19-Hydroxy-prostaglandin E and infertility in human males

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Endocrinology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Prostaglandins play crucial roles in reproductive physiology.
• Specific prostaglandins, like 19-hydroxy-prostaglandin E (19-OH-PGE), have demonstrated uterine stimulatory effects in animal models.
• Understanding seminal prostaglandin profiles may offer insights into male infertility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the levels of 19-hydroxy-prostaglandin E (19-OH-PGE) and prostaglandin E (PGE) in the semen of infertile and fertile males.
• To compare seminal concentrations of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha) between the two groups.

Main Methods:

• Semen samples from 10 infertile and 7 fertile males were analyzed.
• Alkaline dehydration, thin layer chromatography, and ultraviolet spectrophotometry were used to measure 19-OH-PGE and PGE.
• Radioimmunoassay was employed to quantify seminal 6-keto-PGF1 alpha.

Main Results:

• Significantly lower concentrations of 19-OH-PGE (p < .02) and PGE (p < .05) were found in the semen of infertile males compared to fertile males.
• No significant difference in mean seminal 6-keto-F1 alpha levels was observed between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Reduced levels of seminal 19-OH-PGE and PGE may be associated with male infertility.
• The uterine stimulatory actions of 19-OH-PGE observed in primates might be relevant to human male fertility.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise role of these prostaglandins in male reproductive health.