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Esteves SC, Humaidan P, Ubaldi FM, Alviggi C, Antonio L, Barratt CLR, Behre HM, Jørgensen N, Pacey AA, Simoni M, Santi D. APHRODITE criteria: addressing male patients with hypogonadism and/or infertility owing to altered idiopathic testicular function. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103647. [PMID: 38367592 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can a novel classification system of the infertile male - 'APHRODITE' (Addressing male Patients with Hypogonadism and/or infeRtility Owing to altereD, Idiopathic TEsticular function) - stratify different subgroups of male infertility to help scientists to design clinical trials on the hormonal treatment of male infertility, and clinicians to counsel and treat the endocrinological imbalances in men and, ultimately, increase the chances of natural and assisted conception? DESIGN A collaboration between andrologists, reproductive urologists and gynaecologists, with specialization in reproductive medicine and expertise in male infertility, led to the development of the APHRODITE criteria through an iterative consensus process based on clinical patient descriptions and the results of routine laboratory tests, including semen analysis and hormonal testing. RESULTS Five patient groups were delineated according to the APHRODITE criteria; (1) Hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (acquired and congenital); (2) Idiopathic male infertility with lowered semen analysis parameters, normal serum FSH and normal serum total testosterone concentrations; (3) A hypogonadal state with lowered semen analysis parameters, normal FSH and reduced total testosterone concentrations; (4) Lowered semen analysis parameters, elevated FSH concentrations and reduced or normal total testosterone concentrations; and (5) Unexplained male infertility in the context of unexplained couple infertility. CONCLUSION The APHRODITE criteria offer a novel and standardized patient stratification system for male infertility independent of aetiology and/or altered spermatogenesis, facilitating communication among clinicians, researchers and patients to improve reproductive outcomes following hormonal therapy. APHRODITE is proposed as a basis for future trials of the hormonal treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil.; Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil.; Faculty of Health, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark..
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Fertility Clinic at Skive Regional Hospital, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Filippo M Ubaldi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Leen Antonio
- Department of Endocrinology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Medicine Halle, Halle, Germany
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Allan A Pacey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Core Technology Facility, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.; Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.; Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
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Kimmins S, Anderson RA, Barratt CLR, Behre HM, Catford SR, De Jonge CJ, Delbes G, Eisenberg ML, Garrido N, Houston BJ, Jørgensen N, Krausz C, Lismer A, McLachlan RI, Minhas S, Moss T, Pacey A, Priskorn L, Schlatt S, Trasler J, Trasande L, Tüttelmann F, Vazquez-Levin MH, Veltman JA, Zhang F, O'Bryan MK. Frequency, morbidity and equity - the case for increased research on male fertility. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:102-124. [PMID: 37828407 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00820-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Currently, most men with infertility cannot be given an aetiology, which reflects a lack of knowledge around gamete production and how it is affected by genetics and the environment. A failure to recognize the burden of male infertility and its potential as a biomarker for systemic illness exists. The absence of such knowledge results in patients generally being treated as a uniform group, for whom the strategy is to bypass the causality using medically assisted reproduction (MAR) techniques. In doing so, opportunities to prevent co-morbidity are missed and the burden of MAR is shifted to the woman. To advance understanding of men's reproductive health, longitudinal and multi-national centres for data and sample collection are essential. Such programmes must enable an integrated view of the consequences of genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors on fertility and offspring health. Definition and possible amelioration of the consequences of MAR for conceived children are needed. Inherent in this statement is the necessity to promote fertility restoration and/or use the least invasive MAR strategy available. To achieve this aim, protocols must be rigorously tested and the move towards personalized medicine encouraged. Equally, education of the public, governments and clinicians on the frequency and consequences of infertility is needed. Health options, including male contraceptives, must be expanded, and the opportunities encompassed in such investment understood. The pressing questions related to male reproductive health, spanning the spectrum of andrology are identified in the Expert Recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Sarah R Catford
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Geraldine Delbes
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Armand-Frappier Sante Biotechnologie, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Brendan J Houston
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, University Hospital of Careggi Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ariane Lismer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Surgery and Cancer Imperial, London, UK
| | - Tim Moss
- Healthy Male and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allan Pacey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Departments of Paediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Center for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards, Department of Paediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mónica Hebe Vazquez-Levin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina, Fundación IBYME, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Joris A Veltman
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Feng Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
