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Wang J, Bao B, Meng F, Deng S, Dai H, Feng J, Li H, Wang B. The mechanism analysis using PI3K/AKT pathway for the effects of levocarnitine in the treatment of spermatogenic dysfunction. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14290. [PMID: 34713479 DOI: 10.1111/and.14290] [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: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
LEV improves the percentage of forward-motion spermatozoon and total sperm motility in patients with oligozoospermia or asthenospermia in clinical settings. However, the mechanism of action of levocarnitine (LEV) in the treatment of spermatogenic dysfunction was unclear. Based on in vitro and in vivo experiments, we used Glucosides of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (GTW) to construct a cell model (using spermatogenic GC-1 spg cells) and an animal model (using rats) of spermatogenic dysfunction. LEV and LY294002 (a PI3K pathway inhibitor) were then administered. By assessing apoptosis and sperm quality and motility, the underlying mechanism was explored. We found that GTW induced spermatogenic dysfunction, and LEV ameliorated the GTW-induced spermatogenic dysfunction. LEV inhibited GC-1 spg cell apoptosis and improved the sperm count and percentages of PR (forward motion) + NP (non-forward motion) (p < .01). Besides, the morphology of testicular tissue in the GTW + LEV and LY + LEV groups was superior to that in the GTW group. We can to the conclusion that LEV may operate via the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, with increases in PI3K, p-AKT, and BCL-2 protein and mRNA expression, so that the percentages of GC-1 spg cells apoptosis decrease, and the sperm count and motility improve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisheng Wang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Binghao Bao
- Department of Andrology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Fanchao Meng
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Sheng Deng
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hengheng Dai
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Junlong Feng
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Haisong Li
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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2
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Karabulut S, Korkmaz O, Yılmaz E, Keskin I. Seminal oxidation-reduction potential as a possible indicator of impaired sperm parameters in Turkish population. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13956. [PMID: 33381879 DOI: 10.1111/and.13956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) has been shown to have a key role in male infertility. Recently, a new measurement method has been developed to measure the overall oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) in a semen sample known as the MiOXSYS system. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation of sperm parameters with oxidative stress levels determined by ORP and to evaluate whether the current limit is able to distinguish abnormal sperm parameters from normal ones in Turkish population. Semen samples of 121 patients who applied for infertility investigation were divided into two groups as (OS +; n:39) and (OS -; n:82). Semen parameters were compared between groups. Sperm concentration, total motility and progressive motility were found to be significantly lower in OS (+) patients compared to those OS (-), while immotile sperm count was significantly higher in OS (+) patients. Oxidative stress determined by MiOXSYS system was found to be related to reduced sperm parameters in Turkish population, which may be used as an indicator of poor sperm parameters and a support to routine semen analysis. In addition, recommended reference value was found to be reliable in distinguishing normal from impaired semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Oya Korkmaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Elif Yılmaz
- Medistate Hospital, IVF Center, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilknur Keskin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Zhang Q, Fan L, Li F, Sun Z, Zhang C, Chen R. Yishentongluo decoction in treatment of idiopathic asthenozoospermia infertility: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e22662. [PMID: 33120757 PMCID: PMC7581134 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000022662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The reproductive dilemma faced by men has always been the focus of the whole society. Idiopathic asthenozoospermia (AZS), as one of the common causes of male infertility, lack of specific treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine has shown potential benefits in the management of male infertility. Yishentongluo decoction (YSTL) is a representative Chinese herbal formula; however, there is still no rigorous clinical trial supporting its application. Therefore, we designed a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of YSTL for patients with idiopathic AZS and explain the possible action mechanisms of YSTL in improving sperm motility. METHODS In this randomized controlled study, a total of 160 eligible patients will be assigned to YSTL group or the Levocarnitine oral solution group in a 1:1 ratio. The treatment period will be 12 weeks and the follow-up period will last 4 weeks. The primary outcome will be the the progressive (motility), sperm rate (%). Secondary outcomes will include the progressive (motility) + non-progressive (motility) sperm rate(%), total effective sperm count, inner mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in spermatozoa, and spouse pregnancy rate (%). Safety outcomes will cover electrocardiogram , blood tests (including blood routine test, hepatic function, and renal function), urine routine test, and stool routine test. The semen parameters, sperm MMP test, and all the safety outcomes will be performed at the baseline, 4th, 8th and 12th week. The pregnancy outcome will be evaluated at 4 weeks after treatment. DISCUSSION This study will provide initial evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of YSTL in the treatment of idiopathic AZS with kidney deficiency and blood stasis pattern. In addition, potential mechanisms of YSTL in improving sperm motility will be explored based on sperm MMP test. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trials Register identifier, ChiCTR2000033290, registered on 26 May 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610075, Sichuan Province, P.R. China; Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610075, Sichuan Province
| | - Lipeng Fan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.6 Dong-feng Road
| | - Fangyuan Li
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610075, Sichuan Province, P.R. China; Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610075, Sichuan Province
| | - Zixue Sun
- Second Clinical Medical School, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, NO.156 Jin-shui-dong Road
| | - Chenming Zhang
- Second Clinical Medical School, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, NO.156 Jin-shui-dong Road
| | - Rubing Chen
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, NO.19 Ren-min Road, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, P.R. China
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4
