl acetamide (DMA) and dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO), in two concentrations (8% and 10%), + 5.0% glucose + 10% egg yolk. The semen was diluted in a 1: 4 ratio (semen: extender), packed in 0.5 mL straws and frozen in a dry shipper container in liquid nitrogen vapors. After thawing, sperm kinetics, sperm morphology and DNA integrity of cryopreserved sperm were evaluated. Pseudoplatystoma corruscans males produced semen with sperm motility > 80%. After thawing, all treatments provided semen with total sperm motility > 40%, with no significant difference (P < 0.05) between them, as well as between the other sperm kinetic parameters evaluated. The treatments with DMA provided a smaller fragmentation of the DNA of the gametes. Sperm malformations were identified in both fresh and cryopreserved semen, with a slight increase in these malformations being identified in sperm from thawed P. corruscans semen samples.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo desenvolver um protocolo para a criopreservação do sêmen de Pseudoplatystoma corruscans. Para tal, machos maduros foram induzidos hormonalmente com uma dose única de extrato de hipófise de carpa (5 mg/kg de peso vivo). O sêmen foi coletado e avaliado. Sendo testados para compor os diluentes, dois crioprotetores: dimetil acetamida (DMA) e dimetil sulfóxido (Me2SO), em duas concentrações (8% e 10%), + 5,0% glicose + 10% gema de ovo. O sêmen foi diluído na proporção 1: 4 (sêmen: extensor), embalado em palhetas de 0,5 mL e congelado em container dryshipper em vapores de nitrogênio líquido. Após o descongelamento, foram avaliados os aspectos cinéticos espermáticos, a morfologia espermática e a integridade do DNA dos espermatozoides criopreservados. Os machos de P. corruscans produziram sêmen com motilidade espermática > 80%. Todos os tratamentos proporcionaram após o descongelamento sêmen com motilidade espermática total > 40%, sem diferença significativa (P < 0,05) entre eles, como também entre os demais parâmetros cinéticos espermáticos avaliados. Os tratamentos com DMA proporcionaram uma menor fragmentação do DNA dos gametas. Malformações espermáticas foram identificadas, tanto no sêmen fresco, como no criopreservado, sendo identificado um aumento discreto dessas malformações nos espermatozoides das amostras de sêmen descongeladas de P. corruscans.(AU)

Cyperus esculentus L. protects testis and sperm morphology of hyperglycaemic rats / Cyperus esculentus L. protege la morfología de los testículos y los espermatozoides de ratas hiperglicémicas

Cyperus esculentus L. (tiger nut) is a tuberous plant that promotes and protects reproductive functions, which are usually hampered in diabetics. The present study investigated the effect of Cyperus esculentus tuber extract (CETE) on testicular histology and sperm viability of alloxan-induced hyperglycaemic Wistar rats. Twenty-five adult male Wistar rats weighing 150-200g and grouped into five (n=5): Group 1, the control, administered tap water (20mL/kg), while groups 2-5 were administered a single intraperitoneal dose (120mg/kg b.w.) of alloxan, and each further received orally tap water (20mL/kg), CETE (100mg/kg), CETE (500 mg/kg) and metformin (500 mg/kg), respectively for 21 days. The animals were sacrificed, their sperm collected for analysis, while the testes were harvested, and processed for histology. Results showed significantly increased (p<0.05) blood glucose and testosterone, and significantly decreased (p<0.05) sperm pH, motility, count, morphology and density, as well as disruptions and hypertrophy of the spermatogenic and Sertoli cells of the hyperglycaemic group. There were significant (p<0.05) blood glucose decline, while the sperm parameters and testicular weight improved with normal testicular histology in the 100 mg/kg CETE, 500 mg/kg CETE, and metformin-treated groups compared to the control and hyperglycaemic group. Treatment with CETE showed blood glucose amelioration and improved sperm quality, as well as testicular damage attenuation.

Cyperus esculentus L. es una planta tuberosa que promueve y protege las funciones reproductivas, que generalmente se ven afectadas en los diabéticos. El presente estudio investigó el efecto del extracto de tubérculo de Cyperus esculentus (CETE) sobre la histología testicular y la viabilidad de los espermatozoides de ratas wistar con hiperglicemia inducida por alloxan. Veinticinco ratas Wistar macho adultas que pesaban 150-200 g y se agruparon en cinco (n = 5): el grupo 1, el control, administró agua del grifo (20ml / kg), mientras que los grupos 2-5 se les administró una dosis intraperitoneal única (120 mg / kg p.v.) de alloxan, y agua del grifo por vía oral (20ml/kg), CETE (100 mg/kg), CETE (500 mg/kg) y metformina (500 mg/kg), respectivamente durante 21 días. Los animales fueron sacrificados, su esperma recolectada para su análisis, mientras que los testículos fueron retirados y procesados para histología. Los resultados mostraron un aumento significativo (p<0,05) de la glucosa en sangre y la testosterona, y una disminución significativa (p<0,05) del pH, la motilidad, el recuento, la morfología y la densidad de los espermatozoides, así como interrupciones e hipertrofia de las células espermatogénicas y sertoli del grupo hiperglucémico. Hubo una disminución significativa (p<0,05) de la glucosa en sangre, mientras que los parámetros espermáticos y el peso testicular mejoraron con la histología testicular normal en los grupos de 100 mg / kg de CETE, 500 mg / kg de CETE y tratados con metformina en comparación con el grupo de control e hiperglucémico. El tratamiento con CETE mostró una mejora de la glucosa en sangre y una mejora de la calidad de los espermatozoides, así como atenuación del daño testicular.

