Photobiomodulation preconditioned human semen protects sperm cells against detrimental effects of cryopreservation

Probing the impact of commercial cryoprotectants and freezing technique on the motility of human spermatozoa cryopreserved onto extremely water-repellent soot-coated surfaces

The cryopreservation of human spermatozoa is an integral part of cryobiology, aiming to support the in-vitro fertilization. The latter relies on the availability of as much as possible reproductively active spermatozoa, whose number after thawing decreases due to the accompanied freezing injury and the cytotoxicity of cryoprotectants. An innovative option to circumvent these obstacles is to make the freezing interface non-wettable, by coating it with rapeseed oil soot possessing intrinsic cryoprotective properties, delaying the ice formation and possibly providing identical rates of intracellular dehydration and extracellular crystallization. It may mean that this technique can reduce or avoid the need of harmful cryoprotective agents, but to reach such a developmental stage, the synergistic effect of certified cryoprotectants and cooling velocities on the efficiency of soot-mediated sperm cryopreservation must be clarified. With the intention to address this research gap, we reveal that the slow freezing/thawing of distinct mixtures of three cryoprotectants (SpermFreeze™, CryoSperm™ and DMSO) and the human semen of nine patients equalizes the percent of survived spermatozoa, but declines their curvilinear velocity. At instant freezing (∼7-20 s) and slow thawing, via specially-designed soot fabric-coated sheet metal cryoboxes, the inclusion of 10 % DMSO is noxious, but the post-thaw motility reaches 74-100 % independently of the cryoprotective solutes. These surprising findings are ascribed to the formation of a quasivitrified semen, whose complete freezing ensures a fraction of extracellular ice matching that from the equilibrium phase diagram, eluding the osmotic shocks and paving the path for future replacement of the classic vitrification.

The power of 810 nm near-infrared photobiomodulation therapy for human asthenozoospermia

Sperm motility is a crucial factor in male fertility. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been reported to increase sperm motility, but a consistent approach suitable for identifying standardizable protocols is lacking. We collected asthenozoospermic (n = 70) and normozoospermic (n = 20) semen. The asthenozoospermic samples were irradiated with an 810 nm diode laser, in continuous wave mode, at 0.25 W, 0.5 W, 1 W and 2 W for 60 s on a circular area of 1 cm2 through a novel handpiece with an innovative flat-top profile. Sperm motility was assessed immediately, after 30 and 60 min. A sample size calculator, unpaired t-test and one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey HSD tests were used for statistics. One and 2 W were the most effective outputs in increasing progressive motility compared to control (p < 0.001). The maximum effect was immediately after 1 W-PBM (p < 0.001) and decreased after 60 min (p < 0.001). Time physiologically decreased vitality (p < 0.001), but less in the 1 W-PBM samples (p < 0.05). 1 W-PBM did not affect chromatin condensation. Asthenozoospermic samples displayed an impairment of 80% in oxygen consumption and ATP production and a slight inefficiency of oxidative phosphorylation compared to normozoospermic samples (p < 0.001). 1 W-PBM partially restored the functionality of aerobic metabolism (p < 0.001) by recovery of oxidative phosphorylation efficiency. PBM did not affect lactate dehydrogenase (glycolysis pathway). No irradiated samples increased accumulated malondialdehyde, a marker of lipidic peroxidation. In conclusion, PBM improves progressive motility in asthenozoospermia through increased mitochondrial energetic metabolism without harmful oxidative stress.

A Comprehensive Systematic Review of the Effects of Photobiomodulation Therapy in Different Light Wavelength Ranges (Blue, Green, Red, and Near-Infrared) on Sperm Cell Characteristics in Vitro and in Vivo

Around 7% of the male population in the world are entangle with considerable situation which is known as male infertility. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is the application of low-level laser radiation, that recently used to increase or promote the various cell functions including, proliferation, differentiation, ATP production, gene expressions, regulation of reactive oxygen spices (ROS), and also boost the tissue healing and reduction of inflammation. This systematic review's main idea is a comprehensive appraisal of the literatures on subjects of PBMT consequences in four light ranges wavelength (blue, green, red, near-infrared (NIR)) on sperm cell characteristics, in vitro and in vivo. In this study, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases were used for abstracts and full-text scientific papers published from 2003-2023 that reported the application of PBM on sperm cells. Criteria's for inclusion and exclusion to review were applied. Finally, the studies that matched with our goals were included, classified, and reported in detail. Also, searched studies were subdivided into the effects of four ranges of light irradiation, including the blue light range (400-500 nm), green light range (500-600 nm), red light range (600-780 nm), and NIR light range (780-3000 nm) of laser irradiation on human or animal sperm cells, in situations of in vitro or in vivo. Searches with our keywords results in 137 papers. After primary analysis, some articles were excluded because they were review articles or incomplete and unrelated studies. Finally, we use the 63 articles for this systematic review. Our category tables were based on the light range of irradiation, source of sperm cells (human or animal cells) and being in vitro or in vivo. Six% of publications reported the effects of blue, 10% green, 53% red and 31% NIR, light on sperm cell. In general, most of these studies showed that PBMT exerted a positive effect on the sperm cell motility. The various effects of PBMT in different wavelength ranges, as mentioned in this review, provide more insights for its potential applications in improving sperm characteristics. PBMT as a treatment method has significant effectiveness for treatment of different medical problems. Due to the lack of reporting data in this field, there is a need for future studies to assessment the biochemical and molecular effects of PBMT on sperm cells for the possible application of this treatment to the human sperm cells before the ART process.

