Effect of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Testosterone

Involvement of Nrf2-PPAR-γ signaling in Coenzyme Q10 protecting effect against methotrexate-induced testicular oxidative damage

Studies have identified Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as a promising agent in improving idiopathic male infertility; however, its role in chemically or environmentally induced testicular dysfunction is not well-established. We investigated the potential of CoQ10 to attenuate methotrexate (MTX)-induced testicular damage and to identify molecular targets of CoQ10 effects. Wistar rats received a single intraperitoneal dose of 20 mg/kg MTX on the fifth day of the 10-day experimental protocol. 100 mg/kg CoQ10 was given orally daily for ten days, alone or combined with MTX. The testes of MTX-treated animals showed thickened tunica albuginea, distortion of seminiferous tubules with a marked reduction of germinal lining, a few primary spermatocytes with no spermatozoa, apoptotic cells, congested sub-capsular and interstitial blood vessels, and interstitial edema. Reduction of reproductive hormones and increased oxidative, inflammatory, and apoptotic biomarkers levels were also seen in the MTX-treated rats. CoQ10 + MTX-treated rats were protected against MTX-induced testicular histological changes and showed improvement in testosterone, luteinizing-, and follicle-stimulating hormone serum levels compared to the MTX group. The testes of the CoQ10 + MTX-treated rats showed reduced malondialdehyde, myloperoxidase, tumor necrosis factor -α, interleukin-6 and -1β and Bax: Bcl2 ratio and enhanced glutathione, and catalase compared to MTX alone. CoQ10 enhanced MTX-induced downregulation of Nrf2 and PPAR-γ signaling and modulated its downstream targets, the inducible nitric oxide synthase, NF-κB, Bax, and Bcl2. In conclusion, CoQ10 targeted the Nrf2-PPAR-γ signaling loop and its downstream pathways, mitigating MTX-induced oxidative stress-related damages and alleviating the testicular dysfunction MTX caused. Our data suggest Nrf2-PPAR-γ signaling as a potential therapeutic target in testicular toxicity, where oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis trigger damage.

Post-Weaning Exposure to Sunset Yellow FCF Induces Changes in Testicular Tight and Gap Junctions in Rats: Protective Effects of Coenzyme Q10

Studies on adverse health consequences of azo dyes are limited and conflicting. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation has been shown to have benefits associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics on several body systems. This work investigates the possible toxic effects of the widely used food additive sunset yellow and the probable protective effects of CoQ10 on testicular tight and gap junctions in rats by assessing molecular, immunohistochemical, and histopathological changes. Sixty Sprague-Dawley male weanling rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 10). The rats received their treatments via daily oral gavages for 6 weeks. The treatments included as follows: low dose of sunset yellow (SY-LD) (2.5 mg/kg/day), high dose of sunset yellow (SY-HD) (70 mg/kg/day), CoQ10 (10 mg/kg/day), CoQ10 with low dose of sunset yellow (CoQ10 + LD), CoQ10 with high dose of sunset yellow (CoQ10 + HD), and distilled water as the control treatment. At the end of the experiment, the rats were anesthetized, and the testes were removed for molecular (real-time quantitative PCR), immunohistochemical, and histopathological (H & E staining) assessments. Claudin 11 and occludin gene expression significantly decreased in HD and CoQ10 + HD groups compared with the controls. Connexin 43 (Cx43) expression in the control and CoQ10 groups was significantly higher than in the HD group. The immunohistochemical and histopathological data were largely in line with these findings. The results showed that exposure to a high dose of sunset yellow led to disturbances in cell-to-cell interactions and testicular function. Simultaneous treatment with CoQ10 had some beneficial effects but did not completely improve these undesirable effects.

The Role of Dietary Nutrients in Male Infertility: A Review

Male infertility is the main health issue with economic, psychological, and medical attributions. Moreover, it is characterized by an inability to produce a sufficient amount of sperm for the fertilization of an oocyte. Dietary nutrients (DN) have a great effect on male reproductive potential. Observations have indicated that adding DN may protect or treat male infertility. The scope of this criticism is to scrutinize the DN, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and other phytochemicals, in enhancing the semen attributes, sperm bioenergetics and sperm functionality in male infertility. It seems that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids affect sperm quality and maintain the sperm membrane and mitochondria stability. An administration of phytochemicals caused an escalation in sperm mitochondrial function and a decrease in oxidative damage. Furthermore, sundry dietary natural phytochemicals differentially affect (negatively or positively) sperm motility, semen quality, and mitochondrial function, dependent on their levels. Vitamins and trace elements are also nutritional modulators in reducing oxidative stress, thereby enhancing sperm quality, which is accurately connected with sperm mitochondrial function. Also, we described the different types of DN as mitochondrial enhancer for sperm functionality and health. We believe that understanding the DN supports sperm mitochondria and epigenetic modulators that may be responsible for sperm quality and health, and will lead to more embattled and efficient therapeutics for male infertility.