Chlamydia trachomatis infection in the genital tract is associated with inflammation and hypospermia in the infertile male of China / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection is the most prevalent sexually transmitted bacterial disease worldwide. However, unlike that in female infertility, the role of CT infection in male infertility remains controversial. The objective of this retrospective study was to explore the impacts of CT infection in the genital tract on sperm quality, sperm acrosin activity, antisperm antibody levels, and inflammation in a large cohort of infertile males in China. A total of 7154 semen samples were collected from infertile male subjects, 416 of whom were CT positive (CT+ group) and 6738 of whom were CT negative (CT- group), in our hospital between January 2016 and December 2018. Routine semen parameters (semen volume, pH, sperm concentration, viability, motility, morphology, etc.), granulocyte elastase levels, antisperm antibody levels, and sperm acrosin activity were compared between the CT+ and CT- groups. Our results showed that CT infection was significantly correlated with an abnormally low semen volume, as well as an increased white blood cell count and granulocyte elastase level (all P < 0.05) in the semen of infertile males; other routine semen parameters were not negatively impacted. The antisperm antibody level and sperm acrosin activity were not affected by CT infection. These findings suggested that CT infection might contribute to inflammation and hypospermia but does not impair sperm viability, motility morphology, and acrosin activity or generate antisperm antibodies in the infertile males of China.

Antichlamydia Antibodies and Sperm Quality among Male Partners of Infertile Couples in Nigeria

: The impact of Chlamydia trachomatis on semen quality has been studied with varied results. Aim: To determine the prevalence of antichlamydial antibodies and their relationship with sperm quality among male partners of infertile couples in Enugu, South-East Nigeria. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study of infertile male partners of couples attending infertility clinics at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria. Their sera were assayed for antichlamydial antibodies, and semen analysis and culture were done for each participant. Results: Two hundred and eighty-two (282) male partners of infertile couples were studied. Infertility was commoner among participants aged 40 years or more (45.1%) and was mainly of the "primary type" (62.1%). Antichlamydia antibody was detected in 156 (55.3%) participants and was significantly associated with sperm quality (P = 002; OR = 2.294; 95% CI = 1.36­3.88). Overall, 81 (28.7%) had abnormal sperm quality. The sperm count, progressive motility, and vitality were significantly lower in participants with abnormal sperm quality than those with normal sperm quality (P < 0.001) while morphology, volume, and liquefaction time did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant organism isolated from culture (122/282, 43.3%) while Streptococcus species were the least (4/262, 1.4%). There was significantly more Staphylococcus aureus isolated from the semen of participants that were seropositive to antichlamydial antibodies than those that were seronegative (80/156, 51.3% vs. 42/126, 33.3%; OR = 2.105; 95% CI = 1.30­3.42; P = 0.003). Conclusion: The prevalence of antichlamydial antibodies among male partners of infertile couples in Enugu, Nigeria is high and there is a significant association with sperm quality, sperm count, and bacterial isolates in seminal culture. Male partners of infertile couples in Enugu should be screened for antichlamydial antibodies and appropriate treatment offered wherever indicated. There is a need for increased public awareness and advocacy campaigns on the impact of Chlamydia infection on male factor infertility. This primary preventive measure may help in reducing the burden of Chlamydia infection and male factor infertility.