The effects of photobiomodulation on the improvement of sperm parameters: A review study

The prevalence of male infertility has become a significant clinical concern worldwide, with a noticeable upward trend in recent times. The rates of fertilization and subsequent development of embryos are dependent on many parameters associated with the quality and viability of sperm. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a promising approach with a great potential for translational applications in the treatment of spermatozoa exhibiting low quality and motility. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature, specifically examining the mechanisms of action of PBM has been presented. Our objective was to enhance knowledge in the field of laser light therapy in order to promote the usage of irradiation in clinical settings in a more effective way. Within the realm of reproductive science, the utilization of PBM has been employed to enhance the metabolic processes, motility, and viability of spermatozoa. This is attributed to its advantageous effects on mitochondria, resulting in the activation of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and subsequent synthesis of ATP. This therapeutic approach can be highly advantageous in circumventing the reliance on chemical substances within the culture medium for spermatozoa while also facilitating the viability and motility of spermatozoa, particularly in circumstances involving thawing or samples with significant immotility.

Examining the combined benefits of photobiomodulation and apigenin for the treatment of asthenozoospermia: An innovative therapeutic strategy

Individuals suffering from asthenospermia, an infertility disorder, have reduced sperm motility. This study's goal was to identify the impacts of diverse photobiomodulation procedures on the motility of sperm in vitro in patients with asthenospermia, either in isolation or in combination with Apigenin. At 633 nm and 808 nm, the lasers are used with multiple dose values (0.6, 1.2, and 2.4) J/cm2 and altering Apigenin concentrations (5, 10, 25, and 50 μM). All of the photobiomodulation procedures were assessed. Assessing factors were the DNA fragmentation index, sperm viability, as well as progressive sperm motility. The progressive sperm motility results for 633 nm and 808 nm show a significant increase over 633 nm + 808 nm after 60 min after irradiation. Sperm motility increased more quickly under the 808 nm procedure than under the other procedures (p < 0.02). The observation of progressive sperm motility indicated that a 10 μM concentration of Apigenin created higher results than other concentrations (p < 0.01). Apigenin with 808 nm at 1.2 J/cm2 resulted in better sperm motility (p < 0.01) and decreased DNA fragmentation index. There was a notable increase (p < 0.05) in the DNA fragmentation index with the 633 nm + 808 nm procedure. At a 10 μM concentration of Apigenin, the DNA fragmentation index was lower than at a 50 μM concentration (p < 0.02). Neither Apigenin nor photobiomodulation significantly decreased sperm viability. The study suggests that asthenozoospermia patients may benefit from apigenin utilized alongside photobiomodulation, while further investigation is required.

Applications of laser technology in the manipulation of human spermatozoa

The application of laser technology in the field of assisted reproductive technology (ART) has experienced rapid growth over the past decades owing to revolutionary techniques such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), and in vitro manipulation of gametes and embryos. For male gametes, in vitro manipulation techniques include spermatozoa selection, sorting, immobilization, and quality assessment. A number of studies have been conducted to investigate the application of different laser technologies in the manipulation of human spermatozoa. However, there is a lack of a unified understanding of laser application in the in vitro manipulation of sperm and safety considerations in ART and, subsequently, the inability to make clear and accurate decisions on the clinical value of these laser technologies. This review summarizes the advancements and improvements of laser technologies in the manipulation of human spermatozoa, such as photobiomodulation therapy, laser trap systems for sperm analysis and sorting, laser-assisted selection of immotile sperm and laser-assisted immobilization of sperm prior to ICSI. The safety of those technologies used in ART is also discussed. This review will provide helpful and comprehensive insight into the applications of laser technology in the manipulation of human spermatozoa.

