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Abouelgreed TA, Amer MA, Mamdouh H, El-Sherbiny AF, Aboelwafa H, Fahmy SF, Omar OA, Abdelshakour M, Elesawy M, Sonbol M, Maawad AN, Elsayed OK. The influence of oral antioxidants on men with infertility: a systemic review. Arch Ital Urol Androl 2024; 96:12323. [PMID: 38700012 DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2024.12323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the current evidence regarding the impact of oral antioxidant supplementation on semen parameters of infertile men. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, and Cochrane electronic databases, adhering to modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The focus was on studies exploring the effects of antioxidant therapy on infertile men, with an examination of antioxidants in terms of types, doses, rationale for use, and their impact on semen parameters measures. RESULTS A total of 18 studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in this study. Out of these, 14 studies reported a significantly positive influence of antioxidant therapy on basic semen parameters and advanced sperm function. These comprised 11 randomized clinical trials and 7 prospective studies. Commonly utilized antioxidants included Vitamin E, Vitamin C, carnitines, co-enzyme Q10, N-acetyl cysteine, zinc, selenium, folic acid, and lycopene. CONCLUSIONS Overall, antioxidants generally demonstrate a favorable effect on semen parameters of infertile men. However, further research is necessary to pinpoint the optimal antioxidant regimen that can be applied safely and effectively in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamed A Amer
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | - Hassan Mamdouh
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | - Ahmed F El-Sherbiny
- Department of Andrology, International Islamic Center for Population Studies and Research, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | - Hany Aboelwafa
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | - Sameh F Fahmy
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | - Omar A Omar
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | | | - Mohammad Elesawy
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | - Mohamed Sonbol
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | - Ahmed N Maawad
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
| | - Osama K Elsayed
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo.
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2
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Liu P, Li Z, Zhang Q, Qiao J, Zheng C, Zheng W, Zhang H. Identification of testis development-related genes by combining Iso-Seq and RNA-Seq in Zeugodacus tau. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1356151. [PMID: 38529408 PMCID: PMC10961823 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1356151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Zeugodacus tau (Walker) is an invasive pest. An effective method to control this pest is the sterile insect technique (SIT). To better apply this technique, it is necessary to understand testis development progression. Methods: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during testis development were analyzed by PacBio Iso-Seq and RNA-seq. Results: RNA-Seq library of Z. tau testes on day 1, 6, and 11 post eclosion were constructed. We identified 755 and 865 differentially expressed genes in the comparisons of T6 (testes on day 6) vs. T1 and T11 vs. T1, respectively. The KEGG pathway analysis showed that the DEGs were significantly enriched in retinol metabolism, vitamin B6 metabolism, and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism pathways. Knockdown of retinol dehydrogenase 12-like (rdh12-like), pyridoxal kinase (pdxk) and regucalcin (rgn), the representative gene in each of the above 3 pathways, reduced the hatching rate of Z. tau offspring. In addition, we identified 107 Drosophila spermatogenesis-related orthologous genes in Z. tau, of which innexin 2 (inx2) exhibited significantly up-regulated expression throughout testis development, and the knockdown of this gene reduced offspring hatching rate. Discussion: Our data indicated that rdh12-like, pdxk, rgn, and inx2 genes were related to testis development, and they were conserved in tephritid species. These results suggested that this gene might have the same function in tephritid. The findings provide an insight into testis development and spermatogenesis in tephritid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Liu
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ziniu Li
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qiuyuan Zhang
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiao Qiao
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chenjun Zheng
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wenping Zheng
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Hongyu Zhang
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- China-Australia Joint Research Centre for Horticultural and Urban Pests, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Institute of Urban and Horticultural Entomology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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3
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Alharbi M. Impact of Antioxidants on Conventional and Advanced Sperm Function Parameters: An Updated Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e54253. [PMID: 38362038 PMCID: PMC10869131 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Antioxidants include diverse exogenous and endogenous compounds that can neutralize free radical activity, which ultimately protects sperm from oxidative stress (OS). Nevertheless, a controlled balance between oxidation and reduction is of paramount importance for cellular function. Excessive use of antioxidants should be avoided. A combination of antioxidants has been utilized to obtain a synergetic effect in the treatment of male infertility. Antioxidants have been shown to have a positive effect on semen parameters with a decrease in DNA damage. Future large randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the real impact of antioxidants on semen parameters, reproductive outcomes, and DNA integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohannad Alharbi
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Qassim, SAU
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4
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Dimitriadis F, Borgmann H, Struck JP, Salem J, Kuru TH. Antioxidant Supplementation on Male Fertility-A Systematic Review. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040836. [PMID: 37107211 PMCID: PMC10135082 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Our aim was to review the current literature regarding the effect of antioxidant supplementation (AS) on male fertility parameters, as AS is commonly used to treat male infertility due to the availability and affordability of antioxidants in many parts of the world. MATERIALS AND METHODS PubMed, Medline, and Cochrane electronic bibliographies were searched using the modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to evaluate studies on the benefit of antioxidant therapy on infertile men. Results were analyzed regarding the following aspects: (a) ingredient and dose; (b) potential mechanism of action and rationale for use; and (c) effect on various reported outcomes. RESULTS Thus, 29 studies found a substantial positive effect of AS on outcomes of assisted reproductive therapy (ART), WHO semen parameters, and live-birth rate. Carnitines, Vitamin E and C, N-acetyl cysteine, coenzyme Q10, selenium, zinc, folic acid, and lycopene were beneficial ingredients. Nevertheless, some studies did not show a substantial change in one or more factors. CONCLUSION AS seems to have a positive effect on male fertility. Environmental factors may play an increasing role in fertility. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal AS combination and the influence of environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotios Dimitriadis
- Urology Department, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Hendrik Borgmann
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Julian P Struck
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Johannes Salem
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Timur H Kuru
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
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5
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Agarwal A, Cannarella R, Saleh R, Harraz AM, Kandil H, Salvio G, Boitrelle F, Kuroda S, Farkouh A, Rambhatla A, Zini A, Colpi G, Gül M, Kavoussi P, Hamoda TAAAM, Ko E, Calik G, Toprak T, Pinggera GM, Park HJ, Ghayda RA, Minhas S, Busetto GM, Bakırcıoğlu ME, Kadioglu A, Chung E, Russo GI, Calogero AE, Ambar RF, Jayasena CN, Shah R. Impact of Antioxidant Therapy on Natural Pregnancy Outcomes and Semen Parameters in Infertile Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:14-48. [PMID: 36102104 PMCID: PMC9826914 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Seminal oxidative stress (OS) is a recognized factor potentially associated with male infertility, but the efficacy of antioxidant (AOX) therapy is controversial and there is no consensus on its utility. Primary outcomes of this study were to investigate the effect of AOX on spontaneous clinical pregnancy, live birth and miscarriage rates in male infertile patients. Secondary outcomes were conventional semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) and seminal OS. MATERIALS AND METHODS Literature search was performed using Scopus, PubMed, Ovid, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included and the meta-analysis was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS We assessed for eligibility 1,307 abstracts, and 45 RCTs were finally included, for a total of 4,332 infertile patients. We found a significantly higher pregnancy rate in patients treated with AOX compared to placebo-treated or untreated controls, without significant inter-study heterogeneity. No effects on live-birth or miscarriage rates were observed in four studies. A significantly higher sperm concentration, sperm progressive motility, sperm total motility, and normal sperm morphology was found in patients compared to controls. We found no effect on SDF in analysis of three eligible studies. Seminal levels of total antioxidant capacity were significantly higher, while seminal malondialdehyde acid was significantly lower in patients than controls. These results did not change after exclusion of studies performed following varicocele repair. CONCLUSIONS The present analysis upgrades the level of evidence favoring a recommendation for using AOX in male infertility to improve the spontaneous pregnancy rate and the conventional sperm parameters. The failure to demonstrate an increase in live-birth rate, despite an increase in pregnancy rates, is due to the very few RCTs specifically assessing the impact of AOX on live-birth rate. Therefore, further RCTs assessing the impact of AOX on live-birth rate and miscarriage rate, and SDF will be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt.,Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M. Harraz
- Department of Urology, Mansoura University Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura, Egypt.,Department of Surgery, Urology Unit, Farwaniya Hospital, Farwaniya, Kuwait.,Department of Urology, Sabah Al Ahmad Urology Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | | | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Department of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France.,Department of Biology, Reproduction, Epigenetics, Environment and Development, Pari. Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Shinnosuke Kuroda
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ala’a Farkouh
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Amarnath Rambhatla
- Department of Urology, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Murat Gül
- Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Taha Abo-Almagd Abdel-Meguid Hamoda
- Department of Urology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Edmund Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Gokhan Calik
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tuncay Toprak
- Department of Urology, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea.,Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Suks Minhas
- Division of Surgery, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Gian Maria Busetto
- Department of Urology and Organ Transplantation, University of Foggia, Ospedali Riuniti of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Ates Kadioglu
- Section of Andrology, Department of Urology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Eric Chung
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Aldo E. Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rafael F. Ambar
- Department of Urology, Centro Universitario em Saude do ABC, Santo André, Brazil.,Andrology Group at Ideia Fertil Institute of Human Reproduction, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Channa N. Jayasena
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Andrology, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Andrology, Hammersmith & St. Mary’s Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Rupin Shah
- Division of Andrology, Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
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6
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Ribeiro JC, Nogueira-Ferreira R, Amado F, Alves MG, Ferreira R, Oliveira PF. Exploring the Role of Oxidative Stress in Sperm Motility: A Proteomic Network Approach. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 37:501-520. [PMID: 34847748 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Infertility is a major global health problem, with nearly half of the cases being associated with male factors. Although reactive oxygen species (ROS) are crucial for sperm cell normal physiological processes, an imbalance between ROS production and antioxidants can lead to oxidative stress that can impair sperm function. Indeed, high semen ROS levels are reported in 30%-80% of infertile men. Recent Advances: Male oxidative stress infertility is an uprising classification for idiopathic infertility. Proteomic approaches, including quantitative mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics, are being utilized to explore the molecular mechanisms associated with oxidative stress in male infertility. Critical Issues: In this review, proteome data were collected from articles available on PubMed centered on MS-based proteomic studies, performed in seminal plasma and sperm cell samples, and enrolling men with impaired semen parameters. The bioinformatic analysis of proteome data with Cytoscape (ClueGO+CluePedia) and STRING tools allowed the identification of the biological processes more prevalent in asthenozoospermia, with focus on the ones related to oxidative stress. Future Directions: The identification of the antioxidant proteins in seminal plasma and sperm cells that can protect sperm cells from oxidative stress is crucial not only for a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms associated with male infertility but specially to guide new therapeutic possibilities. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 501-520.
