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Fu LL, Liu Y, Wang XW, Zhou F, Guo Y, Lu WH, Gu YQ. The current situation of semen analysis in China, based on a survey of 296 laboratories. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:220-221. [PMID: 37800924 PMCID: PMC10919429 DOI: 10.4103/aja202346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Long-Long Fu
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Reproductive Health Research Center, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215025, China
| | - Xiao-Wei Wang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Reproductive Health Research Center, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Fang Zhou
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Reproductive Health Research Center, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ying Guo
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Reproductive Health Research Center, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Wen-Hong Lu
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Reproductive Health Research Center, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yi-Qun Gu
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, Reproductive Health Research Center, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
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2
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Huyghe E, Methorst C, Lamazou F, Amar E, Faix A. [The urologist's role in assisted reproductive technology (ART)]. Prog Urol 2023; 33:710-717. [PMID: 38012913 DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following on from the Rapport vers une stratégie nationale de lutte contre l'infertilité (Report on a national strategy to combat infertility) submitted to the French Minister of Health in 2022, whose objective 13 is: to better identify and diagnose male infertility, we wanted to clarify with reproductive specialists what role the urologist should play in the management of the infertile couple. METHODS An expert consensus was reached with the Pedagogical Committee and pilots of the Transversal Specialized Training in Reproductive Medicine and Biology - Andrology, and with the presidents, board and scientific council of the French Federation for Reproductive Study (FFER). RESULTS In the case of infertility in a couple, the fertility of both partners should be assessed from the outset, and in the event of abnormality or failure of ART, the patient should be referred to a uro-andrologist for expert management. The uro-andrologist will set up medical or surgical treatments to improve the prognosis of the man's fertility, in conjunction with the entire ART team. It is also important for the urologist/andrologist to take charge of the man's health before conception, because of the benefits for the patient himself and for his offspring. CONCLUSION This expert consensus has shed light on the role of the uro-andrologist in the ART pathway, on the need for training in Andrology and on the medical demography required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Huyghe
- Département d'urologie, hôpital de Rangueil, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; Service de médecine de la reproduction, hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; UMR DEFE, Inserm 1203, université de Toulouse, université de Montpellier, Toulouse, France.
| | - Charlotte Methorst
- Service de médecine de la reproduction, hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | | | | | - Antoine Faix
- Clinique Saint-Roch, 560, avenue du Colonel-Pavelet-dit-Villars, 34000 Montpellier, France
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3
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Lamb DJ, Marinaro JA. Can semen parameters predict pregnancy outcomes? Fertil Steril 2023; 120:709-714. [PMID: 37414207 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Semen analysis is an integral component of the evaluation and management of men with infertility. Although it is important for patient counseling and clinical decision making, a conventional semen analysis cannot reliably predict the chance of pregnancy or differentiate fertile vs. infertile men (except in the most extreme cases). Advanced, nonstandard sperm functional tests may provide additional discriminatory and prognostic power; however, further research is needed to determine how to best incorporate these tests into modern clinical practice. Therefore, the primary applications of a conventional semen analysis should be to judge the severity of infertility, estimate the effects of future therapy, and measure the response to current therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolores J Lamb
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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4
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Eisenberg ML, Esteves SC, Lamb DJ, Hotaling JM, Giwercman A, Hwang K, Cheng YS. Male infertility. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2023; 9:49. [PMID: 37709866 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-023-00459-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Clinical infertility is the inability of a couple to conceive after 12 months of trying. Male factors are estimated to contribute to 30-50% of cases of infertility. Infertility or reduced fertility can result from testicular dysfunction, endocrinopathies, lifestyle factors (such as tobacco and obesity), congenital anatomical factors, gonadotoxic exposures and ageing, among others. The evaluation of male infertility includes detailed history taking, focused physical examination and selective laboratory testing, including semen analysis. Treatments include lifestyle optimization, empirical or targeted medical therapy as well as surgical therapies that lead to measurable improvement in fertility. Although male infertility is recognized as a disease with effects on quality of life for both members of the infertile couple, fewer data exist on specific quantification and impact compared with other health-related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Dolores J Lamb
- Center for Reproductive Genomics, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - James M Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Kathleen Hwang
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yu-Sheng Cheng
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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5
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Sperm DNA Damage and Its Relevance in Fertility Treatment: A Review of Recent Literature and Current Practice Guidelines. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021446. [PMID: 36674957 PMCID: PMC9860847 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage has recently emerged as one of the most controversial topics in male reproductive medicine. While level I evidence indicates that abnormal sperm DNA damage has substantial adverse effects on reproductive outcomes (including chance of pregnancy and risk of miscarriage), there is limited consensus on how sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) testing should be performed and/or interpreted in clinical practice. In this article, we review: (1) how SDF is assessed, (2) cumulative evidence regarding its impact on reproductive outcomes, (3) methods for mitigating high SDF, and (4) the most recent practice guidelines available for clinicians regarding the use and interpretation of SDF testing.