Effect of ethephon exposure on sperm quality in adolescent male SD rats / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To investigate the effect of ethephon exposure on sperm quality of adolescent male SD rats and the influence mechanism.Methods:A total of 40 45-day-old male SD rats were divided into control group and low, middle and high experimental groups according to the random number table method, 10 rats in each group.The said 4 groups were given 9 g/L normal saline, 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg ethephon aqueous solution for 28 days, respectively.One epididymal tail was taken to prepare sperm suspension, the sperm concentration and motility were detected.The testis and epididymis tissues were stained with HE, and their pathological changes were observed under light microscope.The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the testis were detected.Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay kit was used to mea-sure the epididymal α-glucosidase activity, L-carnitine (LC) content, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and organic cation transporter 2 (OCTN2) expression levels.Then the oxidative damage caused by ethephon to epididymis was evaluated.SPSS 26.0 software was used for data analysis.Data were compared by One- way ANOVA among groups and LSD method between 2 groups. Results:The sperm concentration of the control group, low, medium and high dose groups were (40.21±1.94)×10 9/L, (35.23±2.53)×10 9/L, (23.61±2.62)×10 9 /L, and (18.86±2.16)×10 9 /L, respectively.The sperm activity rate were (70.98±3.01)%, (57.96±3.75)%, (45.71±2.41)%, and (31.23±2.26)%, respectively.The concentration and vitality of epididymal sperms in the experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group (all P<0.01). In the control group, low, medium and high dose groups, the SOD activity were (46.48±2.21) U/mg prot, (38.49±2.56)U/mg prot, (33.80±1.73) U/mg prot, and (27.65±2.05) U/mg prot, respectively.The GSH-Px activity in said 4 groups were (21.41±1.95) U/mg prot, (17.32±1.28) U/mg prot, (15.09±0.94) U/mg prot, and (14.08±1.23) U/mg prot, respectively.The MDA content in said 4 groups were (1.41±0.09) nmol/mg prot, (1.59±0.09) nmol/mg prot, (1.81±0.09) nmol/mg prot, and (2.16±0.14) nmol/mg prot, respectively.Compared to the control group, the experimental groups had significantly lower SOD and GSH-Px activities and significantly higher MDA content (all P<0.05). α-glucosidase levels in the control group, low, middle and high experimental groups were (15.46±0.71) U/mL prot, (12.95±0.72) U/mL prot, (11.34±0.65) U/mL prot, and (8.76±0.60) U/mL prot, respectively.LC levels in the control group, low, middle and high dose groups were(6.21±0.31) μg/L, (5.89±0.13) μg/L, (5.02±0.12) μg/L, (4.38±0.07) μg/L, respectively, compared with those of the control group, the concentration of α-glucosidase and LC in experimental groups decreased significantly (all P<0.01). The expression levels of Nrf2 in epididymis of the control group, low, middle and high dose groups were (1.34±0.05) ng/L, (1.25±0.04) ng/L, (1.08±0.06) ng/L, (0.92±0.04) ng/L, respectively; the expression levels of OCTN2 in epididymis of the control group, low, middle and high dose groups were (4.55±0.12) ng/L, (4.23±0.11) ng/L, (3.20±0.24) ng/L, (2.59±0.05) ng/L, respectively, compared with those of the control group, the expression levels of Nrf2 and OCTN2 in experimental groups decreased significantly (all P<0.01). Conclusions:Ethephon exposure leads to excessive generation of reactive oxygen and oxidative stress in reproductive organs.Ethephon exposure may activate the Keap1-Nrf2/ARE signal pathway, resulting in a decrease in the number, vitality and quality of sperms, and impaired fertility.

The association between metalloestrogens in seminal plasma and sperm quality in infertile patients / 预防医学

Objective@#To analyze the association between the concentration of metalloestrogens ( MEs ) in seminal plasma and sperm quality in infertile patients, so as to provide the basis for the study of MEs on human sperm quality.@*Methods@#The spermatozoa concentration, progressive rate ( PR ), normal morphology rate ( NMR ) and DNA fragmentation index ( DFI ) were determined in the infertile male patients from Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital from March to April, 2020. The contents of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg and Ni in seminal plasma were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry ( ICP-MS ). The distribution of MEs in seminal plasma and the sperm quality in different concentration of MEs ( grouped by quartiles ) were analyzed.@*Results@#Among 105 cases recruited, 28 cases were normal in sperm parameters and 77 cases were abnormal, including 22 cases of oligospermia, 47 cases of asthenospermia, 54 cases of dysspermia and 30 cases of abnormal DFI. As, Cr, Cu, Hg and Ni were detected in all samples, the detection rates of Cd and Co were 78.57%-90.91%. Compared with the normal group, the concentration of As in oligospermia group was higher [( 18.96±12.56 ) µg/L vs. (13.67±4.19) µg/L, P<0.05],the concentration of Cr was higher in asthenospermia, dysspermia and abnormal DFI in Q3 and Q4 groups groups [( 386.62±81.92 ), ( 378.02±81.46 ), ( 393.88±77.03 ) µg/L vs. ( 343.12±55.08 ) µg/L,P<0.05]. The PRs in Q3 and Q4 groups of Cr were lower than that in Q2 group [( 32.95±18.22 )%, ( 27.74±22.77 )% vs. ( 54.18±24.64 )%, P<0.05], the DFI in Q3 and Q4 groups was higher than that in Q2 group [( 26.91±14.77 )%, ( 29.91±16.93 )% vs. ( 9.87±10.93 )%, P<0.05], and the NMR in Q4 group was lower than that in Q2 group [( 1.62±1.72 )% vs. ( 3.36±1.97 )%, P<0.05]. The concentration of sperm in Q3 group of Cu was higher than that in Q2 group [( 115.87±88.22 )×106/mL vs. (61.91±66.16)×106/mL, P<0.05]. @*Conclusion@#As and Cu in seminal plasma are associated with abnormal sperm concentration, and Cr is associated with NMR, PR and DFI.

Glutathione (GSH) improves sperm quality and testicular morphology in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is known to cause reproductive impairment. In men, it has been linked to altered sperm quality and testicular damage. Oxidative stress (OS) plays a pivotal role in the development of DM complications. Glutathione (GSH) is a part of a nonenzymatic antioxidant defense system that protects lipid, protein, and nucleic acids from oxidative damage. However, the protective effects of exogenous GSH on the male reproductive system have not been comprehensively examined. This study determined the impact of GSH supplementation in ameliorating the adverse effect of type 1 DM on sperm quality and the seminiferous tubules of diabetic C57BL/6NTac mice. GSH at the doses of 15 mg kg

Effect of racial crossing on the seminal parameters of rams submitted to heat stress / Efeito do cruzamento racial nos parâmetros seminais de carneiros submetidos ao estresse de calor

