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Antioxidative protective effect of icariin on the FeSO4/H 2O 2-damaged human sperm based on confocal raman
Zhan-Sen Huang1, Heng-Jun Xiao2, Tao Qi1
1Departerment of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510631, China.
Abstract:
Oxidative stress is implicated in male infertility and significantly higher reactive oxygen species are detected in 25% of infertile males. Although different agents of various alternative medicines, including traditional Chinese medicine, have been tried with varying success, evidence remains limited on whether and how much herbs or supplements might help increase the anti-oxidant ability of the sperm. This study examined the anti-oxidative effects of icariin, a flavonoid isolated from Herba Epimedii, on the human sperm. We prepared the FeSO4/H2O2-damaged human sperms, which were co-cultured with icariin in vitro, and then observed the changes of the sperm by employing Raman micro-spectroscopy. The results showed that Raman mapping with a 514 nm excitation laser allowed clear differentiation of the nucleus, neck, and, in particular, the mitochondria-rich middle piece of a human sperm cell. The effect of icariin on different organelles of the sperm was quantified by localized spectral Raman signatures obtained within milli-seconds, and icariin could keep the "Raman fingerprint" of the human sperm the same as the control groups, suggesting that icariin could protect the human sperm from being damaged by FeSO4/H2O2. Icariin may serve as a tonifying and replenishing agent of herbal origin for enhancing reproductive functions.
Insights
Icariin, derived from Herba Epimedii, demonstrated protective effects against oxidative stress in human sperm. This natural compound may enhance sperm antioxidant capacity and reproductive functions.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Oxidative Stress Research
- Natural Product Chemistry
Background:
- Oxidative stress and elevated reactive oxygen species are significant factors in male infertility, affecting approximately 25% of infertile men.
- Limited evidence exists on the efficacy of herbal supplements in enhancing sperm antioxidant capacity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anti-oxidative effects of icariin, a flavonoid from Herba Epimedii, on human sperm.
- To assess icariin's protective mechanisms against oxidative damage in sperm organelles.
Main Methods:
- Human sperm were exposed to FeSO4/H2O2-induced oxidative stress and co-cultured with icariin in vitro.
- Raman micro-spectroscopy, including Raman mapping with a 514 nm laser, was employed to analyze sperm structure and biochemical changes.
- Localized spectral Raman signatures were obtained to quantify the effects on sperm organelles.
Main Results:
- Raman mapping successfully differentiated key sperm structures, including the nucleus, neck, and mitochondria-rich midpiece.
- Icariin maintained the characteristic 'Raman fingerprint' of human sperm, indicating protection against FeSO4/H2O2-induced damage.
- The compound's effects on sperm organelles were quantified, demonstrating its protective role.
Conclusions:
- Icariin exhibits significant anti-oxidative properties, protecting human sperm from oxidative damage.
- Icariin may function as a natural agent to enhance sperm antioxidant capacity and support male reproductive health.
- Further research into icariin's role in male reproductive function is warranted.
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