Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 13, 2026

07:57
Fish Sperm Assessment Using Software and Cooling Devices
Published on: July 28, 2018
Semen parameters can be predicted from environmental factors and lifestyle using artificial intelligence methods
Jose L Girela1, David Gil, Magnus Johnsson
1Department of Biotechnology, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain. girela@ua.es
Biology of Reproduction
|March 1, 2013
Summary
Artificial intelligence accurately predicts male fertility by analyzing sperm concentration and motility. This AI tool aids in early diagnosis of seminal disorders and donor selection.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Bioinformatics
Background:
- Declining male fertility rates necessitate advanced diagnostic tools.
- Environmental and lifestyle factors significantly impact semen quality.
- Existing methods for assessing male fertility potential can be enhanced with predictive analytics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an artificial intelligence (AI) model for predicting semen characteristics.
- To assess the influence of environmental factors, lifestyle, and health on male fertility.
- To create a decision support system for evaluating male fertility potential.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a multilayer perceptron network, a type of artificial neural network (ANN).
- Collected semen samples from 123 healthy male volunteers for analysis.
- Administered validated questionnaires on lifestyle and health status to participants.
Main Results:
- The ANN model successfully predicted semen analysis results based on questionnaire data.
- Sperm concentration was the most accurately predicted parameter.
- Motility prediction showed significant accuracy, though slightly lower than concentration.
Conclusions:
- Developed an AI-driven methodology for predicting key semen parameters.
- This AI approach offers a valuable tool for early detection of male reproductive issues.
- The system can assist in selecting suitable candidates for sperm donation programs.
Related Concept Videos
Spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis is the process by which haploid sperm cells are produced in the male testes. It starts with stem cells located close to the outer rim of seminiferous tubules. These spermatogonial stem cells divide asymmetrically to give rise to additional stem cells (meaning that these structures “self-renew”), as well as sperm progenitors, called spermatocytes. Importantly, this method of asymmetric mitotic division maintains a population of spermatogonial stem cells in the male reproductive...
Infertility in Males
Male infertility affects millions of couples worldwide, arising from various factors that impact different stages of the reproductive process. An endocrine imbalance resulting from conditions like hypogonadism, Klinefelter syndrome, or pituitary disorders can disrupt hormone levels and reduce sperm production. Testicular defects, such as tumors, cryptorchidism, atrophic testes, abnormal sperm morphology, and low sperm count or motility, may arise due to genetic factors, structural...
Sperm Structure and Semen Composition
During ejaculation, males release around 2-5 milliliters of semen, which is a complex mixture of mature sperm and various fluids produced by accessory glands. The mature sperm cells measure approximately 60 micrometers in length and consist of a head, neck, midpiece, and tail. The head is flattened and tapered, measuring about 4 to 5 micrometers in length. It contains a nucleus with condensed chromosomes and an acrosome, a cap-like structure filled with enzymes essential for penetrating the...
Sperm Transport
The journey of sperm from its origin to the point of ejaculation begins within the seminiferous tubules of the testis. Here, Sertoli cells produce fluid that propels non-motile sperm through a series of conduits, starting with the straight tubules leading to the rete testis. This interconnected network of tubules acts as the initial pathway for sperm, guiding them into the efferent ductules and then into the epididymis for maturation.
The maturation phase occurs in the epididymis, where sperm...
The maturation phase occurs in the epididymis, where sperm...
Environmental Influences on Intelligence
Despite the strong genetic influence on traits like intelligence, environmental factors significantly shape outcomes. For example, while over 90% of height variation is due to genetic differences, environmental factors such as nutrition also have a notable impact. Similarly, for intelligence, changes in a child's surroundings can significantly alter their IQ. Research shows that enriched environments boost children's academic success and help them develop key cognitive skills. Children from...
Regression Toward the Mean
Regression toward the mean (“RTM”) is a phenomenon in which extremely high or low values—for example, and individual’s blood pressure at a particular moment—appear closer to a group’s average upon remeasuring. Although this statistical peculiarity is the result of random error and chance, it has been problematic across various medical, scientific, financial and psychological applications. In particular, RTM, if not taken into account, can interfere when researchers try to extrapolate results...