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of racial crossing on seminal parameters of eight Santa Inês and crossbred (Santa Inês x Dorper) rams submitted to heat stress, and to monitor the return of these parameters to previously reported. Before to place the insulation bags, two collects of semen through electroejaculation were performed. The insulation pouches were made with double-layer plastic, internally lined with cotton, and fixed around the spermatic funiculus and scrotum with adhesive tape and bandage remaining on the testes of the animals for seven days. The first collect was performed on the day that the pouches were taken (day 0) and thereafter, every seven days, totalizing 15 measurements. Data were submitted to analysis of variance (ANOVA). The analyzed variables were subjected to Dunnett test at 5% probability to compare the values obtained before treatment with those obtained in the following days. In this study it was found that the animals restored normal seminal parameter after the insulation effects, however, the return rate differed slightly among the studied breeds. The crossbred animals restored the seminal patterns, on average, a week before Santa Inês. It is concluded that the racial crossing influences the semen parameters of rams submitted to heat stress.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do cruzamento racial sobre parâmetros seminais de oito carneiros Santa Inês e mestiços, submetidos ao estresse térmico e monitorar o retorno desses parâmetros aos relatos anteriormente. Antes de colocar as bolsas de insulação, foram realizadas duas coletas de sêmen por meio de eletroejaculação. As bolsas de insulação foram confeccionadas com plástico de camada dupla, revestidas internamente com algodão, fixadas ao redor do funículo espermático e escroto com fita adesiva e bandagem, permanecendo nos testículos dos animais por sete dias. A primeira coleta foi realizada no dia em que as bolsas foram retiradas (dia 0) e a partir daí, a cada sete dias, totalizando 15 coletas. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância (ANOVA). As variáveis analisadas foram submetidas ao teste de Dunnett a 5% de probabilidade para comparar os valores obtidos antes do tratamento com aqueles obtidos nos dias seguintes. Neste estudo verificou-se que os animais restauraram os parâmetros seminais normais após os efeitos da insulação, porém, a taxa de retorno diferiu ligeiramente entre as raças estudadas. Os animais mestiços restauraram os padrões seminais, em média, uma semana antes da Santa Inês. Conclui-se que o cruzamento racial influencia os parâmetros seminais de carneiros submetidos ao estresse térmico.

Reduced semen quality in patients with testicular cancer seminoma is associated with alterations in the expression of sperm proteins / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

Testicular cancer seminoma is one of the most common types of cancer among men of reproductive age. Patients with this condition usually present reduced semen quality, even before initiating cancer therapy. However, the underlying mechanisms by which testicular cancer seminoma affects male fertility are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate alterations in the sperm proteome of men with seminoma undergoing sperm banking before starting cancer therapy, in comparison to healthy proven fertile men (control group). A routine semen analysis was conducted before cryopreservation of the samples (n = 15 per group). Men with seminoma showed a decrease in sperm motility (P = 0.019), total motile count (P = 0.001), concentration (P = 0.003), and total sperm count (P = 0.001). Quantitative proteomic analysis identified 393 differentially expressed proteins between the study groups. Ten proteins involved in spermatogenesis, sperm function, binding of sperm to the oocyte, and fertilization were selected for validation by western blot. We confirmed the underexpression of heat shock-related 70 kDa protein 2 (P = 0.041), ubiquinol-cytochrome C reductase core protein 2 (P = 0.026), and testis-specific sodium/potassium-transporting ATPase subunit alpha-4 (P = 0.016), as well as the overexpression of angiotensin I converting enzyme (P = 0.005) in the seminoma group. The altered expression levels of these proteins are associated with spermatogenesis dysfunction, reduced sperm kinematics and motility, failure in capacitation and fertilization. The findings of this study may explain the decrease in the fertilizing ability of men with seminoma before starting cancer therapy.

Distribution of DNA damage in the human sperm nucleus: Implications of the architecture of the sperm head / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

The sperm nucleus is prone to sustain DNA damage before and after ejaculation. Distribution of the damage is not homogeneous, and the factors determining differential sensitivity among nuclear regions have not yet been characterized. Human sperm chromatin contains three structural domains, two of which are considered the most susceptible to DNA damage: the histone bound domain, harboring developmental related genes, and the domain associated with nuclear matrix proteins. Using a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) approach, we analyzed the number of lesions in genes homeobox A3 (HOXA3), homeobox B5 (HOXB 5), sex-determining region Y (SRY)-box 2 (SOX2), β-GLOBIN, rDNA 18S, and rDNA 28S in human sperm after ultraviolet irradiation (400 μW cm-2, 10 min), H2O2treatment (250 mmol l-1, 20 min), and cryopreservation, which showed differential susceptibility to genetic damage. Differential vulnerability is dependent on the genotoxic agent and independent of the sperm nuclear proteins to which the chromatin is bound and of accessibility to the transcription machinery. Immunodetection of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) showed that the highest level of oxidation was observed after H2O2treatment. The distribution of oxidative lesions also differed depending on the genotoxic agent. 8-OHdG did not colocalize either with histone 3 (H3) or with type IIα + β topoisomerase (TOPO IIα + β) after H2O2treatment but matched perfectly with peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6), which is involved in H2O2metabolism. Our study reveals that the characteristics of the sperm head domains are responsible for access of the genotoxicants and cause differential degree of damage to nuclear areas, whereas chromatin packaging has a very limited relevance. The histone-enriched genes analyzed cannot be used as biomarkers of oxidative DNA damage.

