Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Relationship between Obesity and Male Infertility

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Reproductive Biology
• Metabolic Syndrome

Background:

• Rising global obesity rates (approx. 20%) correlate with increased comorbidities and mortality.
• Obesity is increasingly recognized as a significant factor negatively impacting male reproductive health.
• Existing research points to multiple mechanisms linking obesity to male infertility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms by which obesity impairs male reproduction.
• To explore the roles of hypogonadism, inflammation, oxidative stress, and epigenetic alterations.
• To identify potential therapeutic targets for obesity-induced male infertility.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating obesity and male fertility.
• Analysis of molecular pathways including hormonal regulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
• Examination of effects on sperm parameters and epigenetic modifications.

Main Results:

• Obesity negatively affects conventional and biofunctional sperm parameters.
• Obesity is associated with hypogonadism, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress impacting spermatogenesis.
• Obesity induces epigenetic changes transmissible to offspring and dysregulates adipokines and sirtuins.

Conclusions:

• Obesity-induced male infertility involves complex molecular disruptions, including hormonal, inflammatory, oxidative, and epigenetic factors.
• Dysregulated adipokines and sirtuins contribute to testicular dysfunction and metabolic disturbances.
• Further understanding of these mechanisms can guide novel prevention and treatment strategies for male infertility.