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Effect of in vitro exposure to lead chloride on semen quality and sperm DNA fragmentation
M Gomes1, A Gonçalves2, E Rocha3
1Department of Biology & CICECO,University of Aveiro,Campus Universitário de Santiago,3810-193,Aveiro,Portugal.
Abstract:
Exposure to lead may cause changes in the male reproductive system. We evaluated the effect of lead chloride (PbCl2) in vitro on semen quality from 31 individuals. Samples were incubated at room temperature for two exposure times (4 h and 8 h) and with two concentrations of PbCl2 (15 μg/ml or 30 μg/ml). Results showed that PbCl2 significantly inhibited rapid progressive motility and caused an increase in the percentage of tail anomalies in both times and concentrations assessed, as well as a decrease in vitality in the group exposed to 30 μg/ml PbCl2. A significant increase in immotile sperm was also observed between the group control and the groups submitted to lead. Total motility and DNA fragmentation also showed a significant decrease and increase, respectively, after 4 h of incubation in the group exposed to 30 μg/ml and in both groups after 8 h of incubation. In conclusion, PbCl2 affected sperm parameters and DNA integrity, which are essential for male fertility.
Insights
Lead chloride (PbCl2) exposure in vitro negatively impacts male semen quality. This study found PbCl2 significantly reduces sperm motility and vitality, while increasing tail anomalies and DNA fragmentation, affecting male fertility.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Toxicology
- Reproductive Biology
- Human Health
Background:
- Lead exposure is a known risk factor for adverse health outcomes.
- The male reproductive system is particularly sensitive to environmental toxins.
- Understanding the specific effects of lead compounds on semen parameters is crucial for assessing male fertility risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro effects of lead chloride (PbCl2) on human semen quality.
- To determine the dose-dependent and time-dependent impact of PbCl2 on sperm parameters.
Main Methods:
- Human semen samples (n=31) were exposed to varying concentrations (15 μg/ml, 30 μg/ml) of PbCl2 for different durations (4 h, 8 h).
- Standard semen analysis parameters including motility, vitality, sperm morphology (tail anomalies), and DNA fragmentation were assessed.
- Control groups were used for comparison.
Main Results:
- PbCl2 significantly inhibited rapid progressive motility and decreased sperm vitality at higher concentrations (30 μg/ml).
- An increase in sperm tail anomalies and immotile sperm was observed across tested PbCl2 concentrations and exposure times.
- Total motility decreased and DNA fragmentation increased significantly, particularly after 8 h of exposure and at 30 μg/ml concentration after 4 h.
Conclusions:
- In vitro exposure to lead chloride adversely affects key human sperm parameters.
- PbCl2 negatively impacts sperm motility, vitality, morphology, and DNA integrity, suggesting a risk to male fertility.
- These findings highlight the potential reproductive toxicity of lead compounds.
