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Silvestrini A, Meucci E, Ricerca BM, Mancini A. Total Antioxidant Capacity: Biochemical Aspects and Clinical Significance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10978. [PMID: 37446156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the physiological role of oxidant molecules, oxidative stress (OS) could underlie several human diseases. When the levels of antioxidants are too low or too high, OS occurs, leading to damage at the molecular, tissue and cellular levels. Therefore, antioxidant compounds could represent a way to modulate OS and/or to maintain proper redox balance. This review provides an overview of the methods available to assess total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in biological systems to elucidate the correct terminology and the pathophysiological roles. The clinical context is fundamental to obtain a correct interpretation of TAC. Hence, we discuss metabolic syndrome and infertility, two clinical conditions that involve OS, including the potential prognostic role of TAC evaluation in monitoring antioxidant supplementation. This approach would provide more personalised and precise therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Silvestrini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli (IRCCS), 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Meucci
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli (IRCCS), 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Maria Ricerca
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli (IRCCS), 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Diagnostica per Immagini, Radioterapia Oncologica ed Ematologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Mancini
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli (IRCCS), 00168 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia Traslazionale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
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2
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The Dual Role of Oxidants in Male (In)fertility: Every ROSe Has a Thorn. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054994. [PMID: 36902424 PMCID: PMC10002566 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of oxidative stress (OS) in male infertility as a primary etiology and/or concomitant cause in other situations, such as inflammation, varicocele and gonadotoxin effects, is well documented. While reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in many important roles, from spermatogenesis to fertilization, epigenetic mechanisms which are transmissible to offspring have also recently been described. The present review is focused on the dual aspects of ROS, which are regulated by a delicate equilibrium with antioxidants due to the special frailty of spermatozoa, in continuum from physiological condition to OS. When the ROS production is excessive, OS ensues and is amplified by a chain of events leading to damage of lipids, proteins and DNA, ultimately causing infertility and/or precocious pregnancy termination. After a description of positive ROS actions and of vulnerability of spermatozoa due to specific maturative and structural characteristics, we linger on the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of seminal plasma, which is a measure of non-enzymatic non-proteic antioxidants, due to its importance as a biomarker of the redox status of semen; the therapeutic implications of these mechanism play a key role in the personalized approach to male infertility.
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3
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Lai TCT, Roychoudhury S, Cho CL. Oxidative Stress and Varicocele-Associated Male Infertility. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1358:205-235. [PMID: 35641872 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-89340-8_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite being regarded as one of the most common causes of male subfertility, the pathophysiology of varicocele remains largely unknown. Recently, oxidative stress (OS) is proposed to be the mediator in how varicocele may negatively impact fertility. The imbalance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and seminal antioxidants results in damage to sperm DNA and lipid membrane. There is evidence demonstrating higher OS level in men with varicocele which is also positively correlated with clinical grading of varicocele. Moreover, a number of studies have revealed the negative correlation between OS and conventional semen parameters. Furthermore, various interventions have shown their potential in alleviating OS in men with varicocele-associated infertility. Although direct evidence on improving pregnancy rate is not available at the moment, varicocelectomy has demonstrated promising results in relieving OS. Oral antioxidants represent another option with a favourable safety profile. The supplement can be used alone or as adjunct to varicocelectomy. However, most of the studies are hampered by heterogenous dose regime and high-level evidence is lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terence Chun-Ting Lai
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Chak-Lam Cho
- S. H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Seminal Plasma: Search for Biomarkers in Diagnostic Approach to Male Infertility. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12060857. [PMID: 35743642 PMCID: PMC9224911 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12060857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative and inflammatory damage underlie several conditions related to male infertility, including varicocele. Free light chains of immunoglobulins (FLCs) are considered markers of low-grade inflammation in numerous diseases. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a lipidic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, is involved in spermatozoa energy metabolism and motility. We aimed to evaluate FLCs’ seminal levels in patients with varicocele in comparison to control subjects and to correlate them with CoQ10 and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) in human semen. Sixty-five patients were enrolled. Semen analysis was performed; patients were divided into three groups: controls, 12 normozoospermic patients, aged 34 (33–41) years; varicocele (VAR), 29 patients, aged 33 (26–37) years; and idiopathic, 24 oligo-, astheno- and oligoasthenozoospermic patients aged 37 (33.5–40.5) years. FLCs (κ and λ) were assayed by turbidimetric method; CoQ10 by HPLC; TAC by spectrophotometric method. λ FLCs showed a trend toward higher levels in VAR vs. controls and the idiopathic group. VAR showed a trend toward lower κ FLCs levels vs. the other two groups. When comparing κ/λ ratio, VAR showed significantly lower levels vs. controls and idiopathic. Moreover, CoQ10 seminal levels showed higher levels in VAR and idiopathic compared to controls. Data reported here confirm lower levels of κ/λ ratio in VAR and suggest a possible application in personalized medicine as clinical biomarkers for male infertility.
