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Henkel R. Leukocytospermia and/or Bacteriospermia: Impact on Male Infertility. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2841. [PMID: 38792382 PMCID: PMC11122306 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102841] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a globally underestimated public health concern affecting almost 190 million people, i.e., about 17.5% of people during their lifetime, while the prevalence of male factor infertility is about 7%. Among numerous other causes, the prevalence of male genital tract infections reportedly ranges between 10% and 35%. Leukocytospermia is found in 30% of infertile men and up to 20% in fertile men. Bacterial infections cause an inflammatory response attracting leukocytes, which produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and release cytokines, both of which can cause damage to sperm, rendering them dysfunctional. Although leukocytospermia and bacteriospermia are both clinical conditions that can negatively affect male fertility, there is still debate about their impact on assisted reproduction outcomes and management. According to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, leukocytes should be determined by means of the Endtz test or with monoclonal antibodies against CD15, CD68 or CD22. The cut-off value proposed by the WHO is 1 × 106 peroxidase-positive cells/mL. For bacteria, Gram staining and semen culture are regarded as the "gold standard", while modern techniques such as PCR and next-generation sequencing (NGS) are allowing clinicians to detect a wider range of pathogens. Whereas the WHO manual does not specify a specific value as a cut-off for bacterial contamination, several studies consider semen samples with more than 103 colony-forming units (cfu)/mL as bacteriospermic. The pathogenic mechanisms leading to sperm dysfunction include direct interaction of bacteria with the male germ cells, bacterial release of spermatotoxic substances, induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and ROS, all of which lead to oxidative stress. Clinically, bacterial infections, including "silent" infections, are treatable, with antibiotics being the treatment of choice. Yet, non-steroidal antiphlogistics or antioxidants should also be considered to alleviate inflammatory lesions and improve semen quality. In an assisted reproduction set up, sperm separation techniques significantly reduce the bacterial load in the semen. Nonetheless, contamination of the semen sample with skin commensals should be prevented by applying relevant hygiene techniques. In patients where leukocytospermia is detected, the causes (e.g. infection, inflammation, varicocele, smoking, etc.) of the leukocyte infiltration have to be identified and addressed with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories or antioxidants in cases where high oxidative stress levels are detected. However, no specific strategy is available for the management of leukocytospermia. Therefore, the relationship between bacteriospermia and leukocytospermia as well as their specific impact on functional sperm parameters and reproductive outcome variables such as fertilization or clinical pregnancy must be further investigated. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an update on the current knowledge on leukocytospermia and bacteriospermia and their impact on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Henkel
- LogixX Pharma Ltd., Merlin House, Brunel Road, Theale, Reading RG7 4AB, UK;
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0HS, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville 7535, South Africa
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2
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Corral-Vazquez C, Blanco J, Sarrate Z, Anton E. Unraveling the Intricacies of the Seminal Microbiome and Its Impact on Human Fertility. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:150. [PMID: 38534419 DOI: 10.3390/biology13030150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Although the microbial communities from seminal fluid were an unexplored field some decades ago, their characteristics and potential roles are gradually coming to light. Therefore, a complex and specific microbiome population with commensal niches and fluctuating species has started to be revealed. In fact, certain clusters of bacteria have been associated with fertility and health, while the outgrowth of several species is potentially correlated with infertility indicators. This constitutes a compelling reason for outlining the external elements that may induce changes in the seminal microbiome composition, like lifestyle factors, gut microbiota, pathologies, prebiotics, and probiotics. In this review, we summarize the main findings about seminal microbiome, its origins and composition, its relationship with fertility, health, and influence factors, while reminding readers of the limitations and advantages introduced from technical variabilities during the experimental procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Corral-Vazquez
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Joan Blanco
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Zaida Sarrate
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Ester Anton
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
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3
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Neto FTL, Viana MC, Cariati F, Conforti A, Alviggi C, Esteves SC. Effect of environmental factors on seminal microbiome and impact on sperm quality. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1348186. [PMID: 38455659 PMCID: PMC10918436 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1348186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This review provides a comprehensive overview of the existing research on the seminal microbiome and its association with male infertility, while also highlighting areas that warrant further investigation. Methods A narrative review was conducted, encompassing all relevant studies published between 1980-2023 on the male reproductive tract microbiome in humans. This review considered studies utilizing culture-based, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based, and next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based methodologies to analyze the microbiome. Data extraction encompassed sample types (semen or testicular tissue), study designs, participant characteristics, employed techniques, and critical findings. Results We included 37 studies comprising 9,310 participants. Among these, 16 studies used culture-based methods, 16 utilized NGS, and five employed a combination of methods for microorganism identification. Notably, none of the studies assessed fungi or viruses. All NGS-based studies identified the presence of bacteria in all semen samples. Two notable characteristics of the seminal microbiome were observed: substantial variability in species composition among individuals and the formation of microbial communities with a dominant species. Studies examining the testicular microbiome revealed that the testicular compartment is not sterile. Interestingly, sexually active couples shared 56% of predominant genera, and among couples with positive cultures in both partners, 61% of them shared at least one genital pathogen. In couples with infertility of known causes, there was an overlap in bacterial composition between the seminal and vaginal microbiomes, featuring an increased prevalence of Staphylococcus and Streptococcus genera. Furthermore, the seminal microbiome had discernible effects on reproductive outcomes. However, bacteria in IVF culture media did not seem to impact pregnancy rates. Conclusion Existing literature underscores that various genera of bacteria colonize the male reproductive tract. These organisms do not exist independently; instead, they play a pivotal role in regulating functions and maintaining hemostasis. Future research should prioritize longitudinal and prospective studies and investigations into the influence of infertility causes and commonly prescribed medication to enhance our understanding of the seminal microbiota's role in reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina C. Viana
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Federica Cariati
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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4
