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Immunoreactive human epidermal growth factor in human seminal plasma
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73190.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Seminal plasma epidermal growth factor (EGF) levels were measured in fertile and infertile men. No correlation was found between seminal plasma EGF and sperm count, suggesting a distinct form of EGF in seminal fluid.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Endocrinology
- Andrology
Background:
- Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) plays a role in various biological processes.
- The presence and function of EGF in seminal plasma are not fully understood.
- Investigating seminal plasma EGF can provide insights into male reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the relationship between seminal plasma EGF levels and total sperm count in fertile and infertile men.
- To characterize seminal plasma EGF and compare it to circulating EGF.
Main Methods:
- Homologous radioimmunoassay (RIA) was used to measure immunoreactive EGF in seminal plasma.
- Seminal plasma samples were collected from 31 fertile and 52 infertile men.
- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed for protein fractionation.
Main Results:
- Mean seminal plasma EGF levels were higher in infertile men (53.1 ± 30.8 µg/L) compared to fertile men (41.7 ± 21.5 µg/L).
- No significant correlation was observed between seminal plasma EGF levels and total sperm counts (r = 0.14, P > 0.05).
- HPLC analysis revealed a single immunoreactive peak in seminal plasma with a molecular weight of approximately 8000 Da, distinct from circulating EGF (6000 Da).
Conclusions:
- Seminal plasma EGF levels do not correlate with sperm count in men.
- The EGF found in seminal plasma appears to be a distinct form compared to circulating EGF.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific role and origin of seminal plasma EGF.