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Finelli R, Leisegang K, Kandil H, Agarwal A. Oxidative Stress: A Comprehensive Review of Biochemical, Molecular, and Genetic Aspects in the Pathogenesis and Management of Varicocele. World J Mens Health 2021; 40:87-103. [PMID: 34666421 PMCID: PMC8761243 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.210153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a condition due to an imbalance between the concentrations of oxidants and antioxidants, and it is a well-recognized contributor in several male infertility conditions. Varicocele, a common vascular condition, may cause male infertility due to hyperthermia, hypoxia and/or exposure to toxic adrenal and renal metabolites. In this review, the mechanisms by which oxidative stress can affect cellular integrity and functions are described, along with molecular markers of cellular oxidative damage, and the most commonly performed techniques for their detection in seminal fluid. Moreover, we focus on the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of varicocele based on recently published evidence from omics based studies, such as proteomics and genomics. Finally, we discuss strategies for the management of oxidative stress and the clinical guidelines for testing oxidative stress-related sperm DNA fragmentation in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Finelli
- Department of Urology, American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kristian Leisegang
- School of Natural Medicine, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hussein Kandil
- Fakih IVF Fertility Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Department of Urology, American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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6
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Dave P, Farber N, Vij S. Conventional semen analysis and advanced sperm function tests in diagnosis and management of varicocele. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13629. [PMID: 32369238 DOI: 10.1111/and.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical varicoceles are a common cause of male infertility and affect sperm parameters as measured in a conventional semen analysis. Varicocelectomy has been shown in prospective studies to improve semen parameters in men with a clinical varicocele. Clinical varicoceles are also a well-known source of oxidative stress which may affect the quality of spermatozoa. Spermatozoa are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress due to a limited capacity for DNA repair. The susceptibility of spermatozoa to oxidative stress is modulated by a balance between ROS and antioxidants, which can be quantified by various laboratory assays. Varicocelectomy has been consistently shown to reduce both ROS and sperm DNA fragmentation, and various assays should be utilised in the diagnosis and treatment of infertile men with a clinical varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Dave
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Nicholas Farber
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sarah Vij
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Mostafa T, Nabil N, Rashed L, Abo-Sief AF, Eissa HH. Seminal SIRT1-oxidative stress relationship in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men with varicocele after its surgical repair. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13456. [PMID: 31696601 DOI: 10.1111/and.13456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This work assessed seminal SIRT1-oxidative stress (OS) relationship in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men after varicocele repair. Overall, thirty OAT men with varicocele were investigated. Inclusion criteria were infertile males (males who were unable to initiate a pregnancy within 1 year of regular unprotected intercourse), confirmed OAT and normal female factor. These cases were subjected to history taking, clinical checkup and semen analysis. In their semen, seminal SIRT1, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were assessed. These men were subjected to varicocele surgical repair and were followed up for 3 months. Post-operatively, the mean seminal SIRT1, GPx levels showed significant increases and the mean MDA level showed significant decrease compared to the pre-operative levels linked to improved sperm parameters. The mean seminal SIRT1, GPx, MDA levels showed more significant improvement in grade III varicocele cases compared to grade II cases after surgical repair. Seminal SIRT1 levels showed significant positive correlations with sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm normal morphology, seminal GPx levels and a significant negative correlation with seminal MDA levels. It could be concluded that seminal SIRT1 is significantly decreased in infertile OAT men with varicocele after its surgical repair linked to improved sperm parameters as well as seminal OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taymour Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nashaat Nabil
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Laila Rashed
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed F Abo-Sief
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Hadier H Eissa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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8
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Lu XL, Liu JJ, Li JT, Yang QA, Zhang JM. Melatonin therapy adds extra benefit to varicecelectomy in terms of sperm parameters, hormonal profile and total antioxidant capacity: A placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13033. [PMID: 29740842 DOI: 10.1111/and.13033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- X.-L. Lu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine; Jinan Central Hospital affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan China
| | - J.-J. Liu
- Hospital affiliated to Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Materia Medica of Shandong Province; Jinan China
| | - J.-T. Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine; Jinan Central Hospital affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan China
| | - Q.-A. Yang
- School of Nursing; Shandong Xiehe University; Jinan China
| | - J.-M. Zhang
- School of Nursing; Shandong Xiehe University; Jinan China
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9
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Abstract
Idiopathic varicocele is a one of the all too often organic causes of male infertility and may can affect hormonal and spermatogenic function of the testis. We demonstrated relationships of hormonal parameters to sperm production on follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), (LH) and testosterone blood concentrations to sperm production. The investigations involved a total of 329 patients with varicocele, at aged from 20 to 48 years, mean age 28.76 ± 0.66 years, divided into three groups: group I – patients with varicocele dextra; group II – patients with varicocele sinistra; and group III – patients with varicocele bilateralis. We established in our investigations that in 65.35% of cases the varicocele was attended coupled by with some disorders in the fertilizing ability, included including oligospermia Gr I-II (groups I and II) in 41.33% of cases, oligospermia (Gr.II-IIIgroups II and III) in 15.5% of cases and azoospermia in 8.52% of cases. In 56.83% of cases, the low sperm concentration was attended by decreasedcoupled with reduced sperm motility and velocity. Our data did not demonstrated a statistically significant increase in blood plasma T testosterone and we noted no significant correlation between the magnitude of the change in serum androgen and improvements in sperm concentration or total sperm motility per ejaculate in patients with varicocele. No significant correlations were noted in mean blood LH and FSH concentrations in patients with varicocele and in controls group.
