Progress in Investigating the Impact of Obesity on Male Reproductive Function
Yafei Kang1, Peiling Li2, Suying Yuan1
1Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China.
Biomedicines
|September 27, 2025
Summary
Obesity negatively impacts male fertility by affecting sperm quality and reproductive function. Understanding these effects is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies for male infertility linked to obesity.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Public health
Background:
- Obesity is a global health crisis linked to numerous chronic diseases.
- Excess adipose tissue accumulation negatively affects male reproductive health and fertility.
- Obesity is associated with impaired sperm quality, spermatogenesis, and erectile dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review adipose tissue classification and distribution in obesity.
- To examine the impact of obesity on male fertility parameters.
- To elucidate the mechanisms linking obesity to male reproductive dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on obesity and male reproductive health.
- Analysis of studies investigating obesity's effects on sperm parameters and fertility.
- Exploration of molecular and physiological pathways involved.
Main Results:
- Obesity adversely affects sperm quality, spermatogenesis, and erectile function.
- Mechanisms include hormonal axis disruption, inflammation, oxidative stress, and epigenetic changes.
- Offspring fertility may also be impacted by paternal obesity.
Conclusions:
- Obesity poses a significant threat to male reproductive health and fertility.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the complex mechanisms involved.
- Insights can guide the prevention and treatment of obesity-related male infertility.
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