Effect of CoQ10 Supplement on Spermogram Parameters and Sexual Function of Infertile Men Referred to The Infertility Center of Fatemieh Hospital, Hamadan, Iran, 2019: A Randomized Controlled Trial Study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the antioxidant supplement of CoQ10 and placebo in the male infertility treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The randomized controlled trial study was designed as a clinical trial. Samples in each group consisted of 30 members. The first group received 1 daily dose of 100 mg coenzyme Q10 capsules and the second group received a placebo treatment. Treatment in both groups lasted 12 weeks. Before and after the intervention of semen analysis, hormonal measurement of testosterone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were done. Sexual function was assessed before and after the intervention by using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction questionnare.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 34.07 (5.26) years in the CoQ10 group and 34.83 (6.22) in the placebo one. Normal volume of semen (P=0.10), viscosity (P=0.55), sperm count (P=0.28), and sperm motility (P=0.33) in the CoQ10 group increased without statistically significant differences. But the normal sperm morphology increased with statistically significant differences in the CoQ10 group (P=0.01). There was an increase in normal FSH levels and testosterone levels in the CoQ10 group compared with the placebo patients, but these differences were not statistically significant (respectively P=0.58, P=0.61). The results also revealed that the scores of erectile function (P=0.95), orgasm (P=0.86), satisfaction with sexual intercourse (P=0.61), overall satisfaction (P=0.69) and the score of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF, P=0.82) were greater after the intervention in the CoQ10 group than in the placebo group although the difference was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The use of CoQ10 supplement can improve sperm morphology; however, in other sperm parameters and also in some hormones increased after the intervention, this was not statistically significant and therefore the result is not conclusive (registration number: IRCT20120215009014N322).

The Use of Metabolomics as a Tool to Compare the Regulatory Mechanisms in the Cecum, Ileum, and Jejunum in Healthy Rabbits and with Diarrhea

Simple Summary

The problems caused by antibiotic abuse have swept the world, and the Chinese government has responded to calls for a comprehensive ban on antibiotics. However, not using antibiotics also challenges China’s existing livestock industry. Based on this, we carried out a nontargeted metabolomics analysis of the jejunum, ileum, and cecum of diarrhea rabbits and normal rabbits fed with antibiotic-free diets, respectively, to find out the mechanism of action of each intestinal segment group and between different intestinal segments. The screened differential metabolites were mostly related to intestinal barrier, intestinal inflammation, and autophagy after a KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) analysis. In this paper, we analyzed the metabolic pathways that were significantly different between different intestinal segments and illustrated the mechanism and potential connections of the screened differential metabolites in different intestinal segments in the form of charts.

Abstract

For many years, antibiotics in feed have been an effective and economical means to promote growth and disease resistance in livestock production. However, the rampant abuse of antibiotics has also brought very serious harm to human health and the environment. Therefore, the Chinese government promulgated laws and regulations on 1 July 2020, to prohibit the use of antibiotics in feed. To improve the effect of antibiotic-free feeding on China’s existing rabbit industry, we used the nontargeted metabolomics method to detect the differences between diarrhea rabbits (Dia) and normal rabbits (Con) on an antibiotic-free diet. A total of 1902 different metabolites were identified. A KEGG analysis showed that in the cecum, metabolites were mainly concentrated in bile secretion, antifolate resistance, aldosterone synthesis, and secretion pathways. The ileal metabolites were mainly concentrated in tyrosine metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, steroid hormone biosynthesis, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism. The metabolites in the jejunum were mainly rich in panquinone and other terpenoid compound quinone biosynthesis, AMPK (adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase) signal, inositol phosphate metabolism, and pentose phosphate pathway. After a deep excavation of the discovered differential metabolites and metabolic pathways with large differences between groups, it was found that these metabolic pathways mainly involved intestinal inflammation, intestinal barrier, and autophagy. The results showed that panquinone and other terpenoids could increase AMPK activity to promote cell metabolism and autophagy, thus trying to prevent inflammation and alleviate intestinal disease symptoms. In addition, we discussed the possible reasons for the changes in the levels of seven intestinal endogenous metabolites in rabbits in the diarrhea group. The possibility of improving diarrhea by adding amino acids to feed was discussed. In addition, the intermediate products produced by the pentose phosphate pathway and coenzyme Q had a positive effect on steroid hormone biosynthesis to combat intestinal inflammation.

Preclinical and Clinical Role of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation in Various Pathological States

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an efficient antioxidant produced endogenously in a living organism. It acts as an important cofactor in the electron transport system of mitochondria and reported as a safe supplement in humans and animals with minimal adverse effect. CoQ10 is found naturally, as a trans configuration, chemical nomenclature of which is 2,3- dimethoxy-5- methyl-6-decaprenyle -1,4-benzoquinone. It is found in the body in two forms. In quinone form (oxidized form), it serves as an electron transporter that transfers the electrons in the electron transport chain between various complexes, and in ubiquinol form (reduced form), it serves as potent antioxidants by scavenging free radicals or by tocopherol regeneration in the living organism. Its primary roles include synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), stabilizes lipid membrane, antioxidant activity, cell growth stimulation, and cell death inhibition. CoQ10 has shown a variety of pharmacological and clinical effects including neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-atherosclerotic, anticonvulsant, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, cardiovascular, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and various effects on the central nervous system. Present review has set about to bring updated information regarding to clinical and preclinical activities of CoQ10, which may be helpful to researchers to explore a new bioactive molecules for various therapeutic application.