Effects of photobiomodulation therapy on human sperm function

INTRODUCTION

Sperm motility is a crucial factor in male infertility and it depends on mitochondrial tail movements. Photobiomodulation light therapy allows the cells to produce their energy through activation of the mitochondria. The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of photobiomodulation on sperm motility in astenozoospermic individuals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Following semen analyses of 20 astenozoospermic individuals, collected semen samples were centrifuged. Pellet was obtained and homogenized through mixing with culture media in 1:1 ratio. Each semen samples were divided into 3 groups. In the first group, control samples were not exposed to laser irradiation. The Group 2 and Group 3 were exposed to 650nm wavelength of photobiomodulation from 10cm distance in dark environment via a 36cm² aperture sizer with 200mW output power for 30 and 60min duration, respectively. Sperm motilities were evaluated and chromatin condensation of sperms was determined.

RESULTS

Sperm motilities were significantly increased in photobiomodulation groups compared with the controls. Sperm motilities tended to be different between the 30 and 60min red light exposure groups; however, it was not statistically significant. When the motility grades were compared, no significant difference was observed in non-progressive motility sperms. While immotile sperms decreased significantly in the photobiomodulation groups compared to the control group, progressive sperms increased.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study demonstrated that the photobiomodulation is an efficient method to increase the sperm motility of astenozoospermic individuals independent of the duration of exposure.

Cryopreservation of Semen in Domestic Animals: A Review of Current Challenges, Applications, and Prospective Strategies

Cryopreservation is a way to preserve germplasm with applications in agriculture, biotechnology, and conservation of endangered animals. Cryopreservation has been available for over a century, yet, using current methods, only around 50% of spermatozoa retain their viability after cryopreservation. This loss is associated with damage to different sperm components including the plasma membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, proteins, mRNAs, and microRNAs. To mitigate this damage, conventional strategies use chemical additives that include classical cryoprotectants such as glycerol, as well as antioxidants, fatty acids, sugars, amino acids, and membrane stabilizers. However, clearly current protocols do not prevent all damage. This may be due to the imperfect function of antioxidants and the probable conversion of media components to more toxic forms during cryopreservation.

Extend the Survival of Human Sperm In Vitro in Non-Freezing Conditions: Damage Mechanisms, Preservation Technologies, and Clinical Applications

Preservation of human spermatozoa in vitro at normothermia or hypothermia maintaining their functions and fertility for several days plays a significant role in reproductive biology and medicine. However, it is well known that human spermatozoa left in vitro deteriorate over time irreversibly as the consequence of various stresses such as the change of osmolarity, energy deficiency, and oxidative damage, leading to substantial limitations including the need for semen examinations, fertility preservation, and assisted reproductive technology. These problems may be addressed with the aid of non-freezing storage techniques. The main and most effective preservation strategies are the partial or total replacement of seminal plasma with culture medium, named as extenders, and temperature-induced metabolic restriction. Semen extenders consist of buffers, osmolytes, and antioxidants, etc. to protect spermatozoa against the above-mentioned adverse factors. Extended preservation of human spermatozoa in vitro has a negative effect on sperm parameters, whereas its effect on ART outcomes remains inconsistent. The storage duration, temperature, and pre-treatment of semen should be determined according to the aims of preservation. Advanced techniques such as nanotechnology and omics have been introduced and show great potential in the lifespan extension of human sperm. It is certain that more patients will benefit from it in the near future. This review provided an overview of the current knowledge and prospects of prolonged non-freezing storage of human sperm in vitro.

Low-level laser therapy with different irradiation methods modulated the response of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in vitro

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) also known as photobiomodulation is a treatment to change cellular biological activity. The exact effects of LLLT remain unclear due to the different irradiation protocols. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of LLLT by three different irradiation methods on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in vitro. BMSCs were inoculated in 24-well plates and then irradiated or not (control) with a laser using three different irradiation methods. The irradiation methods were spot irradiation, covering irradiation, and scanning irradiation according to different spot areas (0.07 cm² or 1.96 cm²) and irradiation areas (0.35 cm² or 1.96 cm²), respectively. The laser was applied three times at energy densities of 4 J/cm². The cell proliferation by CCK-8. ALP activity assay, alizarin red, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were performed to assess osteogenic differentiation and mineralization. Increases in cell proliferation was obvious following irradiation, especially for covering irradiation. The ALP activity was significantly increased in irradiated groups compared with non-irradiated control. The level of mineralization was obviously improved following irradiation, particularly for covering irradiation. RT-PCR detected significantly higher expression of ALP, OPN, OCN, and RUNX-2 in the group covering than in the others, and control is the lowest. The presented results indicate that the biostimulative effects of LLLT on BMSCs was influenced by t he irradiation method, and the covering irradiation is more favorable method to promote the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs.

