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Updated: Mar 3, 2026
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Flow Cytometric Analysis of Biomarkers for Detecting Human Sperm Functional Defects
Published on: April 21, 2022
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Toxoplasmosis: sperm parameters and testosterone levels in men
Mohammad Matini1, Seyed Ali Hosseini1, Maryam Bahmanzadeh2,3
1Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 65157838736, Hamadan, Iran.
Summary
Toxoplasmosis infection is common in men, with nearly half showing IgG antibodies. This parasitic infection may contribute to male infertility by affecting sperm health and function, though it
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Human Reproduction
Background:
- Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread parasite affecting over a third of the global population.
- While its impact on female reproduction is studied, less is known about its effects on male reproductive health, sperm factors, and testosterone.
- Experimental models suggest toxoplasmosis can alter sperm and reproductive organ function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in infertile men.
- To explore the relationship between Toxoplasma gondii infection and sperm parameters, including morphology and motility.
- To assess potential correlations between infection markers and testosterone levels in the male population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 197 male volunteers at a fertility research center.
- Sera and semen samples were collected for ELISA testing of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies.
- Semen analysis was performed according to WHO guidelines, assessing sperm morphology and motility.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies was 48%, with 3% testing positive for IgM.
- A higher percentage of antibodies was found in men with abnormal sperm morphology and non-progressive sperm (49.1%).
- The highest IgG antibody levels were observed in the 36-40 age group (p < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- The high frequency of anti-T. gondii IgG in infertile men suggests a potential role in male infertility.
- While not a primary cause, the parasite may contribute to infertility through pro-inflammatory substances and cytokines, impacting sperm function.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which Toxoplasma gondii influences male reproductive health.
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