Possible Beneficial Effects of Fresh Pomegranate Juice in SARS-CoV-2 Infection Conditions

Rather than the prophylactic vaccination, any effective synthetic, natural, or nutritional therapy or regimen that may cure or remedy, albeit partially, the complications of SARS-CoV-2 should be highly acknowledged. Here, we reviewed and discussed possible beneficial biological effects of pomegranate juice in such diseased condition of viral infection based on the current published evidence (direct and indirect) and owing to the robust evidence that fresh pomegranate juice is highly rich with unique bioactive compounds that are approved in various occasions to be effective in several chronic diseased conditions. All related references that serve our aim are accessed through available electronic databases, particularly PubMed and Scopus. In summary, there is accepted evidence that pomegranate juice may be beneficial in SARS-CoV-2 infection conditions, especially for patients with the clinical history of chronic diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, the interventional studies that directly probe and confirm the effectiveness of fresh pomegranate juice in the management of SARS-CoV-2 infection are mandatory.

Predictors of pregnancy and time to pregnancy in infertile men with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia pre- and post-coenzyme Q10 therapy

Different antioxidants including coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) have been tried to treat idiopathic male infertility (IMI) with variable results. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the clinical and biochemical predictors of pregnancy outcome and time to pregnancy (TTP) in infertile men with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia (OA) pre‐ and post‐CoQ10 therapy. This prospective controlled clinical study included 178 male patients with idiopathic OA and 84 fertile men (controls). Patients received 200 mg of oral CoQ10 once daily for 6 months. Demographics, semen parameters, seminal CoQ10 levels, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) and body mass index were measured and compared at baseline and after 6 months. All participants were followed up for another 18 months for pregnancy outcome and TTP. CoQ10 therapy for 6 months significantly improved semen parameters, antioxidant measures and reduced SDF. The pregnancy rate was 24.2% and TTP was 20.52 ± 6.72 months in patients as compared to 95.2% and 5.73 ± 6.65 months in fertile controls. After CoQ10 therapy, CoQ10 level, sperm concentration, motility and ROS were independent predictors of pregnancy outcome and CoQ10 level, male age, sperm concentration, motility, ROS and GPx were independent predictors of TTP in patients. In conclusion, CoQ10 therapy of 6 months is a potential treatment for men with idiopathic OA. CoQ10 level, male age, semen parameters, ROS and GPx could potentially be used as diagnostic biomarkers for male fertility and predictors for pregnancy outcome and TTP in these patients.

Effect of Antioxidants on Sperm Quality Parameters in Subfertile Men: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Antioxidant supplementation has been identified as an important intervention for subfertile men. However, the effectiveness of different antioxidants in improving sperm quality remains unclear. In this study, a network meta-analysis (NMA) was designed to evaluate the effects of different antioxidants on sperm quality parameters in subfertile men. Published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of antioxidants in subfertile men were searched in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to January 31, 2021. Eight antioxidants (folic acid, zinc, vitamin E, carnitine, selenium, coenzyme q10 [CoQ10], N-acetylcysteine, and vitamin C) and a placebo (control) were included in our study. A Bayesian NMA with random effects was performed for each outcome (sperm concentration, sperm motility, and sperm morphology); the surface under the cumulative ranking curves (SUCRAs) for the effectiveness of each intervention was applied to identify the optimal intervention. Eighteen studies with 1,790 subfertile men were included in the study. CoQ10 elicited a significant increase in sperm concentration (mean difference [MD] = 5.95; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.05, 10.79) compared with the placebo; it achieved the highest rank in efficacy among all the antioxidants (SUCRA: 79.4%). With regard to sperm motility, carnitine (MD = 12.43; 95% CI 4.07, 20.26) and CoQ10 (MD = 7.33; 95% CI 0.35, 14.17) showed significant beneficial effects compared with the placebo; the efficacy of carnitine was the highest among all the antioxidants (SUCRA: 88.7%). With regard to sperm morphology, the efficacy of vitamin C tended to be the highest (SUCRA: 93.6%), although it did not show significant beneficial effect (MD = 7.73; 95% CI -0.94, 16.33) compared with the placebo. Overall, for subfertile men, CoQ10 and carnitine interventions showed better effectiveness in increasing sperm concentration and sperm motility, respectively.

SIGNIFICANCE

The effectiveness of different antioxidants in improving sperm quality in subfertile men remains unclear. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to compare the effectiveness of different antioxidants on sperm quality parameters in subfertile men.

Metabolic enzyme gene polymorphisms predict the effects of antioxidant treatment on idiopathic male infertility

To explore the relationship between genetic polymorphisms of metabolic enzymes such as CYP1A1, CYP2D6, GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 and idiopathic male infertility. By observing the efficacy of antioxidants in the treatment of idiopathic male infertility, the effect of metabolic enzyme gene polymorphisms on antioxidant therapy in patients with idiopathic male infertility was prospectively studied. This case–control study included 310 men with idiopathic infertility and 170 healthy controls. The cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6), glutathione S-transferase M1 (GSTM1), glutathione S-transferase T1 (GSTT1), and glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) genotypes in peripheral blood samples were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). The idiopathic male infertility group was treated with vitamin C, vitamin E, and coenzyme Q10 for 3 months and followed up for 6 months. GSTM1(−), GSTT1(−), and GSTM1/T1(−/−) in the idiopathic male infertility groups were more common than those in the control group. The sperm concentration, motility, viability, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and seminal plasma total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level in patients with GSTM1(−), GSTT1(−), and GSTM1/T1(−/−) were lower than those in wild-type carriers, and the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI), 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG), and malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels were higher. Therefore, oxidative damage may play an important role in the occurrence and development of idiopathic male infertility, but antioxidant therapy is not effective in male infertility patients with GSTM1 and GSTT1 gene deletions.

