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Zhu SQ, Liao XH, Jiang WW, Sun Y, Xu HL, Chen XJ, Zheng BH. Effect of male HBV infection on the outcomes of IVF/ICSI cycles: a retrospective cohort study based on propensity score matching. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:415-420. [PMID: 38353463 PMCID: PMC11280202 DOI: 10.4103/aja202382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of male hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on male fertility, embryonic development, and in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) outcomes. We performed a retrospective cohort study that included 3965 infertile couples who received fresh embryo transfer cycles for the first time at the Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital (Fuzhou, China) from January 2018 to January 2021. Infertile couples were categorized based on their HBV infection status into the HBV group (HBV-positive men and HBV-negative women) and the control group (HBV-negative couples). A 1:1 propensity score matching was performed with relatively balanced covariates. Baseline characteristics, semen parameters, laboratory outcomes, clinical outcomes, and obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared between groups. After propensity score matching, 821 couples were included in each group. Both groups had similar semen parameters and obstetric and neonatal outcomes. The HBV group showed a significantly lower live birth rate than the control group ( P < 0.05). The HBV group had a significantly higher abortion rate than the control group ( P < 0.05). The rates of high-quality embryos and blastocyst formation were significantly lower in the HBV group than those in the control group (both P < 0.05). In conclusion, in couples who undergo IVF/ICSI, male HBV infection reduces the live birth rate and increases the risk of miscarriage. However, the incidence of low birth weight in women with IVF/ICSI does not increase with male HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Qin Zhu
- Fujian Provincial Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Defect, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Xiu-Hua Liao
- Fujian Provincial Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Wen-Wen Jiang
- Fujian Provincial Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Fujian Provincial Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Hui-Ling Xu
- Fujian Provincial Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Chen
- Fujian Provincial Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Bei-Hong Zheng
- Fujian Provincial Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
- Fujian Maternal-Fetal Clinical Medicine Research Center, Fuzhou 350001, China
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2
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Akhigbe RE, Akhigbe TM, Oyedokun PA, Famurewa AC. Molecular mechanisms underpinning the protection against antiretroviral drug-induced sperm-endocrine aberrations and testicular toxicity: A review. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 128:108629. [PMID: 38825169 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108629] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has revolutionized the treatment of HIV/AIDS worldwide. The HAART approach is the combination of two or more antiretroviral drugs of different classes and are responsible for patient's survival and declining death rates from HIV/AIDS and AIDS-related events. However, the severe and persistent reproductive side effect toxicity of HAART regimens is of great concern to patients within the reproductive age. Till date, the underlying pathophysiology of the HAART-induced reproductive toxicity remains unraveled. Nevertheless, preclinical studies show that oxidative stress and inflammation may be involved in HAART-induced sperm-endocrine deficit and reproductive aberrations. Studies are emerging demonstrating the efficacy of plant-based and non-plant products against the molecular alterations and testicular toxicity of HAART. The testicular mechanisms of mitigation by these products are associated with enhancement of testicular steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, inhibition of oxidative stress and inflammation. This review presents the toxic effects of HAART on spermatogenesis, reproductive hormones and testis integrity. It also provides insights on the molecular mechanisms underlying the mitigation of HAART testicular toxicity by plant-based and non-plant agents. However, effect of repurposing clinical drugs to combat HAART toxicity is unknown, and more mechanistic studies are evidently needed. Altogether, plant-based and non-plant products are potential agents for prevention of rampant endocrine dysfunction and testicular toxicity of HAART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland E Akhigbe
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria; Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Tunmise M Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria; Breeding and Genetics Unit, Department of Agronomy, Osun State University, Ejigbo Campus, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Precious A Oyedokun
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria; Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Ademola C Famurewa
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
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3
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Dabizzi S, Maggi M, Torcia MG. Update on known and emergent viruses affecting human male genital tract and fertility. Basic Clin Androl 2024; 34:6. [PMID: 38486154 PMCID: PMC10941432 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-024-00222-5] [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: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Many viruses infect the male genital tract with harmful consequences at individual and population levels. In fact, viral infections may induce damage to different organs of the male genital tract (MGT), therefore compromising male fertility. The oxidative stress, induced during viral-mediated local and systemic inflammation, is responsible for testicular damage, compromising germinal and endocrine cell functions. A reduction in sperm count, motility, number of normal sperm and an increase in DNA fragmentation are all common findings in the course of viral infections that, however, generally regress after infection clearance. In some cases, however, viral shedding persists for a long time leading to unexpected sexual transmission, even after the disappearance of the viral load from the blood.The recent outbreak of Zika and Ebola Virus evidenced how the MGT could represent a reservoir of dangerous emergent viruses and how new modalities of surveillance of survivors are strongly needed to limit viral transmission among the general population.Here we reviewed the evidence concerning the presence of relevant viruses, including emergent and re-emergent, on the male genital tract, their route of entry, their adverse effects on male fertility and the pattern of viral shedding in the semen.We also described laboratory strategies to reduce the risk of horizontal or vertical cross-infection in serodiscordant couples undergoing assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Dabizzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for the Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi Hospital, Florence, Italy.