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10
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Mostafa T, Nabil N, Rashed L, Makeen K, El-Kasas MA, Mohamaed HA. Seminal SIRT1 expression in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men with varicocoele. Andrology 2018; 6:301-305. [PMID: 29359516 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In a case-controlled study, we assessed the expressed seminal NAD-dependent protein deacetylase (SIRT1) expression in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men associated with varicocoele. Our study involved 81 men, recruited from the University hospitals, after ethical approval and informed consent. They were allocated into fertile normozoospermic men (n = 23), infertile OAT men without varicocoele (n = 23) and infertile OAT men with varicocoele (n = 35). Inclusion criteria consisted of confirmation of abnormal semen parameters and normal female partners whereas exclusion criteria were leukocytospermia, tobacco smoking, hormonal therapy, immunological disorders, dyslipidemia, hypogonadism, cardiovascular disorders, morbid obesity, and hepatic or renal failures. All participants had an interview to assess clinical history, clinical examination, semen analysis, and estimation of seminal SIRT1 expression. Seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in infertile OAT men than fertile men. Among infertile OAT men, seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in those with varicocoele than in those without. Additionally, seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in varicocoele grade III cases compared with other grades. Seminal SIRT1 expression was positively correlated with sperm concentration (r = 0.327, p = 0.001), total sperm motility (r = 0.532, p = 0.001), and sperm normal forms (r = 0.469, p = 0.001). Our results suggest that seminal SIRT1 expression has a role of male infertility being significantly decreased in infertile OAT men in general and in infertile OAT men associated with varicocoele in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - N Nabil
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - L Rashed
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - K Makeen
- General Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - M A El-Kasas
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - H A Mohamaed
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
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Vakalopoulos I, Kampantais S, Lymperi S, Grivas N, Ioannidis A, Mykoniatis I, Nikolaou V, Dimitriadis G. Should we expand the indications for varicocele treatment? Transl Androl Urol 2017; 6:931-942. [PMID: 29184794 PMCID: PMC5673807 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2017.08.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Current guidelines suggest that treatment of varicocele should be considered in patients with clinically palpable disease and abnormal semen parameters. However, the clinicians are often challenged with the decision whether to treat varicocele in patients with testicular pain or low testosterone levels. Moreover, varicocele is highly associated with DNA fragmentation due to the oxidative stress and it has been demonstrated that surgical repair of varicocele ameliorates oxidative stress markers and consequently the sperm DNA integrity. These new markers could have an adjunctive role to standard semen parameters especially when normal semen analysis is found in adult men with conventional methods. This review presents a contemporary overview of the rationale for varicocele treatment, as well as of the relationship between varicocele and other novel parameters such as DNA fragmentation index and reactive oxygen species. We will also discuss data from several recent series demonstrating that surgical treatment and especially microsurgical approach could resolve testicular pain, increase testosterone levels and fertility rate both in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia as well as in normozoospermia men. The correlation with progressive testicular failure will be also examined. We hope that this overview will provide clinicians with an evidence-based approach to managing these unanswered and conflicting topics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Vakalopoulos
- 1 Urologic Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | - Nikolaos Grivas
- Department of Urology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anastasios Ioannidis
- 1 Urologic Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Mykoniatis
- 1 Urologic Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Vassilios Nikolaou
- 1 Urologic Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Dimitriadis
- 1 Urologic Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Majzoub A, Esteves SC, Gosálvez J, Agarwal A. Specialized sperm function tests in varicocele and the future of andrology laboratory. Asian J Androl 2016; 18:205-12. [PMID: 26780873 PMCID: PMC4770487 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.172642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is a common medical condition entangled with many controversies. Though it is highly prevalent in men with infertility, still it marks its presence in males who do have normal fertility. Determining which patients are negatively affected by varicocele would enable clinicians to better select those men who benefitted the most from surgery. Since conventional semen analysis has been limited in its ability to evaluate the negative effects of varicocele on fertility, a multitude of specialized laboratory tests have emerged. In this review, we examine the role and significance of specialized sperm function tests with regards to varicocele. Among the various tests, analysis of sperm DNA fragmentation and measurements of oxidative stress markers provide an independent measure of fertility in men with varicocele. These diagnostic modalities have both diagnostic and prognostic information complementary to, but distinct from conventional sperm parameters. Test results can guide management and aid in monitoring intervention outcomes. Proteomics, metabolomics, and genomics are areas; though still developing, holding promise to revolutionize our understanding of reproductive physiology, including varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Majzoub