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6
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Sharara FI, Ostermeier GC, Travis AJ. Defects in sperm capacitation/fertilizing ability are equally prevalent across ages in men seeking fertility assistance. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:179-187. [PMID: 36371338 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.09.020] [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: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION How do capacitation ability, measured by Cap-Score™, and traditional semen analysis measures (volume, concentration, motility) change with age in men questioning their fertility (MQF)? DESIGN Cap-Score and semen analysis measures were obtained from MQF (n = 2652; multicentric design: 35 reproductive endocrinologist prescribers, n = 16 clinics). Morphology was not included due to differences among clinics. A Mann-Whitney test was used to compare Cap-Scores between MQF and men with known recent paternity (n = 76). The following age groups were constructed for MQF: 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49 and 50+. Associations between semen analysis, Cap-Score and age groups were evaluated using mixed-model analysis of variance to identify possible influence of Cap-Score collection kit type (n = 763 collected at home; n = 1889 collected at clinics). RESULTS MQF had reduced capacitation ability (mean ± SE; 29.25 ± 0.15 versus 35.34 ± 0.88; P < 0.001). No change in Cap-Score (P = 0.916) or concentration (P = 0.926) was detected with age group. In contrast, both volume (P = 0.008) and % motility (P < 0.001) declined with age. CONCLUSIONS Men presenting because of difficulties in generating pregnancy showed equivalent reductions in capacitation ability regardless of age. In contrast, motility and volume declined with age. These data suggest that capacitation ability is a more sensitive indicator of male fertility across age groups than traditional semen analysis and should not be reserved for older men. Importantly, these data do not address whether sperm fertilizing ability declines in the general population as men age. Instead, they indicate that if men are having difficulty conceiving, no matter what their age, then defects in sperm fertilizing ability are equally likely to be the cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fady I Sharara
- Virginia Center for Reproductive Medicine, Reston VA, USA.
| | | | - Alexander J Travis
- Androvia LifeSciences, Mountainside NJ, USA; Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Cornell University, Ithaca NY, USA
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7
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Gómez-Torres MJ, Sáez-Espinosa P, Manzano-Santiago P, Robles-Gómez L, Huerta-Retamal N, Aizpurua J. Sperm Adhesion Molecule 1 (SPAM1) Distribution in Selected Human Sperm by Hyaluronic Acid Test. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102553. [PMID: 36289815 PMCID: PMC9599839 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The failures of binding to the oocyte zona pellucida are commonly attributed to defects in the sperm recognition, adhesion, and fusion molecules. SPAM1 (sperm adhesion molecule 1) is a hyaluronidase implicated in the dispersion of the cumulus-oocyte matrix. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the SPAM1 distribution in the different physiological conditions of human sperm. Specifically, we evaluated the location of the SPAM1 protein in human sperm before capacitation, at one and four hours of capacitation and after hyaluronic acid (HA) selection test by fluorescence microscopy. Sperm bound to HA were considered mature and those that crossed it immature. Our results detected three SPAM1 fluorescent patterns: label throughout the head (P1), equatorial segment with acrosomal faith label (P2), and postacrosomal label (P3). The data obtained after recovering the mature sperm by the HA selection significantly (p < 0.05) highlighted the P1 in both capacitation times, being 79.74 and 81.48% after one hour and four hours, respectively. Thus, the HA test identified that human sperm require the presence of SPAM1 throughout the sperm head (P1) to properly contact the cumulus-oocyte matrix. Overall, our results provide novel insights into the physiological basis of sperm capacitation and could contribute to the improvement of selection techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Gómez-Torres
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-965-903-878
| | - Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
| | | | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
| | | | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Reproductive Medicine, 03540 Alicante, Spain
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8
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Ayad B, Omolaoye TS, Louw N, Ramsunder Y, Skosana BT, Oyeipo PI, Du Plessis SS. Oxidative Stress and Male Infertility: Evidence From a Research Perspective. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:822257. [PMID: 36303652 PMCID: PMC9580735 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.822257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Male fertility potential can be influenced by a variety of conditions that frequently coincide. Spermatozoa are particularly susceptible to oxidative damage due to their limited antioxidant capacity and cell membrane rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The role of oxidative stress (OS) in the etiology of male infertility has been the primary focus of our Stellenbosch University Reproductive Research Group (SURRG) over the last 10 years. This review aims to provide a novel insight into the impact of OS on spermatozoa and male reproductive function by reviewing the OS-related findings from a wide variety of studies conducted in our laboratory, along with those emerging from other investigators. We will provide a concise overview of the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the development of OS in the male reproductive tract along with the physiological and pathological effects thereof on male reproductive functions. Recent advances in methods and techniques used for the assessment of OS will also be highlighted. We will furthermore consider the current evidence regarding the association between OS and ejaculatory abstinence period, as well as the potential mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of various systemic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and certain mental health disorders which have been shown to cause OS induced male infertility. Finally, special emphasis will be placed on the potential for transferring and incorporating research findings emanating from different experimental studies into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashir Ayad
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Misurata University, Misrata, Libya
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nicola Louw
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Yashthi Ramsunder
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Bongekile T. Skosana
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Peter I. Oyeipo
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Stefan S. Du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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9
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Wang C, Mbizvo M, Festin MP, Björndahl L, Toskin I. Evolution of the WHO "Semen" processing manual from the first (1980) to the sixth edition (2021). Fertil Steril 2022; 117:237-245. [PMID: 34996596 PMCID: PMC8842884 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
As stated clearly in all editions of the WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen, the goal of the manual is to meet the growing needs for the standardization of semen analysis procedures. With constant advances in andrology and reproductive medicine and the advent of sophisticated assisted reproductive technologies for the treatment of infertility, the manual has been continuously updated to meet the need for new, evidence-based, validated tests to not only measure semen and sperm variables but also to provide a functional assessment of spermatozoa. The sixth edition of the WHO manual, launched in 2021, can be freely downloaded from the WHO website, with the hope of gaining wide acceptance and utilization as the essential source of the latest, evidence-based information for laboratory procedures required for the assessment of male reproductive function and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Wang
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California.