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi Hospital, Florence, Italy.
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini 6, Florence, Italy.
| | - Maria Gabriella Torcia
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for the Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi Hospital, Florence, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Adeyemi DH, Hamed MA, Oluwole DT, Omole AI, Akhigbe RE. Acetate attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced cardiac injury via inhibition of NF-kB signaling and suppression of caspase 3-dependent apoptosis in Wistar rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 170:116019. [PMID: 38128178 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM The goal of the current study was to examine the potential therapeutic effects of sodium acetate on cardiac toxicities caused by cyclophosphamide in Wistar rats. The possible involvement of NF-kB/caspase 3 signaling was also explored. MAIN METHODS Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into four groups at random. (n = 8). The control animals received 0.5 mL of distilled water orally for 14 days, the acetate-treated group received 200 mg/kg/day of sodium acetate orally for 14 consecutive days, and cyclophosphamide-treated rats received 150 mg/kg /day of cyclophosphamide i.p. on day 8, while cyclophosphamide + acetate group received sodium acetate and cyclophosphamide as earlier stated. KEY FINDINGS Results showed that cyclophosphamide-induced cardiotoxicity, which manifested as a marked drop in body and cardiac weights as well as cardiac weight/tibial length, increased levels of troponin, C-reactive protein, lactate, and creatinine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase activities in the plasma and cardiac tissue. Histopathological examination also revealed toxic cardiac histopathological changes. These alterations were associated with a significant increase in xanthine oxidase and myeloperoxidase activities, uric acid, malondialdehyde, TNF-α, IL-1β, NFkB, DNA fragmentation, and caspase 3 and caspase 9 activities in addition to a marked decline in Nrf2 and GSH levels, and SOD and catalase activities in the cardiac tissue. Acetate co-administration significantly attenuated cyclophosphamide cardiotoxicity by its antioxidant effect, preventing NFkB activation and caspase 9/caspase 3 signalings. SIGNIFICANCE This study shows that acetate co-administration may have cardio-protective effects against cyclophosphamide-induced cardiotoxicity by inhibiting NF-kB signaling and suppressing caspase-3-dependent apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D H Adeyemi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Osun State University, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - M A Hamed
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria; The Brainwill Laboratories, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria; Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - D T Oluwole
- Department of Physiology, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - A I Omole
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria; Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - R E Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria; Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
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Panner Selvam MK, Kapoor A, Baskaran S, Moharana AK, Sikka SC. A Scientometric Evaluation of COVID-19 and Male Reproductive Research. Clin Pract 2023; 13:1319-1330. [PMID: 37987419 PMCID: PMC10660474 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13060118] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic due to the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus showed acute and prolonged effects on human health. In addition, over the past four years, there has been a tremendous surge in COVID-19-related scientific publications, as shown by bibliometric and scientometric studies. However, such analysis of the scientific literature is lacking in the area of male reproduction. The current scientometric study analyzes publication characteristics of articles related to male reproduction and COVID-19 infection. We used the Scopus database to analyze scientometric data (the number of publications, journals, countries, type of documents, and subject area) related to COVID-19 and male reproductive research. Our literature search identified 345 articles related to COVID-19 and male reproductive research. Most of the articles were published in the USA (n = 72), Italy (n = 55), and China (n = 51). Such research was mainly focused around medicine (57.1%), followed by biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology (25.7%). Also, in the area of male reproduction, only 37.1% (n = 128) of the articles contributed towards original research, whereas 52.8% (n = 182) were review articles and editorials focusing more on sexual dysfunction than infertility. Such a small number of studies published on COVID-19-related effects on male reproduction warrants a significant increase in research, which is required to decipher the mechanism(s) underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection-associated impairment of male reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manesh Kumar Panner Selvam
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.B.); (A.K.M.)