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Ding J, Lu B, Liu L, Zhong Z, Wang N, Li B, Sheng W, He Q. Guilu-Erxian-Glue alleviates Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside-induced oligoasthenospermia in rats by resisting ferroptosis via the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 signaling pathway. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2023; 61:213-227. [PMID: 36688426 PMCID: PMC9873281 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2023.2165114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Guilu-Erxian-Glue (GLEXG) is a traditional Chinese formula used to improve male reproductive dysfunction. OBJECTIVE To investigate the ferroptosis resistance of GLEXG in the improvement of semen quality in the oligoasthenospermia (OAS) rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were administered Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside, a compound extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. (Celastraceae), at a dose of 40 mg/kg/day, to establish an OAS model. Fifty-four SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: sham, model, low-dose GLEXG (GLEXGL, 0.25 g/kg/day), moderate-dose GLEXG (GLEXGM, 0.50 g/kg/day), high-dose GLEXG (GLEXGH, 1.00 g/kg/day) and vitamin E (0.01 g/kg/day) group. The semen quality, structure and function of sperm mitochondria, histopathology, levels of oxidative stress and iron, and mRNA levels and protein expression in the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway, were analyzed. RESULTS Compared with the model group, GLEXGH significantly improved sperm concentration (35.73 ± 15.42 vs. 17.40 ± 4.12, p < 0.05) and motility (58.59 ± 11.06 vs. 28.59 ± 9.42, p < 0.001), and mitigated testicular histopathology. Moreover, GLEXGH markedly reduced the ROS level (5684.28 ± 1345.47 vs. 15500.44 ± 2307.39, p < 0.001) and increased the GPX4 level (48.53 ± 10.78 vs. 23.14 ± 11.04, p < 0.01), decreased the ferrous iron level (36.31 ± 3.66 vs. 48.64 ± 7.74, p < 0.05), and rescued sperm mitochondrial morphology and potential via activating the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Ferroptosis resistance from GLEXG might be driven by activation of the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway. Targeting ferroptosis is a novel approach for OAS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Ding
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Department of Andrology Clinic, Affiliated Bao’an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Seventh Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Baowei Lu
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Lumei Liu
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zixuan Zhong
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Neng Wang
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Bonan Li
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Wen Sheng
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Qinghu He
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
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Erdoğan K, Sanlier NT, Sanlier N. Are epigenetic mechanisms and nutrition effective in male and female infertility? J Nutr Sci 2023; 12:e103. [PMID: 37771507 PMCID: PMC10523291 DOI: 10.1017/jns.2023.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
This review discusses epigenetic mechanisms and the relationship of infertility in men and women in relation to parameters pertaining to nutrition. The prevalence of infertility worldwide is 8-12 %, and one out of every eight couples receives medical treatment. Epigenetic mechanisms, aging, environmental factors, dietary energy and nutrients and non-nutrient compounds; more or less energy intake, and methionine come into play in the occurrence of infertility. It also interacts with vitamins B12, D and B6, biotin, choline, selenium, zinc, folic acid, resveratrol, quercetin and similar factors. To understand the molecular mechanisms regulating the expression of genes that affect infertility, the environment, the role of genotype, age, health, nutrition and changes in the individual's epigenotype must first be considered. This will pave the way for the identification of the unknown causes of infertility. Insufficient or excessive intake of energy and certain macro and micronutrients may contribute to the occurrence of infertility as well. In addition, it is reported that 5-10 % of body weight loss, moderate physical activity and nutritional interventions for improvement in insulin sensitivity contribute to the development of fertility. Processes that pertain to epigenetics carry alterations which are inherited yet not encoded via the DNA sequence. Nutrition is believed to have an impact over the epigenetic mechanisms which are effective in the pathogenesis of several diseases like infertility. Epigenetic mechanisms of individuals with infertility are different from healthy individuals. Infertility is associated with epigenetic mechanisms, nutrients, bioactive components and numerous other factors.
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Key Words
- 5mc, 5-methylcytosine
- AMH, anti-Müllerian hormone
- ART, assisted reproductive technique
- Aging
- CoQ10, coenzyme Q10
- CpG dinucleotides, context of guanine
- DMR, distinct methylated region
- DNMT, DNA methyltransferase
- Epigenetic
- FSH, follicle stimulating hormone
- Female
- H2A, H2B, H3 and H4, nucleosomal core histones
- HOXA10, HomeoboxA10
- HPR, histone-protamine ratio
- ICMART, International Committee for Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technologies
- ICR, imprinted control region
- ICSI, intracytoplasmic sperm injection
- IL-6, interleukin-6
- IVF, in vitro fertilisation
- Infertility
- MAR, matrix attachment region
- MTHFR, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase
- Male
- NIFT, non-IVF fertility treatment
- NTD, neural tube defect
- Nutrition
- OAT, oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia
- P1, P2, potamine 1, potamine 2
- PCOS, polycystic ovary syndrome
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SAM, S-adenosylmethionine
- SHBG, sex hormone-binding globulin
- SNP, single nucleotide polymorphism
- SNRPN, small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N
- TP1, TP2, transition proteins
- UMI, unexplained male infertility
- VDR, vitamin D receptor
- lncRNA, long non-coding RNA
- mRNA, coding RNA
- miRNA, micro-RNA
- ncRNA, non-coding RNA
- piRNA, piwi-interacting RNA
- siRNA, small interfering RNA
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadriye Erdoğan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Health Sciences University, Etlik Zübeyde Hanım Women's Health Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nazlı Tunca Sanlier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nevin Sanlier
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, Ankara Medipol University, Altındağ, Ankara 06050, Turkey