| | - Michael Mbizvo
- Reproductive Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe and Country Director/Senior Associate, Population Council, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Mario P Festin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Department of Clinical Epidemiology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
| | - Lars Björndahl
- ANOVA, Clinic for Endocrinology, Karolinska University Hospital and Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Igor Toskin
- Other Editorial Board Members and Contributors of the WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen, 6th edition
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10
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Sáez-Espinosa P, Huerta-Retamal N, Robles-Gómez L, Avilés M, Aizpurua J, Velasco I, Romero A, Gómez-Torres MJ. Influence of in vitro capacitation time on structural and functional human sperm parameters. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:447-453. [PMID: 31621655 PMCID: PMC7523607 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_104_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A cascade of dramatic physiological events is linked to the sperm acrosome reaction and binding to the oocyte's zona pellucida during human sperm capacitation. However, structural and functional sperm changes during capacitation currently remain poorly defined. Here, we performed a multibiomarker approach based on the utilization of sperm concentration, motility, viability, morphology, acrosome reaction, tyrosine phosphorylation, DNA fragmentation, and lectin-binding sites to analyze the impact caused by swim-up selection times (uncapacitated, 1 h capacitated, and 4 h capacitated) on sperm function and structure in normozoospermic samples. We found that a 4 h swim-up capacitation increased sperm quality, because a large number of cells with normal morphology and lower DNA fragmentation rates were recovered. Furthermore, the long-term capacitation induced a higher percentage of cells with tyrosine phosphorylation of the principal piece as well as a redistribution of lectin-binding sites. Overall, the multivariate biomarkers analyzed showed a less variable distribution on spermatozoa recovered after 4 h capacitation than that with the shorter capacitation time. These findings stress the importance of capacitation time as a relevant factor in sperm quality with potential biological reproductive implications both for basic research and in assisted reproduction techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain.,FISABIO - University Hospital of San Juan de Alicante, Service of Gynecology and Obstetrics, San Juan de Alicante 03550, Spain
| | - Natalia Huerta-Retamal
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain
| | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia and IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Reproductive Medicine, Alicante 03540, Spain
| | - Irene Velasco
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain.,University Hospital of San Juan de Alicante, Service of Gynecology and Obstetrics, San Juan de Alicante 03550, Spain
| | - Alejandro Romero
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain
| | - María José Gómez-Torres
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain.,Human Fertility Cathedra, University of Alicante, Alicante 03080, Spain
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11
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Lewis SEM, Esteves SC. What does a varicocele do to a man's fertility? There is much more than meets the eye. Int Braz J Urol 2021; 47:284-286. [PMID: 33284533 PMCID: PMC7857774 DOI: 10.1590/s1677-5538.ibju.2019.0827.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sheena E M Lewis
- Queens University Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.,Examenlab Ltd., Weavers Court, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, SP, Brasil.,Departamento de Cirurgia, Divisão de Urologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas -UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brasil.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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12
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Haddock L, Gordon S, Lewis SEM, Larsen P, Shehata A, Shehata H. Sperm DNA fragmentation is a novel biomarker for early pregnancy loss. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:175-184. [PMID: 33082108 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Spontaneous pregnancy loss affects 10-15% of couples, with 1-2% suffering recurrent pregnancy loss and 50% of miscarriages remaining unexplained. Male genomic integrity is essential for healthy offspring, meaning sperm DNA quality may be important in maintaining a pregnancy. Does sperm DNA fragmentation measured by alkaline Comet assay act as a biomarker for early pregnancy loss? DESIGN Sperm DNA fragmentation was measured by alkaline Comet test in 76 fertile donors and 217 men whose partners had recently experienced miscarriage. Couples were divided into five groups for analysis: one miscarriage after spontaneous conception; two or more miscarriages after spontaneous conception; one miscarriage after fertility treatment; two or more miscarriages after fertility treatment and biochemical pregnancy. RESULTS Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis was used to determine ability of the average Comet score (ACS), low Comet score (LCS) and high Comet score (HCS) to diagnose miscarriage and develop clinical thresholds comparing men whose partners have miscarried with men with recently proven fertility. Male partners of women who had miscarried had higher sperm DNA damage (ACS 33.32 ± 0.57%) than fertile men (ACS 14.87 ± 0.66%; P < 0.001). Average Comet score, HCS and LCS all have promise as being highly predictive of sporadic and recurrent miscarriage using clinical thresholds from comparisons with fertile men's spermatozoa: receiver operating characteristic curve AUC for ACS ≥26%, 0.965; LCS ≤70%, 0.969; HCS ≥2%, 0.883; P <0.0001. CONCLUSIONS Sperm DNA damage measured by the alkaline Comet has promise as a robust biomarker for sporadic and recurrent miscarriage after spontaneous or assisted conception, and may provide novel diagnoses and guidance for future fertility pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Haddock
- Examenlab Ltd, Unit 18A, Block K, Weavers Court Business Park, Linfield Road, Belfast BT12 5GH, UK.