Effect of Anthocleista djalonensis A. Chev Root Extract on Testis of Matured Rats / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effects of different extracts of Anthocleista djalonensis on the testis and epididymal sperms of rats.@*METHODS@#Fifty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 10 groups (n=5 in each group) and orally treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight each of methanol, aqueous ethanol (H-EtOH) and chloroform extracts of A. djalonensis. Corn oil was used as vehicle (2 mL/kg). After 60 days of treatment, testosterone (T) and cholesterol (CHOL) concentrations, catalase (CAT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in the testes along with myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities and nitrite concentrations (NO) in the serum and testes as well as sperm quality were measured.@*RESULTS@#T and CHOL concentrations along with 3β-HSD activity were significantly higher in the animals treated with the low dose than in those treated with the high dose of the chloroform extract (P H-EtOH > methanol. Although all extracts at all doses showed excellent stimulatory effects on sperm quality (count, motility and morphology), the methanol extract at the high dose was the most effective on sperm count (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The chloroform extract of A. djalonensis has better androgen-like and anti-inflammatory effects whereas the methanol extract has the best effect on sperm count.

Relationship of sperm plasma membrane and acrosomal integrities with sperm morphometry in / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

To date, sperm morphometric studies have assessed whole sperm populations without considering sperm function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of sperm membrane and acrosomal integrity with sperm morphometry in liquid semen samples collected from bulls. To this end, sperm morphometry was performed on cryopreserved semen samples from 16 bulls by a combination of fluorescent dyes, including Hoechst 33343, carboxyfluorescein diacetate, and propidium iodide. This allowed discrimination of different subpopulations on the basis of sperm membrane and acrosomal integrity and analysis of the morphometrics of the sperm head, nucleus, and acrosome using a specific plug-in module created on ImageJ. Acrosomal integrity was related to sperm morphometry as the heads of spermatozoa with a damaged acrosome were significantly smaller than those with a normal acrosome (P < 0.001). In the case of spermatozoa with an intact acrosome, those with a damaged plasma membrane had a larger sperm head and acrosome than spermatozoa with an intact plasma membrane (P < 0.001). No significant differences in the sperm head size were observed between sperm subpopulations without an acrosome or in the nuclear sperm morphometry of the different subpopulations. There was a positive correlation between the sperm motility values of the samples and the morphometric parameters for intact spermatozoa. These correlations were particularly strong for the morphometric parameters of the sperm acrosome. We conclude that there are clear differences in the sperm morphometry depending on the status of the sperm membrane and acrosome and this should be considered when performing this kind of analysis.

Relationship between sperm quality and male reproductive hormones among male partners with fertility complications: attending CHUB

Background Infertility remains a highly prevalent global condition in the second decade of the new millennium. Reproductive hormones determine sperm quality as they initiate and maintain spermatogenesis. Hormonal imbalance can cause abnormal sperm quality that can be treated by hormonal replacement therapy. Objective To assess the relationship between sperm quality and male reproductive hormones among male partners with fertility complications attending CHUB. Methods The study was a descriptive cross-sectional, and a convenient sampling strategy was used to recruit subjects at CHUB. Sixty-two male subjects with fertility complications provided both semen and blood sample to analyze sperm quality and reproductive hormones. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. Results Both FSH and LH showed a strong negative correlation with sperm count which is more profound with FSH (r= -0.722) than LH (r= -0.545). Testosterone showed a strong positive correlation with sperm count (r= 0.712). FSH and LH showed a negative correlation with sperm motility which is more profound in FSH (r= - 0.312) than LH (r= -0.302). Testosterone also showed a positive correlation with sperm motility (r= 0.360). Conclusion Our study found a correlation between sperm quality and male reproductive hormones. We further suggest other studies to investigate predictive power of male reproductive hormones.

New Insights on the Mechanisms Affecting Fertility in Men with Non-Seminoma Testicular Cancer before Cancer Therapy

PURPOSE: Patients with non-seminoma testicular cancer (NSTC) cancer can be subfertile or infertile, and present reduced sperm quality, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. The aim of this study was to compare the sperm proteome of patients with NSTC, who cryopreserved their sperm before starting cancer treatment, with that from healthy fertile men.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Semen volume, sperm motility and sperm concentration were evaluated before the cryopreservation of samples from patients with NSTC (n=15) and the control group (n=15). Sperm proteomic analysis was performed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between the two groups were identified using bioinformatic tools.RESULTS: A total of 189 DEPs was identified in the dataset, from which five DEPs related to sperm function and fertilization were selected for validation by Western blot. We were able to validate the underexpression of the mitochondrial complex subunits NADH:Ubiquinone Oxidoreductase Core Subunit S1 (NDUFS1) and ubiquinol-cytochrome C reductase core protein 2 (UQCRC2), as well as the underexpression of the testis-specific sodium/potassium-transporting ATPase subunit alpha-4 (ATP1A4) in the NSTC group.CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that sperm mitochondrial dysfunction may explain the observed decrease in sperm concentration, total sperm count and total motile count in NSTC patients. The identified DEPs may serve as potential biomarkers for the pathophysiology of subfertility/infertility in patients with NSTC. Our study also associates the reduced fertilizing ability of NSTC patients with the dysregulation of important sperm molecular mechanisms.

