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Published on: April 21, 2022
Semen characteristics and malondialdehyde levels in men with different reproductive problems
G Collodel1, E Moretti, L Micheli
1Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to assess the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the seminal plasma of infertile men and to highlight a relationship between the level of MDA and semen parameters. Eighty-one infertile patients were divided into groups according to their clinical diagnosis: genitourinary infections, varicocele and idiopathic infertility. Semen quality was assessed by light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM data were quantified with a mathematical formula able to obtain a fertility index and the percentage of sperm apoptosis, immaturity, and necrosis. Seminal MDA levels were determined by spectrofluorometry. Scrotal Eco-color Doppler was used to detect the varicocele. Infected patients had a positive bacteriological semen analysis. A control group consisted of 14 normospermic fertile men. Fertile group showed significantly increased values of sperm concentration, motility, and fertility index compared to infertile groups. In the infertile groups, sperm motility, concentration, apoptosis, and fertility index were not significantly different. In infection group, the percentage of necrosis was significantly higher than that observed in fertile men, varicocele, and idiopathic infertility groups (p < 0.001). MDA levels increased significantly in infection group in comparison with varicocele group (p < 0.01), idiopathic infertility group, and fertile men (p < 0.001) and in varicocele group compared to idiopathic infertility group (p < 0.001). In infection group, MDA levels positively correlated with sperm concentration (p < 0.01), fertility index (p < 0.05), and necrosis (p < 0.001), whereas a negative correlation was found with motility (p < 0.01). In varicocele group MDA levels correlated positively with necrosis and negatively with immaturity (p < 0.05). In fertile men and idiopathic infertility group, they did not show any correlation. In conclusion, we suggest that the evaluation of seminal MDA may be a good marker for understanding pathologies responsible of a sperm motility reduction such as urogenital infections or inflammatory status.
Insights
Seminal malondialdehyde (MDA) levels are elevated in infertile men, particularly those with genitourinary infections. MDA may serve as a biomarker for reduced sperm motility linked to infections or inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Andrology
Background:
- Male infertility affects a significant portion of couples seeking reproductive assistance.
- Oxidative stress, indicated by malondialdehyde (MDA), is implicated in male reproductive dysfunction.
- Understanding the role of MDA in different infertility etiologies is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate seminal plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in infertile men.
- To correlate MDA levels with specific semen parameters and infertility diagnoses.
- To explore MDA as a potential biomarker for sperm motility reduction.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-one infertile patients were categorized into genitourinary infections, varicocele, and idiopathic infertility groups.
- A control group of 14 fertile men was included.
- Semen quality was assessed using light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and spectrofluorometry for MDA levels.
Main Results:
- Fertile men exhibited significantly higher sperm concentration, motility, and fertility index compared to infertile groups.
- Sperm necrosis was significantly higher in the infection group.
- Elevated MDA levels were observed in the infection and varicocele groups compared to fertile and idiopathic groups, with significant correlations to sperm parameters.
Conclusions:
- Seminal MDA levels are elevated in infertile men, especially with genitourinary infections.
- MDA evaluation may serve as a valuable marker for identifying pathologies causing reduced sperm motility, such as infections or inflammation.
- Further research can elucidate the precise role of oxidative stress in male infertility.
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