| | - Stephen Gordon
- Urology at Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Dorking Rd, Epsom KT18 7EG, UK
| | - Sheena E M Lewis
- Examenlab Ltd, Unit 18A, Block K, Weavers Court Business Park, Linfield Road, Belfast BT12 5GH, UK
| | - Peter Larsen
- Cryos International, Vesterbro Torv I, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
| | - Amjad Shehata
- Centre for Reproductive Immunology and Pregnancy, Bramshott House, 137/139 High Street, Epsom KT19 8EH, UK
| | - Hassan Shehata
- Centre for Reproductive Immunology and Pregnancy, Bramshott House, 137/139 High Street, Epsom KT19 8EH, UK; Maternal Medicine at Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Dorking Road, Epsom KT18 7EG, UK
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13
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Sharara F, Seaman E, Morris R, Schinfeld J, Nichols J, Sobel M, Lee A, Somkuti S, Hirshberg S, Budinetz T, Barmat L, Palermo G, Rosenwaks Z, Bar-Chama N, Bodie J, Nichols J, Payne J, McCoy T, Tarnawa E, Whitman-Elia G, Weissmann L, Doukakis M, Hurwitz J, Leondires M, Murdock C, Ressler I, Richlin S, Williams S, Wosnitzer M, Butcher M, Kashanian J, Ahlering P, Aubuchon M, Ostermeier GC, Travis AJ. Multicentric, prospective observational data show sperm capacitation predicts male fertility, and cohort comparison reveals a high prevalence of impaired capacitation in men questioning their fertility. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:69-79. [PMID: 32505543 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTIONS Can a previously defined relationship between sperm capacitation and the probability of a man generating pregnancy within three cycles, prospectively predict male fertility in diverse clinical settings? A second study asked, what is the prevalence of impaired sperm fertilizing ability in men questioning their fertility (MQF), and does this relate to traditional semen analysis metrics? DESIGN In the multicentric, prospective observational study, data (n = 128; six clinics) were analysed to test a published relationship between the percentage of fertilization-competent, capacitated spermatozoa (Cap-Score) and probability of generating pregnancy (PGP) within three cycles of intrauterine insemination. Logistic regression of total pregnancy outcomes (n = 252) assessed fit. In the cohort comparison, Cap-Scores of MQF (n = 2155; 22 clinics) were compared with those of 76 fertile men. RESULTS New outcomes (n = 128) were rank-ordered by Cap-Score and divided into quintiles (25-26 per group); chi-squared testing revealed no difference between predicted and observed pregnancies (P = 0.809). Total outcomes (n = 252; 128 new + 124 previous) were pooled and the model recalculated, yielding an improved fit (P < 0.001). Applying the Akaike information criterion found that the optimal model used Cap-Score alone. Cap-Scores were performed on 2155 men (with semen analysis data available for 1948). To compare fertilizing ability, men were binned by PGP (≤19%, 20-29%, 30-39%, 40-49%, 50-59%, ≥60%). Distributions of PGP and the corresponding Cap-Scores were significantly lower in MQF versus fertile men (P < 0.001). Notably, 64% of MQF with normal volume, concentration and motility (757/1183) had PGP of 39% or less (Cap-Scores ≤31), versus 25% of fertile men. CONCLUSIONS Sperm capacitation prospectively predicted male fertility. Impaired capacitation affects many MQF with normal semen analysis results, informing diagnosis versus idiopathic infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fady Sharara
- Virginia Center for Reproductive Medicine, Reston VA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Annette Lee
- Abington Reproductive Medicine, Abington PA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Larry Barmat
- Abington Reproductive Medicine, Abington PA, USA
| | - Gianpiero Palermo
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Ronald O. Perelman & Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, New York NY, USA
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Ronald O. Perelman & Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, New York NY, USA
| | | | - Joshua Bodie
- Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN, USA
| | - John Nichols
- Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group, Greenville SC, USA
| | - John Payne
- Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group, Greenville SC, USA
| | - Travis McCoy
- Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group, Greenville SC, USA
| | - Edward Tarnawa
- Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group, Greenville SC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Michael Butcher
- Park Nicollet Sexual Medicine & Male Infertility Clinic, St Louis Park MN, USA
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14
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Martin-Hidalgo D, Serrano R, Zaragoza C, Garcia-Marin LJ, Bragado MJ. Human sperm phosphoproteome reveals differential phosphoprotein signatures that regulate human sperm motility. J Proteomics 2020; 215:103654. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2020.103654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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15
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Kumar JA, Balaji T, Priyadarshini CS, Subramanian M, Sundaramurthi I. Non Concurrent Multimodal Stress Decreases Sperm Quality and Motor Activity in Male Wister Albino Rats. BIOMEDICAL & PHARMACOLOGY JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.13005/bpj/1781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Every human being is exposed to the stress in one or the other form in the day to day life. Most of the existing studies on the impact of stress on the male reproduction were assessed by using single stressor, which may lead habituation to that stressor. The present study intends to estimate the consequence of stress on motor activity, sperm quality and histopathology of the testis in stress-induced male rats using multimodal stress one per day. Four weeks old Wister albino rats were randomly split into 4 groups and induced multimodal stress at different ages of life span. After induction of stress serum corticosterone levels, muscle strength and coordination, quality of sperm and histopathology of testes were estimated. Elevated serum corticosterone levels and body weight, reduced muscle strength, coordination. Sperm concentration and motility was significantly reduced and increased morphologically abnormal sperm in stress induced animals but sperm viability was not altered much. Histopathology of testes in stress received animals showed decreased tubular diameter and increased intertubular space. Multimodal stress caused elevated serum corticosterone and body weight, decreased motor activity, sperm quality and degenerative changes in the testis
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyothi Ashok Kumar
- Department of Anatomy, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Thotakura Balaji
- Department of Anatomy, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - C. Swathi Priyadarshini
- Department of Anatomy, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Manickam Subramanian
- Department of Anatomy, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Indumathi Sundaramurthi
- Department of Anatomy, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
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16
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Kinetic properties of Na(+),K(+)-АТРase of spermatozoa from fertile and infertile men under effect of calix[4]arene C-107. UKRAINIAN BIOCHEMICAL JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.15407/ubj91.03.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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17
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Pourmasumi S, Nazari A, Fagheirelahee N, Sabeti P. Cytochemical tests to investigate sperm DNA damage: Assessment and review. J Family Med Prim Care 2019; 8:1533-1539. [PMID: 31198709 PMCID: PMC6559112 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_35_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Male factor infertility has been diagnosed as the cause of infertility in about 20% of infertile couples. Sperm analysis is the most common method for diagnosing infertility in a laboratory. However, approximately 15% of infertile men have a normal sperm analysis. Therefore, the result of a routine sperm analysis often cannot be a definitive diagnosis for male factor infertility. Also, approximately 8% of infertile men with normal sperm parameters have high levels of abnormal sperm DNA. This indicates the role of the integrity of sperm DNA in male infertility. Here, we review the current tests available to evaluate the sperm DNA integrity along with their benefits and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheila Pourmasumi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Alireza Nazari