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Altintas R, Ediz C, Celik H, Camtosun A, Tasdemir C, Tanbek K, Tekin S, Colak C, Alan C. The effect of varicocoelectomy on the relationship of oxidative stress in peripheral and internal spermatic vein with semen parameters. Andrology 2016; 4:442-6. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2015] [Revised: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Altintas
- Department of Urology; Inonu University School of Medicine; Malatya Turkey
| | - C. Ediz
- Department of Urology; Inonu University School of Medicine; Malatya Turkey
| | - H. Celik
- Department of Urology; Inonu University School of Medicine; Malatya Turkey
| | - A. Camtosun
- Department of Urology; Inonu University School of Medicine; Malatya Turkey
| | - C. Tasdemir
- Department of Urology; Inonu University School of Medicine; Malatya Turkey
| | - K. Tanbek
- Department of Physiology; Inonu University School of Pharmacy; Malatya Turkey
| | - S. Tekin
- Department of Physiology; Inonu University School of Pharmacy; Malatya Turkey
| | - C. Colak
- Department of Biostatistic; Inonu University School of Pharmacy; Malatya Turkey
| | - C. Alan
- Department of Urology; Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University School of Medicine; Canakkale Turkey
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14
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Hosseinifar H, Sabbaghian M, Nasrabadi D, Modarresi T, Dizaj AVT, Gourabi H, Gilani MAS. Study of the effect of varicocelectomy on sperm proteins expression in patients with varicocele and poor sperm quality by using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:725-9. [PMID: 24760720 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0209-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare proteomic profiles of spermatozoa from patients with varicocele and poor sperm quality before and after varicocelectomy. METHODS This work was designed as a prospective and observational study. The study was based on 20 men with varicocele grade 3 and poor sperm quality undergoing varicocelectomy at the Fertility Unit of Royan institute in 2009. Two semen samples were collected, one before varicocelectomy and the other after surgery. Protein separation was done by two-dimensional protein electrophoresis, and analyzed by gel densitometry and mass spectrometry. Differential sperm protein expression levels were measured by gel densitometry. RESULTS Comparison of the sperm parameters showed that sperm motility and concentration were increased after varicocelectomy. At the level of protein, a total of 3 protein spots were identified whose expression was significantly lower in sperm samples before varicocelectomy compared with after surgery including heat shock protein A5 (HSPA5), superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) and δ-subunit of the catalytic core of mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate synthase (ATP5D). CONCLUSIONS High grade varicocoele affects sperm protein expression presumably because of increasing testicular temperature. These proteins play essential roles in sperm production, DNA integrity protection, and sperm motility. This novel study demonstrates that varicocelectomy can improve both sperm quality and proteins expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani Hosseinifar
- Department of Andrology at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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15
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The effect of varicocelectomy on sperm parameters in subfertile men with clinical varicoceles who have asthenozoospermia or teratozoospermia with normal sperm density. ISRN UROLOGY 2013; 2013:698351. [PMID: 24236235 PMCID: PMC3818894 DOI: 10.1155/2013/698351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background. To compare preoperative and postoperative sperm parameters such as sperm count, motility, and morphology in patients with normal sperm concentration with teratozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. Materials and Methods. Hundred and six patients with varicocele associated with male infertility over a 5-year period were included into the study. Pre- and postvaricocelectomy seminal fluid parameters evaluation according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria was performed at 4–6-month intervals. Results. One hundred and six patients met the criteria. The mean age of patients was 24.53 ± 8.13. The mean duration of infertility was 3.6 years (range: 1.5–6.3). Only the sperm motility of patients with normospermia showed a significant improvement postoperatively. Conclusions. No significant improvement in sperm morphology may be obtained in patients with clinical varicocele and preoperative normospermia.