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Affiliation(s)
- João C Ribeiro
- Department of Anatomy and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rita Nogueira-Ferreira
- Department of Anatomy and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisco Amado
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Department of Anatomy and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Ferreira
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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7
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de Ligny W, Smits RM, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Jordan V, Fleischer K, de Bruin JP, Showell MG. Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 5:CD007411. [PMID: 35506389 PMCID: PMC9066298 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007411.pub5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The inability to have children affects 10% to 15% of couples worldwide. A male factor is estimated to account for up to half of the infertility cases with between 25% to 87% of male subfertility considered to be due to the effect of oxidative stress. Oral supplementation with antioxidants is thought to improve sperm quality by reducing oxidative damage. Antioxidants are widely available and inexpensive when compared to other fertility treatments, however most antioxidants are uncontrolled by regulation and the evidence for their effectiveness is uncertain. We compared the benefits and risks of different antioxidants used for male subfertility. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of supplementary oral antioxidants in subfertile men. SEARCH METHODS The Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility (CGF) Group trials register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, AMED, and two trial registers were searched on 15 February 2021, together with reference checking and contact with experts in the field to identify additional trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any type, dose or combination of oral antioxidant supplement with placebo, no treatment, or treatment with another antioxidant, among subfertile men of a couple attending a reproductive clinic. We excluded studies comparing antioxidants with fertility drugs alone and studies that included men with idiopathic infertility and normal semen parameters or fertile men attending a fertility clinic because of female partner infertility. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures recommended by Cochrane. The primary review outcome was live birth. Clinical pregnancy, adverse events and sperm parameters were secondary outcomes. MAIN RESULTS We included 90 studies with a total population of 10,303 subfertile men, aged between 18 and 65 years, part of a couple who had been referred to a fertility clinic and some of whom were undergoing medically assisted reproduction (MAR). Investigators compared and combined 20 different oral antioxidants. The evidence was of 'low' to 'very low' certainty: the main limitation was that out of the 67 included studies in the meta-analysis only 20 studies reported clinical pregnancy, and of those 12 reported on live birth. The evidence is current up to February 2021. Live birth: antioxidants may lead to increased live birth rates (odds ratio (OR) 1.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07 to 1.91, P = 0.02, 12 RCTs, 1283 men, I2 = 44%, very low-certainty evidence). Results in the studies contributing to the analysis of live birth rate suggest that if the baseline chance of live birth following placebo or no treatment is assumed to be 16%, the chance following the use of antioxidants is estimated to be between 17% and 27%. However, this result was based on only 246 live births from 1283 couples in 12 small or medium-sized studies. When studies at high risk of bias were removed from the analysis, there was no evidence of increased live birth (Peto OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.75, 827 men, 8 RCTs, P = 0.27, I2 = 32%). Clinical pregnancy rate: antioxidants may lead to increased clinical pregnancy rates (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.45 to 2.47, P < 0.00001, 20 RCTs, 1706 men, I2 = 3%, low-certainty evidence) compared with placebo or no treatment. This suggests that, in the studies contributing to the analysis of clinical pregnancy, if the baseline chance of clinical pregnancy following placebo or no treatment is assumed to be 15%, the chance following the use of antioxidants is estimated to be between 20% and 30%. This result was based on 327 clinical pregnancies from 1706 couples in 20 small studies. Adverse events Miscarriage: only six studies reported on this outcome and the event rate was very low. No evidence of a difference in miscarriage rate was found between the antioxidant and placebo or no treatment group (OR 1.46, 95% CI 0.75 to 2.83, P = 0.27, 6 RCTs, 664 men, I2 = 35%, very low-certainty evidence). The findings suggest that in a population of subfertile couples, with male factor infertility, with an expected miscarriage rate of 5%, the risk of miscarriage following the use of an antioxidant would be between 4% and 13%. Gastrointestinal: antioxidants may lead to an increase in mild gastrointestinal discomfort when compared with placebo or no treatment (OR 2.70, 95% CI 1.46 to 4.99, P = 0.002, 16 RCTs, 1355 men, I2 = 40%, low-certainty evidence). This suggests that if the chance of gastrointestinal discomfort following placebo or no treatment is assumed to be 2%, the chance following the use of antioxidants is estimated to be between 2% and 7%. However, this result was based on a low event rate of 46 out of 1355 men in 16 small or medium-sized studies, and the certainty of the evidence was rated low and heterogeneity was high. We were unable to draw conclusions from the antioxidant versus antioxidant comparison as insufficient studies compared the same interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS In this review, there is very low-certainty evidence from 12 small or medium-sized randomised controlled trials suggesting that antioxidant supplementation in subfertile males may improve live birth rates for couples attending fertility clinics. Low-certainty evidence suggests that clinical pregnancy rates may increase. There is no evidence of increased risk of miscarriage, however antioxidants may give more mild gastrointestinal discomfort, based on very low-certainty evidence. Subfertile couples should be advised that overall, the current evidence is inconclusive based on serious risk of bias due to poor reporting of methods of randomisation, failure to report on the clinical outcomes live birth rate and clinical pregnancy, often unclear or even high attrition, and also imprecision due to often low event rates and small overall sample sizes. Further large well-designed randomised placebo-controlled trials studying infertile men and reporting on pregnancy and live births are still required to clarify the exact role of antioxidants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiep de Ligny
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Roos M Smits
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Vanessa Jordan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kathrin Fleischer
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jan Peter de Bruin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jeroen Bosch Hospital, 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands
| | - Marian G Showell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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8
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Shum W, Zhang BL, Cao AS, Zhou X, Shi SM, Zhang ZY, Gu LY, Shi S. Calcium Homeostasis in the Epididymal Microenvironment: Is Extracellular Calcium a Cofactor for Matrix Gla Protein-Dependent Scavenging Regulated by Vitamins. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:827940. [PMID: 35252193 PMCID: PMC8893953 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.827940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the male reproductive tract, the epididymis is an essential organ for sperm maturation, in which sperm cells acquire mobility and the ability to fertilize oocytes while being stored in a protective microenvironment. Epididymal function involves a specialized luminal microenvironment established by the epithelial cells of epididymal mucosa. Low-calcium concentration is a unique feature of this epididymal luminal microenvironment, its relevance and regulation are, however, incompletely understood. In the rat epididymis, the vitamin D-related calcium-dependent TRPV6-TMEM16A channel-coupler has been shown to be involved in fluid transport, and, in a spatially complementary manner, vitamin K2-related γ-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX)-dependent carboxylation of matrix Gla protein (MGP) plays an essential role in promoting calcium-dependent protein aggregation. An SNP in the human GGCX gene has been associated with asthenozoospermia. In addition, bioinformatic analysis also suggests the involvement of a vitamin B6-axis in calcium-dependent MGP-mediated protein aggregation. These findings suggest that vitamins interact with calcium homeostasis in the epididymis to ensure proper sperm maturation and male fertility. This review article discusses the regulation mechanisms of calcium homeostasis in the epididymis, and the potential role of vitamin interactions on epididymal calcium homeostasis, especially the role of matrix calcium in the epididymal lumen as a cofactor for the carboxylated MGP-mediated scavenging function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Shum
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Winnie Shum,
| | - Bao Li Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Reproduction and Development Institution, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Albert Shang Cao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Su Meng Shi
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ze Yang Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lou Yi Gu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Shi
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
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9
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Moradi B, Faramarzi A, Ghasemi-Esmailabad S, Aghaz F, Hashemian AH, Khazaei M. L-proline as a novel additive to cryopreservation media improved post-thaw quality of human spermatozoon via reducing oxidative stress. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14301. [PMID: 34748671 DOI: 10.1111/and.14301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm cryopreservation as a routine technique in assisted reproductive technique (ART) laboratories has detrimental effects on spermatozoa. Various methods have been introduced to improve it. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of L-proline supplementation in cryopreservation medium on normozoospermic semen samples. A total of 30 semen samples were collected from normozoospermic men. Cryopreservation media were supplemented with different concentrations of L-proline (0, 1, 2 and 4 mmol/L). The semen samples were cryopreserved. After thawing, sperm parameters and chromatin integrity (aniline blue (AB), toluidine blue (TB), sperm chromatin dispersion test (SCD) and chromomycin A3 (CMA3)), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were evaluated. A total of 4 mmol/L L-proline significantly improved progressive motility and viability (p < 0.05). MDA and ROS levels significantly diminished in samples were cryopreserved by 4 mmol/L L-proline supplemented cryopreservation media (p < 0.001). Also, it significantly increased TAC level. Also, chromatin damages (AB, TB and CMA3) significantly improved in samples were cryopreserved by 4 mmol/L L-proline supplemented cryopreservation media (p < 0.05). The results support that the usage of L-proline supplemented cryopreservation media to improve sperm quality after cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Moradi
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Azita Faramarzi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Saeed Ghasemi-Esmailabad