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | | | - Parvin Sabeti
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
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18
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Andrade MBR, Bertolla RP, Intasqui P, Antoniassi MP, Tibaldi DS, Belardin LB, Spaine DM. Effect of orchiectomy on sperm functional aspects and semen oxidative stress in men with testicular tumours. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13205. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria B. R. Andrade
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Ricardo P. Bertolla
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Paula Intasqui
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Mariana P. Antoniassi
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Danielle S. Tibaldi
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Larissa B. Belardin
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Deborah M. Spaine
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
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19
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Schinfeld J, Sharara F, Morris R, Palermo GD, Rosenwaks Z, Seaman E, Hirshberg S, Cook J, Cardona C, Ostermeier GC, Travis AJ. Cap-Score™ prospectively predicts probability of pregnancy. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:654-664. [PMID: 30187594 PMCID: PMC6221170 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Semen analysis (SA) poorly predicts male fertility, because it does not assess sperm fertilizing ability. The percentage of capacitated sperm determined by GM1 localization (“Cap‐Score™”), differs between cohorts of fertile and potentially infertile men, and retrospectively, between men conceiving or failing to conceive by intrauterine insemination (IUI). Here, we prospectively tested whether Cap‐Score can predict male fertility with the outcome being clinical pregnancy within ≤3 IUI cycles. Cap‐Score and SA were performed (n = 208) with outcomes initially available for 91 men. Men were predicted to have either low (n = 47) or high (n = 44) chance of generating pregnancy using previously‐defined Cap‐Score reference ranges. Absolute and cumulative pregnancy rates were reduced in men predicted to have low pregnancy rates versus high ([absolute: 10.6% vs. 29.5%; p = 0.04]; [cumulative: 4.3% vs. 18.2%, 9.9% vs. 29.1%, and 14.0% vs. 32.8% for cycles 1–3; n = 91, 64, and 41; p = 0.02]). Only Cap‐Score, not male/female age or SA results, differed significantly between outcome groups. Logistic regression evaluated Cap‐Score and SA results relative to the probability of generating pregnancy (PGP) for men who were successful in, or completed, three IUI cycles (n = 57). Cap‐Score was significantly related to PGP (p = 0.01). The model fit was then tested with 67 additional patients (n = 124; five clinics); the equation changed minimally, but fit improved (p < 0.001; margin of error: 4%). The Akaike Information Criterion found the best model used Cap‐Score as the only predictor. These data show that Cap‐Score provides a practical, predictive assessment of male fertility, with applications in assisted reproduction and treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay Schinfeld
- Abington Reproductive Medicine, Abington, Pennsylvania
| | - Fady Sharara
- Virginia Center for Reproductive Medicine, Reston, Virginia
| | | | - Gianpiero D Palermo
- The Ronald O. Perelman & Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine & Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- The Ronald O. Perelman & Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine & Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York
| | | | | | - John Cook
- Singular Value Consulting, Houston, Texas
| | | | | | - Alexander J Travis
- Androvia LifeSciences, Mountainside, New Jersey.,Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
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20
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Ilgın S, Aydoğan-Kılıç G, Baysal M, Kılıç V, Ardıç M, Uçarcan Ş, Atlı Ö. Toxic Effects of Trazodone on Male Reproductive System via Disrupting Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis and Inducing Testicular Oxidative Stress. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:7196142. [PMID: 30151072 PMCID: PMC6087606 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7196142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are recognized as public health problems. Epidemiological studies have shown that depression and anxiety often occur during reproductive ages between 20 and 60 years of age in males. Trazodone is one of the most frequently prescribed drugs in the treatment of depression and anxiety. Drugs used in repeated doses also play a role in the etiology of infertility. In our study, it was aimed to identify the possible toxic effects of trazodone on male rats and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Vehicle or trazodone (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/day) was administered to rats for 28 consecutive days (n = 8 per group). At the end of that period, sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and DNA damage were determined and testicular morphology was assessed histopathologically in rats. Additionally, we investigated hormonal status by determining serum testosterone, FSH, and LH levels and oxidative stress by determining glutathione and malondialdehyde levels in testicular tissue to elucidate mechanisms of possible reproductive toxicity. According to our results, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology were decreased; sperm DNA damage was increased in trazodone-administered groups. Degenerative findings on the testicular structure were observed after trazodone administration in rats. Additionally, serum FSH, LH, and testosterone levels were elevated in the trazodone-administered groups. Increased MDA levels were the signs of enhanced oxidative stress after trazodone administration in testis tissues. Thus, we concluded that trazodone induced reproductive toxicity in male rats; this reproductive toxicity was accompanied by oxidative stress and hormonal changes, which are considered as important causes of reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinem Ilgın
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Gözde Aydoğan-Kılıç
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Merve Baysal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Volkan Kılıç
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Mina Ardıç
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Şeyda Uçarcan
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Özlem Atlı
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey
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21
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Wang XM, Xiang Z, Fu Y, Wu HL, Zhu WB, Fan LQ. Comparative Proteomics Reveal the Association between SPANX Proteins and Clinical Outcomes of Artificial Insemination with Donor Sperm. Sci Rep 2018; 8:6850. [PMID: 29717166 PMCID: PMC5931513 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25032-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen analysis is used for diagnosing male infertility and evaluating male fertility for more than a century. However, the semen analysis simply represents the population characteristics of sperm. It is not a comprehensive assessment of the male reproductive potential. In this study, 20 semen samples from human sperm bank with distinctive artificial insemination with donor sperm (AID) clinical outcomes were collected and analyzed using a two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE); 45 differentially expressed protein spots were obtained, and 26 proteins were identified. Most differentially expressed proteins were related to sperm motility, energy consumption, and structure. These identified proteins included several sperm proteins associated with the nucleus on the X chromosome (SPANX) proteins. This prospective study aimed to investigate the association between the expression levels of SPANX proteins and the AID clinical outcomes. The proteins identified in this study provided a reference for the molecular mechanism of sperm fertility and revealed a predictive value of the SPANX proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- X M Wang
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Z Xiang
- Shenzhen Armed Police Hospital Reproductive Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Y Fu
- Medical center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-yang Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - H L Wu
- Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - W B Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - L Q Fan
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, China. .,Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China.