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Alqawasmeh O, Fok E, Yim H, Li T, Chung J, Chan D. The microbiome and male infertility: looking into the past to move forward. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:450-462. [PMID: 36039770 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2022.2098540] [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: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The human body harbours trillions of microbes, and their influence on human health has been explored in many parts of the human body, including the male reproductive system. From routine culturing to polymerise chain reaction (PCR) and high throughput DNA sequencing, several studies have identified bacteria in the male reproductive system. In this review, we discuss the past and current literature surrounding the testicular and semen microbiome in correlation with male infertility. We further highlight the potential benefits of probiotics as an alternative therapeutic option for male infertility. Although not conclusive, emerging data are indicating potential implications of certain bacterial members on male fertility. There is a general agreement on the negative impact of some pathogenic bacterial species on semen parameters, including sperm counts, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity. On the other hand, Lactobacillus, known as a human-friendly bacteria, has shown protective effects on semen parameters, which makes it a potentially good probiotic. In order to confirm the findings of previous studies, more clinical studies with larger sample sizes and the right controls are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odai Alqawasmeh
- Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ellis Fok
- Department of Biomedical Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Howard Yim
- Microbiome Research Centre, Department of Medicine, St George & Sutherland Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tin Li
- Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jacqueline Chung
- Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - David Chan
- Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Okwelogu SI, Ikechebelu JI, Agbakoba NR, Anukam KC. Microbiome Compositions From Infertile Couples Seeking In Vitro Fertilization, Using 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing Methods: Any Correlation to Clinical Outcomes? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:709372. [PMID: 34660337 PMCID: PMC8517523 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.709372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bacterial infections are usually suspected in infertile couples seeking IVF with no clear understanding of the microbial compositions present in the seminal fluids and vaginal niche of the patients. We used next-generation sequencing technology to correlate microbiota compositions with IVF clinical outcomes. Methods Thirty-six couples were recruited to provide seminal fluids and vaginal swabs. Bacterial DNA was extracted, and V4 region of the 16S rRNA was amplified and sequenced in a pair-end configuration on the Illumina MiSeq platform rendering 2 × 150 bp sequences. Microbial taxonomy to species level was generated using the Greengenes database. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) was used to identify biologically and statistically significant differences in relative abundance. Results Seminal fluid microbiota compositions had lower bacterial concentrations compared with the vagina, but species diversity was significantly higher in seminal fluid samples. Azoospermic subjects had more relative abundance of Mycoplasma and Ureaplasma. In Normospermic semen, Lactobacillus (43.86%) was the most abundant, followed by Gardnerella (25.45%), while the corresponding vaginal samples, Lactobacillus (61.74%) was the most abundant, followed by Prevotella (6.07%) and Gardnerella (5.86%). Conclusions Semen samples with positive IVF were significantly colonized by Lactobacillus jensenii (P=0.002), Faecalibacterium (P=0.042) and significantly less colonized by Proteobacteria, Prevotella, Bacteroides, and lower Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio compared with semen samples with negative IVF. Vaginal samples with positive IVF clinical outcome were significantly colonized by Lactobacillus gasseri, less colonized by Bacteroides and Lactobacillus iners. This study has opened a window of possibility for Lactobacillus replenishments in men and women before IVF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somadina I Okwelogu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences & Technology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Joseph I Ikechebelu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Nneka R Agbakoba
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences & Technology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Kingsley C Anukam
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences & Technology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi, Nigeria.,Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.,Department of Research and Development, Uzobiogene Genomics, London, ON, Canada
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6
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Yousef MS, Abdelhamid HN, Hidalgo M, Fathy R, Gómez-Gascón L, Dorado J. Antimicrobial activity of silver-carbon nanoparticles on the bacterial flora of bull semen. Theriogenology 2020; 161:219-227. [PMID: 33340755 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The spermicidal effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) hinder its application in the field of artificial insemination. In this study, silver-carbon NPs (Ag@C NPs) was synthesized and applied as an alternative antibiotic agent for bull semen extender. Ag@C NPs were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic absorption flame spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope (TEM), and high-resolution TEM (HR-TEM). Data analysis revealed the successful synthesis of Ag@C NPs with a particle size of 1-5 nm (average particle size of 2.5 nm) embedded into carbon. The antimicrobial activity of Ag@C NPs was tested against bacteriospermia of fresh semen collected from five fertile bulls (three ejaculates/bull). Escherichia coli (E. Coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) were isolated from fresh semen samples and identified by culture, staining, and conventional biochemical tests. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of Ag@C NPs against bacteriospermia was determined at 5 and 37 °C. Ag@C NPs showed efficient antimicrobial activity (MIC: 3.125-12.5 μg/mL) against the tested strains and strong bactericidal effect on S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa (MBC: 3.125 μg/mL), with no detrimental effect (P ˃ 0.05) on the percentage of sperm motility (70.71 ± 4.82; 74.65 ± 4.46), plasma membrane integrity (68.39 ± 4.31; 72.38 ± 4.91), acrosome integrity (88.40 ± 13.21; 86.77 ± 14.23), and normal sperm morphology (86.85 ± 7.43; 87.82 ± 8.15) at concentrations of 15 and 30 μg/mL, respectively, after a cold storage of 48 h. However, Ag@C NPs showed a detrimental effect on sperm parameters in a dose dependent manner at concentrations ≥60 μg/mL. Ag@C NPs showed no adverse effect on the sperm's ultrastructure with limited sperm internalization at MIC. In conclusion, Ag@C NPs could be used as an alternative antibiotic agent for bull semen extender without a significant cytotoxic effect on the sperm during cold storage. However, further investigations for their effects on embryo production and female genitalia are still required.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Yousef
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, 14071, Cordoba, Spain; Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
| | - Hani Nasser Abdelhamid
- Advanced Multifunctional Materials Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Egypt.
| | - M Hidalgo
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, 14071, Cordoba, Spain
| | - R Fathy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
| | - L Gómez-Gascón
- Department of Animal Health, University of Cordoba, 14071, Cordoba, International Excellence Agrifood Campus, CeiA3, Spain
| | - J Dorado
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, 14071, Cordoba, Spain.