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Tsampoukas G, Khan MF, Katsouri A, Akhter W, Moussa M, Deliveliotis K, Papatsoris A, Buchholz N. L-carnitine as primary or adjuvant treatment in infertile patients with varicocele. A systematic review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 92. [PMID: 33016059 DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2020.3.263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocele has been found to impair the function of the epididymis resulting in subfertility whereas the varicocelectomy can resolve the phenomenon. L-carnitine is regarded as a biomarker for the function of the epididymis and has been found in reduced concentrations in infertile patients of various causes, including infertile men with varicocele. It seems that Lcarnitine and varicocele share clinical significance and the area of research looks promising. OBJECTIVE To identify the role of L-carnitine in the treatment of varicocele. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search was performed in Pubmed/Medline with the terms (L-carnitine) and (varicocele) and (L-carnitine) and (varicocelectomy). Inclusion criteria were studies reported outcomes of L-carnitine administration alone or in duet, as primary or adjuvant treatment to varicocele. Exclusion criteria were non-English language and animal studies. Studies using L-carnitine as part of a panel of therapeutic agents were avoided. RESULTS Only four suitable studies were identified for discussion. In one randomized study, the combination of L-carnitine and cinnoxicam improved semen parameters in patients with non-high-grade varicocele compared to L-carnitine alone and had a favourable effect on pregnancy rates but the effect of grade is unknown. In another study, as an adjuvant treatment to varicocelectomy, L-carnitine showed no clear benefit. Finally, in comparison to surgery, the results are inconclusive; two studies showed some benefit might be expected in low-grade or subclinical varicocele, but surgery appears superior. CONCLUSIONS The evidence regarding the role of L-carnitine as a primary or adjuvant treatment of varicocele is sparse. The pathophysiological significance of L-carnitine implicates a potential role of the molecule in the management of varicocele, but the evidence so far is controversial for any recommendations. L-carnitine might be taken into consideration in selected cases; however, further search is needed in order the optimal role of L-carnitine in infertile patients with varicocele to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Tsampoukas
- U-merge Ltd. (Urology for emerging countries), London; Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow.
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Ajayi AF, Akhigbe RE. The physiology of male reproduction: Impact of drugs and their abuse on male fertility. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13672. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Folorunsho Ajayi
- Department of Physiology College of Medicine Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Ogbomoso Nigeria
| | - Roland Eghoghosoa Akhigbe
- Department of Physiology College of Medicine Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Ogbomoso Nigeria
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratories Oasis of Grace Hospital Osogbo Nigeria
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Guan S, Zhu Y, Wang J, Dong L, Zhao Q, Wang L, Wang B, Li H. A combination of Semen Cuscutae and Fructus Lycii improves testicular cell proliferation and inhibits their apoptosis in rats with spermatogenic dysfunction by regulating the SCF/c-kit--PI3K--Bcl-2 pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 251:112525. [PMID: 31904495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Semen Cuscutae is the seed of Cuscuta japonica Choisy, and Fructus Lycii is the mature fruit of Lycium barbarum L. (Solanaceae). Semen Cuscutae and Fructus Lycii (SC-FL) are well-known Chinese medicine which have been used to tonify the kidney and replenish the essence for thousands of years. Chinese physicians prefer to prescribe them for treating male infertility. Recent studies have found that SC-FL repair spermatogenic dysfunction, however, the therapeutic mechanism has yet to be clearly elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed at evaluating the therapeutic effect of SC-FL in glucosides of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f (GTW)-induced dyszoospermia rats and elucidating the underlying molecular mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventy-eight Sprague-Dauley (SD) rats were randomly divided into five groups: normal control (treated with saline), GTW (treated with saline), GTW + levocarnitine (treated with levocarnitine), GTW + SCFL (treated with SC-FL), and LY (LY294002, the PI3K inhibitor) +SCFL (treated with SC-FL). GTW (40 mg/kg/d) was intragastrically administered for 4 weeks to establish dyszoospermia model. From the start of the study, LY was additionally injected into the tail vein of rats of the LY + SCFL group once a week. After 8 weeks, semen quality and organ coefficient were determined and sex hormone, inhibin B, and epididymal carnitine levels were measured. Testicular tissue and its ultrastructure were observed using H&E (hematoxylin-eosin) staining and electron microscopy. Immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to determine the protein and mRNA expression of SCF, c-kit, PI3K, p-Akt, Bad, Bcl-2, and Bax in rat testis. RESULTS Compared with the GTW group, semen quality, the organ coefficient, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), and epididymal carnitine levels were significantly improved in the GTW + SCFL group (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Histomorphology and testicular ultrastructural evaluation showed that in the GTW + SCFL group, the structure and arrangement of seminiferous tubules were better, the amount of spermatogenic cells increased significantly, the morphology of spermatogenic cells improved, and the mitochondria increased, compared to those in the GTW group. Immunohistochemistry, western blotting, and qRT-PCR results showed that compared with the GTW group, the expression of SCF, c-kit, PI3K, p-Akt, and Bcl-2 in the GTW + SCFL group was increased, while that of Bax and Bad was decreased. The expression of p-Akt and Bcl-2 decreased, while that of Bad and Bax increased in the LY + SCFL group compared with the SCFL group. CONCLUSION SC-FL can effectively inhibit spermatogenic cell apoptosis and promote their proliferation, and the mechanism may be related to the regulation of the SCF/c-kit--PI3K--Bcl-2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Guan
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; TCM Department, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100026, China.
| | - Yutian Zhu
- Urology Department, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Jingshang Wang
- TCM Department, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100026, China.
| | - Lei Dong
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Qi Zhao
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Lu Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Bin Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; Andrology Department, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
| | - Haisong Li
- First Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China; Andrology Department, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100700, China.