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22
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Moody MA, Cardona C, Simpson AJ, Smith TT, Travis AJ, Ostermeier GC. Validation of a laboratory-developed test of human sperm capacitation. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:408-422. [PMID: 28418600 PMCID: PMC5485017 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Revised: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Sperm must undergo capacitation to become fertilization competent. Here we validated that monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1 ) localization patterns, which were assessed in the Cap-Score™ Sperm Function Test, reflect a capacitated state in human sperm. First, we defined patterns representing sperm that do or do not respond to stimuli for capacitation. Sperm with "capacitated" patterns had exposed acrosomal carbohydrates and underwent acrosome exocytosis in response to calcium ionophore (A23187). Precision was evaluated by percent change of the Cap-Score measured for 50, 100, 150, and 200 sperm. Changes of 11%, 6%, and 5% were observed (n ≥ 23); therefore, we counted ≥150 sperm per condition. Variance within and between readers was evaluated using 20 stitched image files generated from unique ejaculates. Two trained readers randomly resampled each image 20 times, reporting an average standard deviation of 3 Cap-Score units and coefficient of variation of 13% when rescoring samples, with no difference between readers. Semen liquefaction times ≤2 hr and mechanical liquefaction with Pasteur or wide-orifice transfer pipettes did not alter Cap-Score values. However, liquefaction with chymotrypsin (p = 0.002) and bromelain (p = 0.049) reduced response to capacitating stimuli and induced membrane damage, while counterintuitively improving sperm motility. Together, these data validate the Cap-Score assay for the intended purpose of providing information on sperm capacitation and male fertility. In addition to its clinical utility as a diagnostic tool, this test of sperm function can reveal the impact of common practices of semen handling on the ability of sperm to respond to capacitation stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Alexander J. Travis
- Androvia LifeSciencesMountainsideNew Jersey
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary MedicineCornell UniversityIthacaNew York
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23
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Cardona C, Neri QV, Simpson AJ, Moody MA, Ostermeier GC, Seaman EK, Paniza T, Rosenwaks Z, Palermo GD, Travis AJ. Localization patterns of the ganglioside G M1 in human sperm are indicative of male fertility and independent of traditional semen measures. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:423-435. [PMID: 28418610 PMCID: PMC5485082 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Semen analysis lacks a functional component and best identifies extreme cases of infertility. The ganglioside GM1 is known to have functional roles during capacitation and acrosome exocytosis. Here, we assessed whether GM1 localization patterns (Cap‐Score™) correspond with male fertility in different settings: Study 1 involved couples pursuing assisted reproduction in a tertiary care fertility clinic, while Study 2 involved men with known fertility versus those questioning their fertility at a local urology center. In Study 1, we examined various thresholds versus clinical history for 42 patients; 13 had Cap‐Scores ≥39.5%, with 12 of these (92.3%) achieving clinical pregnancy by natural conception or ≤3 intrauterine insemination cycles. Of the 29 patients scoring <39.5%, only six (20.7%) attained clinical pregnancy by natural conception or ≤3 intrauterine insemination cycles. In Study 2, Cap‐Scores were obtained from 76 fertile men (Cohort 1, pregnant partner or recent father) and compared to 122 men seeking fertility assessment (Cohort 2). Cap‐Score values were normally distributed in Cohort 1, with 13.2% having Cap‐Scores more than one standard deviation below the mean (35.3 ± 7.7%). Significantly, more men in Cohort 2 had Cap‐Scores greater than one standard deviation below the normal mean (33.6%; p = 0.001). Minimal/no relationship was found between Cap‐Score and sperm concentration, morphology, or motility. Together, these data demonstrate that Cap‐Score provides novel, clinically relevant insights into sperm function and male fertility that complement traditional semen analysis. Furthermore, the data provide normal reference ranges for fertile men that can help clinicians counsel couples toward the most appropriate fertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Queenie V Neri
- The Ronald O. Perelman & Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine & Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | | | | | | | | | - Theodore Paniza
- The Ronald O. Perelman & Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine & Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- The Ronald O. Perelman & Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine & Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Gianpiero D Palermo
- The Ronald O. Perelman & Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine & Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Alexander J Travis
- Androvia LifeSciences, Mountainside, New Jersey.,Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
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24
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Nangia AK. Editorial Comment. Urology 2016; 94:108-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2016.03.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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25
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Intasqui P, Camargo M, Antoniassi MP, Cedenho AP, Carvalho VM, Cardozo KHM, Zylbersztejn DS, Bertolla RP. Association between the seminal plasma proteome and sperm functional traits. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:617-628. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Revised: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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26