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Zafar MI, Mills KE, Baird CD, Jiang H, Li H. Effectiveness of Nutritional Therapies in Male Factor Infertility Treatment: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. Drugs 2023; 83:531-546. [PMID: 36943634 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01853-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nutritional therapies are effective alternative treatments for male infertility or subfertility. These are cost-effective and easily implementable, unlike other advanced invasive treatments. Even moderate improvements in sperm quality could improve spontaneous pregnancy. OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare the effectiveness of all nutritional therapies in male infertility/subfertility treatment and ranked their efficacy based on type and etiology. We intend to aid clinicians with an evidence-based approach to affordable and safer initial infertility treatment for those who mainly do not wish to have other advanced invasive treatments or could not afford or have access to them. METHODS We included 69 studies with 94 individual study arms identified from bibliographic databases and registries. We included studies in adult men with proven infertility or subfertility that investigated nutritional or dietary supplement therapies compared with control or placebo and at least reported on a sperm parameter. We undertook a network meta-analysis and performed a pairwise meta-analysis on all sperm parameter outcomes and meta-regression. No language or date restriction was imposed. A systematic article search was concluded on August 29, 2022. RESULTS Our network meta-analysis is the first to compare all dietary interventions in a single analysis, sub-grouped by intervention type and type of infertility. L-Carnitine with micronutrients, antioxidants, and several traditional herbal supplements showed statistically and clinically significant improvement in sperm quality. Meta-regression identified that improvement in the sperm count, motility and morphology translated into increased pregnancy rates (p < 0.001; p < 0.001; p < 0.002, respectively). In particular, L-carnitine with micronutrient therapy (risk ratio [RR]: 3.60, 95% CI 1.86, 6.98, p = 0.0002), followed by zinc (RR 5.39, 95% CI 1.26, 23.04, p = 0.02), significantly improved pregnancy rates. Men with oligozoospermia (RR 4.89), followed by oligoasthenozoospermia (RR 4.20) and asthenoteratozoospermia (RR 3.53), showed a significant increase in pregnancy rates. CONCLUSION We ranked nutritional therapies for their ability to improve sperm quality in men with infertility. Nutritional therapies, particularly L-carnitine alone or combined with micronutrients, significantly improved sperm parameters and pregnancy rates even under severe conditions. We believe these affordable solutions may be valuable for people without access to or who do not wish to undergo more invasive and costly fertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ishraq Zafar
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hang Kong Road, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fourth Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, China
| | - Kerry E Mills
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce 2617, Canberra, Australia.
- TruDataRx, White River Junction, Vermont, USA.
| | | | - Huahua Jiang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hang Kong Road, Wuhan, 430030, China.
- Wuhan Huake Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, China.
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Male infertility and gonadotropin treatment: What can we learn from real-world data? Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 86:102310. [PMID: 36682942 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.102310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin therapy to treat specific male infertility disorders associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is evidence-based and effective in restoring spermatogenesis and fertility. In contrast, its use to improve fertility in men with idiopathic oligozoospermia or nonobstructive azoospermia remains controversial, despite being widely practiced. The existence of two major inter-related pathways for spermatogenesis, including FSH and intratesticular testosterone, provides a rationale for empiric hormone stimulation therapy in both eugonadal and hypogonadal males with idiopathic oligozoospermia or nonobstructive azoospermia. Real-world data (RWD) on gonadotropin stimulating for these patient subsets, mainly using human chorionic gonadotropin and follicle-stimulating hormone, accumulated gradually, showing a positive therapeutic effect in some patients, translated by increased sperm production, sperm quality, and sperm retrieval rates. Although more evidence is needed, current insights from RWD research indicate that selected male infertility patients might be managed more effectively using gonadotropin therapy, with potential gains for all parties involved.
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Liu H, Luo Z, Chen J, Zheng H, Zeng Q. Treatment progress of cryptozoospermia with Western Medicine and traditional Chinese medicine: A literature review. Health Sci Rep 2022; 6:e1019. [PMID: 36582629 PMCID: PMC9793827 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1019] [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: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Cryptozoospermia is an extreme oligozoospermia with an unsatisfactory treatment effect, with an incidence rate of approximately 8.73% in male infertility, whose effective solution has become the call of the times. Western Medicine has achieved certain effects through drugs, surgery, and assisted reproductive therapy, but this is still not ideal. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has made many achievements in other disciplines; however, there is still a lack of evidence-based medical evidence to improve sperm production. Methods The relevant literatures from the China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI) and PubMed in the past 10 years were collected in this article, of which the mechanisms, advantages, or current controversies of various treatment methods of Western Medicine and TCM were analyzed, to find new treatment methods and research directions. Results With the development of modern science and technology, medical treatments for cryptozoospermia have become increasingly abundant; however, there is still no universally recognized unified and effective guiding plan. Although TCM has not been fully verified by evidence-based medicine, most TCM combined with Western Medicine can achieve unexpected results. Conclusion The combination of TCM and Western Medicine may become a bane for cryptozoospermia and bring good news to infertile men worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Liu
- The First School of Clinical MedicineNanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingChina,NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital)Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong ProvinceGuangzhouChina
| | - Zefang Luo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital)Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong ProvinceGuangzhouChina
| | - Jinghua Chen
- Reproductive Medical Centre of Sun Yat‐sen Memorial HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Houbin Zheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital)Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong ProvinceGuangzhouChina
| | - Qingqi Zeng
- The First School of Clinical MedicineNanjing University of Chinese MedicineNanjingChina,Department of Integrated Chinese and Western MedicineJiangsu Health Vocational CollegeNanjingChina