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Farahani L, Tharakan T, Yap T, Ramsay JW, Jayasena CN, Minhas S. The semen microbiome and its impact on sperm function and male fertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Andrology 2020; 9:115-144. [PMID: 32794312 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male factor is attributable in up to 50% of cases of infertility. In vitro studies demonstrate that bacteria can negatively impact sperm function. The use of next-generation sequencing techniques has provided a better understanding of the human microbiome, and dysbiosis has been reported to impact health. Evidence regarding the impact of the semen microbiome on sperm function and fertility remains conflicting. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement. The databases MEDLINE, OVID and PubMed were searched to identify English language studies related to the identification of bacteria in the semen of infertile and fertile men, between 1992 and 2019. Fifty-five observational studies were included, with 51 299 subjects. We included studies identifying bacteria using next-generation sequencing, culture or polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS The semen microbiome was rich and diverse in both fertile and infertile men. Three NGS studies reported clustering of the seminal microbiome with a predominant species. Lactobacillus and Prevotella were dominant in respective clusters. Lactobacillus was associated with improvements in semen parameters. Prevotella appeared to exert a negative effect on sperm quality. Bacteriospermia negatively impacted sperm concentration and progressive motility, and DNA fragmentation index (DFI; MD: 3.518, 95% CI: 0.907 to 6.129, P = .008). There was an increased prevalence of ureaplasma urealyticum in infertile men (OR: 2.25, 95% CI: 1.47-3.46). Ureaplasma urealyticum negatively impacted concentration and morphology. There was no difference in the prevalence of chlamydia trachomatis between fertile and infertile men and no significant impact on semen parameters. Enterococcus faecalis negatively impacted total motility, and Mycoplasma hominis negatively impacted concentration, PM and morphology. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Ureaplasma urealyticum, Enterococcus faecalis, Mycoplasma hominis and Prevotella negatively impact semen parameters, whereas Lactobacillus appears to protect sperm quality. These findings may facilitate the development of novel therapies (eg probiotics), although the evidence regarding the impact of the seminal microbiome on fertility is inconclusive and further studies are needed to investigate this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Farahani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. Mary's Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.,Section of Investigative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tharu Tharakan
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Urology, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Tet Yap
- Department of Urology, Guys and St, Thomas's NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jonathan W Ramsay
- Department of Urology, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.,Department of Andrology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Andrology, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Urology, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
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Kenny LC, Kell DB. Immunological Tolerance, Pregnancy, and Preeclampsia: The Roles of Semen Microbes and the Father. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 4:239. [PMID: 29354635 PMCID: PMC5758600 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2017.00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it is widely considered, in many cases, to involve two separable stages (poor placentation followed by oxidative stress/inflammation), the precise originating causes of preeclampsia (PE) remain elusive. We have previously brought together some of the considerable evidence that a (dormant) microbial component is commonly a significant part of its etiology. However, apart from recognizing, consistent with this view, that the many inflammatory markers of PE are also increased in infection, we had little to say about immunity, whether innate or adaptive. In addition, we focused on the gut, oral and female urinary tract microbiomes as the main sources of the infection. We here marshall further evidence for an infectious component in PE, focusing on the immunological tolerance characteristic of pregnancy, and the well-established fact that increased exposure to the father's semen assists this immunological tolerance. As well as these benefits, however, semen is not sterile, microbial tolerance mechanisms may exist, and we also review the evidence that semen may be responsible for inoculating the developing conceptus (and maybe the placenta) with microbes, not all of which are benign. It is suggested that when they are not, this may be a significant cause of PE. A variety of epidemiological and other evidence is entirely consistent with this, not least correlations between semen infection, infertility and PE. Our view also leads to a series of other, testable predictions. Overall, we argue for a significant paternal role in the development of PE through microbial infection of the mother via insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise C. Kenny
- The Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas B. Kell
- School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- The Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Mändar R, Punab M, Korrovits P, Türk S, Ausmees K, Lapp E, Preem JK, Oopkaup K, Salumets A, Truu J. Seminal microbiome in men with and without prostatitis. Int J Urol 2017; 24:211-216. [PMID: 28147438 DOI: 10.1111/iju.13286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 11/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To profile the seminal microbiome applying next generation sequencing. METHODS Semen samples of 67 men were involved in the study (21 men with and 46 men without prostatitis). Seminal microbiomes were profiled applying the method that uses combinatorial sequence tags attached to polymerase chain reaction primers that amplify the ribosomal ribonucleic acid V6 region. Amplified polymerase chain reaction products were sequenced using an Illumina paired-end protocol on HiSeq2000 platform. RESULTS The most abundant phylum in semen was Firmicutes, comprising nearly half of the sequences found (median 41.7%, quartiles 28.5-47.2%) followed by Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. The counts of lactobacilli were higher in healthy men than prostatitis patients (27% [20.2-34.6%] vs 20.2% [4.9-25.0%]; P = 0.05), especially for Lactobacillus iners. Proteobacteria comprised higher proportions in prostatitis patients than healthy men. The species richness was higher in prostatitis patients than healthy men (inverted Simpson index 13.5 ± 5.8 vs 10.3 ± 4.0). CONCLUSIONS The semen of chronic prostatitis patients contains fewer health-supporting lactobacilli, and has higher species diversity than that of healthy men. Firmicutes (especially lactobacilli), Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria comprise the highest proportion of seminal microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reet Mändar
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Margus Punab
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Andrology Center, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Paul Korrovits
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia.,Andrology Center, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Silver Türk
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kristo Ausmees
- Andrology Center, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia.,MediTA Clinic, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Eleri Lapp
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jens-Konrad Preem
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kristjan Oopkaup
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Jaak Truu
- Competence Center on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.,Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
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10
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Solomon M, Henkel R. Semen culture and the assessment of genitourinary tract infections. Indian J Urol 2017; 33:188-193. [PMID: 28717267 PMCID: PMC5508428 DOI: 10.4103/iju.iju_407_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The male factor contributes approximately 50% to infertility-related cases in couples with an estimated 12%–35% of these cases attributable to male genital tract infections. Depending on the nature of the infection, testicular sperm production, sperm transport, and sperm function can be compromised. Yet, infections are potentially treatable causes of infertility. Male genital tract infections are increasingly difficult to detect. Moreover, they often remain asymptomatic (“silent”) with the result that they are then passed on to the relevant sexual partner leading to fertilization and pregnancy failure as well as illness of the offspring. With the worldwide increasing problem of antibiotic resistance of pathogens, proper diagnosis and therapy of the patient is important. This testing, however, should include not only aerobic microbes but also anaerobic as these can be found in almost all ejaculates with about 71% being potentially pathogenic. Therefore, in cases of any indication of a male genital tract infection, a semen culture should be carried out, particularly in patients with questionable semen quality. Globally, an estimate of 340 million new infections with sexually transmitted pathogens is recorded annually. Among these, the most prevalent pathogens including Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Mycoplasma hominis. Escherichia coli are considered the most common nonsexually transmitted urogenital tract microbes. These pathogens cause epididymitis, epididymo-orchitis, or prostatitis and contribute to increased seminal leukocyte concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Solomon
- Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Bacteriospermia and Its Impact on Basic Semen Parameters among Infertile Men. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2016; 2016:2614692. [PMID: 26880908 PMCID: PMC4736773 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2614692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Semen analysis is considered as the surrogate marker for male fecundity while assessing infertile men. There are several reasons for altered semen quality and bacteriospermia could be one among them. Thereby the aim of our work is to study the semen culture and its impact on semen parameters among infertile men. Materials and Methods. Semen samples were collected from men attending infertility clinic. Semen parameters were analysed based on WHO guidelines. Also, samples were subjected to culture using standard bacteriological techniques. Results. A total of 85 samples were collected. A number of 47 (55.30%) had normal sperm count, 37 (43.50%) had oligozoospermia, and one (1.17%) had azoospermia. Teratozoospermia was the most common abnormality observed (81.17%) followed by asthenozoospermia (28.23%). The prevalence of bacteriospermia was 35.3%. Enterococcus faecalis (30%) was the most common organism isolated followed by Coagulase negative Staphylococcus (23.33%), Staphylococcus aureus (20%), and E. coli (10%). Other less frequently isolated organisms were Klebsiella pneumoniae (6.66%), Proteus sp. (6.66%), and Citrobacter sp. (3.33%). Conclusion. The presence of asymptomatic bacteriospermia did not correlate with abnormal semen parameters.