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Omu AE. Sperm parameters: paradigmatic index of good health and longevity. Med Princ Pract 2013; 22 Suppl 1:30-42. [PMID: 24051979 PMCID: PMC5586815 DOI: 10.1159/000354208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery of spermatozoon by Anton van Leeuwenhoek in 1677, there has been an ever increasing understanding of its role in reproduction. Many factors adversely affect sperm quality, including varicocele, accessory gland infection, immunological factors, congenital abnormalities, and iatrogenic systemic and endocrine causes, such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and smoking. The mechanisms responsible for the association between poor sperm parameters and ill health may include oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, low testosterone, and low sex-hormone-binding globulin. Oxidative stress in the testicular microenvironment may result in decreased spermatogenesis and sperm DNA damage, loss of sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology. Low testosterone caused by advanced age, visceral obesity, and inflammation is associated with the development of cardiovascular disease. Hence, semen analysis has an important role in the routine evaluation of idiopathic male infertility, usually manifested as low sperm counts, impaired sperm motility, or absence of sperm, and remains the most common single diagnostic tool. Several studies have shown an inverse relationship between semen quality and medical disorders. This review elucidates the effect of medical disorders and social habits on sperm quality, the mechanisms that are involved in the impairment of sperm quality, and whether or not sperm quality can be used as an index of good health and longevity in a man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander E. Omu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, Kuwait University, Kuwait
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27
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Acrosin activity is a suitable indicator of boar semen preservation at 17 °C when increasing environmental temperature and radiation. Theriogenology 2013; 80:234-47. [PMID: 23669168 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2012] [Revised: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The effect of increasing environmental temperature and radiation on the sperm quality and the field fertility of refrigerated seminal doses from AI boars (N = 30) was analyzed throughout four experimental months (from March through June). In each experimental month, analyses of sperm quality were performed at days 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 of refrigeration of seminal doses; pregnancy rate and litter size were evaluated using double monospermic inseminations of multiparous female animals using seminal doses at Days 1 to 2 and Days 3 to 4 of refrigeration. Sperm quality was assessed from the evaluation of conventional parameters of sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm morphology, and sperm viability, and capacitation parameters of membrane lipid disorder, intracellular calcium content, and acrosin activity. Results showed that sperm quality of boar seminal doses was negatively affected by increasing temperature and radiation, which resulted in significantly decreased sperm motility and viability, acrosin activity, pregnancy rate, and litter size, and significantly increased intracellular calcium levels in the trials performed in June. In any experimental month, aging of refrigerated doses was associated with the progressive increase of intracellular calcium levels and inactivation of acrosin, that began from Day 5 of storage in the trials performed in March and April, from Day 3 in those of May, and from Day 0 in those of June. Among the sperm parameters analyzed, only acrosin activity exhibited a clearly differentiated pattern in association with increasing temperature and radiation, and a significant correlation with pregnancy rate and litter size. These results highlighted the potential role of acrosin activity as an indicator of boar sperm preservation at 17 °C in boars.
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28
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Brown DB, Merryman DC, Rivnay B, Houserman VL, Long CA, Honea KL. Evaluating a novel panel of sperm function tests for utility in predicting intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:461-77. [PMID: 23526053 PMCID: PMC3644129 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-9960-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2012] [Accepted: 11/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to evaluate a panel of three sperm function tests; tests known to assess different aspects of sperm functionality and genomic integrity, the: 1) Sperm DNA Accelerated Decondensation (SDAD(TM)) Test, 2) Sperm DNA Decondensation (SDD(TM)) Test, and 3) Sperm Penetration Assay (SPA), determining if positive and negative test scores correlated with failed and successful ICSI outcomes, respectfully. METHODS A prospective, double blinded, cohort study was performed. One study sample (ejaculated semen) was collected by each of the 60 male partners of the 60 couples enrolled in the study; males whose female partners were found to have no major female factor issues. The sperm from each male was analyzed in the SPA, and SDAD and SDD Tests, and used for ICSI (1 ICSI cycle per couple). RESULTS The ICSI cycle pregnancy rate for this study was 50 %, with a delivery rate=40 % (n=60 ICSI cycles). The SPA and SDD Test scores did not significantly predict ICSI outcome when used as stand-alone tests (p>>0.05). However, when the SPA and SDD Test scores were used together, ICSI outcomes for a subgroup of 10 (16.7 %) males, were significantly predicted (p=0.03), with 1 live birth, and 9 negatives where the transferred embryos did not implant. In total, 38.4 % of the couples in this study were found to have a very poor chance for a successful ICSI cycle. CONCLUSION SDAD Test scores alone, and SPA and SDD Test scores used together, significantly predicted failed ICSI outcomes. This indicates that the scores obtained when analyzing patients' sperm using a panel of sperm function tests; specifically, the SPA, and SDAD and SDD Tests, can be used to identify infertile couples who should not be directed to ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Brown
- ART Fertility Program of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35209, USA.
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29
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Murray KS, James A, McGeady JB, Reed ML, Kuang WW, Nangia AK. The effect of the new 2010 World Health Organization criteria for semen analyses on male infertility. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:1428-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.07.1130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Revised: 07/22/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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30
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Shiraishi K, Matsuyama H, Takihara H. Pathophysiology of varicocele in male infertility in the era of assisted reproductive technology. Int J Urol 2012; 19:538-50. [PMID: 22417329 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2042.2012.02982.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Koji Shiraishi
- Department of Urology, Yamaguchi University School of Medicine, Sanyo-Onoda Municipal Hospital, Yamaguchi, Japan.