Cyperus esculentus L. and Tetracarpidium conophorum Müll. Arg. Supplemented Diet Improved Testosterone Levels, Modulated Ectonucleotidases and Adenosine Deaminase Activities in Platelets from L-NAME-Stressed Rats

In hypertensive individuals, platelet morphology and function have been discovered to be altered, and this has been linked to the development of vascular disease, including erectile dysfunction (ED). The impact of nutritional supplementation with Cyperus esculentus (tiger nut, TN) and Tetracarpidium conophorum (walnut, WN) on androgen levels, ectonucleotidases, and adenosine deaminase (ADA) activities in platelets from L-NAME (Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride) challenged rats were investigated. We hypothesized that these nuts may show a protective effect on platelets aggregation and possibly enhance the sex hormones, thereby reverting vasoconstriction. Wistar rats (male; 250-300 g; n = 10) were grouped into seven groups as follows: basal diet control group (I); basal diet/L-NAME/Viagra (5 mg/kg/day) as positive control group (II); ED-induced group (basal diet/L-NAME) (III); diet supplemented processed TN (20%)/L-NAME (IV); diet supplemented raw TN (20%)/L-NAME (V); diet supplemented processed WN (20%)/L-NAME (VI); and diet supplemented raw WN (20%)/L-NAME (VII). The rats were given their regular diet for 2 weeks prior to actually receiving L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day) for ten days to induce hypertension. Platelet androgen levels, ectonucleotidases, and ADA were all measured. L-NAME considerably lowers testosterone levels (54.5 ± 2.2; p < 0.05). Supplementing the TN and WN diets revealed improved testosterone levels as compared to the control (306.7 ± 5.7), but luteinizing hormone levels remained unchanged. Compared to control groups, the L-NAME-treated group showed a rise in ATP (127.5%) hydrolysis and ADA (116.7%) activity, and also a decrease in ADP (76%) and AMP (45%) hydrolysis. Both TN and WN supplemented diets resulted in substantial (p < 0.05) reversal effects. Enhanced testosterone levels and modulation of the purinergic system in platelets by TN and WN could be one of the mechanisms by which they aid in vasoconstriction control.

Complementary effects of coenzyme Q10 and Lepidium sativum supplementation on the reproductive function of mice: An experimental study

Background

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and Lepidium sativum (LS) have therapeutic effects on infertility.

Objective

To evaluate the combined effects of LS and CoQ10 on reproductive function in adult male NMRI mice.

Materials and Methods

Eighty three-months-old male mice (35–40 gr) were divided into four groups (n = 10/each): control (treated with water), CoQ10-treated (200, 300, and 400 mg/kg/body weight), LS-treated (200, 400, 600 mg/kg/body weight), and co-treated (LS [600 mg/kg/body weight] + CoQ10 [200 mg/kg/body weight]) groups. Serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and gonadotropin realizing hormone (GnRH) levels were measured using ELISA method. The sperm quality was assessed using Sperm Class AnalyzerⓇ (SCA) CASA system and GnRH mRNA expression levels were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The number of sniffing and following behavior was significantly higher in LS-treated (400 and 600 mg/ml/body weight) groups than the control group (p = 0.0007 and p = 0.0010, respectively). The number of mounting and coupling behaviors was significantly higher in the CoQ10 (300 and 400 mg/ml/body weight)-treated animals than the control group (p = 0.0170 and p = 0.0006, respectively). Co-treatment of CoQ10 (200 mg/ml/body weight) and LS (600 mg/ml/body weight) significantly increased all aspects of sexual behaviors as well as the levels of serum testosterone (p = 0.0011), luteinizing hormone (p = 0.0062), and follicle-stimulating hormone (p = 0.0001); sperm viability (p = 0.0300) and motility (p = 0.0010); and GnRH mRNA levels (p = 0.0016) compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The coadministration of CoQ10 and LS significantly improves the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and enhances the reproductive parameters in adult male mice.

Does Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation Improve Testicular Function and Spermatogenesis in Male Mice with Chronic Kidney Disease?

Simple Summary

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is found to be linked to elevated apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, lower testosterone, poorer sperm quality and lower reproductive function have also been observed. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a widely used antioxidant involved in mitochondrial energy production, is indispensable for maintaining the efficient energy system of spermatozoa and protecting their membranes from lipid peroxidation, yet there are few studies focusing on the effects of CoQ10 on CKD-induced male infertility. This study suggests that CoQ10 increases testosterone levels and improves spermatogenesis in CKD mice.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to examine the potential effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on reproductive function in a chronic kidney disease (CKD) mouse model. Nine-week-old mice were randomly assigned to two groups: sham surgery (n = 18) and CKD surgery (n = 18). After surgery, the study groups received CoQ10 (10 mg/kg body weight dissolved in corn oil by oral gavage) or corn oil as a vehicle daily for 8 weeks. The groups that underwent 5/6 nephrectomy developed significant elevations of serum BUN and creatinine levels. The CoQ10 treatment significantly increased the serum and testicular CoQ10 levels and alleviated the poor semen quality from incomplete spermatogenesis. The testosterone concentration, in addition to the protein expression of enzymes related to testosterone biosynthesis, was also elevated, and the CKD-induced decrease in antioxidant activity in the testes was significantly ameliorated. The results suggest that CoQ10 could act against CKD-induced testicular dysfunction through improvements in the sperm function, testicular morphology, testosterone levels and related biosynthesis pathways, in addition to antioxidant activity.