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Vilvanathan S, Kandasamy B, Jayachandran AL, Sathiyanarayanan S, Tanjore Singaravelu V, Krishnamurthy V, Elangovan V. Bacteriospermia and Its Impact on Basic Semen Parameters among Infertile Men. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2016. [PMID: 26880908 PMCID: PMC4736773 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2614692 10.1155/2016/2614692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Semen analysis is considered as the surrogate marker for male fecundity while assessing infertile men. There are several reasons for altered semen quality and bacteriospermia could be one among them. Thereby the aim of our work is to study the semen culture and its impact on semen parameters among infertile men. Materials and Methods. Semen samples were collected from men attending infertility clinic. Semen parameters were analysed based on WHO guidelines. Also, samples were subjected to culture using standard bacteriological techniques. Results. A total of 85 samples were collected. A number of 47 (55.30%) had normal sperm count, 37 (43.50%) had oligozoospermia, and one (1.17%) had azoospermia. Teratozoospermia was the most common abnormality observed (81.17%) followed by asthenozoospermia (28.23%). The prevalence of bacteriospermia was 35.3%. Enterococcus faecalis (30%) was the most common organism isolated followed by Coagulase negative Staphylococcus (23.33%), Staphylococcus aureus (20%), and E. coli (10%). Other less frequently isolated organisms were Klebsiella pneumoniae (6.66%), Proteus sp. (6.66%), and Citrobacter sp. (3.33%). Conclusion. The presence of asymptomatic bacteriospermia did not correlate with abnormal semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangeetha Vilvanathan
- Department of Microbiology, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Chinna Kolambakkam Post, Madurantakam Taluk, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 603 308, India
- *Sangeetha Vilvanathan:
| | - Balan Kandasamy
- Department of Microbiology, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Chinna Kolambakkam Post, Madurantakam Taluk, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 603 308, India
| | - Abiramy Lakshmy Jayachandran
- Department of Microbiology, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Chinna Kolambakkam Post, Madurantakam Taluk, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 603 308, India
| | - Sarasa Sathiyanarayanan
- Department of Microbiology, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Chinna Kolambakkam Post, Madurantakam Taluk, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 603 308, India
| | - Vijayalakshmi Tanjore Singaravelu
- Department of Microbiology, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Chinna Kolambakkam Post, Madurantakam Taluk, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 603 308, India
| | - Veeraraghavan Krishnamurthy
- Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600 003, India
| | - Vanithadevi Elangovan
- Department of Microbiology, Karpaga Vinayaga Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Chinna Kolambakkam Post, Madurantakam Taluk, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 603 308, India
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Chen Q, Zhu W, Liu Z, Yan K, Zhao S, Han D. Toll-like receptor 11-initiated innate immune response in male mouse germ cells. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:38. [PMID: 24403550 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.114421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii and uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) may infect the testis and impair testicular function. Mechanisms underlying testicular innate immune response to these two pathogens remain to be clarified. The present study examined the function of TLR11, which can be recognized by T. gondii-derived profilin and UPEC, in initiating innate immune response in male mouse germ cells. TLR11 is predominantly expressed in spermatids. Profilin and UPEC induced the expressions of different inflammatory cytokine profiles in the germ cells. In particular, profilin induced the expressions of macrophage chemotactic protein 1 (MCP1), interleukin 12 (IL12), and interferon gamma (IFNG) through nuclear factor KB (NFKB) activation. UPEC induced the expressions of MCP1, IL12, and IFNG, as well as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFA), IL6, and IFNB, through the activation of NFKB, IFN regulatory factor 3, and mitogen-activated protein kinases. Evidence showed that profilin induced the innate response in male germ cells through TLR11 signaling, and UPEC triggered the response through TLR11 and other TLR-signaling pathways. We also provided evidence that local injection of profilin or UPEC induces the innate immune response in the germ cells. Data describe TLR11-mediated innate immune function of male germ cells in response to T. gondii profilin and UPEC stimulations. This system may play a role in testicular defense against T. gondii and UPEC infections in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyuan Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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14
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Hou D, Zhou X, Zhong X, Settles ML, Herring J, Wang L, Abdo Z, Forney LJ, Xu C. Microbiota of the seminal fluid from healthy and infertile men. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1261-9. [PMID: 23993888 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.07.1991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Revised: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 07/15/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore potential causes of male infertility by determining the composition and structure of commensal bacterial communities in seminal fluids. DESIGN Microscopy of Gram-stained semen samples and classification of 16S rRNA gene sequences to determine the species composition of semen bacterial communities. SETTING Clinical andrology laboratory and academic research laboratories. PATIENT(S) Nineteen sperm donors and 58 infertility patients. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Classification of 16S rRNA gene sequences, clustering of seminal microbial communities, and multiple statistical tests. RESULT(S) High numbers of diverse kinds of bacteria were present in most samples of both sperm donors and infertility patients. The bacterial communities varied widely among subjects, but they could be clustered into six groups based on similarities in composition and the rank abundances of taxa. Overall, there were no significant differences between sperm donors and infertility patients. However, multiple statistical tests showed a significant negative association between sperm quality and the presence of Anaerococcus. The results also indicated that many of the bacterial taxa identified in semen also occur in the vaginal communities of some women, especially those with bacterial vaginosis, which suggests that heterosexual sex partners may share bacteria. CONCLUSION(S) Diverse kinds of bacteria were present in the human semen, but there were no significant differences between sperm donors and infertility patients. The presence of Anaerococcus might be a biomarker for low sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongsheng Hou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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15
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Sepúlveda L, Bussalleu E, Yeste M, Torner E, Bonet S. How do different concentrations of Clostridium perfringens affect the quality of extended boar spermatozoa? Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 140:83-91. [PMID: 23755936 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Revised: 04/26/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Bacteriospermia in boar fresh and extended semen is a frequent finding that produces alterations on sperm quality and, consequently, causes economic losses in artificial insemination (AI) centres. The present study sought to evaluate the effect of different infective concentrations of Clostridium perfringens on boar sperm quality, assessed as sperm motility (CASA), morphology and viability, through 11 days of storage at 15°C (experiment 1), and after 96h of incubation at 37°C (experiment 2). With this purpose, different seminal doses were artificially inoculated with different infective concentrations of C. perfringens, ranging from 10(2) to 10(8)cfumL(-1). The negative controls were non-inoculated doses. Sperm quality was checked after 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 days of storage at 15°C in experiment 1, and after 0, 24, 48, 72 and 96h at 37°C in the second experiment. Moreover, the presence/absence of bacteria was detected by PCR analyses during both experiments at different time points. In both experiments, sperm morphology of inoculated samples did not differ from the negative control. Conversely, detrimental effects on sperm viability and motility were observed after 24h of incubation/storage at the highest infective concentrations in both experiments. The deleterious effects observed because of the presence of C. perfringens in semen emphasise the relevance of detecting bacteria in extended doses destined to AI. So, this study suggests that the evaluation of bacterial contamination in semen is a procedure that should be routinely applied while assessing sperm quality in AI centres to avoid the use of doses with low sperm quality and the possible spread of bacterial contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Sepúlveda