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Zhang S, Wu QJ, Liu SX. A methodologic survey on use of the GRADE approach in evidence syntheses published in high-impact factor urology and nephrology journals. BMC Med Res Methodol 2022; 22:220. [PMID: 35948868 PMCID: PMC9367121 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-022-01701-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To identify and describe the use of the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach for rating the certainty of systematic reviews (SRs) evidence published in urology and nephrology journals. Methods SRs that were published in the top ten "urology and nephrology" journals with the highest impact factor according to the 2020 Journal Citation Reports (covering 2016–2020) were systematically searched and evaluated using the GRADE approach. Results A total of 445 SRs were researched. Sixty SRs of randomized control trials (RCTs) and/or non-randomized studies (NRSs) were evaluated using the GRADE approach. Forty-nine SRs (11%) rated the outcome-specific certainty of evidence (n = 29 in 2019–2020). We identified 811 certainty of evidence outcome ratings (n = 544 RCT ratings) as follows: very low (33.0%); low (32.1%); moderate (24.5%); and high (10.4%). Very low and high certainty of evidence ratings accounted for 55.0% and 0.4% of ratings in SRs of NRSs compared to 23.0% and 15.3% in SRs of RCTs. The certainty of evidence for RCTs and NRSs was downgraded most often for risk of bias and imprecision. Conclusions We recommend increased emphasis on acceptance of the GRADE approach, as well as optimal use of the GRADE approach, in the synthesis of urinary tract evidence. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12874-022-01701-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, No.826, Xinan Road, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China.,Dalian Key Laboratory of Intelligent Blood Purification, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, No.826, Xinan Road, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China
| | - Qi-Jun Wu
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shu-Xin Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, No.826, Xinan Road, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China. .,Dalian Key Laboratory of Intelligent Blood Purification, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, No.826, Xinan Road, Dalian, Liaoning, 116033, China.
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Bao B, Ke M, Guo J, Pan Z, Huang H, Ke Z, Zhou X, Liu B. Bibliometrics and visualisation analysis of literature on varicocele: From 2002 to 2021. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14537. [PMID: 35920088 DOI: 10.1111/and.14537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is a common disease in men, with a global incidence of approximately 25%. A comprehensive and systematic analysis of the knowledge map on it will help in assessing frontier research and identify knowledge gaps. In total, 4103 articles published from 2002 to 2021 in 1066 journals were included. They represent the current research status worldwide, potential hotspots and future research directions. In the past decades, the number of publications and citations of varicocele-related studies have increased steadily. Academic institutions in the United States played a leading role in varicocele research. The country, institution, journal and author with the most publications were the United States (779), Cleveland Clinic Foundation (132), Andrologia (246) and Agarwal A (106), respectively. The most frequently used keywords were Varicocele (1620), Male Infertility (944), Varicocelectomy (288), Testis (245), Sperm (166), Oxidative Stress (144), Azoospermia (119), Semen Analysis (118), Laparoscopy (116) and Adolescent (97). Currently, the main focus of current varicocele research is its surgical treatment method and effect on sperm quality. The frontier research hotspot is the specific mechanism of varicocele-induced decrease in sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binghao Bao
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Minghui Ke
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianqiang Guo
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhengkun Pan
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Haonan Huang
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenghao Ke
- Graduate School of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhou
- Department of Urology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Baoxing Liu
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
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10
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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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Ferlin A, Calogero AE, Krausz C, Lombardo F, Paoli D, Rago R, Scarica C, Simoni M, Foresta C, Rochira V, Sbardella E, Francavilla S, Corona G. Management of male factor infertility: position statement from the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) : Endorsing Organization: Italian Society of Embryology, Reproduction, and Research (SIERR). J Endocrinol Invest 2022; 45:1085-1113. [PMID: 35075609 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-022-01741-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Infertility affects 15-20% of couples and male factors are present in about half of the cases. For many aspects related to the diagnostic and therapeutic approach of male factor infertility, there is no general consensus, and the clinical approach is not uniform. METHODS In the present document by the Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS), endorsed by the Italian Society of Embryology, Reproduction, and Research (SIERR), we propose evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of male factor infertility to improve patient and couple care. RESULTS Components of the initial evaluation should include at minimum medical history, physical examination, and semen analysis. Semen microbiological examination, endocrine assessment, and imaging are suggested in most men and recommended when specific risk factors for infertility exist or first-step analyses showed abnormalities. Full examination including genetic tests, testicular cytology/histology, or additional tests on sperm is clinically oriented and based on the results of previous investigations. For treatment purposes, the identification of the specific cause and the pathogenetic mechanism is advisable. At least, distinguishing pre-testicular, testicular, and post-testicular forms is essential. Treatment should be couple-oriented, including lifestyle modifications, etiologic therapies, empirical treatments, and ART on the basis of best evidence and with a gradual approach. CONCLUSION These Guidelines are based on two principal aspects: they are couple-oriented and place high value in assessing, preventing, and treating risk factors for infertility. These Guidelines also highlighted that male infertility and in particular testicular function might be a mirror of general health of a man.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ferlin
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35121, Padua, Italy.