Effectiveness of Pharmacological Intervention Among Men with Infertility: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

Background. Infertility is an emerging health issue for men. Comparative efficacy of different pharmacological interventions on male infertility is not clear. The aim of this review is to investigate the efficacy of various pharmacological interventions among men with idiopathic male infertility. All randomized control trials evaluating the effectuality of interventions on male infertility were included for network meta-analysis (NMA) from inception to 31 April 2020, systematically performed using STATA through the random effect model. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42020152891). Results. The outcomes of interest were semen and hormonal parameters. Treatment effects (p < 0.05) were estimated through WMD at the confidence interval of 95%. Upon applying exclusion criteria, n=28 RCTs were found eligible for NMA. Results from NMA indicated that consumption of supplements increases sperm concentration levels [6.26, 95% CI 3.32, 9.21] in comparison to SERMs [4.97, 95% CI 1.61, 8.32], hormones [4.14, 95% CI 1.83, 6.46], and vitamins [0.15, 95% CI -20.86, 21.15)] with placebo, whereas the use of SERMs increased percentage sperm motility [6.69, 95% CI 2.38, 10.99] in comparison to supplements [6.46, 95% CI 2.57, 10.06], hormones [3.47, 95% CI 0.40, 6.54], and vitamins [-1.24, 95% CI -11.84, 9.43] with placebo. Consumption of hormones increased the sperm morphology [3.71, 95% CI, 1.34, 6.07] in contrast to supplements [2.22, 95% CI 0.12, 4.55], SERMs [2.21, 95% CI -0.78, 5.20], and vitamins [0.51, 95% CI -3.60, 4.62] with placebo. Supplements boosted the total testosterone levels [2.70, 95% CI 1.34, 4.07] in comparison to SERMs [1.83, 95% CI 1.16, 2.50], hormones [0.40, 95% CI -0.49, 1.29], and vitamins [-0.70, 95% CI -6.71, 5.31] with placebo. SERMs increase the serum FSH levels [3.63, 95% CI 1.48, 5.79] better than hormones [1.29, 95% CI -0.79, 3.36], vitamins [0.03, 95% CI -2.69, 2.76], and supplements [-4.45, 95% CI -7.15, -1.76] in comparison with placebo. Conclusion. This review establishes that all interventions had a significantly positive effect on male infertility. Statistically significant increased sperm parameters were noted in combinations of zinc sulfate (220 mg BID), clomiphene citrate (50 mg BID), and testosterone undecanoate and CoQ10; tamoxifen citrate and FSH were shown to improve the hormonal profile in infertile males.

Impacts of different antioxidants sources on semen quality and sperm fertilizing ability of Muscovy ducks under high ambient temperature

The potentiality of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), D-Aspartic acids (D-Asp), Maca or vitamin C, as antioxidant agents, to reduce negative impacts of high ambient temperature on semen quality, oxidative capacity and fertility of Muscovy ducks was investigated. Seventy-five Muscovy males (34-wk of age) were distributed randomly into five experimental groups of fifteen ducks each. The first group was fed a basal diet without supplementation and served as a control. The other four groups were fed a basal diet supplemented with 400 mg CoQ10, 400 mg D-Asp, 500 mg Maca and 200 mg vitamin C (ascorbic acid) per kg diet for 17 consecutive weeks under high ambient temperature conditions. The dietary inclusion of antioxidants significantly maintains better semen variables and a higher fertility rate either for fresh or preserved semen. Among the tested antioxidants, the Maca group showed the best status and outperformed the others in terms of motility, viability, sperm cell concentration, intact acrosome and membrane integrity percentages, total proteins, total antioxidants capacity, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), testosterone, and the fertility rate for the fresh semen, as well as, forward motility, SOD and MDA for the preserved semen. The CoQ10 showed similar results to Maca in some measurements. Conversely, the basal diet had the poorest performance in all examined variables. The dietary incorporation of antioxidants (Maca or CoQ10) enhances fresh and preserved semen quantity and quality, as well as the fertility rate of Muscovy males under high ambient temperature conditions.

Influence of Systemic Administration of Coq10 Nanoparticles on Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury on Ovaries in Rat