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Medical Nanotechnology & Tissue Engineering Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Faranak Aghaz
- Nano Drug Delivery Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Hashemian
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health (RCEDH), Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Department of Biostatistics, School of Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mozafar Khazaei
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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10
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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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11
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Ribeiro JC, Braga PC, Martins AD, Silva BM, Alves MG, Oliveira PF. Antioxidants Present in Reproductive Tract Fluids and Their Relevance for Fertility. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10091441. [PMID: 34573073 PMCID: PMC8466935 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, infertility is classified as a disease of the reproductive system. Although it does not compromise the life of the individual, it can have detrimental effects on the physiological and psychological health of the couple. Male fertility evaluation is mainly focused on the analysis of sperm parameters. However, the ejaculated fluid is also composed of seminal plasma, and the study of this fluid can provide crucial information to help in the assessment of male fertility status. Total antioxidant capacity of the seminal plasma has been positively correlated with the fertility of men. Moreover, evidence highlights to a similar importance as that of female reproductive tract fluid antioxidant capabilities and female fertility. Herein, we describe the functions of seminal plasma and female reproductive tract fluids, as well as their main antioxidant components and their relationships with fertility outcomes. Additionally, this review contains the most up to date information regarding the mechanisms of the interaction between the male and the female reproductive fluids and the importance of proper antioxidant capacity for fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- João C. Ribeiro
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Patrícia C. Braga
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
| | - Ana D. Martins
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Branca M. Silva
- CICS, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal;
| | - Marco G. Alves
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-234370718
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12
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Dai C, Zhang Z, Shan G, Chu LT, Huang Z, Moskovtsev S, Librach C, Jarvi K, Sun Y. Advances in sperm analysis: techniques, discoveries and applications. Nat Rev Urol 2021; 18:447-467. [PMID: 34075227 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00472-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Infertility affects one in six couples worldwide, and fertility continues to deteriorate globally, partly owing to a decline in semen quality. Sperm analysis has a central role in diagnosing and treating male factor infertility. Many emerging techniques, such as digital holography, super-resolution microscopy and next-generation sequencing, have been developed that enable improved analysis of sperm motility, morphology and genetics to help overcome limitations in accuracy and consistency, and improve sperm selection for infertility treatment. These techniques have also improved our understanding of fundamental sperm physiology by enabling discoveries in sperm behaviour and molecular structures. Further progress in sperm analysis and integrating these techniques into laboratories and clinics requires multidisciplinary collaboration, which will increase discovery and improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changsheng Dai
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Zhuoran Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Guanqiao Shan
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lap-Tak Chu
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Zongjie Huang
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | | | - Keith Jarvi
- Division of Urology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada. .,Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. .,Institute of Biomaterials & Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. .,Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. .,Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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13
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The Effect of Antioxidant Supplementation on Operated or Non-Operated Varicocele-Associated Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10071067. [PMID: 34356300 PMCID: PMC8301171 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10071067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In patients with varicocele-associated infertility, the effect of antioxidant supplementation on fertility is unknown. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore their role in patients with operated or non-operated varicocele. We searched major databases and sources of grey literature until May 2021 (PROSPERO: CRD42021248195). We included 14 studies (980 individuals) in the systematic review. Of the 14 studies, 2 explored the effect of antioxidant supplementation in patients with non-operated varicocele, 1 compared antioxidants versus surgical repair of varicocele, while 11 explored antioxidants after surgical repair of varicocele and were also included in the meta-analysis. Regarding pregnancy rates, no significant differences were demonstrated after treatment with antioxidants versus no treatment at three (OR: 2.28, 95% CI: 0.7-7.48) and six months (OR: 1.88, 95% CI: 0.62-5.72). Accordingly, contradictory findings were reported in sperm concentration, morphology, and motility, as well as DNA fragmentation. Our findings indicate that antioxidant supplementation does not improve pregnancy rates and semen parameters in patients with varicocele-associated infertility, in the absence of previous screening for oxidative stress. Based on the previous notion, most included studies also raised methodological concerns. Therefore, definitive conclusions about the efficacy of antioxidant supplementation in this setting cannot be drawn and further research on the field is mandatory.
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14
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Tsampoukas G, Gkeka K, Dellis A, Brown D, Katsouri A, Alneshawy A, Moussa M, Papatsoris A, Buchholz N. Vitamins as primary or adjunctive treatment in infertile men with varicocele: A systematic review. Arab J Urol 2021; 19:264-273. [PMID: 34552778 PMCID: PMC8451598 DOI: 10.1080/2090598x.2021.1932124] [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: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the usage and the efficacy of vitamins as primary or adjuvant treatment in infertile men with varicocele. METHODS A systematic search in PubMed, the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) and Cochrane Library with the terms (varicocele) AND (vitamins) was performed. We searched for studies: a) reporting the administration of vitamins (individually or as part of a complex) in men with varicocele and infertility, b) primarily or adjuvant to invasive treatment, and c) reporting the impact on semen parameters and/or pregnancy rates. Exclusion criteria were animal, adolescent and non-English studies, grey literature and trials reporting abstracts only. RESULTS Seven studies were identified eligible for qualitative analysis. All studies were randomised except one (case series). Vitamins were administered dominantly as part of antioxidant complex and only two studies used vitamins (C and E, respectively) as sole agent. In two studies, vitamin monotherapy resulted in improvement in semen quality, but the effect on pregnancy rates is unknown. One study reported no efficacy of adjuvant multivitamin treatment after embolisation in terms of both semen quality and pregnancy rates. Finally, four studies reported a positive effect of vitamins on semen parameters after varicocelectomy, but the effect on pregnancy rates is conflicting; one study reported improved pregnancy rates with adjuvant treatment, two studies did not evaluate the pregnancy rates, and in one study the outcome was unclear due to missing data. CONCLUSIONS Vitamins have been used mostly as part of an antioxidant panel for the management of infertile men with varicocele. Most studies have found a positive impact on semen parameters in selected men with varicocele and infertility, as primary or adjuvant treatment. However, the clinical benefit of vitamins administration on pregnancy rate is under-evaluated and should be the target of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Tsampoukas
- U-merge Ltd. (Urology for Emerging Countries), London, UK
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow, UK
| | - Kristiana Gkeka
- Department of Urology, General Hospital of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Athanasios Dellis
- U-merge Ltd. (Urology for Emerging Countries), London, UK
- Department of Urology, Aretaieion Academic Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Dominic Brown
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow, UK
| | | | - Ahmed Alneshawy
- U-merge Ltd. (Urology for Emerging Countries), London, UK
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow, UK
| | - Mohamad Moussa
- Al Zahraa Hospital, University Medical Center, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Athanasios Papatsoris
- U-merge Ltd. (Urology for Emerging Countries), London, UK
- Second Department of Urology, University Hospital of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Noor Buchholz
- U-merge Ltd. (Urology for Emerging Countries), London, UK
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15
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Santonastaso M, Mottola F, Iovine C, Colacurci N, Rocco L. Protective Effects of Curcumin on the Outcome of Cryopreservation in Human Sperm. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2895-2905. [PMID: 33861392 PMCID: PMC8523395 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00572-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation causes decreased sperm fertility potential due to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and physical-chemical damage, resulting in reduced sperm viability and motility. The addition of antioxidants to freezing media could protect sperm from cryo-damage, counteracting the harmful effects of ROS. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of curcumin supplementation in freezing medium on preventing cryo-damage in human semen. Semen samples collected from fertile men were cryopreserved in freezing medium supplemented with different concentrations of curcumin (2.5, 5, 10, and 20 μM). After freezing-thawing, sperm parameters, DNA fragmentation, intracellular ROS, and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) gene expression were evaluated. Supplementation with 20 μM curcumin in freezing medium caused increases in progressive and nonprogressive motility and significant reductions in intracellular ROS and DNA fragmentation in frozen-thawed sperm cells. Following cryopreservation, GPX4 mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in thawed semen supplemented with 20 μM curcumin compared to the control. The results showed that curcumin supplementation in freezing medium was protective against human sperm parameters and sperm DNA, counteracting oxidative damage induced by the freeze-thaw process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Santonastaso
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Special Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Filomena Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Concetta Iovine
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Nicola Colacurci
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Special Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.