| | - A E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - C Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - D Paoli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank "Loredana Gandini", University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - R Rago
- Department of Gender, Parenting, Child and Adolescent Medicine, Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - C Scarica
- European Hospital, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - M Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - C Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35121, Padua, Italy
| | - V Rochira
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - E Sbardella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - S Francavilla
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Unit of Andrology, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Medical Department, Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda Usl, Bologna, Italy
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12
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Pham MN, Hudnall MT, Fantus RJ, Lai JD, Ambulkar SS, Wren JM, Bennett NE, Auffenberg GB, Chu DI, Brannigan RE, Halpern JA. The adverse association between stimulant use for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and semen parameters. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14315. [PMID: 34816465 PMCID: PMC8844090 DOI: 10.1111/and.14315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between stimulant medications used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and semen parameters. We performed a retrospective cohort study at a large, academic institution between 2002 and 2020. We included men with a semen analysis without prior spermatotoxic medication use, empiric medical therapy exposure or confounding medical diagnoses (varicocele, Klinefelter's syndrome, cryptorchidism, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, cancer or cancer-related treatment, and azoospermia). Men were stratified by stimulant exposure (methylphenidate or amphetamines). A multivariable linear regression was fit to assess the association between individual semen parameters, age, stimulant exposure and non-stimulant medication use. Of 8,861 men identified, 106 men had active prescriptions for stimulants within 90 days prior to semen testing. After controlling for age and exposure to non-stimulant medications, stimulant use was associated with decreased total motile sperm count (β: -18.00 mil/ejaculate and standard error: 8.44, p = 0.033) in the setting of decreased semen volume (β: -0.35 ml, and standard error: 0.16, p = 0.035), but not sperm concentration, motility and morphology. These findings suggest a role for reproductive physicians and mental health providers to consider counselling men on the potential negative impact of stimulants prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder on semen volume during fertility planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh N. Pham
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Matthew T. Hudnall
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Richard J. Fantus
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Jeremy D. Lai
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - James M. Wren
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nelson E. Bennett
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | | | - David I. Chu
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA,Division of Urology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Robert E. Brannigan
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Joshua A. Halpern
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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13
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Li KP, Yang XS, Wu T. The Effect of Antioxidants on Sperm Quality Parameters and Pregnancy Rates for Idiopathic Male Infertility: A Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:810242. [PMID: 35265037 PMCID: PMC8898892 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.810242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Male infertility is a global public health issue recognized by the WHO. Recently, antioxidants are increasingly used to treat idiopathic male infertility. However, the lack of available evidence has led to the inability to rank the effects of antioxidants on the sperm quality parameters and pregnancy rate of infertile men. This network meta-analysis studied the effects of different antioxidants on the sperm quality and pregnancy rate of idiopathic male infertility. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The weighted mean difference (WMD) and odds ratio (OR) were applied for the comparison of continuous and dichotomous variables, respectively, with 95% CIs. The outcomes were sperm motility, sperm concentration, sperm morphology, and pregnancy rate. RESULTS A total of 23 RCTs with 1,917 patients and 10 kids of antioxidants were included. l-Carnitine, l-carnitine+l-acetylcarnitine, coenzyme-Q10, ω-3 fatty acid, and selenium were more efficacious than placebo in sperm quality parameters. l-Carnitine was ranked first in sperm motility and sperm morphology (WMD 6.52% [95% CI: 2.55% to 10.05%], WMD 4.96% [0.20% to 9.73%]). ω-3 fatty acid was ranked first in sperm concentration (WMD 9.89 × 106/ml, [95% CI: 7.01 to 12.77 × 106/ml]). In terms of pregnancy rate, there was no significant effect as compared with placebo. CONCLUSIONS l-Carnitine was ranked first in sperm motility and sperm morphology. ω-3 fatty acid was ranked first in sperm concentration. Coenzyme-Q10 had better effective treatment on sperm motility and concentration. Furthermore, high-quality RCTs with adequate sample sizes should be conducted to compare the outcomes of different antioxidants.