Hydrophobic soot nanoparticles as a non-cytotoxic motility activator of human spermatozoa

Sperm cryopreservation is vital in combating the human infertility, but regrettably, the toxicity of cryoprotectants and the occurrence of intracellular icing, osmotic shocks or shrinkage of the cells below a given threshold volume greatly affects the success rate of this technique. Using the virtue of nanotechnologies and depositing water-repellent soot nanoparticles on the inner walls of cryovials may outline new directions in the development of cryobiology, but doubts related to the soot's venomosity question its practical implementability. The scientific content of this article eliminates the existing apprehensions by analyzing the cytotoxicity of three types of rapeseed oil soot, differing in morphology, surface chemistry and zeta potential, towards human spermatozoa. Upon intermittent evaluations of the sperm motility within 270 min of incubation in vials comprising carbon nanoparticles, we reveal that this soot category is non-cytotoxic or at worst, faintly toxic to the gametes provided by twenty individuals. Enhanced progressive sperm motility is observed at ∼50-60% of patients following the soot treatments, which is attributed to electrostatic repulsions and biochemical alterations in the seminal plasma. These fascinating results open new horizons for incorporation of the rapeseed oil soot as a tool for functional preparation and activation of human spermatozoa preceding in vitro fertilization.

Comparative Effect of Photobiomodulation on Human Semen Samples Pre- and Post-Cryopreservation

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate and to compare the effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) on sperm parameters both before and after cryopreservation. In this regard, 24 freshly ejaculated semen samples from normozoospermic men were included in this study. Each semen sample was randomly divided into three groups (1 ml aliquot for each group): the control group (group one) underwent conventional sperm cryopreservation (n = 24), group two underwent pre-freezing PBM exposure (810 nm, diode laser, and 0.6 J/cm²) (n = 24), and group three underwent post freezing and thawing PBM exposure (n = 24). Indicators of sperm quality, including total sperm motility (TSM), progressive sperm motility (PSM), DNA fragmentation, lipid peroxidation levels, apoptosis-like changes, and gene expression levels of protamine (PRM) 1, PRM2, and adducin 1 alpha (ADD1), were investigated in a blinded style. Due to the beneficial effect of pre-freezing PBM therapy, group 2 exhibited the highest TSM and PSM levels compared to groups 1 and 3. At the same time, DNA fragmentation and lipid peroxidation were significantly reduced in the group 2 compared to the group 1 (p = 0.024 p = 0.016, respectively). Evaluation of apoptotic/necrotic changes revealed that parameters including early apoptosis, dead, and necrotic cells decreased in the group 2 compared to the either groups 1 (p = 0. 008, p = 0. 032, p = 0. 02, respectively) or group 3 (p = 0.037, p = 0.108, p = 0.083). There were no significant differences in the expression levels of PRM1, PRM2, and ADD1 among the study groups. Based on our results, PBM therapy prior to cryopreservation, even in the normal semen samples, plays a significant protective role against cryo-damage by preserving the functional parameters of spermatozoa.

Effects of Pulsed-Wave Photobiomodulation Therapy on Human Spermatozoa

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Previous studies reported that photobiomodulation (PBM) positively affects the mitochondrial respiratory chain in sperm, resulting in improved motility and velocity. As laser settings are not yet fully established, the present study aimed at optimizing PBM on human sperm. In addition, possible side-effects of PBM on sperm DNA fragmentation level and acrosomal integrity have been analyzed.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

A pulsed laser-probe (wavelength 655 nm, output power 25 mW/cm², impulse duration 200 nanoseconds) was used. Native fresh liquefied semen samples underwent radiation with energy doses of 0 (control), 4, 6, and 10 J/cm². Sperm parameters were assessed at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes after radiation using a computer-assisted sperm analysis system. Motility and velocity of sperm from asthenozoospermic patients (n = 42) and normozoospermic controls (n = 22) were measured. The amount of DNA strand breaks was analyzed using ligation-mediated quantitative polymerase chain reaction in patients with asthenozoospermia (n = 18) and normozoospermia (n = 13). Post-irradiance acrosomal integrity was investigated using flow cytometry based on CD46 protein expression (n = 7).

RESULTS

Exposure to laser energy-doses of 4 and 6 J/cm² improved sperm motility and velocity in asthenozoospermic patients. PBM exhibited no significant effect on DNA fragmentation level and expression of CD46 serving as a biomarker for acrosome integrity.

CONCLUSION

PBM improves sperm motility parameters by maintaining DNA and acrosome integrity and, therefore, represents a promising new tool for assisted reproductive therapy. In particular, improving sperm motility in asthenozoospermic patients by PBM in future may contribute to increasing the chance for successful intrauterine insemination. The present trial has no clinical registration number, as only in vitro studies were performed. The study was approved by the local ethics committee and performed according to the Declaration of Helsinki. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2021 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.