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16
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Nazari L, Salehpour S, Hosseini S, Allameh F, Jahanmardi F, Azizi E, Ghodssi-Ghassemabadi R, Hashemi T. Effect of antioxidant supplementation containing L-carnitine on semen parameters: a prospective interventional study. JBRA Assist Reprod 2021; 25:76-80. [PMID: 32598834 PMCID: PMC7863100 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: One of the remarkable causes of infertility in men is oxidative stress having a reducing effect on their reproductive function. In the present study, we investigated the efficacy of supplementation with antioxidants and L-Carnitine (contained in Androferti) on semen parameters. Methods: We included 180 infertile male patients diagnosed with idiopathic oligoastenoteratozoospermia (OAT) in this study, and we analyzed the semen sample from 59 patients before and after oral antioxidant treatment, with the commercial name of Androferti (containing 1500 mg of L-Carnitine, 60 mg of vitamin C, 20 mg of coenzyme Q10, 10 mg of vitamin E, 10 mg of zinc, 200 µg of vitamin B9, 50 µg of selenium, 1 µg of vitamin B12). All of the patients received Androferti twice a day for 3 months. Results: There were significant improvements in the sperm concentration (p=0.004) after the antioxidant supplementation. There was also a meaningfully improvement in sperm morphology (p=0.01) after treatment. However, sperm motility was not significantly altered after antioxidant treatment (p=0.2). Conclusions: Antioxidants supplementation containing 1500 mg L-carnitine can improve the semen quality in infertile men diagnosed with idiopathic OAT. However, further studies are required to determine the antioxidant effects on reproduction function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Nazari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saghar Salehpour
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedighe Hosseini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Allameh
- Department of Urology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University o f Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ferdoos Jahanmardi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Azizi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Student Research Committee, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Teibeh Hashemi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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17
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Agarwal A, Leisegang K, Majzoub A, Henkel R, Finelli R, Panner Selvam MK, Tadros N, Parekh N, Ko EY, Cho CL, Arafa M, Alves MG, Oliveira PF, Alvarez JG, Shah R. Utility of Antioxidants in the Treatment of Male Infertility: Clinical Guidelines Based on a Systematic Review and Analysis of Evidence. World J Mens Health 2021; 39:233-290. [PMID: 33474843 PMCID: PMC7994666 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.200196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathophysiology of male infertility and that antioxidants could have a significant role in the treatment of male infertility. The main objectives of this study are: 1) to systematically review the current evidence for the utility of antioxidants in the treatment of male infertility; and 2) propose evidence-based clinical guidelines for the use of antioxidants in the treatment of male infertility. A systematic review of the available clinical evidence was performed, with articles published on Scopus being manually screened. Data extracted included the type of antioxidant used, the clinical conditions under investigation, the evaluation of semen parameters and reproductive outcomes. The adherence to the Cambridge Quality Checklist, Cochrane Risk of Bias for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), CONSORT guidelines and JADAD score were analyzed for each included study. Further, we provided a Strength Weakness Opportunity Threat (SWOT) analysis to analyze the current and future value of antioxidants in male infertility. Of the 1,978 articles identified, 97 articles were included in the study. Of these, 52 (53.6%) were uncontrolled (open label), 12 (12.4%) unblinded RCTs, and 33 (34.0%) blinded RCTs, whereas 44 (45.4%) articles tested individual antioxidants, 31 (32.0%) a combination of several products in variable dosages, and 22 (22.6%) registered antioxidant products. Based on the published evidence, we 1) critically examined the necessity of additional double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials, and 2) proposed updated evidence-based clinical guidelines for antioxidant therapy in male infertility. The current systematic review on antioxidants and male infertility clearly shows that antioxidant supplementation improves semen parameters. In addition, it provides the indications for antioxidant treatment in specific clinical conditions, including varicocele, unexplained and idiopathic male infertility, as well as in cases of altered semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Kristian Leisegang
- School of Natural Medicine, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Nicholas Tadros
- Division of Urology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Neel Parekh
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Edmund Y Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Chak Lam Cho
- Department of Surgery, Union Hospital, Hong Kong.,S. H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Mohamed Arafa
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Andrology Department, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Marco G Alves
- Department of Anatomy & Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Juan G Alvarez
- Centro Androgen, La Coruña, Spain and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rupin Shah
- Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
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18
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Arab D, Doustmohammadi H, Ardestani Zadeh A. Dietary supplements in the management of varicocele-induced infertility: A review of potential mechanisms. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13879. [PMID: 33108825 DOI: 10.1111/and.13879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is a main cause of lower production of spermatozoon and infertility with multiple pathophysiological mechanisms. In the past decades, the use of dietary supplements has significantly increased due to both the modern lifestyle and the food shortages of the industrialised countries. The purpose of this review paper is to collect scientific evidences from basic and clinical studies which support the use of dietary supplements to define the clinical framework for patients with varicocele. In the present review, we used keywords such as dietary supplements, varicocele, male infertility, oxidative stress, DNA fragmentation, sperm parameters to find the proper articles. The standard search biomedical engines were used for seeking the papers. The use of dietary supplements such as minerals, vitamins and antioxidants has an essential role in the prevention and treatment of varicocele by increasing the levels of antioxidant enzymes (e.g. peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase) and decreasing the levels of inflammatory markers (e.g. tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 and interleukin-1) in testis. According to the results, the dietary supplements may alleviate the spermatogenesis in varicocele patients through different mechanisms such as suppression of stress oxidative and inflammation in testicular tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davood Arab
- Clinical Research Development Center, Kowsar Hospital, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.,Department of Surgery, Kowsar Hospital, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Hoda Doustmohammadi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Arash Ardestani Zadeh
- Clinical Research Development Center, Kowsar Hospital, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.,Department of Surgery, Kowsar Hospital, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
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Abbasi B, Molavi N, Tavalaee M, Abbasi H, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Alpha-lipoic acid improves sperm motility in infertile men after varicocelectomy: a triple-blind randomized controlled trial. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:1084-1091. [PMID: 33032908 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does supplementation with alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) enhance sperm parameters and/or the status of sperm lipid peroxidation and DNA fragmentation in men who have undergone microsurgical repair of a varicocele? DESIGN Individuals with a varicocele who had undergone varicocelectomy were divided into two groups receiving either 600 mg of ALA or an identical placebo for 80 days. Semen samples obtained from the participants before surgery and after completion of the course of medication were analysed and compared. Participants, clinicians and data analysts were blinded to the randomization sequence. RESULTS In the ALA group, total motility (P = 0.01) and progressive motility (P = 0.002) of the spermatozoa were significantly higher compared with the placebo group after surgery. Sperm lipid peroxidation and DNA damage (assessed by sperm chromatin structure assay) showed significant decreases in both the ALA and placebo groups (P ≤ 0.02) after treatment. CONCLUSIONS An 80-day course of ALA medication after surgical repair improves total motility and progressive motility of the spermatozoa in individuals with a varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behzad Abbasi
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran; Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Newsha Molavi
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad H Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran; Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran.
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20
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Dias TR, Martin-Hidalgo D, Silva BM, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Endogenous and Exogenous Antioxidants As a Tool to Ameliorate Male Infertility Induced by Reactive Oxygen Species. Antioxid Redox Signal 2020; 33:767-785. [PMID: 32368933 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2019.7977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Antioxidants are essential for the maintenance of cellular redox homeodynamics in the male reproductive tract, playing a key role in fertilizing potential. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), at physiological levels, are essential for sperm function and fertilization. Under pathological conditions, abnormal production of ROS may occur. Redox control is primarily regulated by the inner antioxidant system. However, these endogenous antioxidants may be present at abnormal amounts or may be insufficient. Exogenous antioxidants obtained through the diet may have an important role, particularly in specific pathological conditions. This review addresses the regulation of redox homeodynamics in the male reproductive tract by endogenous and exogenous antioxidants and the importance of their cooperation for the maintenance of fertility. Recent Advances: Many studies have shown the importance of antioxidants for the preservation of male fertility, mostly under pathological conditions. Excessive antioxidants can inhibit ROS-induced signaling pathways that are essential for the reproductive system. The challenge is to keep the balance between oxidants and antioxidants to maintain ROS-amount at physiological concentration. Critical Issues: Although antioxidant therapies are gaining popularity and showing promising results in the improvement of male fertility, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the type of exogenous antioxidant, the doses and time to be administered. Future Directions: It would be of great importance to find a way to restore redox homeostasis under stress conditions. Understanding the poorly studied mechanisms by which exogenous antioxidants cooperate with the inner cellular antioxidant system to counteract free radicals may help in the development of new fertility therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tânia R Dias
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
- LAQV/REQUIMTE-Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - David Martin-Hidalgo
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (SINTREP), Institute of Biotechnology in Agriculture and Livestock (INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Branca M Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA and LAQV, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Su JS, Farber NJ, Vij SC. Pathophysiology and treatment options of varicocele: An overview. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13576. [PMID: 32271477 DOI: 10.1111/and.13576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is the most common correctable cause for male infertility, but not all men with varicocele are affected equally by this condition. The pathophysiology of varicocele-induced fertility remains ill-defined. While evidence suggests that oxidative stress remains a central factor, other mechanisms likely include scrotal hyperthermia, reflux of metabolites, hypoxia and cadmium accumulation. Microsurgical varicocelectomy remains the gold standard treatment option for infertile men with a clinically palpable varicocele and abnormal semen parameters. Newer evidence suggests a potential role for antioxidant supplementation and a meaningful role of varicocelectomy for patients destined for ART to improve pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnny S Su
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Nicholas J Farber
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sarah C Vij
- Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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22
