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Semen leukocytes: friends or foes?
A A Kiessling1, N Lamparelli, H Z Yin
1Harvard/Deaconess Surgical Service, Faulkner Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Fertility and Sterility
|July 1, 1995
Summary
Male reproductive tract leukocytes help eliminate abnormal sperm. Higher leukocyte levels in semen correlate with better sperm morphology, suggesting a role in sperm surveillance and immune control.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Immunology
- Andrology
- Sperm Biology
Background:
- Leukocytes are present in male reproductive tract tissues and semen.
- Their precise function in semen quality is not fully understood.
- Abnormal spermatozoa can impact male fertility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of leukocytes in eliminating abnormal spermatozoa from ejaculated semen.
- To test the hypothesis that male reproductive tract leukocytes are involved in sperm quality control.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of semen specimens from an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) andrology laboratory.
- Quantification of leukocyte concentrations (nonspermatozoal cells/mL).
- Assessment of mature sperm with ideal morphology and immature germ cells.
Main Results:
- Semen with higher leukocyte concentrations showed a significantly greater frequency of ideal sperm morphology.
- Elevated immature germ cells and low leukocyte counts were associated with lower sperm quality.
- A direct correlation was observed between leukocyte density and the presence of morphologically normal sperm.
Conclusions:
- Male reproductive tract leukocytes play a role in sperm surveillance, eliminating abnormal sperm.
- The findings support the concept of immune surveillance mechanisms within the male reproductive tract.
- Understanding germ cell-leukocyte interactions may offer insights into male reproductive immunologic control.