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction TechnoSperm, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17071 Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
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Fraczek M, Piasecka M, Gaczarzewicz D, Szumala-Kakol A, Kazienko A, Lenart S, Laszczynska M, Kurpisz M. Membrane stability and mitochondrial activity of human-ejaculated spermatozoa during in vitro experimental infection with Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus haemolyticus and Bacteroides ureolyticus. Andrologia 2012; 44:315-29. [PMID: 22348773 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2012.01283.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M. Fraczek
- Institute of Human Genetics; Polish Academy of Sciences; Poznan; Poland
| | - M. Piasecka
- Laboratory of Histology and Developmental Biology; Pomeranian Medical University; Szczecin; Poland
| | - D. Gaczarzewicz
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene; West Pomeranian University of Technology; Szczecin; Poland
| | | | - A. Kazienko
- Laboratory of Histology and Developmental Biology; Pomeranian Medical University; Szczecin; Poland
| | - S. Lenart
- Institute of Materials Engineering; West Pomeranian University of Technology; Szczecin; Poland
| | - M. Laszczynska
- Laboratory of Histology and Developmental Biology; Pomeranian Medical University; Szczecin; Poland
| | - M. Kurpisz
- Institute of Human Genetics; Polish Academy of Sciences; Poznan; Poland
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17
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Uropathogenic E. coli induce different immune response in testicular and peritoneal macrophages: implications for testicular immune privilege. PLoS One 2011; 6:e28452. [PMID: 22164293 PMCID: PMC3229579 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0028452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2011] [Accepted: 11/08/2011] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects one in seven couples and ascending bacterial infections of the male genitourinary tract by Escherichia coli are an important cause of male factor infertility. Thus understanding mechanisms by which immunocompetent cells such as testicular macrophages (TM) respond to infection and how bacterial pathogens manipulate defense pathways is of importance. Whole genome expression profiling of TM and peritoneal macrophages (PM) infected with uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) revealed major differences in regulated genes. However, a multitude of genes implicated in calcium signaling pathways was a common feature which indicated a role of calcium-dependent nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) signaling. UPEC-dependent NFAT activation was confirmed in both cultured TM and in TM in an in vivo UPEC infectious rat orchitis model. Elevated expression of NFATC2-regulated anti-inflammatory cytokines was found in TM (IL-4, IL-13) and PM (IL-3, IL-4, IL-13). NFATC2 is activated by rapid influx of calcium, an activity delineated to the pore forming toxin alpha-hemolysin by bacterial mutant analysis. Alpha-hemolysin suppressed IL-6 and TNF-α cytokine release from PM and caused differential activation of MAP kinase and AP-1 signaling pathways in TM and PM leading to reciprocal expression of key pro-inflammatory cytokines in PM (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6 downregulated) and TM (IL-1β, IL-6 upregulated). In addition, unlike PM, LPS-treated TM were refractory to NFκB activation shown by the absence of degradation of IκBα and lack of pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (IL-6, TNF-α). Taken together, these results suggest a mechanism to the conundrum by which TM initiate immune responses to bacteria, while maintaining testicular immune privilege with its ability to tolerate neo-autoantigens expressed on developing spermatogenic cells.
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Eley A, Pacey AA. The value of testing semen for Chlamydia trachomatis in men of infertile couples. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 34:391-401. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2010.01099.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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19
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Bhushan S, Schuppe HC, Fijak M, Meinhardt A. Testicular infection: microorganisms, clinical implications and host-pathogen interaction. J Reprod Immunol 2010; 83:164-7. [PMID: 19836838 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2009.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2009] [Revised: 05/07/2009] [Accepted: 07/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The male reproductive tract harbours effective immune mechanisms to protect the host from invading microorganisms. As the frontline of defence, the innate immune system has evolved receptors that recognise molecular patterns of pathogens to sense infections. These Toll-like receptors discriminate between different pathogen-associated molecules and activate signalling cascades that lead to immune responses, but can also result in tissue destruction leading to fertility disturbances. The testis is unique as it produces a large number of immunogenic cells expressing neo-antigens with no apparent adverse consequences for the majority of men. On the other hand the male gonad appears to be particularly susceptible to tissue damage resulting from infection or inflammatory reactions, a challenge that provides an important task both to clinicians and basic scientists. This review is intended to provide an overview of pathogens relevant in male reproductive tract infection, with a special emphasis on the testis. It also highlights the recent work broadening our understanding of the mechanisms underpinning germ cell loss in the presence of bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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20
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Macht eine prophylaktische Antibiose bei der assistierten Reproduktion Sinn? GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-008-0297-y] [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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21
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Proceedings of the 3rd Dies Andrologicus ‘Immunoreactions of the Human Testis and Spermatozoa’. Andrologia 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.1999.tb01431.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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22
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Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection—related to male and/or female infertility factors? Fertil Steril 2009; 91:67-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2007] [Revised: 11/11/2007] [Accepted: 11/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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23
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The presence of bacteria species in semen and sperm quality. J Assist Reprod Genet 2008; 26:47-56. [PMID: 19089609 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-008-9283-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2008] [Accepted: 12/04/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To verify the prevalence of semen bacterial contamination and whether the contamination could decrease sperm quality. METHODS Spermiogram, semen culture, and sperm transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis were performed. TEM data were elaborated using a mathematical formula that calculates a fertility index (FI)--able to define patients as fertile or infertile--and the percentage of sperm apoptosis, immaturity and necrosis. We aligned the amino acid sequence of beta-tubulin with protein of the most frequent species isolated from semen. RESULTS Patients were divided according to the contaminating species; in each group, we observed fertile individuals, in whom the semen quality was similar to that of controls and infertile men whose sperm quality was significantly decreased, in terms of motility, FI, apoptosis and necrosis. Partial homology between beta-tubulin and bacterial proteins was observed. CONCLUSION Sperm bacterial contamination is quite frequent and could contribute to the deterioration of the sperm quality of infertile men.