| | | | - Saradha Baskaran
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.B.); (A.K.M.)
| | - Ajaya Kumar Moharana
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.B.); (A.K.M.)
- Redox Biology & Proteomics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack 753003, Odisha, India
| | - Suresh C. Sikka
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA; (S.B.); (A.K.M.)
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Hamed MA, Akhigbe TM, Adeogun AE, Adesoye OB, Akhigbe RE. Impact of organophosphate pesticides exposure on human semen parameters and testosterone: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1227836. [PMID: 37964951 PMCID: PMC10641273 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1227836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Organophosphate (OP) pesticides have been associated with a decline in semen quality, although there are still considerable arguments about the magnitude of the association. Objective This study provides a systematic review and meta-analysis of the impacts of OP pesticides on semen quality and male reproductive hormones. Methods This study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocols. Strategic search was conducted using combined text words as search terms. The eligibility criteria were developed based on Population, Exposure, Comparator, Outcome, and Study designs (PECOS) framework. Relevant data were extracted, risk of bias was evaluated by The Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT) tool, and certainty of evidence was assessed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group guidelines. Quantitative meta-analysis was performed by using Review Manager. Results A total of 766 male subjects (349 exposed to OP pesticides and 417 unexposed controls) were included in the meta-analysis. There was no significant difference in the ejaculate volume, seminal fluid volume, sperm multiple anomaly index, sperm, and leukocytes levels of the OP-exposed subjects compared to the control. In addition, OP pesticides exposure did not significantly affect serum concentrations of FSH, LH, and testosterone in subjects who were exposed to OP pesticides compared to their unexposed counterparts. However, we found a significant reduction in the sperm count, sperm concentration, progressive sperm motility, total sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology of OP pesticides-exposed subjects compared to the unexposed subjects. However, after subtype and sensitivity analyses, exposure to OP pesticides did not reduce sperm count. Also, after sensitivity analysis, OP pesticides exposure did not alter progressive sperm motility. Conclusion This study demonstrates that OP pesticides exposure reduced sperm count, concentration, total and progressive motility, and normal sperm morphology, possibly via a testosterone-independent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moses A. Hamed
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
- The Brainwill Laboratory, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Tunmise M. Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
- Department of Agronomy, Osun State Univeristy, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Adetomiwa E. Adeogun
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Oluwatosin B. Adesoye
- SickleLive Foundationo, Osogb, Nigeria
- SickleLive Foundation Research Laboratory, Osogbo, Nigeria
- State Specialist Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Roland E. Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
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7
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Kaltsas A, Zachariou A, Markou E, Dimitriadis F, Sofikitis N, Pournaras S. Microbial Dysbiosis and Male Infertility: Understanding the Impact and Exploring Therapeutic Interventions. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1491. [PMID: 37888102 PMCID: PMC10608462 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13101491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The human microbiota in the genital tract is pivotal for maintaining fertility, but its disruption can lead to male infertility. This study examines the relationship between microbial dysbiosis and male infertility, underscoring the promise of precision medicine in this field. Through a comprehensive review, this research indicates microbial signatures associated with male infertility, such as altered bacterial diversity, the dominance of pathogenic species, and imbalances in the genital microbiome. Key mechanisms linking microbial dysbiosis to infertility include inflammation, oxidative stress, and sperm structural deterioration. Emerging strategies like targeted antimicrobial therapies, probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation have shown potential in adjusting the genital microbiota to enhance male fertility. Notably, the application of precision medicine, which customizes treatments based on individual microbial profiles and specific causes of infertility, emerges as a promising approach to enhance treatment outcomes. Ultimately, microbial dysbiosis is intricately linked to male infertility, and embracing personalized treatment strategies rooted in precision medicine principles could be the way forward in addressing infertility associated with microbial factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aris Kaltsas
