COVID-19 and male infertility: An overview of the disease

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, primarily affects the respiratory system but can impact other organs.
• The ACE-2 receptor, crucial for SARS-CoV-2 entry, is present in testicular cells like Sertoli and Leydig cells.
• Current clinical evidence on SARS-CoV-2's effect on male reproductive health is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male reproductive health.
• To explore effects on the reproductive system, gamete function, and gonadal function.
• To consider the influence of the virus, immune responses, treatments, and psychological stress.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on SARS-CoV-2 and male reproduction.
• Analysis of viral mechanisms, receptor expression, and inflammatory responses.
• Examination of potential consequences on spermatogenesis and testicular function.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2 may affect male reproductive health through direct viral action or indirect inflammatory and immune responses.
• ACE-2 expression in testes suggests potential susceptibility to viral infection.
• The review synthesizes current knowledge gaps regarding clinical evidence.

Conclusions:

• SARS-CoV-2 infection poses a potential risk to male reproductive health.
• Further clinical research is needed to confirm the extent and mechanisms of impact.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for managing male reproductive health during the COVID-19 pandemic.