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Bhushan S, Tchatalbachev S, Klug J, Fijak M, Pineau C, Chakraborty T, Meinhardt A. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli block MyD88-dependent and activate MyD88-independent signaling pathways in rat testicular cells. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2008; 180:5537-47. [PMID: 18390738 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.180.8.5537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the most common etiological cause of urogenital tract infections and represents a considerable cause of immunological male infertility. We examined TLR 1-11 expression profiles in testicular cells and the functional response to infection with UPEC. All testicular cell types expressed mRNAs for at least two TLRs and, in particular, synthesis of TLR4 was induced in testicular macrophages (TM), Sertoli cells (SC), peritubular cells (PTC), and peritoneal macrophages (PM) after UPEC exposure. Even though MyD88-dependent pathways were activated as exemplified by phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases in TM, SC, PTC, and PM and by the degradation of IkappaBalpha and the nuclear translocation of NF-kappaB in PTC and PM, treatment with UPEC did not result in secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1alpha, IL-6, and TNF-alpha in any of the investigated cells. Moreover, stimulated production of these cytokines by nonpathogenic commensal E. coli or LPS in PM was completely abolished after coincubation with UPEC. Instead, in SC, PTC, TM, and PM, UPEC exposure resulted in activation of MyD88-independent signaling as documented by nuclear transfer of IFN-related factor-3 and elevated expression of type I IFNs alpha and beta, IFN-gamma-inducible protein 10, MCP-1, and RANTES. We conclude that in this in vitro model UPEC can actively suppress MyD88-dependent signaling at different levels to prevent proinflammatory cytokine secretion by testicular cells. Thus, testicular innate immune defense is shifted to an antiviral-like MyD88-independent response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Fraczek M, Szumala-Kakol A, Jedrzejczak P, Kamieniczna M, Kurpisz M. Bacteria trigger oxygen radical release and sperm lipid peroxidation in in vitro model of semen inflammation. Fertil Steril 2007; 88:1076-85. [PMID: 17383646 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2006] [Revised: 12/13/2006] [Accepted: 12/13/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the in vitro effect of five bacterial strains isolated from semen samples (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Streptococcus oralis, Bacteroides ureolyticus, and Ureaplasma urealyticum) on reactive oxygen intermediate (ROI) release and lipid sperm membrane peroxidation in the coincubated suspensions of white blood cells (WBC) with spermatozoa. DESIGN An in vitro model of semen infection. SETTING Basic research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Healthy normozoospermic volunteers and healthy blood donors. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Chemiluminescent assay was used to evaluate ROI generation by WBC. Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration was determined in sperm lysates using high-performance liquid chromatography. RESULT(S) Of the bacterial strains tested, B. ureolyticus, S. haemolyticus, and E. coli caused the greatest damage to sperm membrane lipids. An increase in MDA levels in sperm lysates was a natural consequence of bacteria-induced ROI generation. The WBC usually enhanced harmful activity of the infectious agent toward the cell membranes. CONCLUSION(S) The harmful effect of bacteria on spermatozoa depends on the type and species of microorganisms invading, colonizing, or infecting the male genital tract and is associated with the accompanying oxidative stress. The presence of leukocytes in semen appears to be the additional factor enhancing the sperm lipid membrane peroxidation, which may affect the fertility status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Fraczek
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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Role for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin 1-beta (IL-1beta) determination in seminal plasma during infertility investigation. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:810-23. [PMID: 17430733 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.08.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2005] [Revised: 08/31/2006] [Accepted: 08/31/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the clinical relevance of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin 1-beta (IL-1beta) determination in seminal plasma during infertility investigation. DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Outpatient infertility clinic of a university-based hospital. PATIENT(S) Randomly chosen asymptomatic males (n = 148) from subfertile couples. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Determination of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta in seminal plasma (SP) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In aliquots of the same ejaculates: 1) evaluation of semen quality with sperm analysis and sperm function testing; 2) determination of antisperm antibodies (ASA) of the immunoglobulin (Ig) G and IgA class; 3) microbial screening; and 4) immunocytochemical round cell differentiation to determine leukocyte counts and ratios. Medical history, clinical examination, and determination of subsequent fertility (after control for female infertility factors). RESULT(S) The concentrations of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta in SP correlated significantly (r = 0.65; P<.0001), and these parameters were significantly related to the leukocyte ratio (%LC) of the seminal round cells (r = 0.36; P<.001) and the leukocyte counts per ejaculate (r = 0.34; P<.001). There was no relationship of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta levels in SP with semen quality or parameters of sperm functional capacity, and there was no association with local ASA of the IgG or IgA class. The concentration of both cytokines was also not related to the outcome of the microbial screening and did not affect subsequent fertility. No correlation of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta levels in SP with the concentration of C-reactive protein in same-day serum samples was found. CONCLUSION(S) The levels of TNF-alpha and IL-1beta in seminal fluid correlate significantly with leukocyte counts and ratios in the same ejaculates, as indicators of silent male genital tract infection/inflammation. However, this is not related to semen cultures in asymptomatic individuals and not associated with clinically relevant parameters of semen quality, including sperm fertilizing capacity.