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Sperm chromatin structure assay results after swim-up are related only to embryo quality but not to fertilization and pregnancy rates following IVF. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:862-6. [PMID: 21841807 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2011.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate whether the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) results after swim-up are related to fertilization rates, embryo quality and pregnancy rates following in vitro fertilization (IVF). A total of 223 couples undergoing IVF in our hospital from October 2008 to September 2009 were included in this study. Data on the IVF process and sperm chromatin structure assay results were collected. Fertilization rate, embryo quality and IVF success rates of different DNA fragmentation index (DFI) subgroups and high DNA stainability (HDS) subgroups were compared. There were no significant differences in fertilization rate, clinical pregnancy or delivery rates between the DFI and HDS subgroups. However, the group with abnormal DFI had a lower good embryo rate. So, we concluded that the SCSA variables, either DFI or HDS after swim-up preparation, were not valuable in predicting fertilization failure or pregnancy rate, but an abnormal DFI meant a lower good embryo rate following IVF.
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Abstract
Semen analysis as an integral part of infertility investigations is taken as a surrogate measure for male fecundity in clinical andrology, male fertility, and pregnancy risk assessments. Clearly, laboratory seminology is still very much in its infancy. In as much as the creation of a conventional semen profile will always represent the foundations of male fertility evaluation, the 5th edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) manual is a definitive statement on how such assessments should be carried out and how the quality should be controlled. A major advance in this new edition of the WHO manual, resolving the most salient critique of previous editions, is the development of the first well-defined reference ranges for semen analysis based on the analysis of over 1900 recent fathers. The methodology used in the assessment of the usual variables in semen analysis is described, as are many of the less common, but very valuable, sperm function tests. Sperm function testing is used to determine if the sperm have the biologic capacity to perform the tasks necessary to reach and fertilize ova and ultimately result in live births. A variety of tests are available to evaluate different aspects of these functions. To accurately use these functional assays, the clinician must understand what the tests measure, what the indications are for the assays, and how to interpret the results to direct further testing or patient management.
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Penn HA, Windsperger A, Smith Z, Parekattil SJ, Kuang WW, Kolettis PN, Nangia AK. National semen analysis reference range reporting: adherence to the 1999 World Health Organization guidelines 10 years later. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:2320-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Revised: 02/27/2011] [Accepted: 03/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Hossain MS, Johannisson A, Wallgren M, Nagy S, Siqueira AP, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Flow cytometry for the assessment of animal sperm integrity and functionality: state of the art. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:406-19. [PMID: 21478895 PMCID: PMC3739346 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2011.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2010] [Revised: 11/19/2010] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Flow cytometry is now a recognized methodology within animal spermatology, and has moved from being a research tool to become routine in the assessment of animal semen destined to breeding. The availability of 'bench-top' flow cytometers and of newer and versatile markers for cell structure and function had allowed the instrumentation to measure more sperm parameters, from viability to reactiveness when exposed to exogenous stimuli, and to increase our capabilities to sort spermatozoa for potential fertilizing capacity, or chromosomal sex. The present review summarizes the state of the art regarding flow cytometry applied to animal andrology, albeit keeping an open comparative intent. It critically evaluates the present and future capabilities of flow cytometry for the diagnostics of potential fertility and for the development of current reproductive technologies such as sperm freezing, sperm selection and sperm sorting. The flow cytometry methods will probably further revolutionize our understanding of the sperm physiology and their functionality, and will undoubtedly extend its application in isolating many uncharacterized features of spermatozoa. However, continuous follow-up of the methods is a necessity owing to technical developments and the complexity of mapping spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Sharoare Hossain
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
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Abstract
Since release of the latest WHO manual with the new lower reference values of semen parameters, a lot of discussion has been raised about their usefulness and appropriateness for assessment of male fertility. As with the previous reference values the new limits do neither allow an andrological diagnosis based on nosological criteria nor clear-cut differentiation between fertility and sub-/infertility. Therefore, considering the fact that fertility is a continuum, the new lower reference limits should not be overestimated. Most probably, more sperm function tests, such as determination of DNA integrity, and-in the future-assessment of biomarkers, such as sperm proteomics will be included into andrological work-up, thus resulting in a more personalized approach of infertility management. On the other hand, the detailed instructions for standard and advanced semen analysis provided in the new manual are very much appreciated and should be adopted by each seriously working laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Haidl
- Department of Dermatology/Andrology Unit, University of Bonn, Bonn 53127, Germany.
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A Noninvasive, Motility Independent, Sperm Sorting Method and Technology to Identify and Retrieve Individual Viable Nonmotile Sperm for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection. J Urol 2010; 184:2466-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2010.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Handelsman DJ, Cooper TG. Afterword to Semen Analysis in 21st Century Medicine special issue in Asian Journal of Andrology. Asian J Androl 2010; 12:118-23. [PMID: 20111092 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2009.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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Handelsman DJ, Cooper TG. Foreword to Semen Analysis in 21st Century Medicine special issue in Asian Journal of Andrology. Asian J Androl 2010; 12:7-10. [PMID: 20111074 PMCID: PMC3739668 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2009.49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David J. Handelsman
- Reproductive Endocrinology & Andrology, ANZAC Research Institute, Sydney, Australia
| | - Trevor G. Cooper
- Andrology Laboratory, Institute of Reproductive Medicine of the University, Munster, Germany
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