Effects of the czech propolis on sperm mitochondrial function

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Biochemistry
• Natural Products Research

Background:

• Propolis, a resinous mixture collected by honeybees, possesses known pharmacological benefits.
• Human sperm quality is crucial for reproductive success and is influenced by various factors.
• Mitochondrial function is vital for sperm motility and overall viability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of propolis on human sperm motility.
• To assess propolis's impact on mitochondrial respiratory activity in spermatozoa.
• To determine propolis's influence on the mitochondrial membrane potential of human sperm.

Main Methods:

• Semen samples from normozoospermic donors were analyzed according to World Health Organization criteria.
• Propolis effects on sperm motility and mitochondrial activity were tested in fresh ejaculate and purified spermatozoa.
• High-resolution respirometry was used to measure oxygen consumption and mitochondrial respiratory complex activities.

Main Results:

• Propolis significantly preserved progressive sperm motility in native semen samples.
• Propolis treatment increased oxygen consumption (OXPHOS I+II and ETS II) and complex IV activity in purified spermatozoa.
• Propolis did not affect mitochondrial membrane potential or oligomycin-induced LEAK respiration.

Conclusions:

• Propolis maintains sperm motility in ejaculates and enhances mitochondrial respiratory efficiency in human spermatozoa in vitro.
• Increased activity of mitochondrial respiratory complexes II and IV by propolis suggests improved energy production.
• These findings indicate propolis has potential therapeutic applications for improving sperm motility.