Cryopreservation of Ram Cauda Epididymal Spermatozoa Using Different Buffers and Sugar Combinations

The aim of this experiment was to study the effect of different sugars and buffers combinations in the extenders viz. Tris citric acid fructose (TCF), Tris citric acid glucose (TCG), Sodium citrate fructose (SCF) and Sodium citrate glucose (SCG) on the quality of Cauda epididymal spermatozoa of ram during cryopreservation and post thaw. Spermatozoa were recovered from Cauda epididymidis by incision method. Samples showing ≥70 % progressive sperm motility were pooled. Each pooled cauda epididymal sperm sample was divided into four aliquots and spermatozoa in each aliquot were washed using isotonic buffer by double centrifugation. Washed spermatozoa in each aliquot were extended separately in the four different extenders using 20% egg yolk and 8% glycerol as cryoprotectant. The quality of spermatozoa was evaluated immediately after extension in the particular extenders (pre-freeze) and at post thaw. The percent sperm motility was significantly (p<0.05) higher for TCF (45.00±4.47) than TCG (27.50±6.55) and SCG (20.83±5.39) extenders at post thaw. The percentage of HOST reacted spermatozoa was significantly higher (P<0.05) for TCF (61.05±2.60) than SCF (45.81±4.90) and SCG (46.41±4.16) at post thaw. The percent intact acrosome was also significantly higher (P<0.05) in TCF (79.39±2.16), SCF (80.74±1.38) and SCG (78.34±2.94) than TCG (71.32±2.47) at post thaw. In conclusion, the use of fructose as energy source in the Tris extender (TCF) was found the best combination of buffer and sugar for maintaining higher sperm quality during cryopreservation of ram caudaepididymal spermatozoa

Consumo de agua tratada de producción petrolera en la fertilidad del bovino macho del sistema doble propósito / Consumption of treated water from oil production in male bovine fertility of the double purpose system / Consumo de água tratada na produção de óleo no sistema de dupla finalidade de fertilidade bovina masculina

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el consumo de agua tratada proveniente de la producción petrolera en la calidad seminal del macho bovino reproductor, para ello se seleccionaron 16 toros entre 4 y 5 años distribuidos en dos grupos en los centros de investigaciones La Libertad de Agrosavia en Villavicencio y el Área de sostenibilidad agroenergetica, ASA en Acacias con disponibilidad de agua tratada de los campos petroleros, Apiay (A) y Castilla (C) respectivamente. Los animales seleccionados fueron distribuidos al azar para cada localidad en 4 tratamientos: 1) Consumo del 100 % agua de producción tratada; 2) consumo de mezcla 50 % agua de producción tratada y 50 % agua cruda; 3) consumo de mezcla 25 % agua de producción tratada y 75 % agua cruda; y 4) consumo 100 % agua cruda. Las variables consideradas fueron: calidad seminal para A y C determinadas por un sistema computarizado y de fertilidad in vitro para A evaluada por tinción fluorescente, Hoechst 33342. Los datos se analizaron estadística descriptiva, análisis de varianza (ANOVA) y pruebas de comparación de medias, Tukey, en un modelo de medidas repetidas en el tiempo. Los resultados indicaron, para calidad seminal, que los tratamientos que consumieron A y C en cada localidad presentaron diferencias (P < 0,05) para motilidad, 75,00±4,50, 69,24±4,13, espermatozoides motiles/100 células evaluadas, en el tratamiento dos respectivamente y en A para morfología, 76,67±2,06 espermatozoides normales/100 en el tratamiento cuatro, el índice de calidad espermática (ICE) no mostró diferencia (P > 0,05). Los resultados de unión espermatozoide - zona pelúcida mostraron diferencias entre tratamientos (P < 0,05), al igual que en fecundación in vitro, sin embargo, el comportamiento de estos cambios no indica asociación con el consumo de este tipo de agua. El estudio muestra que no se observan cambios contundentes o negativos que demuestren efecto en la fertilidad del toro por consumo de agua de producción tratada.