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16
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Study of Sperm Protein Profile in Men With and Without Varicocele Using Two-Dimensional Gel Electrophoresis. Urology 2013; 81:293-300. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2012.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 05/22/2012] [Accepted: 06/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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17
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Nematollahi-Mahani SN, Azizollahi GH, Baneshi MR, Safari Z, Azizollahi S. Effect of folic acid and zinc sulphate on endocrine parameters and seminal antioxidant level after varicocelectomy. Andrologia 2013; 46:240-5. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S. N. Nematollahi-Mahani
- Department of Anatomy; Afzalipour School of Medicine; Kerman University of Medical Sciences; Kerman Iran
| | - G. H. Azizollahi
- Physiology Research Center; Kerman University of Medical Sciences; Kerman Iran
- Department of Urology; Afzalipour School of Medicine; Kerman University of Medical Sciences; Kerman Iran
| | - M. R. Baneshi
- Research Center for Modeling in Health; Kerman University of Medical Sciences; Kerman Iran
| | - Z. Safari
- Cancer Research Center; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - S. Azizollahi
- Department of Anatomy; Division of Reproductive Biology; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
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Mostafa T, Anis T, El Nashar A, Imam H, Osman I. Seminal plasma reactive oxygen species-antioxidants relationship with varicocele grade. Andrologia 2011; 44:66-9. [PMID: 21651600 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2010.01111.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to assess seminal plasma reactive oxygen species (ROS)-antioxidants relationship with varicocele grade in infertile men with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT). The study included 89 infertile OAT men with varicocele divided into grade I (n = 22) and grade II (n = 43), grade III (n = 24) and compared with 20 healthy fertile controls. In their seminal plasma, two ROS parameters (malondialdehyde [MDA], hydrogen peroxide [H(2) O(2) ]) and four antioxidants (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [Cat], glutathione peroxidase [GPx], vit.C) were estimated. There was significant increase in seminal MDA, H(2) O(2) and significant decrease in seminal SOD, Cat, GPx, vit.C in varicocele-associated OAT cases when compared with the controls. Compared with grade I cases, varicocele cases with grades II, III demonstrated significant increase in estimated seminal MDA, H(2) O(2) and significant decrease in seminal SOD, Cat, GPx, vit.C. It is concluded that seminal oxidative stress (OS) is related to increased varicocele grade in infertile OAT men associated with varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mostafa
- Andrology and Sexology Department, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
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Ozturk U, Ozdemir E, Buyukkagnici U, Dede O, Sucak A, Celen S, Imamoglu MA. Effect of spermatic vein ligation on seminal total antioxidant capacity in terms of varicocele grading. Andrologia 2011; 44 Suppl 1:199-204. [PMID: 21592179 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01164.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to assess the effect of spermatic vein ligation on seminal total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in patients with varicocele. Twenty infertile male patients with varicocele and 20 normal fertile men (control group) were included in the study. All the male patients were diagnosed with primary infertility and varicocele. The patients with varicocele were divided into two groups as nonpalpable (GI) (eight patients) and palpable (GII-III) (12 patients) varicocele groups. All the patients underwent microsurgical spermatic vein ligation. Seminal TAC levels and sperm parameters were evaluated in all the patients. Preoperative sperm count, sperm motility, sperm morphology and seminal TAC levels with equivalent figures 3-6 months after spermatic vein ligation and the same values of the control group were compared. There was a statistically significant increase in the total seminal antioxidant capacity level after spermatic vein ligation, and there was a statistically significant increase in the sperm count, sperm motility and spermatozoa with normal morphology. However, evaluation of the patients for varicocele grade showed a statistically significant increase in the TAC level only in the GII-III varicocele group. Spermatic vein ligation can improve the total seminal antioxidant capacity levels especially in patients with middle and high grade varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Ozturk
- Department of Urology, Ministry of Health, Ankara Dışkapı Yıldırım Beyazit Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Contri A, De Amicis I, Molinari A, Faustini M, Gramenzi A, Robbe D, Carluccio A. Effect of dietary antioxidant supplementation on fresh semen quality in stallion. Theriogenology 2011; 75:1319-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2010] [Revised: 12/06/2010] [Accepted: 12/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Will MA, Swain J, Fode M, Sonksen J, Christman GM, Ohl D. The great debate: varicocele treatment and impact on fertility. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:841-52. [PMID: 21272869 PMCID: PMC3046876 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2010] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the current literature on the impact and potential mechanisms of varicocele repair on male fertility. DESIGN Pertinent articles were identified through computer PubMed search on varicocele repair and male factor infertility. References of selected articles were hand searched for additional citations. CONCLUSION(S) Varicocele repair has been shown to reverse a spectrum of effects contributing to men with impaired fertility. Clinical studies on the intervention have illustrated variable effects on postoperative sperm parameters and pregnancy rates (PR). Studies with conflicting results suffer from a significant number of confounding variables such as variable repair technique or lack of controls. Additional studies are warranted on the role of modern microsurgical varicocelectomy given the improvements in assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Will
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Hospitals, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.
