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Published on: May 5, 2022
A narrative review of mitochondrial dysfunction and male infertility
Zihang Mai1, Di Yang1, Dan Wang2
1Department of Urology, Shenzhen University General Hospital, School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
Background And Objective:
Recent investigations have highlighted mitochondrial dysfunction as a major component in reduced sperm function and male infertility. The creation of energy, control of reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis, and sperm motility are all critically dependent on mitochondria. The health of the male reproductive system may be significantly impacted by any alteration of mitochondrial structure, function, or integrity. This review intends to open the door to better diagnostic methods, novel therapy strategies, and improved reproductive outcomes for infertile couples by clarifying the crucial function of mitochondria.
Methods:
We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and others for articles related to male infertility and mitochondrial dysfunction from 2014 to 2023. The articles related to the theme were preliminarily screened by abstract, and then the selected literature was read and summarized. In this essay, we examine the research on male infertility and mitochondrial malfunction. We investigate the intricate connection between sperm quality, deoxyribonucleic acid damage, oxidative stress (OS), and mitochondrial bioenergetics. We discuss about how spermatogenesis and sperm function are affected by mitochondrial mutations, deletions, and single nucleotide polymorphisms. We also explore the impact of age-related changes, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors on mitochondrial function and male fertility. This review also clarifies the mechanisms by which mitochondrial dysfunction impacts the viability, morphology, and capacitation of sperm, among other aspects of male reproductive health. Furthermore, we go over the recently developed field of mitochondrial treatments and possible therapeutic approaches that target mitochondrial malfunction to enhance male fertility.
Key Content And Findings:
Mitochondria are important for sperm: The control of sperm motility, capacitation, and general quality is largely dependent on mitochondria. Deterioration of sperm motility and male infertility may result from disruption of the structure, function, or integrity of the mitochondria. Future studies should focus on figuring out the processes underlying mitochondrial dysfunction as fertility and reproductive health are significantly impacted by it.
Conclusions:
We discuss the evaluation of infertile men mitochondrial function defects and difficulties, and make recommendations for further study in this area. This article provides a thorough resource for clinicians, researchers, and reproductive biologists to understand the underlying mechanisms of male infertility and explore potential therapeutic interventions.
Insights
Mitochondrial dysfunction significantly impairs sperm function and male fertility by affecting energy production and sperm motility. Understanding these mechanisms is key to developing new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for infertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Mitochondrial Medicine
- Male Infertility Research
Background:
- Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key factor in reduced sperm function and male infertility.
- Mitochondria are vital for sperm energy production, reactive oxygen species (ROS) control, apoptosis regulation, and motility.
- Alterations in mitochondrial structure, function, or integrity negatively impact male reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the crucial role of mitochondria in male reproductive health.
- To explore the link between mitochondrial dysfunction and male infertility.
- To review current and emerging therapeutic strategies for male infertility targeting mitochondria.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and other databases (2014-2023).
- Screening and summarization of relevant articles on male infertility and mitochondrial dysfunction.
- Analysis of the relationship between sperm quality, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial bioenergetics.
Main Results:
- Mitochondrial dysfunction directly impacts sperm viability, morphology, and capacitation.
- Sperm motility and male infertility are linked to disruptions in mitochondrial structure and function.
- Mitochondrial mutations, deletions, and SNPs affect spermatogenesis and sperm function.
- Age, lifestyle, and environmental factors influence mitochondrial function and male fertility.
Conclusions:
- Mitochondrial defects are critical in male infertility, affecting sperm function and quality.
- Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in infertile men.
- This review serves as a resource for understanding male infertility and exploring mitochondrial-targeted therapies.
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