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Eleftheria Markou
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Spyridon Pournaras
- Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, Attikon General University Hospital of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece
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Hamed MA, Ekundina VO, Akhigbe RE. Psychoactive drugs and male fertility: impacts and mechanisms. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:69. [PMID: 37507788 PMCID: PMC10375764 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01098-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Although psychoactive drugs have their therapeutic values, they have been implicated in the pathogenesis of male infertility. This study highlights psychoactive drugs reported to impair male fertility, their impacts, and associated mechanisms. Published data from scholarly peer-reviewed journals were used for the present study. Papers were assessed through AJOL, DOAJ, Google Scholar, PubMed/PubMed Central, and Scopus using Medical Subjects Heading (MeSH) indexes and relevant keywords. Psychoactive drugs negatively affect male reproductive functions, including sexual urge, androgen synthesis, spermatogenesis, and sperm quality. These drugs directly induce testicular toxicity by promoting ROS-dependent testicular and sperm oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis, and they also suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. This results in the suppression of circulating androgen, impaired spermatogenesis, and reduced sperm quality. In conclusion, psychoactive drug abuse not only harms male sexual and erectile function as well as testicular functions, viz., testosterone concentration, spermatogenesis, and sperm quality, but it also alters testicular histoarchitecture through a cascade of events via multiple pathways. Therefore, offering adequate and effective measures against psychoactive drug-induced male infertility remains pertinent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moses Agbomhere Hamed
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.
- The Brainwill Laboratory, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria.
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria.
| | | | - Roland Eghoghosoa Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
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Kalfas T, Kaltsas A, Symeonidis EN, Symeonidis A, Zikopoulos A, Moustakli E, Tsiampali C, Tsampoukas G, Palapela N, Zachariou A, Sofikitis N, Dimitriadis F. COVID-19 and Male Infertility: Is There a Role for Antioxidants? Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1483. [PMID: 37627478 PMCID: PMC10451649 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081483] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), jeopardizes male fertility because of the vulnerability of the male reproductive system, especially the testes. This study evaluates the effects of the virus on testicular function and examines the potential role of antioxidants in mitigating the damage caused by oxidative stress (OS). A comprehensive PubMed search examined exocrine and endocrine testicular function alteration, the interplay between OS and COVID-19-induced defects, and the potential benefit of antioxidants. Although the virus is rarely directly detectable in sperm and testicular tissue, semen quality and hormonal balance are affected in patients, with some changes persisting throughout a spermatogenesis cycle. Testicular pathology in deceased patients shows defects in spermatogenesis, vascular changes, and inflammation. Acute primary hypogonadism is observed mainly in severely infected cases. Elevated OS and sperm DNA fragmentation markers suggest redox imbalance as a possible mechanism behind the fertility changes. COVID-19 vaccines appear to be safe for male fertility, but the efficacy of antioxidants to improve sperm quality after infection remains unproven due to limited research. Given the limited and inconclusive evidence, careful evaluation of men recovering from COVID-19 seeking fertility improvement is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aris Kaltsas
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Evangelos N. Symeonidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Asterios Symeonidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Efthalia Moustakli
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | | | - Georgios Tsampoukas
- Department of Urology, Oxford University Hospital NHS Trust, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK;
| | - Natalia Palapela
- Medical Faculty, Medical University of Sofia, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.K.); (A.Z.); (E.M.); (A.Z.); (N.S.)