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7
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Liu L, Li T, Li F, Zhao X, Zhang R, Liu J, Zhang W, Lu J, Zhang X, Ma X. The influence of l-carnitine on the expression of miRNAs in asthenospermia spermatozoa and the network regulation of the associated molecules. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13478. [PMID: 31749176 DOI: 10.1111/and.13478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 10/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
l-carnitine is a natural compound that is indispensable for energy metabolism in mammals. The efficiency and safety of l-carnitine in improving sperm activity, enhancing epididymal function and treating male infertility has been widely acknowledged by clinicians. CircRNAs can regulate gene expression at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level by serving as a molecular sponge of miRNAs with miRNA response elements. However, the detailed mechanism linking miRNA, circRNA and asthenospermia remains unclear. The present study demonstrated that hsa-miR-27b-3p, hsa-miR-151a-5p and hsa-miR-206 play an important role in the effects of l-carnitine treatment of the spermatozoa in asthenospermia patients. Furthermore, the target mRNAs of hsa-miR-206 were analysed by GO and KEGG. The results show that the target mRNAs of hsa-miR-206 may change the activity of ATP synthase and participate in the cAMP signalling pathway and the calcium signalling pathway, which may play an important role in sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liu
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China.,Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Tao Li
- Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | | | - Xiaodong Zhao
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jing Liu
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jianqi Lu
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Ma
- The Reproductive Medicine Special Hospital of the 1st hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine and Embryo of Gansu, Lanzhou, China
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8
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Sadeghi S, Reza Talebi A, Shahedi A, Reza Moein Md M, Abbasi-Sarcheshmeh A. Effects of different doses of tamoxifen on the sperm parameters and chromatin quality in mice: An experimental model. Int J Reprod Biomed 2019; 17. [PMID: 31435602 PMCID: PMC6686649 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v17i4.4553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tamoxifen (TX) is widely used for the treatment of male factor and idiopathic infertility. It has been shown that TX induces sperm production and so improves male fertility. Objective This study evaluated the effects of different doses of TX on the sperm parameters and chromatin quality in mice. Materials and Methods In this research, 24 male NMRI mice were divided into three groups including group A: control animal receiving vehicle; group B: the group receiving basal diet and TX 0.4 mg/kg/day; and group C: the group receiving basal diet and TX 0.6 mg/kg/day for 35 days. Thereafter, epididymal spermatozoa were analyzed for standard parameters and nuclear chromatin quality using Aniline Blue (AB) and Toluidine Blue (TB) staining. Results The results indicated that although the TX did not affect the sperm count, motility, and viability parameters, it could elevate the percentage of sperm cells with abnormal morphology and abnormal chromatin at both doses. In addition, in comparison with the control mice, a significant elevation was observed in spermatozoa with residual histones (assessed by AB staining) at high doses of TX. Conclusion Our experimental data in mice suggested that the use of TX for treating male infertility might increase the rates of spermatozoa with abnormal chromatin in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Sadeghi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ali Reza Talebi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Abbas Shahedi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Moein Md
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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9
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Cannarella R, Condorelli RA, Mongioì LM, Barbagallo F, Calogero AE, La Vignera S. Effects of the selective estrogen receptor modulators for the treatment of male infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2019; 20:1517-1525. [PMID: 31120775 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1615057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) represent a poorly investigated class of drugs for the treatment of male infertility. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of SERMs on conventional sperm parameters, serum gonadotropin and testosterone levels, and pregnancy rate in patients with idiopathic infertility. Methods: The authors performed a comprehensive systematic review with meta-analysis of all available controlled and not-controlled studies of the literature reporting sperm conventional parameters, gonadotropin and testosterone levels, and/or the pregnancy rate following SERM administration in normogonadotropic patients with idiopathic oligozoospermia. Results: From the 418 papers retrieved, 16 controlled and not-controlled trials were lastly included. SERM administration increased significantly sperm concentration, total sperm count, and serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and total testosterone levels compared with baseline values. In contrast, SERMs did not have any significant effect on sperm concentration and progressive and total motility, but improved total sperm count, sperm morphology, and increased the pregnancy rate compared to the control group, which included studies done with placebo or other treatments. Conclusions: The results of this meta-analysis suggest that SERMs may be effective in the treatment of infertile patients with idiopathic infertility. However, the paucity of data does not allow to draw a definitive conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Laura M Mongioì
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Federica Barbagallo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
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