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Marchandin H, Teyssier C, Jumas-Bilak E, Robert M, Artigues AC, Jean-Pierre H. Molecular identification of the first human isolate belonging to the Veillonella ratti-Veillonella criceti group based on 16S rDNA and dnaK gene sequencing. Res Microbiol 2005; 156:603-7. [PMID: 15862461 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2005.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2004] [Revised: 10/28/2004] [Accepted: 01/06/2005] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Anaerobic gram-negative cocci belonging to the genus Veillonella are currently subdivided into eight species. Among them, four have been isolated either from human flora or from clinical samples during infectious processes: Veillonella atypica, V. dispar, V. parvula and V. montpellierensis. To date, the four other species have only been found in animals. In particular, V. ratti and V. criceti, since their characterization, have been exclusively reported from mouth and intestine of rodents. We report here for the first time a human isolate belonging to the V. ratti-V. criceti group recovered in mixed aerobic-anaerobic flora from a semen sample in a 24-year-old man attending the urology unit of our hospital for infertility. Identification of the isolate was based on 16S ribosomal DNA and dnaK gene sequencing. Since then, two strains of Veillonella sp. recovered from semen samples remained unidentified to the species level, and 16S rDNA-based phylogenetic analysis revealed that they might represent novel taxa within the genus Veillonella. Taken together, these observations suggest that host restriction may not exist in the genus Veillonella and that bacterial diversity remains underestimated both within this genus and in human semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Marchandin
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, 371 Avenue du Doyen Gaston Giraud, 34295 Montpellier Cedex 5, France.
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Abstract
Anaerobes have been involved in many different types of urinary tract infection. This review describes the microbiology, diagnosis and management of urinary tract and genito-urinary suppurative infections caused by anaerobic bacteria. The types of infections of the urinary tract in which anaerobes have been involved include para- or periurethral cellulitis or abscess, acute and chronic urethritis, cystitis, acute and chronic prostatitis, prostatic and scrotal abscesses, periprostatic phlegmon, ureteritis, periureteritis, pyelitis, pyelonephritis, renal abscess, scrotal gangrene, metastatic renal infection pyonephrosis, perinephric abscess, retroperitoneal abscess and other infections. The anaerobes recovered in these studies were Gram-negative bacilli (including Bacteroides fragilis and pigmented Prevotella and Porphyromonas sp.), Clostridium sp., anaerobic Gram-positive cocci and Actinomyces sp. In many cases, they were recovered mixed with coliforms or streptococci. The recovery of anaerobes requires the administration of antimicrobial therapy that is effective against these organisms. These antimicrobials include metronidazole, chloramphenicol, clindamycin, a carbapenem, cefoxitin and the combination of a penicillin and a beta-lactamase inhibitor. Percutaneous drainage, open surgical drainage or nephectomy might be indicated for abscesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itzhak Brook
- Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington DC 20016, USA.
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Mehta RH, Sridhar H, Vijay Kumar BR, Anand Kumar TC. High incidence of oligozoospermia and teratozoospermia in human semen infected with the aerobic bacterium Streptococcus faecalis. Reprod Biomed Online 2002; 5:17-21. [PMID: 12470540 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61591-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial culture of semen samples from 100 male partners in infertile couples revealed the presence of aerobic bacteria in 49 cases. Streptococcus faecalis (Enterococcus) was isolated from 53%, micrococci species from 20% and alpha-haemolytic streptococci from 16% of the infected samples. The incidence of oligozoospermia and teratozoospermia was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in men whose semen samples contained S. faecalis than those whose semen samples contained micrococci or alpha-haemolytic streptococci or those that did not contain bacteria. The mean sperm concentration, as well as the mean percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa, was significantly (P < 0.03) lower in semen infected with S. faecalis compared with that containing micrococci or alpha-haemolytic streptococci and the uninfected samples. There is a high incidence of semen infection with S. faecalis, and it is associated with compromised semen quality in terms of sperm concentration and morphology. The presence of micrococci or alpha-haemolytic streptococci does not appear to have any detrimental effect on sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- R H Mehta
- Hope Infertility Clinic, 12 Aga Abbas Ali Road, Bangalore 560 042, India.
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Eggert-Kruse W, Neuer A, Clussmann C, Boit R, Geissler W, Rohr G, Strowitzki T. Seminal antibodies to human 60kd heat shock protein (HSP 60) in male partners of subfertile couples. Hum Reprod 2002; 17:726-35. [PMID: 11870127 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/17.3.726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heat shock proteins (HSP) are essential mammalian and bacterial stress proteins. At the cellular level, they act as chaperones, have important regulatory functions, and are considered to be an essential factor for reproduction. Scarce information exists on the role of sensitization to HSP and the potential role in the aetiology of male infertility. METHODS The potential association of immunoglobulin (Ig)A antibodies (Ab) to the human 60 kDa heat shock protein (HSP 60) with several parameters of subclinical male genital tract infection/inflammation and with semen quality and sperm fertilizing capacity was analysed in a prospective study. IgA Ab to human HSP 60 were determined in seminal plasma of 202 randomly chosen male partners of subfertile couples with a median duration of infertility of 4 years (range 1-15 years), who were asymptomatic for genital tract infection. After medical history and clinical examination, a comprehensive evaluation of semen quality, in aliquots of the same ejaculates used for HSP Ab determination, included: sperm analysis; local antisperm antibody (ASA) screening; standardized sperm-cervical mucus (CM) penetration testing; immunocytochemical round cell differentiation to determine seminal leukocyte counts; evaluation of complement fraction C(3) and of some pro-inflammatory cytokines; and microbial screening. Subsequent fertility was recorded after 6 months. RESULTS The presence of HSP 60 IgA Ab in seminal fluid (total positive 6.9%) was significantly associated with leukocytospermia, the presence of C(3), and also with high interleukin (IL) levels in seminal plasma. HSP 60 Ab were not related to the bacterial colonization of ejaculates. There was no association of seminal IgA Ab to human HSP 60 with semen quality, determined with microscopical semen analysis, nor with local IgG- or IgA-class ASA. There was no relationship with sperm intrinsic motility and duration of motility in the sperm CM-penetration test, nor with sperm fertilizing capacity. CONCLUSIONS The combined presence of IgA Ab to human 60 kDa HSP, leukocytes and other established infection/inflammation markers in semen might suggest a potential role of the immune response to heat shock proteins (HSP) in cases of silent male genital tract infection, but the results do not indicate a marked relationship of HSP 60 Ab in seminal fluid with standard parameters of semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waltraud Eggert-Kruse
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Women's University Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Vosstrasse 9, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany
