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Correlation of scrotal temperature in twins
Niels Henrik I Hjollund1, Lone Storgaard, Erik Ernst
1Department of Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Noerrebrogade 44, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. hhjol@akh.aaa.dk
Human Reproduction (Oxford, England)
|July 3, 2002
Summary
Scrotal temperature variation in men has a genetic component, suggesting a hereditary influence on male fertility. This finding offers a new perspective on factors affecting reproductive health.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Human Genetics
- Andrology
Background:
- Scrotal temperature is inversely correlated with semen quality.
- Variations in scrotal temperature may explain differences in semen quality.
- The underlying causes of scrotal temperature variation are not fully understood, but may have a genetic basis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential genetic contribution to variations in scrotal skin temperature.
- To explore the relationship between genetic relatedness and scrotal temperature similarity.
Main Methods:
- Scrotal skin temperature was monitored for 24 hours in 48 males, including monozygotic twins, dizygotic twins, and single-born brothers.
- Temperature was recorded every 5 minutes using a thermistor attached to underwear and a portable data logger.
Main Results:
- A significant correlation in median scrotal temperature was observed between monozygotic twins (r = 0.64, P = 0.01).
- No significant correlation in scrotal temperature was found between dizygotic twins and single-born brothers (r = 0.17, NS).
- Similar patterns were observed for other temperature percentiles.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest a significant genetic influence on scrotal temperature variation.
- Scrotal temperature may represent an inherited factor influencing male fecundity.
- This mechanism appears to be independent of the processes governing sperm production.