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22
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Mostafa T, Anis T, Imam H, El-Nashar AR, Osman IA. Seminal reactive oxygen species-antioxidant relationship in fertile males with and without varicocele. Andrologia 2009; 41:125-9. [PMID: 19260850 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2008.00900.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess seminal reactive oxygen species (ROS)-antioxidants relationship in fertile and infertile men with and without varicocele. One hundred and seventy six males were studied; fertile healthy volunteers (n = 45), fertile men with varicocele (n = 45), infertile oligoasthenozoospermia (OA, n = 44) without varicocele and infertile OA with varicocele (n = 42). In their seminal plasma, two ROS parameters (malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide) and five antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, vitaminE, vitaminC) were estimated. Compared with fertile healthy men, in all other studied groups, estimated seminal ROS were significantly higher and estimated antioxidants were significantly lower. Infertile men with varicocele showed the same relationship as infertile men without varicocele. Sperm concentration, total sperm motility as well as sperm normal forms were negatively correlated with seminal malondialdehyde and were positively correlated with vitaminC. It is concluded that varicocele has an oxidative stress (OS) in fertile normozoospermic bearing conditions. This may allow understanding that, within men with varicocele, there is a threshold value of OS over which male fertility may be impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mostafa
- Andrology & Sexology Department, Cairo University, Egypt.
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Agarwal A, Sharma RK, Desai NR, Prabakaran S, Tavares A, Sabanegh E. Role of oxidative stress in pathogenesis of varicocele and infertility. Urology 2009; 73:461-9. [PMID: 19167039 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2008.07.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2008] [Revised: 07/29/2008] [Accepted: 07/29/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes the published literature about the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of varicocele and the beneficial effects of varicocele repair on oxidative stress. Literature survey was performed using the Medline, EMBASE, BIOSIS, and Cochrane databases between 1993 and 2008 that were relevant to oxidative stress and varicocele. Varicocele treatment can reduce reactive oxygen species levels and improve sperm parameters and pregnancy rates, although it is still controversial with Assisted Reproductive Techniques outcomes. We conclude that spermatozoal dysfunction in varicocele patients could be multifactorial, and oxidative stress-induced injury appears to be one of the main causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute and Obstetrics-Gynecology and Women's Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
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Ozkavukcu S, Erdemli E, Isik A, Oztuna D, Karahuseyinoglu S. Effects of cryopreservation on sperm parameters and ultrastructural morphology of human spermatozoa. J Assist Reprod Genet 2008; 25:403-11. [PMID: 18704674 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-008-9232-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2008] [Accepted: 06/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cryopreservation of sperm is a widely used technique to maintain and protect the fertility in various occasions such as infertility and malignancy treatments. This study aims to reveal the effects of freezing and thawing on human spermatozoa. MATERIALS AND METHODS To evaluate the effects of freeze-thawing, semen samples were evaluated by light microscopy by means of morphology, motility and viability, by scanning and transmission electron microscopy for detailed ultrastructural changes. RESULTS After cryopreservation, a significant decrease in spermatozoa viability was observed (p < 0.01). Group a, b and c motility according to World Health Organization criteria decreased considerably (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.05, respectively), whereas there was a substantial increase in group d motility. A strong correlation between rise in number of immotile spermatozoa and decrease in viability was also noted (r = -0.848, p < 0.01). Post-thaw light microscopic studies revealed a considerable decrease in rate of normal spermatozoa (p < 0.05). A considerable decline in the rate of normal sperm was also observed by TEM (p < 0.05). Statistically, acrosomal changes and subacrosomal swelling were found to be significantly increased (both p < 0.05), where the latter appears to be a novel finding in literature. CONCLUSION Cryopreservation has deleterious effects on spermatozoa, especially on plasmalemma, acrosomes and tails. Electron microscopy is the ultimate modality to investigate spermatogenic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinan Ozkavukcu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Assisted Reproduction Center, Ankara University School of Medicine, Turkey.