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14
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Who cares about oligozoospermia when we have ICSI. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:769-775. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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15
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Yaris M, Akdogan N, Öztürk M, Bozkurt A, Karabakan M. The effects of two different antioxidant combinations on sperm parameters. Urologia 2021; 89:629-635. [PMID: 34617487 DOI: 10.1177/03915603211049888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies demonstrate that getting antioxidants in the course of treatment has a positive impact beneficial effect on fertility, especially on the quality of sperm. Because of that reason antioxidants are recommended as a potentially influential treatment for infertility in men. However, it is argued that this treatment is not based on sufficient evidence and has no effect on the rate of healthy pregnancy. OBJECTIVE In this study, two different antioxidant combinations with different doses and contents were evaluated in terms of their effect on sperm parameters. MATERIALS/METHODS A total of 122 patients diagnosed with idiopathic infertility were enrolled in our multicenter study. The patients were divided into two different groups: The first group used a combination 2 × 1 sachet form (l-carnitine 1 g, acetyl-l-carnitine 0.5 g, fructose 1 g, citric acid 0.50 mg, selenium 50 µg, coenzyme Q10 20 mg, vitamin C 90 mg, zinc 10 mg, folic acid 200 µg, and vitamin B12 1.5 µg) and the second group used a combination tablets form 2 × 1 (l-carnitine 500 mg, selenium 50 µg, coenzyme Q10 20 mg, vitamin C 60 mg, zinc 15 mg, folic acid 400 µg, vitamin E, and ginseng 15 µg) for 6 months. The total semen volume, the total sperm number, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and lastly morphological findings of the patients were compared at the end of 6 months. RESULTS The mean age of the patients participating in the study was 30.8 ± 6.05 years. No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of baseline sperm count. There was a significant difference between the baseline and sixth-month values of the patients using both combinations. However, no significant statistical difference was found between the groups according to the sixth-month data. The combinations of both antioxidants had a positive effect on sperm parameters, and the use of different doses and contents had a similar effect. CONCLUSION Both antioxidants respectively had a positive effect on sperm parameters and also the use of different doses and contents had a similar effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehmet Yaris
- Department of Urology, Genesis Private Hospital, Diyarbakir, Turkey
| | - Nebil Akdogan
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Murat Öztürk
- Department of Urology, Bursa High Specialization Research and Training Hospital, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Aliseydi Bozkurt
- Department of Urology, Mengucek Gazi Research and Training Hospital, Erzincan University, Erzincan, Turkey
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16
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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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17
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Khaw SC, Wong ZZ, Anderson R, Martins da Silva S. l-carnitine and l-acetylcarnitine supplementation for idiopathic male infertility. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2020; 1:67-81. [PMID: 35128424 PMCID: PMC8812460 DOI: 10.1530/raf-20-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifteen percent of couples are globally estimated to be infertile, with up to half of these cases attributed to male infertility. Reactive oxidative species (ROS) are known to damage sperm leading to impaired quantity and quality. Although not routinely assessed, oxidative stress is a common underlying pathology in infertile men. Antioxidants have been shown to improve semen analysis parameters by reducing ROS and facilitating repair of damage caused by oxidative stress, but it remains unclear whether they improve fertility. Carnitines are naturally occurring antioxidants in mammals and are normally abundant in the epididymal luminal fluid of men. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy of carnitine supplementation for idiopathic male infertility. We searched ClinicalKey, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed and ScienceDirect for relevant studies published from 1 January 2000 to 30 April 2020. Of the articles retrieved, only eight randomised controlled trials were identified and included. Analysis showed that carnitines significantly improve total sperm motility, progressive sperm motility and sperm morphology, but without effect on sperm concentration. There was no demonstrable effect on clinical pregnancy rate in the five studies that included that outcome, although patient numbers were limited. Therefore, the use of carnitines in male infertility appears to improve some sperm parameters but without evidence of an increase in the chance of natural conception.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhen Zhe Wong
- International Medical University (IMU), Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Richard Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sarah Martins da Silva
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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18
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Tsampoukas G, Khan MF, Katsouri A, Akhter W, Moussa M, Deliveliotis K, Papatsoris A, Buchholz N. L-carnitine as primary or adjuvant treatment in infertile patients with varicocele. A systematic review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 92. [PMID: 33016059 DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2020.3.263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocele has been found to impair the function of the epididymis resulting in subfertility whereas the varicocelectomy can resolve the phenomenon. L-carnitine is regarded as a biomarker for the function of the epididymis and has been found in reduced concentrations in infertile patients of various causes, including infertile men with varicocele. It seems that Lcarnitine and varicocele share clinical significance and the area of research looks promising. OBJECTIVE To identify the role of L-carnitine in the treatment of varicocele. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search was performed in Pubmed/Medline with the terms (L-carnitine) and (varicocele) and (L-carnitine) and (varicocelectomy). Inclusion criteria were studies reported outcomes of L-carnitine administration alone or in duet, as primary or adjuvant treatment to varicocele. Exclusion criteria were non-English language and animal studies. Studies using L-carnitine as part of a panel of therapeutic agents were avoided. RESULTS Only four suitable studies were identified for discussion. In one randomized study, the combination of L-carnitine and cinnoxicam improved semen parameters in patients with non-high-grade varicocele compared to L-carnitine alone and had a favourable effect on pregnancy rates but the effect of grade is unknown. In another study, as an adjuvant treatment to varicocelectomy, L-carnitine showed no clear benefit. Finally, in comparison to surgery, the results are inconclusive; two studies showed some benefit might be expected in low-grade or subclinical varicocele, but surgery appears superior. CONCLUSIONS The evidence regarding the role of L-carnitine as a primary or adjuvant treatment of varicocele is sparse. The pathophysiological significance of L-carnitine implicates a potential role of the molecule in the management of varicocele, but the evidence so far is controversial for any recommendations. L-carnitine might be taken into consideration in selected cases; however, further search is needed in order the optimal role of L-carnitine in infertile patients with varicocele to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Tsampoukas
- U-merge Ltd. (Urology for emerging countries), London; Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow.