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Arhin SM, Mensah KB, Agbeno E, Badii VS, Ansah C. Pharmacotherapy of infertility in Ghana: retrospective study at the cape coast teaching hospital. J Pharm Policy Pract 2019; 12:28. [PMID: 31700644 PMCID: PMC6827228 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-019-0191-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility is a major challenge for couples globally. Due to low income levels and the high cost of other assisted reproductive techniques, pharmacotherapy remain the major first line treatment option for infertility in Sub-Saharan Africa. Objective The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of infertility as well as the effectiveness and success achieved following infertility pharmacotherapy at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital in Ghana. Methods This study was a retrospective observational study of 825 couples attending infertility clinic at the hospital. Results Prevalence of infertility at the study center was estimated to be 12.3%. Treatment mainly involved the use of clomiphene citrate, antioxidants, herbo-mineral drugs (Ayurveda), multivitamin and antibiotics. Pharmacotherapy resulted in successful conception in one out of every five couples (19.4%; n = 160). Secondary infertility, although more prevalent in the study population (44.8%; n = 370), had lower conception rates during pharmacotherapy than primary infertility (15% vs 26.2%). Age, kind of infertility, employment status but not educational level were significantly associated with pharmacotherapy success. In ovulation induction, clomiphene citrate plus folic acid and vitamin E adjuncts improved ovulation rates during cycle treatments compared to clomiphene citrate alone. Pharmacotherapy of idiopathic infertility (39%, n = 323) was a major challenge with very limited success rates. Interestingly, it was noted that treating couples or female partners only for idiopathic infertility resulted in higher success rates than treating the male partner only. Again, 90-day treatment regimen doubled conception rates when compared with corresponding 30-day treatment regimen. However, zinc sulfate even in short term treatment regimens (30 days) enhanced conception rates in idiopathic infertility. Conclusions Prevalence of infertility was estimated to be about 12.3%. One out of every five infertile couples achieved success with pharmacotherapy. Factors such as age, type of infertility, employment status, but not education were significantly associated with treatment success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Mensah Arhin
- 1Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kwesi Boadu Mensah
- 1Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Evans Agbeno
- 2Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Vitus Sambo Badii
- 1Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Charles Ansah
- 1Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Taheri Moghadam M, Asadi Fard Y, Saki G, Nikbakht R. Effect of vitamin D on apoptotic marker, reactive oxygen species and human sperm parameters during the process of cryopreservation. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2019; 22:1036-1043. [PMID: 31807247 PMCID: PMC6880532 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2019.36258.8634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sperm cryopreservation plays an undeniable role in assisted reproductive technology. However, this process significantly reduces the motility, viability, morphology and nuclear integrity of sperm. Reasons of these changes were oxidative stress and apoptosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of vitamin D on the survival and integrity of fertile sperm after cryopreservation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semen sample of 18 males with normal parameters was used. After swimming up, each sample was divided into two parts. 20 µmol vitamin D was added to one part as experimental group and the other part was left untreated as control group. The samples in all groups were frozen for 14 days. Post-thawing, the groups were evaluated for sperm motility, and viability using eosin staining, morphology using the Diff-Quick staining and apoptosis by TUNEL, Annexin-V and caspase-3 activity assay. By using nitrobluetetraxolium test and thiobarbituric acid, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation of sperms were measured, respectively. RESULTS In comparison with control groups, motile and viable sperm concentration was substantially higher in treated groups (P-value<0.05); however, morphological analysis did not show any remarkable changes. Also, ROS and lipid peroxidation values were dramatically reduced by vitamin D (P-value<0.05). TUNEL and Annexin assay for apoptosis were considerably lower in treated groups (P-value<0.05), but caspase activity assay revealed no significant difference between groups. CONCLUSION The results have shown that the addition of vitamin D to a freezing medium leads to higher quality and function of human sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahin Taheri Moghadam
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Yousef Asadi Fard
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ghasem Saki
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Roshan Nikbakht
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Smits RM, Mackenzie‐Proctor R, Yazdani A, Stankiewicz MT, Jordan V, Showell MG. Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 3:CD007411. [PMID: 30866036 PMCID: PMC6416049 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007411.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The inability to have children affects 10% to 15% of couples worldwide. A male factor is estimated to account for up to half of the infertility cases with between 25% to 87% of male subfertility considered to be due to the effect of oxidative stress. Oral supplementation with antioxidants is thought to improve sperm quality by reducing oxidative damage. Antioxidants are widely available and inexpensive when compared to other fertility treatments, however most antioxidants are uncontrolled by regulation and the evidence for their effectiveness is uncertain. We compared the benefits and risks of different antioxidants used for male subfertility. This review did not examine the use of antioxidants in normospermic men. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of supplementary oral antioxidants in subfertile men. SEARCH METHODS The Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility (CGF) Group trials register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and two trials registers were searched on 1 February 2018, together with reference checking and contact with study authors and experts in the field to identify additional trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any type, dose or combination of oral antioxidant supplement with placebo, no treatment or treatment with another antioxidant, among subfertile men of a couple attending a reproductive clinic. We excluded studies comparing antioxidants with fertility drugs alone and studies that included fertile men attending a fertility clinic because of female partner infertility. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures recommended by Cochrane. The primary review outcome was live birth. Clinical pregnancy, adverse events and sperm parameters were secondary outcomes. MAIN RESULTS We included 61 studies with a total population of 6264 subfertile men, aged between 18 and 65 years, part of a couple who had been referred to a fertility clinic and some of whom were undergoing assisted reproductive techniques (ART). Investigators compared and combined 18 different oral antioxidants. The evidence was of 'low' to 'very low' quality: the main limitation was that out of the 44 included studies in the meta-analysis only 12 studies reported on live birth or clinical pregnancy. The evidence is current up to February 2018.Live birth: antioxidants may lead to increased live birth rates (OR 1.79, 95% CI 1.20 to 2.67, P = 0.005, 7 RCTs, 750 men, I2 = 40%, low-quality evidence). Results suggest that if in the studies contributing to the analysis of live birth rate, the baseline chance of live birth following placebo or no treatment is assumed to be 12%, the chance following the use of antioxidants is estimated to be between 14% and 26%. However, this result was based on only 124 live births from 750 couples in seven relatively small studies. When studies at high risk of bias were removed from the analysis, there was no evidence of increased live birth (Peto OR 1.38, 95% CI 0.89 to 2.16; participants = 540 men, 5 RCTs, P = 0.15, I2 = 0%).Clinical pregnancy rate: antioxidants may lead to increased clinical pregnancy rates (OR 2.97, 95% CI 1.91 to 4.63, P < 0.0001, 11 RCTs, 786 men, I2 = 0%, low-quality evidence) compared to placebo or no treatment. This suggests that if in the studies contributing to the analysis of clinical pregnancy, the baseline chance of clinical pregnancy following placebo or no treatment is assumed to be 7%, the chance following the use of antioxidants is estimated to be between 12% and 26%. This result was based on 105 clinical pregnancies from 786 couples in 11 small studies.Adverse eventsMiscarriage: only three studies reported on this outcome and the event rate was very low. There was no difference in miscarriage rate between the antioxidant and placebo or no treatment group (OR 1.74, 95% CI 0.40 to 7.60, P = 0.46, 3 RCTs, 247 men, I2 = 0%, very low-quality evidence). The findings suggest that in a population of subfertile men with an expected miscarriage rate of 2%, the chance following the use of an antioxidant would result in the risk of a miscarriage between 1% and 13%.Gastrointestinal: antioxidants may lead to an increase in mild gastrointestinal upsets when compared to placebo or no treatment (OR 2.51, 95% CI 1.25 to 5.03, P = 0.010, 11 RCTs, 948 men, I2 = 50%, very low-quality evidence). This suggests that if the chance of gastrointestinal upsets following placebo or no treatment is assumed to be 2%, the chance following the use of antioxidants is estimated to be between 2% and 9%. However, this result was based on a low event rate of 35 out of 948 men in 10 small or medium-sized studies, and the quality of the evidence was rated very low and was high in heterogeneity.We were unable to draw any conclusions from the antioxidant versus antioxidant comparison as insufficient studies compared the same interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS In this review, there is low-quality evidence from seven small randomised controlled trials suggesting that antioxidant supplementation in subfertile males may improve live birth rates for couples attending fertility clinics. Low-quality evidence suggests that clinical pregnancy rates may also increase. Overall, there is no evidence of increased risk of miscarriage, however antioxidants may give more mild gastrointestinal upsets but the evidence is of very low quality. Subfertilte couples should be advised that overall, the current evidence is inconclusive based on serious risk of bias due to poor reporting of methods of randomisation, failure to report on the clinical outcomes live birth rate and clinical pregnancy, often unclear or even high attrition, and also imprecision due to often low event rates and small overall sample sizes. Further large well-designed randomised placebo-controlled trials reporting on pregnancy and live births are still required to clarify the exact role of antioxidants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos M Smits
- Radboud University Medical CenterDepartment of Gynaecology and ObstetricsNijmegenNetherlands
| | | | - Anusch Yazdani
- Queensland Fertility Group Research Foundation55 Little Edward St, Level 2 Boundary CourtSpring HillBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia4000
| | - Marcin T Stankiewicz
- Ashford Specialist Centre Suite 2257‐59 Anzac Highway AshfordAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Vanessa Jordan
- University of AucklandDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyPrivate Bag 92019AucklandNew Zealand1003
| | - Marian G Showell
- University of AucklandDepartment of Obstetrics and GynaecologyPrivate Bag 92019AucklandNew Zealand1003
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Al-Mohammady AA, El-Sherbiny AF, Mehaney AB, Ghobara YA. Varicocele repair in patients prepared for intracytoplasmic sperm injection: To do or not to do? Andrologia 2018; 51:e13185. [PMID: 30375021 DOI: 10.1111/and.13185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study sought to evaluate the impact of varicocele repair on intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective comparative study was conducted at the Assisted Reproduction Unit, International Islamic Center for Population Studies and Researches, Al-Azhar University. This study included 100 non-azoospermic infertile men with a history of varicocele who were scheduled for intracytoplasmic sperm injection, half of them had already undergone prior subinguinal varicocelectomy at least 12 months prior to ICSI without clinically evident recurrence (treated group 1), and the other half has any grade of an unrepaired clinical varicocele (untreated group 2) at sperm injection. All cases were clinically evaluated and eligible for analysis by using inclusion and exclusion criteria. ICSI outcomes compared between the two groups, including fertilisation rate, embryo development rate and pregnancy outcome. RESULTS Our study did not show any significant difference between treated and untreated groups regarding the mean values of fertilisation (0.7759 ± 0.2708 vs. 0.7119 ± 0.3057, p = 0.2708), embryo development (0.7759 ± 0.2708 vs. 0.6991 ± 0.3211, p = 0.1990) or different embryo grades. There was no statistically significant difference between groups regarding pregnancy occurrence rates (p = 0.0928). CONCLUSION Infertile men scheduled for ICSI do not seem to benefit from varicocele repair as regard to the outcomes of ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelshakour A Al-Mohammady
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed F El-Sherbiny
- Department of Andrology, International Islamic Center for Population Studies and Research, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira B Mehaney
- Department of Embryology, International Islamic Center for Population Studies and Research, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasser A Ghobara
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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Oxidative Stress in the Male Germline: A Review of Novel Strategies to Reduce 4-Hydroxynonenal Production. Antioxidants (Basel) 2018; 7:antiox7100132. [PMID: 30282920 PMCID: PMC6209867 DOI: 10.3390/antiox7100132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline oxidative stress is intimately linked to several reproductive pathologies including a failure of sperm-egg recognition. The lipid aldehyde 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) is particularly damaging to the process of sperm-egg recognition as it compromises the function and the stability of several germline proteins. Considering mature spermatozoa do not have the capacity for de novo protein translation, 4HNE modification of proteins in the mature gametes has uniquely severe consequences for protein homeostasis, cell function and cell survival. In somatic cells, 4HNE overproduction has been attributed to the action of lipoxygenase enzymes that facilitate the oxygenation and degradation of ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Accordingly, the arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15) enzyme has been intrinsically linked with 4HNE production, and resultant pathophysiology in various complex conditions such as coronary artery disease and multiple sclerosis. While ALOX15 has not been well characterized in germ cells, we postulate that ALOX15 inhibition may pose a new strategy to prevent 4HNE-induced protein modifications in the male germline. In this light, this review focuses on (i) 4HNE-induced protein damage in the male germline and its implications for fertility; and (ii) new methods for the prevention of lipid peroxidation in germ cells.