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Fischietti G, Di Crosta G. Effects of surgery, medical therapy and combined therapeutical approach on spermatogenesis in patients suffering from varicocele: a prospective and comparative analysis. Urologia 2008. [DOI: 10.1177/039156030807500106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The definite mechanisms through which varicocele affects spermatogenesis are still not completely understood, and consequently the exact role of the various approaches available for its treatment is still under debate. In this study a comparison of medical treatment, surgery and combined approach is reported. Material and Methods. The study was conducted as a prospective evaluation of 189 patients suffering from varicocele and oligoasthenospermia. Patients were randomized in three groups on the basis of the different therapeutic approach: group A, treated only with varicocelectomy; group B, treated with varicocelectomy associated with hormonal therapy; group C, treated only with hormonal therapy. Randomization criteria were based on patient's preference. Spermiogram tests were carried out at baseline and after 3, 6 and 12 months from therapy. Results. Our results show that patients undergoing a combined therapeutical approach (surgery associated with hormonal therapy) and medical therapy alone achieve a greater improvement of seminal parameters than patients treated by surgery only. Conclusion. Data reported in this study are in accordance with Literature review. Furthermore, the association between varicocelectomy and early use of hormonal therapy seems to improve testis functional rehabilitation with a early evidence of sperm parameters improvement. In the light of these results of ours, we should conclude that surgical treatment is not effective for the spermatogenesis improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Fischietti
- Istituto di Urologia, Università “La Sapienza”, Polo Pontino (Latina)
| | - G. Di Crosta
- Istituto di Urologia, Università “La Sapienza”, Polo Pontino (Latina)
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Chen SS, Huang WJ, Chang LS, Wei YH. Attenuation of oxidative stress after varicocelectomy in subfertile patients with varicocele. J Urol 2007; 179:639-42. [PMID: 18082213 DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2007.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined changes due to oxidative damage to spermatozoa and alterations in antioxidant capacity in subfertile patients with varicocele before and after varicocelectomy in a prospective study. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 30 young subfertile male patients with varicocele were recruited in this study. Varicocele was diagnosed by physical examination and Doppler ultrasound. Semen analysis was performed in the 30 patients before and 6 months after varicocelectomy using a computer assisted semen analyzer. The parameters for evaluating oxidative stress changes were 4977 bp deletion of mitochondrial DNA in sperm, as detected by polymerase chain reaction, the 8-OHdG (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine) content in spermatozoa DNA, as measured by a high performance liquid chromatography electrochemical method, and seminal plasma protein thiols and ascorbic acid, as measured by spectrophotometric methods. RESULTS Semen quality, including motility, morphology and sperm density, was improved in 22 patients (73.3%) after varicocelectomy. The incidence of 4977 bp deletion of mitochondrial DNA in sperm was 40% (12 of 30 patients) and 13.3% (4 of 30) before and after surgery, respectively. Mean +/- SD 8-OHdG content in sperm DNA, and seminal plasma protein thiols and ascorbic acid were 10.27 +/- 2.24/10(5) 2'-deoxyguanosine, 0.77 +/- 0.75 nmole/ml and 1.87 +/- 0.40 mg/dl before operation, and 5.95 +/- 1.46/10(5) 2'-deoxyguanosine, 3.00 +/- 1.17 nmole/ml and 3.12 +/- 0.94 mg/dl after surgery, respectively. The incidence of 4977 bp deletion of mitochondrial DNA in sperm and the level of 8-OHdG in sperm DNA were decreased, and seminal plasma protein thiols and ascorbic acid were increased significantly in all 30 patients after varicocelectomy. Also, in the 8 patients in whom semen quality did not improve after surgery a significant decrease in 8-OHdG in sperm DNA, and a significant increase in seminal plasma protein thiols and ascorbic acid were observed. CONCLUSIONS Subfertile patients with varicocele had a significant decrease in oxidative damage in sperm DNA and an increase in antioxidant capacity in seminal plasma after varicocelectomy, indicating that surgery is effective treatment in such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiou-Sheng Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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May antioxidant therapy improve sperm parameters of men with persistent oligospermia after retrograde embolization for varicocele? World J Urol 2007; 26:97-102. [DOI: 10.1007/s00345-007-0218-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2007] [Accepted: 09/25/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Okeke L, Ikuerowo O, Chiekwe I, Etukakpan B, Shittu O, Olapade-Olaopa O. Is varicocelectomy indicated in subfertile men with clinical varicoceles who have asthenospermia or teratospermia and normal sperm density? Int J Urol 2007; 14:729-32. [PMID: 17681064 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2042.2007.01786.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Varicocele is the most common treatable cause of male infertility and is associated with progressive decline in testicular function. Varicocelectomy, a commonly performed operation, is indicated in infertile males with varicoceles who have oligospermia, asthenospermia, teratospermia or a combination of these factors. It is not clear if varicocelectomy is indicated if the patients have normal sperm density associated with asthenospermia or teratospermia. METHODS We reviewed 167 patients with varicocele-associated male infertility over a 7-year period (December 1999-November 2005). Pre- and post-varicocelectomy seminal fluid analyses, assessed using the World Health Organization criteria, were obtained at intervals of 4-6 months. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to evaluate for statistical significance and P < or = 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS The mean age of the patients and their spouses were 35 and 28 years, respectively. The mean duration of infertility was 3.2 years (range, 1.5-7.5). Oligospermia, teratospermia, asthenospermia, oligospermia, asthenospermia and teratospermia (OAT) syndrome and azoospermia were found preoperatively in 106 (63.5%), 58 (34.7%), 154 (92%), 118 (71%) and 15 (9%) patients, respectively. Overall, significant improvements in semen volume (P < 0.001), sperm density (P < 0.001), sperm motility (P < 0.001) and sperm vitality (P < 0.001) were obtained after varicocelectomy. There was, however, no significant improvement in sperm morphology after varicocelectomy (P = 0.220). When patients with preoperative oligospermia (sperm density, <20 million/mL) were considered separately, varicocelectomy led to significant improvement in all the semen parameters except the sperm morphology (P = 0.183). Conversely, when varicocele patients with a sperm density of > or =20 million/mL (normospermia) associated with asthenospermia and/or teratospermia were considered separately, they did not show significant improvement in any of the semen parameters after varicocelectomy (P > 0.05). In addition, azoospermic patients did not show significant improvement in any of the semen parameters (P > 0.05) CONCLUSION No significant improvement in semen parameters may be obtained in patients with clinical varicocele and preoperative normospermia. It is possible that only patients with preoperative oligospermia may benefit from varicocelectomy. Larger multi-institutional studies are needed to determine more definitively if asthenospermia or teratospermia in normospermic subfertile males with clinical varicoceles are in fact indications for varicocelectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linus Okeke
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Ibadan, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.