Using a rat ovary model, effects of COQ10 nanoparticles (NCOQ10) were studied on ischemia-reperfusion injury. In the present experimental study, following randomization of thirty healthy female Wistar rats ∼250 g, the animals were subjected to five experimental groups (n = 6): group SHAM : only laparotomy was performed, group IS: only a 3-hour ischemia was performed, group IS/REP: the procedure included a 3-hour ischemia followed by a 3-hour reperfusion, and 50 µL soybean oil (solvent of NCOQ10) was administered 30 min before cessation of reperfusion, group IS/NCOQ10: the procedure included a 3-hour ischemia only and 50 µL (0.3 mmol/lit/IP) of NCOQ10 30 min before cessation of ischemia, and group IS/REP/NCOQ10: the procedure included a 3-hour ischemia, a 3-hour reperfusion, and 20 µL (0.3 mmol/lit) of NCOQ10 30 min before cessation of ischemia. Significantly amended development of ischemia/reperfusion tissue injury was observed in animals treated with NCOQ10 compared to those of other groups (P=0.001). Mean values of biochemical indices were significantly higher than those observed for other groups (P=0.001). Significantly lower values of MDA were observed in IS/REP/NCOQ10 animals compared to those of other groups (P=0.001).Where ovarian tissue is exposed to ischemia, intraperitoneal administration of NCOQ10 could bear clinical benefits in diminishing ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Can Nutrition Help in the Treatment of Infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse or six months for women aged 35 years or older. The physical, emotional, psychological, and financial statuses of infertile couples are tremendously affected especially after undergoing diagnostic and/or curative treatments. Human fertility is influenced by multiple factors including female or male, and modifiable or non-modifiable factors. There is growing evidence that nutri-tion may play an important role in adjusting fertility-related outcomes in both men and women. The objective of our study was to summarize the latest data on nutritional factors (specific food groups, nutrients, and nutritional supplements) that have an impact on female or male sexual and reproductive function. PubMed and Google Scholar platforms were used to collect appropriate articles for the review using several combinations of keywords (infertility, diet, dietary supplements, antioxidants, and beverages). Adherence to a healthy dietary pattern favoring fish, poultry, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, was related to better fertility in both genders. Despite the multifactorial etiology of sexual infertility, nutrition may affect the sexual/reproductive function in both women and men.

Coenzyme Q10, oxidative stress, and male infertility: A review

Male infertility has a complex etiopathology, which mostly remains elusive. Although research has claimed that oxidative stress (OS) is the most likely underlying mechanism of idiopathic male infertility, the specific treatment of OS-mediated male infertility requires further investigation. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a vitamin-like substance, has been found in measurable levels in human semen. It exhibits essential metabolic and antioxidant functions, as well as playing a vital role in mitochondrial bioenergetics. Thus, CoQ10 may be a key player in the maintenance of biological redox balance. CoQ10 concentrations in seminal plasma directly correlate with semen parameters, especially sperm count and sperm motility. Seminal CoQ10 concentrations have been shown to be altered in various male infertility states, such as varicocele, asthenozoospermia, and medical or surgical regimens used to treat male infertility. These observations imply that CoQ10 plays an important physiological role in the maintenance and amelioration of semen quality. The present article thereby aimed to review the possible mechanisms through which CoQ10 plays a role in the regulation of male reproductive function, and to concisely discuss its efficacy as an ameliorative agent in restoring semen parameters in male infertility, as well as its impact on OS markers, sperm DNA fragmentation, pregnancy, and assisted reproductive technology outcomes.

Effect of supplementation with the reduced form of coenzyme Q10 on semen quality and antioxidant status in dogs with poor semen quality: Three case studies

Oxidative stress owing to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidants, such as coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), is a major contributor to male infertility. We investigated the effects of the reduced form of CoQ10 (ubiquinol) supplementation on semen quality in dogs with poor semen quality. Three dogs received 100 mg of ubiquinol orally once daily for 12 weeks. Semen quality, serum testosterone, and seminal plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were examined at 2-week intervals from 2 weeks before ubiquinol supplementation to 4 weeks after the treatment. Ubiquinol improved sperm motility, reduced morphologically abnormal sperm, and increased seminal plasma SOD activity; however, it had no effect on testosterone level, semen volume, and sperm number. Ubiquinol supplementation could be used as a non-endocrine therapy for infertile dogs.

Coenzyme Q10: Clinical Applications beyond Cardiovascular Diseases

Coenzyme Q₁₀ (CoQ₁₀) is an essential cofactor in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), present in mitochondria and cell membranes in reduced and oxidized forms. Acting as an energy transfer molecule, it occurs in particularly high levels in the liver, heart, and kidneys. CoQ₁₀ is also an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent able to prevent the damage induced by free radicals and the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways. In this context, several studies have shown the possible inverse correlation between the blood levels of CoQ₁₀ and some disease conditions. Interestingly, beyond cardiovascular diseases, CoQ₁₀ is involved also in neuronal and muscular degenerative diseases, in migraine and in cancer; therefore, the supplementation with CoQ₁₀ could represent a viable option to prevent these and in some cases might be used as an adjuvant to conventional treatments. This review is aimed to summarize the clinical applications regarding the use of CoQ₁₀ in migraine, neurodegenerative diseases (including Parkinson and Alzheimer diseases), cancer, or degenerative muscle disorders (such as multiple sclerosis and chronic fatigue syndrome), analyzing its effect on patients’ health and quality of life.

Effect of diclofenac on semen quality: A review

Diclofenac is an effective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and one of the most prescribed medicines worldwide. So far, there are many published articles that directly link between diclofenac and semen quality; however, hitherto, there is no collective review or comprehensive discussion that reveal such imperative link. Therefore, this work reviews and judges the association between diclofenac administration and semen quality, henceforth male infertility. As a tool to accomplish this scientific input, Scopus, Embase and PubMed databases have been searched for all original articles using the keywords "diclofenac" versus "semen" and "sperm" since August 1987 through November 2020. In summary, diclofenac appears to induce negative effects on both qualitative and quantitative measures of sperm; however, this conclusion requires confirmation by human studies. The detected negative effects of diclofenac on semen quality measures may be owed to reduced levels of gonadal hormones, decreased antioxidant defence mechanism, increased oxidative stress, altered concentrations of nitric oxide that are required to maintain normal sperm physiology and reduced synthesis of prostaglandins.