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Rezakhaniha B, Heidari R, Abbasi M. Can Melissa officinalis improve chromatin structure and sperm parameters in a rat model of varicocele? Andrologia 2018; 50:e13058. [PMID: 29876952 DOI: 10.1111/and.13058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 04/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive production of reactive oxygen species is a central mechanism in the pathology of varicocele; Melissa officinalis (MO) is a medicinal plant from the Lamiaceae family that has antioxidant activity. In this study, we have investigated the potential therapeutic effect of MO on sperm parameters and chromatin structure in varicocelised rat. Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to control, sham, varicocele, MO treatment and placebo groups. Rats in varicocele, MO treatment and placebo groups underwent left varicocele induction. Following the operation, rats in placebo and MO treatment groups received normal saline or MO extract, daily for 10 weeks respectively. At 10 weeks after varicocele induction, sperm chromatin and parameters were evaluated in all groups. Chromatin structure was evaluated by aniline blue, acridine orange and toluidine blue staining. All three staining outcomes were increased in varicocele and placebo compared control (and sham) groups (p < 0.05). Sperm count, motility, morphology and vitality were decreased between varicocele and control (and sham) group (p < 0.05). Sperm parameters and chromatin staining (else AB staining) outcomes improve in MO treatment compared to varicocele and placebo groups (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that MO ameliorate the harmful effect of varicocele on sperm parameters and chromatin structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijan Rezakhaniha
- Department of Urology, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Heidari
- Department of Urology, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Abbasi
- Department of Anatomy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Majzoub A, Agarwal A. Systematic review of antioxidant types and doses in male infertility: Benefits on semen parameters, advanced sperm function, assisted reproduction and live-birth rate. Arab J Urol 2018; 16:113-124. [PMID: 29713542 PMCID: PMC5922223 DOI: 10.1016/j.aju.2017.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the current evidence concerning the effect of oral antioxidant supplementation on various male fertility outcomes, as antioxidants are widely available compounds that are commonly used for the treatment of male infertility. Materials and methods PubMed, Medline and Cochrane electronic databases were searched according to a modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines looking for studies investigating the effect of antioxidant therapy on infertile men. The studies were explored looking for antioxidants: (i) types and doses; (ii) mechanism of action and rationale for use; and (iii) effect on the different outcome measures reported. Results In all, 26 studies reported a significant positive effect of antioxidant therapy on basic semen parameters, advanced sperm function, outcomes of assisted reproductive therapy, and live-birth rate. Vitamin E, vitamin C, carnitines, N-acetyl cysteine, co-enzyme Q10, zinc, selenium, folic acid and lycopene were most commonly used. The vitamins’ mechanism of action and reported doses is presented in Table 1, Table 2. Conclusion Antioxidants generally have a favourable effect on male fertility. Further studies are needed to identify the optimal antioxidant regimen that can be used safely and efficiently in clinical practice.
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Key Words
- ART, assisted reproductive therapy
- Antioxidants
- DDS, DNA degraded sperm
- ICSI, intracytoplasmic sperm injection
- IVF, in vitro fertilisation
- LAC, l-acetyl carnitine
- LC, l-carnitine
- Male infertility
- MeSH, Medical Subject Heading
- NAC, N-acetyl cysteine
- OAT, oligoasthenozoospermia
- OS, oxidative stress
- PRISMA, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- Reactive oxygen species
- SDF, sperm DNA fragmentation
- Semen analysis
- Sperm DNA fragmentation
- coQ10, co-enzyme Q10
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Majzoub
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Corresponding author at: Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, PO Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH, USA
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Agarwal A, Cho CL, Majzoub A, Esteves SC. Risk factors associated with sperm DNA fragmentation. Transl Androl Urol 2017; 6:S519-S521. [PMID: 29082947 PMCID: PMC5643615 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2017.04.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Chak-Lam Cho
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Kwong Wah Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Ahmadi S, Bashiri R, Ghadiri-Anari A, Nadjarzadeh A. Antioxidant supplements and semen parameters: An evidence based review. Int J Reprod Biomed 2016. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.14.12.729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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Rezaeian Z, Yazdekhasti H, Nasri S, Rajabi Z, Fallahi P, Amidi F. Effect of selenium on human sperm parameters after freezing and thawing procedures. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apjr.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Garg H, Kumar R. An update on the role of medical treatment including antioxidant therapy in varicocele. Asian J Androl 2016; 18:222-8. [PMID: 26763549 PMCID: PMC4770490 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.171657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele-associated male infertility has classically been managed using surgery or assisted reproductive techniques. With increasing evidence of oxidative stress as a pathophysiological factor in varicocele-associated infertility, medical therapy especially antioxidants might become a treatment option with lower risks. We reviewed the existing literature on the role of various medical agents in the management of male infertility attributed to varicoceles. Medical therapy is typically evaluated in three different situations such as (a) comparison of two drugs or one drug with placebo, (b) comparison of drugs versus surgery, and (c) comparison of drugs as adjuvant therapy with surgery versus drug therapy alone. Due to heterogeneity of data and lack of well-conducted studies, there is insufficient data to recommend routine use of medical therapy for men with varicocele-associated infertility and surgery remains the treatment of choice. Pregnancy and live birth rates are usually not reported in most studies and mere improvement in sperm parameters or antioxidant capacity is insufficient to support its routine use. Antioxidant therapy is a potential option due to its theoretical benefit, data from preclinical studies, and lack of major side effects. Adjuvant therapy with antioxidants after surgical repair of varicocele may improve the outcome and is a potential area for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rajeev Kumar
- Department of Urology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Barekat F, Tavalaee M, Deemeh MR, Bahreinian M, Azadi L, Abbasi H, Rozbahani S, Nasr-Esfahani MH. A Preliminary Study: N-acetyl-L-cysteine Improves Semen Quality following Varicocelectomy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2016; 10:120-6. [PMID: 27123209 PMCID: PMC4845522 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2016.4777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Surgery is considered the primary treatment for male infertility from clinical varicocele. One of the main events associated with varicocele is excessive production
of reactive oxygen species (ROS). N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), an antioxidant that scavenges free radicals, is considered a supplement to alleviate glutathione (GSH) depletion
during oxidative stress. Despite beneficial effects of NAC in other pathological events,
there is no report on the effect of NAC in individuals with varicocele. Therefore, the aim
of this study is to evaluate the outcome of NAC on semen quality, protamine content,
DNA damage, oxidative stress and fertility following varicocelectomy. Materials and Methods This prospective clinical trial included 35 infertile men with
varicocele randomly divided into control (n=20) and NAC (n=15) groups. We assessed
semen parameters, protamine content [chromomycin A3 (CMA3)], DNA integrity [terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL)] and oxidative stress [2', 7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein-diacetate (DCFH-DA)] before and three
months after varicocelectomy. Results Percentage of abnormal semen parameters, protamine deficiency, DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress were significantly decreased in both groups compared to
before surgery. We calculated the percentage of improvement in these parameters compared to before surgery for each group, then compared the results between the groups.
Only percentage of protamine deficiency and DNA fragmentation significantly differed
between the NAC and control groups. Conclusion The results of this study, for the first time, revealed that NAC improved
chromatin integrity and pregnancy rate when administered as adjunct therapy post-varico-
celectomy (Registeration Number: IRCT201508177223N5).
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Affiliation(s)
- Foroogh Barekat
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran; Department of Biology, Flavarjan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Flavarjan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Deemeh
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahsa Bahreinian
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Leila Azadi
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Shahla Rozbahani
- Department of Biology, Flavarjan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Flavarjan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran; Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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Cho CL, Esteves SC, Agarwal A. Novel insights into the pathophysiology of varicocele and its association with reactive oxygen species and sperm DNA fragmentation. Asian J Androl 2016; 18:186-93. [PMID: 26732105 PMCID: PMC4770484 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.170441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele has been associated with reduced male reproductive potential. With the advances in biomolecular techniques, it has been possible to better understand the mechanisms involved in testicular damage provoked by varicocele. Current evidence suggests the central role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the resultant oxidative stress (OS) in the pathogenesis of varicocele-associated male subfertility although the mechanisms have not yet been fully described and it is likely to be multifactorial. Excessive ROS is associated with sperm DNA fragmentation, which may mediate the clinical manifestation of poor sperm function and fertilization outcome related to varicocele. Testing of ROS/OS and DNA fragmentation has the potential to provide additional diagnostic and prognostic information compared to conventional semen analysis and may guide therapeutic management strategies in individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chak-Lam Cho
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Kwong Wah Hospital, 25 Waterloo Road, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Center for Male Reproduction, Av. Dr. Heitor Penteado 1464, Campinas, SP 13075-460, Brazil
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, X-11, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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Abstract
The majority of male infertility is idiopathic. However, there are multiple known causes of male infertility, and some of these causes can be treated medically with high success rates. In cases of idiopathic or genetic causes of male infertility, medical management is typically empirical; in most instances medical therapy represents off-label use that is not specifically approved by the FDA. Understanding the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the effect of estrogen excess is critical for the assessment and treatment of male infertility. The use of certain medical treatment has been associated with an increase in sperm production or motility, and primarily focuses on optimizing testosterone (T) production from the Leydig cells, increasing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels to stimulate Sertoli cells and spermatogenesis, and normalizing the T to estrogen ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Dabaja
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Peter N Schlegel
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
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ElSheikh MG, Hosny MB, Elshenoufy A, Elghamrawi H, Fayad A, Abdelrahman S. Combination of vitamin E and clomiphene citrate in treating patients with idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia: A prospective, randomized trial. Andrology 2015; 3:864-7. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2015] [Revised: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. G. ElSheikh
- Department of Urology; Faculty of medicine; Cairo University; Cairo Egypt
| | - M. B. Hosny
- Department of Urology; Faculty of medicine; Cairo University; Cairo Egypt
| | - A. Elshenoufy
- Department of Urology; Faculty of medicine; Cairo University; Cairo Egypt
| | - H. Elghamrawi
- Department of Urology; Faculty of medicine; Cairo University; Cairo Egypt
| | - A. Fayad
- Department of Urology; Faculty of medicine; Cairo University; Cairo Egypt
| | - S. Abdelrahman
- Department of Urology; Faculty of medicine; Cairo University; Cairo Egypt
