[Update of the studies on epididymal oxidative stress]

The epididymis is an important organ in the male genital system, which is responsible for the maturation, transportation and storage of spermatozoa. The proper function of the epididymis is closely related with its robust physiological metabolism, and free radicals are inevitably produced as a consequence. An excess of free radicals would lead to the oxidative stress of the epididymis, damage the sperm membrane and DNA, seriously affect sperm maturation and result in male infertility. This article reviews the mechanism of epididymal oxidative stress in energy metabolism and inflammatory reaction as well as the roles of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, indoleamine 2, 3 dioxygenase, glutathione and thioredoxin in the antioxidant process, offering a new insight into the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.