Supplementing post-wash asthenozoospermic human spermatozoa with coenzyme Q10 for 1 hr in vitro improves sperm motility, but not oxidative stress

We investigated the effect of supplementing post-wash asthenozoospermic spermatozoa with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in vitro, which may reduce oxidative stress and improve sperm motility. Semen samples were collected from 39 men with asthenozoospermia, and their spermatozoa were isolated by two-layer Percoll density-gradient centrifugation. Kinetic parameters of the isolated spermatozoa (baseline before intervention) were determined immediately by computer-aided semen analysis. Total anti-oxidant capacity and protein carbonyl levels, as markers of oxidative stress, were also measured in the baseline spermatozoa. The baseline spermatozoa suspension was divided equally into two portions, one for CoQ10 supplementation (50 µg/ml for 1 hr) and the other as an un-supplemented vehicle control. The total motility of the CoQ10-supplemented spermatozoa was significantly higher than in the control (p = .009) and progressive motility tended to be higher (p = .053). Immotile sperm concentration in the CoQ10-supplemented spermatozoa was significantly lower than in both the baseline (p = .026) and control (p = .009). Total anti-oxidant capacity and protein carbonyl levels between the baseline, CoQ10-supplemented and control spermatozoa were not significantly different. Our data suggest that CoQ10 treatment reactivated sperm motility. We propose short-term supplementation of post-wash asthenozoospermic spermatozoa with CoQ10 before intrauterine insemination.

CoQ10 suppression of oxidative stress and cell senescence increases bone mass in orchiectomized mice

Numerous studies support the detrimental effects of oxidative stress and cell senescence on skeletal homeostasis. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) acts as a scavenger for oxidative stress and protects mitochondrial activity from oxidative damage. However, it is unclear whether CoQ10 has a protective effect on osteoporosis caused by orchiectomy. To investigate suppression effect of antioxidant CoQ10 on osteoporosis in orchiectomized (ORX) mice, ORX mice were supplemented with/without CoQ10, and were compared with each other and with sham-operated mice. Our results showed that CoQ10 could prevent ORX-induced bone loss by inhibiting oxidative stress and cell senescence, subsequently promoting osteoblastic bone formation and inhibiting osteoclastic bone resorption. The results of this study not only reveal the mechanism of CoQ10 supplementation in anti-osteoporosis, but also provide experimental and theoretical basis for the clinical application of CoQ10 in the prevention of osteoporosis.

Coenzyme Q10 ameliorates inflammation, oxidative stress, and testicular histopathology in rats exposed to heat stress

OBJECTIVES

Our work was aimed at investigating the impact and regulatory mechanism of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) on exogenous scrotal heat stress (HS)-induced testicular injuries in rats.

METHODS

The rats (n = 32) were assigned into four groups: control, HS control, HS+CoQ10, and CoQ10. To induce HS, rats' testicles were immersed in a water bath at 43°C for 20 min, every other day for 8 weeks. Moreover, treatment with CoQ10 (10 mg/kg) immediately started before inducing HS and continued for 8 weeks.

KEY FINDINGS

HS decreased the activity of the testicular antioxidant system, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase, while the amount of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) was increased. The index of apoptosis and mRNA expression of caspase 3 and Bax were increased, while the mRNA expression levels of Bcl-2, 3β-HSD, and 17β-HSD3 decreased after HS. Exposure to HS decreased the serum testosterone level but increased the activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin 1 beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha). Deleterious effects of HS on the mentioned parameters were reduced when the rats were treated with CoQ10.

CONCLUSIONS

CoQ10 could suppress the degenerative effects following testicular hyperthermia via its antiapoptotic, anti-inflammation, antioxidative, and androgen synthesis effects.

Effect of statin on semen quality characteristics

Statins are lipid-lowering medications widely used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Biochemically, they act by decreasing synthesis of cholesterol via inhibiting 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase. Since 1992, various research studies have investigated the effect of statins on semen quality characteristics; however, to date, there is no collective summary to such effect. Here, we have systematically discussed and abridged all research studies published in Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science databases that are directly linking statin to semen fertility characteristics using the keywords "statin" versus "sperm" and "semen". In summary, considering the animal studies, statins, in general, were found to ameliorate semen quality characteristics in reproductive detrimental conditions, while, in human males or in in vivo systems with normal reproductive conditions, in general, statins showed negative to blunt effects against semen quality characteristics, mainly sperm motility. However, further research studies, in particular human studies, in this specific research setting is still needed to approve these effects.

Coenzyme Q10 effect on semen parameters: Profound or meagre?

Coenzyme Q10 has shown promise in treating male infertility; however, there are inconsistencies across the published data. We undertook a quantitative meta-analysis by pooling data from three placebo-controlled randomised clinical trials (RCTs) in order to evaluate the efficacy of CoQ10 in improving semen parameters. Sperm count, sperm motility, sperm forward motility, sperm morphology and CoQ10 level in the seminal plasma were measured and quantitatively correlated with CoQ10 oral administration. Pooled analysis showed a significant impact of CoQ10 in improving sperm motility and forward motility, without a significant impact on sperm count, sperm morphology, ejaculate volume or seminal plasma level of CoQ10. Efficacy assessment suggested that CoQ10 shows better results at higher doses and when administered for a period of more than 3 months but not longer than 6 months. We conclude that CoQ10 has a profound effect on sperm motility and a meagre effect on all other parameters. Therefore, CoQ10 can be used for treating asthenozoospermic infertility with the dosage and duration depending upon the severity of the disorder and the patient's response to the treatment.