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19
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Saylam B, Çayan S. Do antioxidants improve serum sex hormones and total motile sperm count in idiopathic infertile men? Turk J Urol 2020; 46:442-448. [PMID: 32833620 DOI: 10.5152/tud.2020.20296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Reactive oxygen species reduce the male sex hormone levels and disrupt the hormonal balance that regulates male reproductive functions. They disrupt spermatozoa and other testicular cells. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of antioxidant treatment on serum gonadal hormones and sperm parameters in men with idiopathic infertility. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 100 idiopathic infertile men aged 23-46 years were included in the study. Control group and antioxidant treatment group consisted of 50 men each. Patients in the treatment group received oral antioxidant supplement once a day. The antioxidant supplement content included L-carnitine, L-arginine, vitamin E, vitamin C, coenzyme Q, glutathione, beta-carotene, magnesium, vitamin B12, zinc, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin D3, folic acid, and selenium. Reproductive hormones and sperm parameters were compared between the groups at 6 months after starting the antioxidant therapy. RESULTS No significant differences were observed in the patient age (p=0.861), partner age (p=0.081), total motile sperm count (TMSC) (p=0.324), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (p=0.557), luteinizing hormone (LH) (p=0.235), and total testosterone levels (p=0.851) at baseline between the treatment and control groups. Although the mean TMSC did not increase significantly, the mean FSH (p=0.008), LH (p=0.008), and total testosterone (p=0.006) levels significantly increased from baseline to post-treatment in the treatment group. However, no significant differences from baseline to post-treatment were observed in TMSC (p=0.486), FSH (p=0.712), LH (p=0.696), and total testosterone levels (p=0.546) in the control group. CONCLUSION The research draws attention to the alternate treatment approaches in infertile men. Antioxidant treatment can increase the serum sex hormone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barış Saylam
- Department of Urology, Mersin City Research and Training Hospital, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Selahittin Çayan
- Department of Urology, Mersin University Faculty of Medicine, Mersin, Turkey
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Delbarba A, Arrighi N, Facondo P, Cappelli C, Ferlin A. Positive effect of nutraceuticals on sperm DNA damage in selected infertile patients with idiopathic high sperm DNA fragmentation. MINERVA ENDOCRINOL 2020; 45:89-96. [PMID: 32340427 DOI: 10.23736/s0391-1977.20.03188-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of nutraceuticals to improve sperm parameters and male fertility is debatable, even if evidence suggests that selected infertile patients might benefit from their use. In particular, oxidative stress might play a role in idiopathic male infertility, leading to sperm membrane damage and high sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). The aim of this study was to evaluate, in selected idiopathic infertile men with high SDF, the effect on sperm DNA damage and on standard semen parameters of a nutraceutical formulation containing myoinositol, alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, selenium, zinc and B vitamins. METHODS The study included 60 idiopathic infertile men with DNA fragmentation index (DFI) >20%. Semen analysis and DFI determination were assessed at baseline and after three months of nutraceutical treatment. Primary outcome was change in DFI. RESULTS Semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, sperm motility and sperm morphology did not change after treatment. Instead, sperm vitality significantly increased (65.9±11.8% pre-treatment vs. 69.4±9.4% post-treatment, P<0.05) and DFI significantly decreased (33.5±10.1% pre-treatment vs. 26.8±8.7% post-treatment, P=0.0001) after treatment. The percentage of men with normal standard sperm parameters significantly increased (15% vs. 30%, P<0.05). The mean decrease in DFI was -6.7±1.4% and the percentage of men with DFI ≤30% after treatment was 75.0% compared to 48.3% pre-treatment (P<0.005). Higher pre-treatment DFI (and no other parameters) correlated with greater DFI reduction after treatment. CONCLUSIONS Nutraceuticals might be effective in idiopathic infertile men with high DFI to reduce SDF, increase sperm vitality and globally improve semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Delbarba
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, ASST Spedali Civili Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Nicola Arrighi
- Division of Urology, Istituto Clinico Città di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Facondo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia and Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, ASST Spedali Civili Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Carlo Cappelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia and Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, ASST Spedali Civili Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia and Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, ASST Spedali Civili Brescia, Brescia, Italy -
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Thaker H, Ko EY, Sabanegh ES, Brannigan RE, Alukal JP, Samplaski MK. Empirical medical therapy for idiopathic male infertility. F S Rep 2020; 1:15-20. [PMID: 34223207 PMCID: PMC8244321 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine if there has been a change in empirical medical therapy (EMT) practices since a 2010 American Urological Association survey reported that 25% of urologists treated infertile men who were pursuing a pregnancy with testosterone (T). Design Survey-based cohort study of AUA members. Setting Practice patterns were evaluated of urologists in academic and nonacademic hospital centers. Patient(s) Practice patterns were evaluated in the treatment of men with idiopathic infertility. Interventions(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Subgroup analysis by means of univariate analysis between means (Fisher exact test) and descriptive proportions was used to compare male infertility fellowship–trained urologists (RUs) to general urologists (non-RUs). Result(s) A total of 191 urologists responded (4.7%). Excluding trainees, 164 responses (85.9%) were analyzed: 134 (82.3%) were from non-RUs and 29 from (17.7%) RUs. Over all, 65.9% treated male infertility with a combination of EMT and surgery (93.1% of RU vs. 60.4% of non-RUs). The most common medications used by RUs were clomiphene (100%), anastrozole (85.7%), and hCG/LH (82.1%). Non-RUs used these less frequently. Overall, 24.4% of the urologists reported that they would use T to treat male infertility: 14.4% (n = 4) of RUs and 24.4% (n = 30) of non-RUs. Conclusion(s) A total of 65.9% of urologists would treat male infertility with the use of EMT and surgery. The most common EMTs were clomiphene, anastrozole, and hCG/LH. Of concern, 24.4% of urologists considered T to treat male infertility, a medication with known contraceptive potential. This is unchanged from the 2010 survey, and confirms the need for reproductive medicine guidelines that include the topic of EMT use in infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatim Thaker
