Neutral alpha-1,4-glucosidase in human seminal plasma: molecular forms in varicocele and after vasectomy

Neutral alpha-1,4-glucosidase catalyzes the breakdown of oligosaccharides in several tissues including the reproductive organs, and we have demonstrated the presence of two molecular forms (F1 and F2) of the enzyme in human seminal plasma. The identification of these forms can be achieved by sucrose density gradient analysis and/or electrophoresis in the presence of detergents. Individuals with normal sperm analyses or affected by a varicocele, thus showing normo- or oligoasthenozoospermia, show a similar prevalence of F1 only and F1 + F2 forms, while the presence of F2 alone becomes obvious following vasectomy. In conclusion, molecular forms of the enzyme do not appear to be indicative of the presence of a varicocele, but they may reflect modifications in the secretory function of specific reproductive organs (prostate) or glands (seminal vesicles), as observed in the course of an obstructive abnormality at the epididymal or vas deferens level.