Coenzyme Q10 mitigates ionizing radiation-induced testicular damage in rats through inhibition of oxidative stress and mitochondria-mediated apoptotic cell death

Radiotherapy is a common treatment modality for cancer patients; however, its use is limited by decreasing the probability of fertility in male cancer survivors. Therefore, this study aimed to define the capability of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a potent stimulator of mitochondrial function, in attenuating ionizing radiation (IR)-induced spermatogenesis impairments. Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to a single dose of ϒ-rays (10 Gy) and/or treated with CoQ10 (10 mg/kg, orally, for 2 consecutive weeks). IR mediated irregular seminiferous tubules, which were emerged with typical morphological characteristics of apoptosis, and nuclear condensation, while CoQ10 significantly preserved the testicular structure and maintained spermatogenesis, which was displayed by higher levels of serum estradiol and testosterone. CoQ10 remarkably augmented sperm count, motility, and viability while diminished the rate of sperm-defects relatively to their counterparts after IR exposure. CoQ10 modulations in reproductive parameters were underpinned by attenuating IR-induced oxidative stress as evidenced by decreasing lipid peroxidation and increasing the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-s-transferase activities, and glutathione level. Supporting the involvement of CoQ10 in the anti-apoptotic response, the reduced mRNA expression levels of p53, Puma, and Bax accompanied by the increased Bcl-2 mRNA expression were observed. Subsequently, CoQ10 ameliorated the mitochondria dependent apoptotic pathway through diminishing Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, caspase-3 protein expression, and DNA fragmentation in testes of irradiated rats. Taken together, our findings showed that CoQ10 conserved against IR-induced steroidogenesis disruption through subsiding mitochondria-mediated oxidative stress injury in germinal cells.

Famotidine does not affect human sperm fertility characteristics (motility, viability and DNA integrity) in vitro

Famotidine, a histamine-2 receptor antagonist, is commonly used to relieve the acid-related gastrointestinal diseases; however, its effect on human sperm parameters, and hence on sperm function, is still undetermined. Here, we intended to measure human sperm motility, viability, and DNA integrity of ejaculated human sperm in the presence of famotidine at 0, 0.1, 1 and 10 mM concentrations in vitro. Forty-nine semen samples of normal count, motility, and morphology were included in this study. Sperm motility was assessed using Makler counting chamber and a phase contrast optics (200× magnification), whereas sperm viability was assessed using eosin-nigrosin staining procedure. The effect of famotidine on sperm DNA integrity was measured using flow cytometry. Famotidine at 0.1, 1 or 10 mM had insignificant effect on human sperm motility (progressive, p = .9594; and total, p = .8420), sperm viability (p = .6471), and content of DNA breaks in sperm (p > .05) compared with the control. In conclusion, famotidine at 0.1, 1 or 10 mM did not alter human sperm motility, viability or DNA integrity in vitro. Although, these findings indicate safety of famotidine in human sperm, further in vivo studies are required to establish the drug's safety.

Mechanisms of honey on testosterone levels

Testosterone is an anabolic steroid and the principal sex hormone in males. Maintaining adequate levels of testosterone throughout the life span of male is very desirable, especially it is now well-known that low levels of testosterone is associated with various aging diseases/disorders. Therefore, still, so many research studies have focused on enhancing serum levels of testosterone in males. Here, we intended to systematically discuss and present the impact of honey on serum levels of testosterone in males. This was conducted by searching PubMed, Scopus, and Embase electronic databases for research articles from May 1993 through April 2019 using the keywords “honey” and “honeybee” versus “testosterone”. Moreover, references from relevant published articles were also reviewed and cited to frame an integral discussion, conclusion, and future research needs. In conclusion, the collective evidence, which is mainly based on in vivo system studies, reveals that oral administration of honey increases serum testosterone level in males. Mechanistically, honey may increase serum level of testosterone by increasing the production of luteinizing hormone, enhancing the viability of Leydig cells, reducing oxidative damage in Leydig cells, enhancing StAR gene expression, and inhibiting aromatase activity in the testes. However, further research studies on humans, mainly clinical trials, in this specific research approach are still needed to confirm the effect of honey on testosterone.

Testosterone in Males as Enhanced by Onion (Allium Cepa L.)

Testosterone (17β-Hydroxyandrost-4-en-3-one) is the main sex hormone in males. Maintaining and enhancing testosterone level in men is an incessant target for many researchers. Examples of such research approaches is to utilize specific types of food or dietary supplements as a safe and easily reached means. Here, specifically, since 1967 until now, many research studies have revealed the effect of onion on testosterone; however, this link has yet to be collectively reviewed or summarized. To accomplish this contribution, we searched the Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases for full articles or abstracts (published in English language) from April 1967 through December 2018 using the keywords “onion” versus “testosterone”. In addition, a number of related published articles from the same databases were included to improve the integrity of the discussion, and hence the edge of the future directions. In summary, there is an evidence that onions enhance testosterone level in males. The mechanisms by which this occurs is mainly by increasing the production of luteinizing hormone, enhancing the antioxidant defense mechanism in the tests, neutralizing the damaging effects of the generated free radicals, ameliorating insulin resistance, promoting nitric oxide production, and altering the activity of adenosine 5′-monophosphate -activated protein kinase. However, this effect requires further approval in humans, mainly by conducting clinical trials.