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Edmund Y Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
| | | | | | - Joseph P Alukal
- Department of Urology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
| | - Mary K Samplaski
- Institute of Urology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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Vishvkarma R, Alahmar AT, Gupta G, Rajender S. Coenzyme Q10 effect on semen parameters: Profound or meagre? Andrologia 2020; 52:e13570. [PMID: 32271472 DOI: 10.1111/and.13570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Coenzyme Q10 has shown promise in treating male infertility; however, there are inconsistencies across the published data. We undertook a quantitative meta-analysis by pooling data from three placebo-controlled randomised clinical trials (RCTs) in order to evaluate the efficacy of CoQ10 in improving semen parameters. Sperm count, sperm motility, sperm forward motility, sperm morphology and CoQ10 level in the seminal plasma were measured and quantitatively correlated with CoQ10 oral administration. Pooled analysis showed a significant impact of CoQ10 in improving sperm motility and forward motility, without a significant impact on sperm count, sperm morphology, ejaculate volume or seminal plasma level of CoQ10. Efficacy assessment suggested that CoQ10 shows better results at higher doses and when administered for a period of more than 3 months but not longer than 6 months. We conclude that CoQ10 has a profound effect on sperm motility and a meagre effect on all other parameters. Therefore, CoQ10 can be used for treating asthenozoospermic infertility with the dosage and duration depending upon the severity of the disorder and the patient's response to the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gopal Gupta
- CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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Liu L, Li T, Li F, Zhao X, Zhang R, Liu J, Zhang W, Lu J, Zhang X, Ma X. The influence of l-carnitine on the expression of miRNAs in asthenospermia spermatozoa and the network regulation of the associated molecules. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13478. [PMID: 31749176 DOI: 10.1111/and.13478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
l-carnitine is a natural compound that is indispensable for energy metabolism in mammals. The efficiency and safety of l-carnitine in improving sperm activity, enhancing epididymal function and treating male infertility has been widely acknowledged by clinicians. CircRNAs can regulate gene expression at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level by serving as a molecular sponge of miRNAs with miRNA response elements. However, the detailed mechanism linking miRNA, circRNA and asthenospermia remains unclear. The present study demonstrated that hsa-miR-27b-3p, hsa-miR-151a-5p and hsa-miR-206 play an important role in the effects of l-carnitine treatment of the spermatozoa in asthenospermia patients. Furthermore, the target mRNAs of hsa-miR-206 were analysed by GO and KEGG. The results show that the target mRNAs of hsa-miR-206 may change the activity of ATP synthase and participate in the cAMP signalling pathway and the calcium signalling pathway, which may play an important role in sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China.,Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tao Li
- Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | | | - Xiaodong Zhao
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jing Liu
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jianqi Lu
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Ma
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
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Poor Efficacy of L-Acetylcarnitine in the Treatment of Asthenozoospermia in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8050585. [PMID: 31035375 PMCID: PMC6572264 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8050585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. In recent years, research has focused on the impact that diabetes mellitus (DM) has on male reproductive function. The available evidence has mainly considered type 2 DM (DM2). However, we have previously shown that type 1 DM (DM1) also affects male reproductive health. Given the efficacy of carnitine in the treatment of male infertility, a topic that merits further investigation is its role in the treatment of infertile patients with DM1. Aim. To investigate the efficacy of carnitines for the treatment of asthenozoospermia in DM1 patients. Methods. This was a two-arm single-blind, randomized control trial. The patients enrolled in this study were assigned to the group receiving L-acetylcarnitine (LAC) (1.5 g daily for 4 months) or to the group receiving LAC (same dosage) plus L-carnitine (LC) (2 g daily for 4 months). Serum-glycated hemoglobin levels did not differ significantly after either of the two treatments given. Administration of LAC plus LC showed greater efficacy on progressive sperm motility than single therapy (increase 14% vs. 1% after treatment, respectively). Discussion. The results of this study showed that the administration of LAC plus LC is more effective than the administration of LAC alone. The lower efficacy of LAC alone could be due to the lower overall administered dosage. Alternatively, a selective defect of carnitine transporters at an epididymal level could be hypothesized in patients with DM1. Further studies are needed to clarify this point.
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Empiric Medical and Nutritional Therapy for Idiopathic Male Infertility: How Good Is the Evidence for What Works and Does Not? Eur Urol 2019; 75:626-627. [PMID: 30711332 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2019.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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