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Updated: May 23, 2026

11:56
Ex Vivo Infection of Murine Epidermis with Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Published on: August 24, 2015
[Effect of herpes simplex virus on spermatogenesis]
Urologiia (Moscow, Russia : 1999)
|March 28, 2012
Summary
Herpes Simplex virus (HSV) infection in males significantly impairs sperm motility and morphology. HSV also reduces sperm cell counts, impacting male fertility and suggesting potential for antiviral treatments.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Virology
- Andrology
Context:
- Male infertility is a significant concern with multifactorial causes.
- Herpes Simplex virus (HSV) is a common infection with potential systemic effects.
- The impact of HSV on male reproductive health, specifically spermatogenesis, requires detailed investigation.
Purpose:
- To investigate the effect of Herpes Simplex virus (HSV) on spermatogenesis in infertile males.
- To detect HSV in ejaculate using a rapid cultural method.
- To elucidate the pathogenetic mechanisms of HSV's impact on sperm production and quality.
Summary:
- A study of 268 infertile and 47 healthy males detected HSV in ejaculate.
- HSV-infected samples showed significantly reduced sperm motility (21 vs. 40 mln/ml) and normal morphology (13% vs. 19%).
- Quantitative karyological tests revealed increased germ cell degeneration and reduced spermatids/spermatocytes in HSV-infected males, with testicular explant cultures confirming reduced germ cell populations.
Impact:
- Findings reveal HSV's gametotoxic effect, reducing germ cell populations and impairing sperm quality, thus contributing to male fertility disorders.
- Understanding these mechanisms highlights the potential role of antiviral drugs in combined therapies for male infertility associated with HSV.
- This research provides insights into the pathogenesis of male infertility linked to viral infections.
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