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Published on: December 9, 2014
[Acute Toxoplasma gondii infection affects the reproductive function of male mice]
Li-Hua Sun1, Feng Fan, Jia-Jun Wang
1Reproductive Center, Wuxi Maternity and Child Care Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214002, China. lihua-sun@163.com
Objective:
To investigate the influence of acute Toxoplasma gondii infection on the reproductive function of male mice.
Methods:
Twenty-six adult male mice were randomized into an infection and a control group of equal number. Acute Toxoplasma gondii infection was induced in the testes of the former, while abdominal injection of normal saline given to the latter. Cell imprints and pathological sections were obtained to observe the pathological changes and Toxoplasma gondii invasion in the spermatogenic cells and to compare the testicular LDH-X, sperm concentration and motility and the number of deformed spermatozoa between the two groups.
Results:
The testicular LDH-X, sperm concentration and motility and the number of deformed spermatozoa were 53.19 +/- 18.04, (15.01 +/- 2.42) x 10(6)/ ml, (8.26 +/- 2.57) % and (17.69 +/- 11.91) % in the infection group, as compared with 68.71 +/- 17.79, (23.87 +/- 6.66) x 10(6)/ ml, (13.21 +/- 2.82) % and (11.30 +/- 6.60) % in the control, with significant differences between the two groups (P < 0 05).
Conclusion:
Acute Toxoplasma gondii infection affects the reproductive function of male mice.
Insights
Acute Toxoplasma gondii infection negatively impacts male mouse reproductive health. Sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were significantly altered following infection.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Parasitology
- Immunology
Context:
- Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic parasite with a wide host range.
- Male reproductive function can be susceptible to systemic and localized infections.
- Understanding the impact of parasitic infections on fertility is crucial for public health.
Purpose:
- To determine the effects of acute Toxoplasma gondii infection on male mouse reproductive parameters.
- To investigate pathological changes in testes and sperm following infection.
Summary:
- Male mice infected with Toxoplasma gondii showed significant reductions in sperm concentration and motility.
- Increased percentages of deformed spermatozoa and altered testicular LDH-X levels were observed in infected mice.
- Pathological examination revealed Toxoplasma gondii invasion in spermatogenic cells.
Impact:
- This study highlights the detrimental effects of Toxoplasma gondii on male fertility.
- Findings suggest potential implications for human male reproductive health in endemic areas.
- Further research is warranted to explore therapeutic strategies against parasitic-induced infertility.