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the consumption of treated water from oil production in the seminal quality of the breeding male; To this end, 16 bulls between 4 and 5 years old were selected, distributed in two groups at Agrosavia's La Libertad centers in Villavicencio and the Agroenergetic Sustainability Area, ASA in Acacias with availability of treated water from the oil fields, Apiay (A) and Castilla (C) respectively. The selected animals were distributed randomly to each location in 4 treatments: 1) Consumption of 100% treated production water; 2) 50% consumption of treated production water and 50% raw water consumption; 3) mixing consumption 25% treated production water and 75% raw water; and 4) 100% raw water consumption. The variables considered were: seminal quality for A and C determined by a computerized system, and in vitro fertility for A evaluated by fluorescent staining, Hoechst 33342. The data were analyzed descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and means comparison tests, Tukey, in a model of measures repeated over time. The results indicated, for seminal quality, that the treatments that consumed A and C in each locality presented differences (P <0,05) for motility, 75,00 ± 4,50, 69,24 ± 4,13, motile sperm / 100 cells evaluated, in treatment two respectively and in A for morphology, 76,67 ± 2,06 normal sperm / 100 in treatment four, the sperm quality index (SQI) showed no difference (P> 0,05). The results of sperm-pellucid zone binding showed differences between treatments (P <0,05), as in in vitro fertilization, however, the behavior of these changes does not indicate an association with the consumption of this type of water. The study shows that there are no strong or negative changes that show an effect on the fertility of the bull due to the consumption of treated production water.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o consumo de água tratada da produção de óleo na qualidade seminal do macho reprodutor; Para tanto, foram selecionados 16 touros entre 4 e 5 anos, distribuídos em dois grupos nos centros de La Libertad de Agrosavia em Villavicencio e na Área de Sustentabilidade Agroenergética, ASA em Acacias com disponibilidade de água tratada dos campos de petróleo, Apiay (A ) e Castilla (C) respectivamente. Os animais selecionados foram distribuídos aleatoriamente para cada local em 4 tratamentos: 1) Consumo de água de produção tratada 100%; 2) 50% de consumo de água de produção tratada e 50% de consumo de água bruta; 3) consumo de mistura 25% de água de produção tratada e 75% de água bruta; e 4) 100% de consumo de água bruta. As variáveis ​​consideradas foram: qualidade seminal para A e C, determinada por sistema computadorizado, e fertilidade in vitro para A, avaliada por coloração fluorescente, Hoechst 33342. Os resultados indicaram, para qualidade seminal, que os tratamentos que consumiram A e C em cada localidade apresentaram diferenças (P <0,05) para motilidade, 75,00 ± 4,50, 69,24 ± 4,13, espermatozóides móveis / 100 células avaliadas, no tratamento dois respectivamente e em A para morfologia, 76,67 ± 2,06 espermatozóides normais / 100 no tratamento quatro, o índice de qualidade espermática (IQE) não apresentou diferença (P> 0,05). Os resultados de ligação das zonas pelúcidas de espermatozóides mostraram diferenças entre os tratamentos (P <0,05), como na fertilização in vitro, entretanto, o comportamento dessas mudanças não indica uma associação com o consumo desse tipo de água. O estudo mostra que não há mudanças fortes ou negativas que mostram um efeito sobre a fertilidade do touro devido ao consumo de água de produção tratada.

Efecto de la adición de antioxidantes en los diluyentes para la preservación de semen ovino / Effect of adding antioxidants in diluents for the preservation of sheep semen / Efeito da adição de antioxidantes nos diluentes para preservação de sêmen ovino

Resumen El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el efecto sobre la calidad espermática de tres substancias antioxidantes (50 µM de trolox/108 espermatozoides, 50 µg de catalasa/ml de eyaculado y cisteamina 5mM) en una base de diluyente comercial Triladyl™, bajo condiciones de refrigeración y congelación/descongelación en semen ovino. Se congeló semen de seis machos adultos en una base del diluyente comercial Triladyl™. El eyaculado de cada macho fue puesto en cuatro diferentes alícuotas: una para control, y a las demás se les adicionó con la base del diluyente 50 µM de trolox/108 espermatozoides, 50 µg de catalasa/ml de eyaculado y cisteamina 5 mM. La calidad espermática precongelación (5 °C) y poscongelación se evaluó con la ayuda de un sistema de análisis computarizado (IVOS II®), con lo cual se eliminó la subjetividad a la prueba. Se observó que 50 µM de trolox/108 SPZ y 50 µg de catalasa/ml tienen la capacidad de mantener valores (p < 0,05) superiores de motilidad total (64,26 ± 0,82 y 55,54 ± 0,85) y motilidad progresiva (47,26 ± 0,75 y 44,32 ± 1,13) en condiciones de precongelación, y para motilidad total (67,60 ± 1,91 y 63,47 ± 3,40), motilidad progresiva (50,87 ± 2,58 y 38,88 ± 2,31) y viabilidad (66,97 ± 2,25 y 61,16 ± 4,31) en poscongelación, comparados con los tratamientos control o la adición de 5 mM de cisteamina. La adición de 50 µM de trolox/108 espermatozoides y de 50 µg de catalasa/ml de semen mejora la motilidad total y progresiva del semen ovino refrigerado a 5 °C y la viabilidad en semen congelado/descongelado.