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Agarwal A, Hamada A, Esteves SC. Engaging practicing gynecologists in the management of infertile men. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2015; 65:75-87. [PMID: 25883438 PMCID: PMC4395576 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-014-0623-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
In the modern era, contemporary management of male infertility has undergone groundbreaking changes with the introduction of new concepts, advanced testing, and therapeutic interventions. As practicing gynecologists are often the first physicians who encounter an infertile couple, it is essential that these clinicians are continuously updated about the new pearls and pitfalls of male infertility management. Semen analysis is commonly ordered by gynecologists. In 2010, the WHO released new cutoff reference values for the semen parameters adopting novel methodology, which has incited much debate. Reference values have been lowered in comparison with previous standards, with a direct clinical implication in decision-making strategies. Specialized sperm-function tests, such as sperm oxidative stress and sperm chromatin integrity assessments, became clinically available, thus offering an opportunity to better understand sperm dysfunctions concealed during routine semen analysis. Furthermore, the initial counseling of azoospermic men by an andrologically well educated gynecologist may alleviate the misconception and distress surrounding the false belief of sterility, and will clarify the available options of percutaneous and microsurgical sperm-retrieval techniques and assisted conception outcome. Regarding varicocele, which is commonly seen in infertile males, it is now clear that the best treatment option for infertile men with clinical varicocele is the microsurgical vein ligation. Natural conception is significantly improved after varicocelectomy, and recent data suggest that such treatment optimizes reproductive outcome of couples undergoing ICSI or micro-TESE sperm retrieval. Lastly, new therapeutic interventions, including oral antioxidant therapy and lifestyle modifications, have gained increasing attention, as they aid in alleviating male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- />Lerner College of Medicine, Andrology Center and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
| | - Alaa Hamada
- />Department of Urology, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- />Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, ANDROFERT, Av. Dr. Heitor Penteado, 1464, Campinas, SP 13075-460 Brazil
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Jung JH, Seo JT. Empirical medical therapy in idiopathic male infertility: Promise or panacea? Clin Exp Reprod Med 2014; 41:108-14. [PMID: 25309854 PMCID: PMC4192450 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2014.41.3.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Revised: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Male factors account for 20%-50% of cases of infertility and in 25% of cases, the etiology of male infertility is unknown. Effective treatments are well-established for hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, male accessory gland infection, retrograde ejaculation, and positive antisperm antibody. However, the appropriate treatment for idiopathic male infertility is unclear. Empirical medical treatment (EMT) has been used in men with idiopathic infertility and can be divided into two categories based on the mode of action: hormonal treatment and antioxidant supplementation. Hormonal medications consist of gonadotropins, androgens, estrogen receptor blockers, and aromatase inhibitors. Antioxidants such as vitamins, zinc, and carnitines have also been widely used to reduce oxidative stress-induced spermatozoa damage. Although scientifically acceptable evidence of EMT is limited because of the lack of large, randomized, controlled studies, recent systematic reviews with meta-analyses have shown that the administration of gonadotropins, anti-estrogens, and oral antioxidants results in a significant increase in the live birth rate compared with control treatments. Therefore, all physicians who treat infertility should bear in mind that EMT can improve semen parameters and subsequent fertility potential through natural intercourse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hung Jung
- Department of Urology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea
| | - Ju Tae Seo
- Department of Urology, Cheil General Hospital, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Vaez A, Mardani M, Razavi S. Impact of saffron on rat sperm membrane integrity and spermatogenesis status. Adv Biomed Res 2014; 3:146. [PMID: 25161993 PMCID: PMC4139985 DOI: 10.4103/2277-9175.135163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 11/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male factor has been considered as a 50% of infertility causes. One of the reasons for poor semen quality is oxidative stress. Saffron and vitamin E as antioxidant agent can be involved in free radical scavenging and improvement of semen quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS We divided 30 adult male Wistar rats into saffron (n = 10), vitamin E (n = 10) and control (n = 10) groups randomly. Saffron (100 mg/kg/day), vitamin E (100 mg/kg/day), and distilled water (0.5 ml/day) were fed by gavage to the animals for 60 consecutive days in aforementioned groups. After cervical dislocation, both testes and left epididymis of each animal were removed and the cauda epididymal spermatozoa were aspirated for analysis of sperm parameters. Sperm membrane integrity was assessed by hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST). In different groups, seminiferous tubule histological assessments were done after Hematoxylin -Eosin staining. RESULTS The mean percentage of HOST positive sperm was increased in vitamin E and saffron groups as compared to control group. As we can see there was a significant difference among control and experimental groups (P < 0.001); also a significant difference was obtained between vitamin E and saffron groups (P = 0.002). The evaluation of seminiferous tubules has shown no significant differences among groups. CONCLUSIONS The present data suggest that saffron had superior antioxidant properties which can improve sperm parameters and membrane integrity so it can lead to develop fertility potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Vaez
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mardani
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Shahnaz Razavi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Belloc S, Hazout A, Zini A, Merviel P, Cabry R, Chahine H, Copin H, Benkhalifa M. How to overcome male infertility after 40: Influence of paternal age on fertility. Maturitas 2014; 78:22-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2014.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Revised: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Showell MG, Mackenzie-Proctor R, Brown J, Yazdani A, Stankiewicz MT, Hart RJ. Antioxidants for male subfertility. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014:CD007411. [PMID: 25504418 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007411.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Between 30% to 80% of male subfertility cases are considered to be due to the damaging effects of oxidative stress on sperm and 1 man in 20 will be affected by subfertility. Antioxidants are widely available and inexpensive when compared to other fertility treatments and many men are already using these to improve their fertility. It is thought that oral supplementation with antioxidants may improve sperm quality by reducing oxidative stress. Pentoxifylline, a drug that acts like an antioxidant, was also included in this review. OBJECTIVES This Cochrane review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of oral supplementation with antioxidants for subfertile male partners in couples seeking fertility assistance. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and AMED databases (from inception until January 2014); trial registers; sources of unpublished literature and reference lists. An updated search was run in August 2014 when potentially eligible studies were placed in 'Studies awaiting assessment'. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any type or dose of antioxidant supplement (single or combined) taken by the subfertile male partner of a couple seeking fertility assistance with a placebo, no treatment or another antioxidant. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently selected eligible studies, extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias of the included studies. The primary review outcome was live birth; secondary outcomes included clinical pregnancy rates, adverse events, sperm DNA fragmentation, sperm motility and concentration. Data were combined, where appropriate, to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) or mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I(2) statistic. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence for the main outcomes using GRADE methods. MAIN RESULTS This updated review included 48 RCTs that compared single and combined antioxidants with placebo, no treatment or another antioxidant in a population of 4179 subfertile men. The duration of the trials ranged from 3 to 26 weeks with follow up ranging from 3 weeks to 2 years. The men were aged from 20 to 52 years. Most of the men enrolled in these trials had low total sperm motility and sperm concentration. One study enrolled men after varicocelectomy, one enrolled men with a varicocoele, and one recruited men with chronic prostatitis. Three trials enrolled men who, as a couple, were undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and one trial enrolled men who were part of a couple undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI). Funding sources were stated by 15 trials. Four of these trials stated that funding was from a commercial source and the remaining 11 obtained funding through non-commercial avenues or university grants. Thirty-three trials did not report any funding sources.A limitation of this review was that in a sense we had included two different groups of trials, those that reported on the use of antioxidants and the effect on live birth and clinical pregnancy, and a second group that reported on sperm parameters as their primary outcome and had no intention of reporting the primary outcomes of this review. We included 25 trials reporting on sperm parameters and only three of these reported on live birth or clinical pregnancy. Other limitations included poor reporting of study methods, imprecision, the small number of trials providing usable data, the small sample size of many of the included studies and the lack of adverse events reporting. The evidence was graded as 'very low' to 'low'. The data were current to 31 January 2014.Live birth: antioxidants may have increased live birth rates (OR 4.21, 95% CI 2.08 to 8.51, P< 0.0001, 4 RCTs, 277 men, I(2) = 0%, low quality evidence). This suggests that if the chance of a live birth following placebo or no treatment is assumed to be 5%, the chance following the use of antioxidants is estimated to be between 10% and 31%. However, this result was based on only 44 live births from a total of 277 couples in four small studies.Clinical pregnancy rate: antioxidants may have increased clinical pregnancy rates (OR 3.43, 95% CI 1.92 to 6.11, P < 0.0001, 7 RCTs, 522 men, I(2) = 0%, low quality evidence). This suggests that if the chance of clinical pregnancy following placebo or no treatment is assumed to be 6%, the chance following the use of antioxidants is estimated at between 11% and 28%. However, there were only seven small studies in this analysis and the quality of the evidence was rated as low.Miscarriage: only three trials reported on this outcome and the event rate was very low. There was insufficient evidence to show whether there was a difference in miscarriage rates between the antioxidant and placebo or no treatment groups (OR 1.74, 95% CI 0.40 to 7.60, P = 0.46, 3 RCTs, 247 men, I(2) = 0%, very low quality evidence). The findings suggest that in a population of subfertile men with an expected miscarriage rate of 2%, use of an antioxidant would result in the risk of a miscarriage lying between 1% and 13%.Gastrointestinal upsets: there was insufficient evidence to show whether there was a difference in gastrointestinal upsets when antioxidants were compared to placebo or no treatment as the event rate was very low (OR 1.60, 95% CI 0.47 to 5.50, P = 0.46, 6 RCTs, 429 men, I(2) = 0%).We were unable to draw any conclusions from the antioxidant versus antioxidant comparison as not enough trials compared the same interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is low quality evidence from only four small randomised controlled trials suggesting that antioxidant supplementation in subfertile males may improve live birth rates for couples attending fertility clinics. Low quality evidence suggests that clinical pregnancy rates may increase. There is no evidence of increased risk of miscarriage but this is uncertain as the evidence is of very low quality. Data were lacking on other adverse effects. Further large well-designed randomised placebo-controlled trials are needed to clarify these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian G Showell
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Park Road Grafton, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Abstract
Nutraceuticals are food products that that can provide medical or health benefits by preventing or treating disease processes. The high costs associated with assisted reproductive techniques for male infertility have led consumers to find less expensive alternatives for potential treatment. Nutraceuticals are widely available and have many antioxidant properties. This articles reviews the current English literature regarding readily available nutraceuticals and their potential effects on male infertility and potential side effects with excess intake.