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Eggert-Kruse W, Zwick EM, Batschulat K, Rohr G, Armbruster FP, Petzoldt D, Strowitzki T. Are zinc levels in seminal plasma associated with seminal leukocytes and other determinants of semen quality? Fertil Steril 2002; 77:260-9. [PMID: 11821081 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(01)02974-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate a potential association of zinc levels with seminal leukocytes, the outcome of semen cultures; and semen quality and sperm fertilizing capacity. DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Outpatient infertility clinic of a university hospital. PATIENT(S) Two hundred fifty-six randomly chosen asymptomatic males from subfertile couples. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Determination of zinc in seminal plasma by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. In aliquots of the same ejaculates the following tests were performed: immunocytochemical round cell differentiation to determine leukocyte counts and ratios, microbial screening, and comprehensive evaluation of semen quality (sperm analysis, biochemical parameters, antisperm antibody testing, and in vitro examination of sperm ability to penetrate cervical mucus). The patients underwent medical history, clinical examination, and postcoital testing. Subsequent fertility was determined (controlled for female infertility factors). RESULT(S) The concentration of zinc in seminal plasma did not correlate in a statistically significant way with leukocytes in semen, nor was it associated with bacterial colonization. There was no statistically significant relationship of zinc in seminal plasma or serum with semen quality parameters nor with local antisperm antibody testing of the IgG or IgA class. Zinc levels did not influence sperm capacity to penetrate cervical mucus in vitro or in vivo, and did not affect subsequent fertility. CONCLUSION(S) The zinc level in seminal fluid and serum is not associated with silent male genital tract infection (indicated by seminal leukocytes); nor is it related to semen cultures in asymptomatic individuals. The lack of association with other semen quality parameters indicates that the routine determination of zinc levels during infertility investigation is not recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waltraud Eggert-Kruse
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital, University of Heidelberg, Vossstrasse 9, 69115 Heidelberg, Germany
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Vicari E. Effectiveness and limits of antimicrobial treatment on seminal leukocyte concentration and related reactive oxygen species production in patients with male accessory gland infection. Hum Reprod 2000; 15:2536-44. [PMID: 11098023 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/15.12.2536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate whether bacteriological cure, sperm outcome, spontaneous pregnancy rate and white blood cell (WBC)-related reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were related to the extent of the infection and to an intermittent and repetitive antimicrobial treatment, 122 patients with bacterial [>10(5) colony-forming units (CFU)/ml] male accessory gland infections (MAGI) were studied. According to ultrasound criteria, patients had prostatitis (PR, n = 52), prostatovesiculitis (PV, n = 32) or prostatovesiculoepididymitis (PVE, n = 38). Each group was further subdivided into two subsets: one subset (PR, n = 40; PV, n = 20; PVE, n = 25) was given ofloxacin or doxycycline for 14 consecutive days per month for 3 months; the other subset (PR, n = 12; PV, n = 12; PVE, n = 13) received no treatment. The female partners were also treated. All patients were evaluated before, during (1 and 3 months) and after (3 months) treatment. The bacteriological cure rate was the highest (92.5%) after the third antibiotic course in PR, followed by PV (70.4%), and the lowest in PVE (52.0%). At 3 months after therapy discontinuation, some sperm parameters, seminal WBC concentration and ROS generation (assessed in the 45% Percoll fraction) were ameliorated in PR and PV, whereas no improvement occurred in patients with PVE, except for the percentage of coiled tails. Antibiotic treatment in PR and PV patients led to positive effects on sperm output and spontaneous pregnancy rate (40%) by removing pro-oxidant noxae (microbial and/or WBC-related ROS production). The persistent infertility, dyspermia and sperm-derived ROS overproduction in PVE may relate to a significant percentage of antibiotic-independent re-infection and/or to low antioxidative epididymal properties, which persisted following antimicrobial treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Vicari
- Andrology Centre, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Catania, Via A.Diaz 15, 95125 Catania, Italy
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Diemer T, Huwe P, Michelmann HW, Mayer F, Schiefer HG, Weidner W. Escherichia coli-induced alterations of human spermatozoa. An electron microscopy analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 2000; 23:178-86. [PMID: 10844544 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2605.2000.00224.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated if the negative influence of Escherichia coli on the motility of human spermatozoa is a consequence of E. coli-induced ultrastructural alterations. Suspensions of spermatozoa were artificially infected with E. coli from a serotyped, pathogenic strain and incubated at 37 degrees C for 6 h. After incubation, spermatozoa were fixed in glutaraldehyde, stained with osmium tetroxide and ruthenium red and embedded in Spurr(R)-resin followed by ultramicrotomy. The sections were analysed subsequently by use of transmission electron microscopy. Uninfected suspensions of spermatozoa in medium and bacterial suspensions served as controls. Negative contrast technique was performed to facilitate visualization of ultrastructural details of the bacterial capsule after experimental exposure to spermatozoa. Electron microscopic evaluation revealed multiple and profound alterations in the ultrastructure of spermatozoa such as membrane defects and cytoplasmic vacuoles exclusively in spermatozoa of infected samples (> 90%). Morphological alterations involved all superficial structures of spermatozoa, in particular the plasma membrane of the mid-piece and neck as well as the inner and outer acrosomal membrane of the acrosome, indicating that morphological defects account for the immobilization of spermatozoa by E. coli. The results suggest that E. coli infection of ejaculates results in immobilization and impaired acrosomal function in human spermatozoa, findings that support the indication for antimicrobial chemotherapy in symptomatic and silent infections that affect the ejaculate.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Diemer
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA.
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Eggert-Kruse W, Rohr G, Probst S, Rusu R, Hund M, Demirakca T, Aufenanger J, Runnebaum B, Petzoldt D. Antisperm antibodies and microorganisms in genital secretions--a clinically significant relationship? Andrologia 1998; 30 Suppl 1:61-71. [PMID: 9629445 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.1998.tb02828.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In asymptomatic infertility patients, no significant relationship was found between the presence of antisperm antibodies (ASA) in serum and in semen samples (IgG and/or IgA ASA), differentiated with the mixed antiglobulin reaction (MAR), and the microbial colonization of ejaculates covering a broad spectrum of microorganisms. Likewise, there was no significant association of ASA with microbial findings in patients' female partners, who also presented without symptoms of genital tract infection and were screened at the same time. Furthermore, ASA in semen (IgG and IgA) were not significantly related to several potential markers of subclinical male sexual gland infection or inflammation (leukocytes, PMN elastase, albumin, C3c) evaluated in aliquots of the same ejaculates used for immunological testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Eggert-Kruse
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital Heidelberg, Germany
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