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Mostafa T, Anis TH, Ghazi S, El-Nashar AR, Imam H, Osman IA. Reactive oxygen species and antioxidants relationship in the internal spermatic vein blood of infertile men with varicocele. Asian J Androl 2006; 8:451-4. [PMID: 16763721 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7262.2006.00172.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess the relation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants in the internal spermatic vein blood compared to the peripheral venous blood. METHODS Sixty-eight infertile oligoasthenozoospemic patients associated with varicocele were investigated. During inguinal varicocelectomy, blood samples of internal spermatic as well as median cubital veins were withdrawn. Three ROS factors (malondialdehyde [MDA], hydrogen peroxide H(2)O(2), nitric oxide [NO]) and four antioxidants (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [Cat], glutathione peroxidase [GPx] and vitamin C) were estimated in these blood samples. RESULTS Mean levels of tested ROS factors were significantly higher in the internal spermatic venous blood compared to those in the peripheral one (mean+/-SD) (MDA 18.7+/-1.4 nmol/mL vs. 15.4+/-1.4 nmol/mL, H(2)O(2) 43.6+/-8.0 micromol/mL vs. 30.8+/-8.1 micromol/mL, NO 2.3+/-0.5 nmol/L vs. 1.6+/-0.4 nmol/L, P<0.01). Mean levels of tested antioxidants were significantly lower in the internal spermatic venous blood compared to those in the peripheral one (superoxide dismutase 1 690.7+/-130.0 U/mL vs. 1 818.5+/-143.0 U/mL, catalase 38.9+/-6.1 mol/L vs. 47.9+/-10.2 mol/L, GPx 20.4+/-8.1 U/mL vs. 23.0+/-8.4 U/mL, vitamin C 0.3+/-0.1 vs. 0.4+/-0.1 mg/dL, P<0.05). CONCLUSION Internal spermatic venous blood of infertile male cases associated with varicocele demonstrated elevated levels of ROS and decreased levels of antioxidants compared to peripheral venous circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taymour Mostafa
- Andrology Deptatment, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo 12311, Egypt.
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Nallella KP, Allamaneni SSR, Pasqualotto FF, Sharma RK, Thomas AJ, Agarwal A. Relationship of interleukin-6 with semen characteristics and oxidative stress in patients with varicocele. Urology 2004; 64:1010-3. [PMID: 15533496 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2004.05.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2004] [Accepted: 05/28/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in fertile semen donors and patients with varicocele and examine its association with semen characteristics and levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). METHODS We conducted a prospective study consisting of 15 fertile donors (controls) and 35 infertile patients with varicocele. Semen analysis was performed according to the World Health Organization guidelines. IL-6 levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. ROS (x10(4) counted photons per minute per 20 x 10(6) sperm) and total antioxidant capacity (molar trolox equivalents) were measured using a chemiluminescence assay. RESULTS The sperm concentration and motility were significantly greater in the donors compared with the infertile patients with varicocele (P <0.0001 and P = 0.01, respectively). The IL-6 (log10 [IL-6 +1]) and ROS (log10 [ROS +1]) levels were significantly greater in infertile patients with varicocele than in the donors (IL-6: 2.1 [1.7, 2.4] versus 0.7 [0, 1.9], P = 0.003; ROS: 1.8 [1.2, 2.6] versus 1.0 [0.7, 1.6], P = 0.04). The total antioxidant capacity levels were significantly lower in the varicocele patients (1166.7 +/- 366.2) than in the donors (1556.4 +/- 468.1; P = 0.003). The IL-6 levels correlated significantly with the ROS levels in the infertile patients with varicocele (r = -0.39; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Infertile patients with varicocele exhibited elevated levels of IL-6 and ROS and decreased levels of total antioxidant capacity. Pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and oxidative stress may play a role in the pathophysiology of infertility in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran P Nallella
- Center for Advanced Research in Human Reproduction, Infertility and Sexual Function, Glickman Urological Institute and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA
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