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (A.S.)
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Ješeta M, Pospíšilová A, Mekiňová L, Franzová K, Ventruba P, Lousová E, Kempisty B, Oždian T, Žáková J, Crha I. Non-Invasive Diagnostics of Male Spermatogenesis from Seminal Plasma: Seminal Proteins. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2468. [PMID: 37568830 PMCID: PMC10417070 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13152468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The compounds of seminal plasma have great potential as biomarkers of male fertility and can be used as a diagnostic tool for types of azoospermia. Azoospermia occurs in approximately 1% of the male population, and for an effective therapy of this form of male infertility, it is important to distinguish between obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia. Proteins in seminal plasma can serve as biomarkers for diagnosing azoospermia. Considering the various types of obstructions, a combination of multiple proteins is advisable for diagnostic purposes. In this context, testicular and epididymal proteins are particularly significant, as they are specific to these tissues and typically absent in ejaculate during most obstructions. A combination of multiple biomarkers is more effective than the analysis of a single protein. This group of markers contains TEX101 and ECM1 proteins, combined detections of these two bring a diagnostic output with a high sensitivity and specificity. Similar results were observed for combined detection of TEX101 and SPAG1. The effective using of specific biomarkers from seminal plasma can significantly improve the existing approaches to diagnosis of the causes of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Ješeta
- Center of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Masaryk University Brno and University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (L.M.); (K.F.); (P.V.); (E.L.); (J.Ž.); (I.C.)
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16500 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Pospíšilová
- Department of Animal Physiology & Immunology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 60200 Brno, Czech Republic;
| | - Lenka Mekiňová
- Center of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Masaryk University Brno and University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (L.M.); (K.F.); (P.V.); (E.L.); (J.Ž.); (I.C.)
| | - Kateřina Franzová
- Center of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Masaryk University Brno and University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (L.M.); (K.F.); (P.V.); (E.L.); (J.Ž.); (I.C.)
| | - Pavel Ventruba
- Center of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Masaryk University Brno and University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (L.M.); (K.F.); (P.V.); (E.L.); (J.Ž.); (I.C.)
| | - Eva Lousová
- Center of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Masaryk University Brno and University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (L.M.); (K.F.); (P.V.); (E.L.); (J.Ž.); (I.C.)
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
- Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Division of Anatomy, Wrocław Medical University, 50-368 Wrocław, Poland
- Physiology Graduate Faculty, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Tomáš Oždian
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University, Hněvotínská 5, 77900 Olomouc, Czech Republic;
| | - Jana Žáková
- Center of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Masaryk University Brno and University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (L.M.); (K.F.); (P.V.); (E.L.); (J.Ž.); (I.C.)
| | - Igor Crha
- Center of Assisted Reproduction, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Masaryk University Brno and University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (L.M.); (K.F.); (P.V.); (E.L.); (J.Ž.); (I.C.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
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11
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Rago V, Perri A. SARS-CoV-2 Infection and the Male Reproductive System: A Brief Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020586. [PMID: 36836943 PMCID: PMC9966870 DOI: 10.3390/life13020586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Many studies have suggested that SARS-CoV-2, directly or indirectly, can affect the male reproductive system, although the underlined mechanisms have not been completely elucidated yet. The purpose of this review is to provide a summary of the current data concerning the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the male urogenital tract, with a particular emphasis on the testes and male fertility. The main data regarding the morphological alterations in the testes emerged from autoptic studies that revealed interstitial congestion, micro thrombosis, reduction of Sertoli, Leydig, and germinal cells, infiltrated immune cells, and atrophic seminiferous tubules consistent with orchitis. Furthermore, men with severe infection exhibit sperm parameter alterations, together with abnormalities of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis, strongly suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 could increase the risk of male infertility. However, despite the inadequate number of longitudinal studies, spermatogenesis and sex hormone imbalance seem to improve after infection resolution. The yet unresolved question is whether the virus acts in a direct or/and indirect manner, as discordant data related to its presence in the testis and semen have been reported. Regardless of the direct effect, it has been postulated that the cytokine storm and the related local and systemic inflammation could strongly contribute to the onset of testis dysfunction, leading to male infertility. Therefore, multicentric and longitudinal studies involving a large number of patients are needed to understand the real impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Rago
