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Sperm function and structure and seminal plasma prostanoid concentrations in men with IDDM.
P Shrivastav1, J Swann, J Y Jeremy
1Department of Chemical Pathology and Human Metabolism, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, London, England, United Kingdom.
Diabetes Care
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Men with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) show reduced sperm quality and lower egg penetration ability. Elevated prostanoid levels in diabetic seminal plasma may contribute to these fertility issues.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Diabetology
- Sperm Biology
Background:
- Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is a chronic condition affecting various bodily functions.
- Male fertility can be impacted by metabolic disorders like diabetes.
- Previous research suggests potential links between diabetes and impaired sperm function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare semen parameters and fertilizing capacity between men with IDDM and age-matched controls.
- To investigate the concentrations of prostaglandins and thromboxanes in the seminal plasma of diabetic men.
- To explore the relationship between prostanoid levels and sperm abnormalities in IDDM.
Main Methods:
- Semen analysis was performed on 18 men with IDDM and 15 healthy controls (aged 20-40 years).
- Sperm parameters including volume, count, motility, and morphology were assessed.
- Sperm penetration assay using hamster eggs was conducted.
- Concentrations of prostaglandins (E2, F2 alpha, I2) and thromboxane A2 in seminal plasma were measured.
Main Results:
- Semen volume, sperm count, and motility were comparable between diabetic and control groups.
- Diabetic men exhibited a significantly higher percentage of abnormal spermatozoa.
- Spermatozoa from diabetic men showed significantly reduced ability to penetrate hamster eggs.
- Seminal plasma from diabetic subjects had significantly elevated concentrations of prostaglandins E2, F2 alpha, I2, and thromboxane A2.
Conclusions:
- Men with IDDM may have impaired sperm quality and reduced fertilizing capacity despite normal semen volume, count, and motility.
- Elevated prostanoid concentrations in seminal plasma are observed in diabetic men.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms linking sperm abnormalities to increased prostanoid levels in diabetic men and to assess male fertility in this population.