Abstract The present study aimed to evaluate the effect on sperm quality of three antioxidant substances (50 μM of trolox/108 spermatozoa, 50 μg of catalase/ml of ejaculate, and 5mM cysteamine) in a Triladyl™ commercial diluent base, under conditions of refrigeration and freezing/thawing in sheep semen. Semen from six adult males was frozen in a commercial Triladyl™ diluent base. The ejaculate of each male was placed in four different aliquots: one for control, and the other three with additional 50 μM of trolox/108 spermatozoa, 50 μg of catalase/ml of ejaculate, and 5 mM cysteamine, respectively, in the diluent base. Pre-freezing (5 °C) and post-freezing sperm quality was evaluated using a computerized analysis system (IVOS II®), which eliminated subjectivity during the test. It was observed that 50 μM of trolox/108 SPZ and 50 μg of catalase/ml are able to maintain higher values (p < 0.05) of total motility (64.26 ± 0.82 and 55.54 ± 0.85 ) and progressive motility (47.26 ± 0.75 and 44.32 ± 1.13) under pre-freezing conditions, and of total motility (67.60 ± 1.91 and 63.47 ± 3.40), progressive motility (50.87 ± 2.58 and 38.88 ± 2.31), and viability (66.97 ± 2.25 and 61.16 ± 4.31) in the post-freezing period, compared to control treatments or the addition of 5 mM of cysteamine. The addition of 50 μM of trolox/108 spermatozoa and 50 μg of catalase/ml of semen improves the total and progressive motility in ovine semen refrigerated at 5 °C, as well as viability in frozen/thawed semen.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o efeito sobre a qualidade espermática de três substancias antioxidantes (50 µM de trolox/108 espermatozoides, 50 µg de catalasa/ml de ejaculado e cisteamina 5mM) numa base de diluente comercial Triladyl™, sob condições de refrigeração e congelamento/descongelamento em sêmen ovino. Sêmen de seis machos adultos foi congelado numa base do diluente comercial Triladyl™. O ejaculado de cada macho foi posto em quatro diferentes alíquotas: uma para controlo e nas outras foi adicionada a base do diluente 50 µM de trolox/108 espermatozoides, 50µg de catalasa/ml de ejaculado e cisteamina 5mM. A qualidade espermática precongelação (5 °C) e pós-congelação avaliou-se com ajuda de um sistema de análise computadorizado (IVOS II®), eliminando assim a subjetividade ao teste. Observou-se que 50 µM de trolox/108 SPZ e 50 µg de catalasa/ml têm a capacidade de manter valores (p < 0,05) superiores de motilidade total (64,26 ± 0,82 e 55,54 ± 0,85) e motilidade progressiva (47,26 ± 0,75 e 44,32 ± 1,13) em condições de pre-congelação, e para motilidade total (67,60 ± 1,91 y 63,47 ± 3,40), motilidade progressiva (50,87 ± 2,58 e 38,88 ± 2,31) e viabilidade (66,97 ± 2,25 e 61,16 ± 4,31) em pós-congelação, comparados com os tratamentos controle ou a adição< de 5 mM de cisteamina. A adição de 50 µM de trolox/108 espermatozoides e 50 µg de catalasa/ml de sêmen melhora a motilidade total e progressiva do sêmen ovino refrigerado a 5 °C e a viabilidade em sêmen congelado/descongelado.

Quantitative and qualitative variables of semen from surubim do Iguaçu, Steindachneridion melanodermatum Garavello, 2005 (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae) / Variáveis quantitativas e qualitativas de sêmen de Surubim do Iguaçu Steindachneridion melanodermatum Garavello, 2005 (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae)

Abstract The objective of the present work was to assess the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of semen from the surubim do Iguaçu (Steindachneridion melanodermatum). Induced spermiation was achieved in eleven males with mean weight of 1.76 ± 0.48 kg and average age of two years and semen was collected by stripping. The average volume was 1.34 ± 0.73 mL. The duration of sperm motility was 154.4 ± 72.6 and 149.0 ± 77.5 seconds after activation with hatchery water and distilled water, respectively. The sperm concentration estimated by hemocytometer was 5.423 ± 2.155 x 1010 spermatozoa/mL. The results indicate that S. melanodermatum semen is easily obtained during the spawning season and the seminal characteristics are adequate insemination and subsequent in vitro fertilization.

Resumo O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar características qualitativas e quantitativas do sêmen de surubim do Iguaçu (Steindachneridion melanodermatum). Para as análises, utilizaram-se onze machos com peso médio de 1,76±0,48 kg e idade média de dois anos, submetidos ao tratamento de hipofisação. O volume médio de sêmen coletado foi de 1,34 ± 0,73 mL. O tempo médio de motilidade dos espermatozoides após a coleta foi de 154,4 ± 72,6 e 149,0 ± 77,5 segundos para ativação com água do tanque e água destilada, respectivamente. Para a concentração espermática, a média foi de 5,423 ± 2,155 x1010 espermatozoides/mL. Os resultados indicam que o sêmen de S. melanodermatum é facilmente obtido no período reprodutivo analisado, e que as características seminais avaliadas são adequadas para reprodução induzida.

Impact of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Humulus Lupulus L. on Sperm Quality, Reproductive Organs and Hormones in Male Rats / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the impact of Humulus Lupulus L. hydroalcoholic extract on the body weights, reproductive organs, sperm quality and hormone levels in male rats.@*METHODS@#By simple random sampling method, seventy male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to 7 groups including control group [distilled water, 1 mL/(kg•d)], Tween 80 group [25% Tween 80 solution, 1 mL/(kg•d)], olive oil group [olive oil, 1 mL/(kg•d)], diethyl stilbestrol (DES) group [DES, 100 μg/(kg•body weight)], H50, H150 and H450 [50, 150 and 400 mg/(kg•d) of Humulus Lupulus L extract, respectively]. The administration was performed via gavage once daily for 7 weeks. Body and reproductive organs weights including testes, seminal vesicles, epididymis and prostate were weighted and epididymal sperm quality were determined by digital balance. Blood samples were collected and serum free testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estrogen (E2) levels were measured by rat specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.@*RESULTS@#The percentage increase in mean body weights of rats in the DES and H50, H150 and H450 groups decreased significantly compared to olive oil and Tween 80 groups (all P0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Humulus Lupulus L. extract significantly increased the seminal vesicle and testes weights and reduced the sperm motility.