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0984-496210; Fax: +39-0984-493271
| | - Anna Perri
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Catanzaro “Magna Græcia”, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy
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12
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Abstract
Purpose: COVID-19, a novel infection, presented with several complications, including socioeconomical and reproductive health challenges such as erectile dysfunction (ED). The present review summarizes the available shreds of evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on ED.Materials and methods: All published peer-reviewed articles from the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak to date, relating to ED, were reviewed. Results: Available pieces of evidence that ED is a consequence of COVID-19 are convincing. COVID-19 and ED share common risk factors such as disruption of vascular integrity, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cytokine storm, diabetes, obesity, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). COVID-19 also induces impaired pulmonary haemodynamics, increased ang II, testicular damage and low serum testosterone, and reduced arginine-dependent NO bioavailability that promotes reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and endothelial dysfunction, resulting in ED. In addition, COVID-19 triggers psychological/mental stress and suppresses testosterone-dependent dopamine concentration, which contributes to incident ED.Conclusions: In conclusion, COVID-19 exerts a detrimental effect on male reproductive function, including erectile function. This involves a cascade of events from multiple pathways. As the pandemic dwindles, identifying the long-term effects of COVID-19-induced ED, and proffering adequate and effective measures in militating against COVID-19-induced ED remains pertinent.
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Affiliation(s)
- D H Adeyemi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Osun State University, Nigeria
| | - A F Odetayo
- Department of Physiology, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - M A Hamed
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- The Brainwill Laboratories, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - R E Akhigbe
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
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13
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Oyedokun PA, Akhigbe RE, Ajayi LO, Ajayi AF. Impact of hypoxia on male reproductive functions. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 478:875-885. [PMID: 36107286 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04559-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Male reproductive functions, which include testicular steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and sexual/erectile functions are key in male fertility, but may be adversely altered by several factors, including hypoxia. This review demonstrates the impact of hypoxia on male reproductive functions. Acute exposure to hypoxia promotes testosterone production via stimulation of autophagy and upregulation of steroidogenic enzymes and voltage-gated L-type calcium channel, nonetheless, chronic exposure to hypoxia impairs steroidogenesis via suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. Also, hypoxia distorts spermatogenesis and reduces sperm count, motility, and normal forms via upregulation of VEGF and oxidative stress-sensitive signaling. Furthermore, hypoxia induces sexual and erectile dysfunction via a testosterone-dependent downregulation of NO/cGMP signaling and upregulation of PGE1/TGFβ1-driven penile endothelial dysfunction. Notably, hypoxia programs male sexual function and spermatogenesis/sperm quality via feminization and demasculinization of males and oxidative stress-mediated alteration in sperm DNA methylation. Since oxidative stress plays a central role in hypoxia-induced male reproductive dysfunction, studies exploring the effects of antioxidants and upregulation of transcription of antioxidants on hypoxia-induced male reproductive dysfunction are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Oyedokun
- Anchor Reproductive Physiology and Bioinformatics Research Unit, Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - R E Akhigbe
- Anchor Reproductive Physiology and Bioinformatics Research Unit, Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Nigeria.
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratory, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Osun, Nigeria.
| | - L O Ajayi
- Department of Biochemistry, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Nigeria
| | - A F Ajayi
- Anchor Reproductive Physiology and Bioinformatics Research Unit, Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Nigeria
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14
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Cardona Maya WD, du Plessis SS, Velilla PA. Semen and viruses: significance during the transmission of infections. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2431-2432. [PMID: 36056984 PMCID: PMC9440326 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02608-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Walter D Cardona Maya
- Reproduction Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Medical School, University of Antioquia - UdeA, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia.
| | - Stefan S du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Paula A Velilla
- Immunovirology Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Medical School, University of Antioquia - UdeA, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
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