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Hamada A, Esteves SC, Agarwal A. Insight into oxidative stress in varicocele-associated male infertility: part 2. Nat Rev Urol 2012; 10:26-37. [PMID: 23165400 DOI: 10.1038/nrurol.2012.198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Varicocele, the leading cause of male infertility, can impair spermatogenesis through several pathophysiological mechanisms. Of these, current evidence suggests that oxidative stress is the central element contributing to infertility in men with varicocele, to which the testis responds by way of heat stress, ischaemia or production of vasodilators, such as nitric oxide. Surgical varicocele repair (varicocelectomy) is beneficial not only for alleviating oxidative stress-associated infertility, but also for preventing and protecting against the progressive character of varicocele and its consequent upregulations of systemic oxidative stress. However, antioxidant therapy in infertile men with surgically treated and those with untreated varicocele is poorly studied, and well-designed trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Hamada
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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44
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Hamada AJ, Montgomery B, Agarwal A. Male infertility: a critical review of pharmacologic management. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2012; 13:2511-31. [DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2012.740011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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45
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Bjelakovic G, Nikolova D, Gluud LL, Simonetti RG, Gluud C. Antioxidant supplements for prevention of mortality in healthy participants and patients with various diseases. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012; 2012:CD007176. [PMID: 22419320 PMCID: PMC8407395 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007176.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 284] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our systematic review has demonstrated that antioxidant supplements may increase mortality. We have now updated this review. OBJECTIVES To assess the beneficial and harmful effects of antioxidant supplements for prevention of mortality in adults. SEARCH METHODS We searched The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, the Science Citation Index Expanded, and Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science to February 2011. We scanned bibliographies of relevant publications and asked pharmaceutical companies for additional trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all primary and secondary prevention randomised clinical trials on antioxidant supplements (beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium) versus placebo or no intervention. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Three authors extracted data. Random-effects and fixed-effect model meta-analyses were conducted. Risk of bias was considered in order to minimise the risk of systematic errors. Trial sequential analyses were conducted to minimise the risk of random errors. Random-effects model meta-regression analyses were performed to assess sources of intertrial heterogeneity. MAIN RESULTS Seventy-eight randomised trials with 296,707 participants were included. Fifty-six trials including 244,056 participants had low risk of bias. Twenty-six trials included 215,900 healthy participants. Fifty-two trials included 80,807 participants with various diseases in a stable phase. The mean age was 63 years (range 18 to 103 years). The mean proportion of women was 46%. Of the 78 trials, 46 used the parallel-group design, 30 the factorial design, and 2 the cross-over design. All antioxidants were administered orally, either alone or in combination with vitamins, minerals, or other interventions. The duration of supplementation varied from 28 days to 12 years (mean duration 3 years; median duration 2 years). Overall, the antioxidant supplements had no significant effect on mortality in a random-effects model meta-analysis (21,484 dead/183,749 (11.7%) versus 11,479 dead/112,958 (10.2%); 78 trials, relative risk (RR) 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.98 to 1.05) but significantly increased mortality in a fixed-effect model (RR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.05). Heterogeneity was low with an I(2)- of 12%. In meta-regression analysis, the risk of bias and type of antioxidant supplement were the only significant predictors of intertrial heterogeneity. Meta-regression analysis did not find a significant difference in the estimated intervention effect in the primary prevention and the secondary prevention trials. In the 56 trials with a low risk of bias, the antioxidant supplements significantly increased mortality (18,833 dead/146,320 (12.9%) versus 10,320 dead/97,736 (10.6%); RR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.07). This effect was confirmed by trial sequential analysis. Excluding factorial trials with potential confounding showed that 38 trials with low risk of bias demonstrated a significant increase in mortality (2822 dead/26,903 (10.5%) versus 2473 dead/26,052 (9.5%); RR 1.10, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.15). In trials with low risk of bias, beta-carotene (13,202 dead/96,003 (13.8%) versus 8556 dead/77,003 (11.1%); 26 trials, RR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.09) and vitamin E (11,689 dead/97,523 (12.0%) versus 7561 dead/73,721 (10.3%); 46 trials, RR 1.03, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.05) significantly increased mortality, whereas vitamin A (3444 dead/24,596 (14.0%) versus 2249 dead/16,548 (13.6%); 12 trials, RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.18), vitamin C (3637 dead/36,659 (9.9%) versus 2717 dead/29,283 (9.3%); 29 trials, RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.07), and selenium (2670 dead/39,779 (6.7%) versus 1468 dead/22,961 (6.4%); 17 trials, RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.03) did not significantly affect mortality. In univariate meta-regression analysis, the dose of vitamin A was significantly associated with increased mortality (RR 1.0006, 95% CI 1.0002 to 1.001, P = 0.002). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence to support antioxidant supplements for primary or secondary prevention. Beta-carotene and vitamin E seem to increase mortality, and so may higher doses of vitamin A. Antioxidant supplements need to be considered as medicinal products and should undergo sufficient evaluation before marketing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Bjelakovic
- Department of InternalMedicine,Medical Faculty, University ofNis,Nis, Serbia.
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What every gynecologist should know about male infertility: an update. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2012; 286:217-29. [PMID: 22392488 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-012-2274-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2012] [Accepted: 02/21/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our article reviews the evolving concepts in the field of male infertility for gynecologists and other health professionals involved in the care of men and women experiencing difficulty in having a child. The increased knowledge will help in the better management and treatment of infertile couples. METHODS Review of literature through Pubmed, Science Direct, Online Library. RESULTS Gynecologists are often the first healthcare providers to assess an infertile couple. Because half of all infertility problems stem from male factors, it is crucial for the gynecologist to remain updated on the main conditions that cause male infertility as well as current diagnostic tools and treatment options, including conventional strategies and assisted reproductive techniques. CONCLUSIONS Extraordinary advances have been achieved in the field of male infertility over the past several years and many old concepts are now challenged. Therefore, it is imperative that male infertility physicians should update the gynecologists about the recent advances in the work-up of infertile men in terms of diagnosis and management. Such convention will help improve the standards of care for the infertile couple and enhance the cooperation between male and female reproductive endocrinologists.
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Miyaoka R, Esteves SC. A critical appraisal on the role of varicocele in male infertility. Adv Urol 2011; 2012:597495. [PMID: 22162682 PMCID: PMC3228353 DOI: 10.1155/2012/597495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is a major cause of male infertility, as it may impair spermatogenesis through several distinct physiopathological mechanisms. With the recent advances in biomolecular techniques and the development of novel sperm functional tests, it has been possible to better understand the mechanisms involved in testicular damage provoked by varicocele and, therefore, propose optimized ways to prevent and/or reverse them. Up to now, there is still controversy involving the true benefit of varicocele repair in subfertile men as well as in certain specific situations such as concomitant contralateral subclinical varicocele or associated nonobstructive azoospermia. Also, with the continued development of assisted reproductive technology new issues and questions are emerging regarding the role of varicocelectomy in this context. This paper reviews the most recent data available on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of varicocele with regard to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Miyaoka
- ANDROFERT-Center for Male Reproduction, Av. Dr. Heitor Penteado 1464, Campinas 13075-460, São Paulo, Brazil
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The role of antioxidant therapy in the treatment of male infertility: an overview. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:690-7. [PMID: 21685925 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, many studies have focused on the effect of oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants on the male eproductive system. Under physiological conditions, sperm produces small amounts of ROS, which are needed for fertilisation, acrosome reaction and capacitation. However, if an increased production of ROS is not associated with a similar increase in scavenging systems, peroxidative damage of the sperm plasma membrane and loss of DNA integrity typically occur, which leads to cell death and reduced fertility. Furthermore, since there is no linear correlation between sperm quality and pregnancy rates, an improvement in semen parameters should not be the sole outcome considered in studies of antioxidant therapies. A definitive conclusion regarding the benefit of these therapies is difficult to obtain, as most of the previous studies lacked control groups, considered different antioxidants in different combinations and doses, or did not evaluate pregnancy rates in previously infertile couples. Even if beneficial effects were reported in a few cases of male infertility, more multicentre, double-blind studies performed with the same criteria are necessary for an increased understanding of the effects of various antioxidants on fertility.
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Zini A, Al-Hathal N. Antioxidant therapy in male infertility: fact or fiction? Asian J Androl 2011; 13:374-81. [PMID: 21516118 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertile men have higher levels of semen reactive oxygen species (ROS) than do fertile men. High levels of semen ROS can cause sperm dysfunction, sperm DNA damage and reduced male reproductive potential. This observation has led clinicians to treat infertile men with antioxidant supplements. The purpose of this article is to discuss the rationale for antioxidant therapy in infertile men and to evaluate the data on the efficacy of dietary and in vitro antioxidant preparations on sperm function and DNA damage. To date, most clinical studies suggest that dietary antioxidant supplements are beneficial in terms of improving sperm function and DNA integrity. However, the exact mechanism of action of dietary antioxidants and the optimal dietary supplement have not been established. Moreover, most of the clinical studies are small and few have evaluated pregnancy rates. A beneficial effect of in vitro antioxidant supplements in protecting spermatozoa from exogenous oxidants has been demonstrated in most studies; however, the effect of these antioxidants in protecting sperm from endogenous ROS, gentle sperm processing and cryopreservation has not been established conclusively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Royal Victoria Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Que. H3T 1M5, Canada.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Between 30% to 80% of male subfertility cases are considered to be due to the damaging effects of oxidative stress on sperm. Oral supplementation with antioxidants may improve sperm quality by reducing oxidative stress. OBJECTIVES This Cochrane review aimed to evaluate the effect of oral supplementation with antioxidants for male partners of couples undergoing assisted reproduction techniques (ART). SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Menstrual Disorders and Subfertility Group Register, CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and AMED databases (from their inception until Febuary 2010), trial registers, sources of unpublished literature, reference lists and we asked experts in the field. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials comparing any type or dose of antioxidant supplement (single or combined) taken by the male partner of a couple seeking fertility assistance with placebo, no treatment or another antioxidant. The outcomes were live birth, pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth, sperm DNA damage, sperm motility, sperm concentration and adverse effects. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed studies for inclusion and trial quality, and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS We included 34 trials with 2876 couples in total. Live birth: three trials reported live birth. Men taking oral antioxidants had an associated statistically significant increase in live birth rate (pooled odds ratio (OR) 4.85, 95% CI 1.92 to 12.24; P = 0.0008, I(2) = 0%) when compared with the men taking the control. This result was based on 20 live births from a total of 214 couples in only three studies.Pregnancy rate: there were 96 pregnancies in 15 trials including 964 couples. Antioxidant use was associated with a statistically significant increased pregnancy rate compared to control (pooled OR 4.18, 95% CI 2.65 to 6.59; P < 0.00001, I(2) = 0%).Side effects: no studies reported evidence of harmful side effects of the antioxidant therapy used. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The evidence suggests that antioxidant supplementation in subfertile males may improve the outcomes of live birth and pregnancy rate for subfertile couples undergoing ART cycles. Further head to head comparisons are necessary to identify the superiority of one antioxidant over another.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian G Showell
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Park Road Grafton, Auckland, New Zealand
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