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The effect of coenzyme Q10 on sperm motility and function
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel.
Molecular Aspects of Medicine
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation improved sperm motility in asthenospermic men and increased fertilization rates in patients undergoing ICSI. This suggests CoQ10 may enhance male fertility and sperm function.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Biochemistry
- Andrology
Background:
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is vital for sperm energy production and acts as an antioxidant, protecting sperm membranes.
- Mitochondrial CoQ10 concentration is crucial for sperm motility and energy-dependent processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the in vitro effect of CoQ10 on sperm motility in asthenospermic and normal sperm samples.
- To evaluate the in vivo impact of oral CoQ10 on fertilization rates in patients with a history of low fertilization after ICSI.
Main Methods:
- Sperm samples were incubated with varying concentrations of CoQ10 (5 microM, 50 microM) or control media.
- Patients with low ICSI fertilization rates received oral CoQ10 (60 mg/day) before subsequent ICSI cycles.
Main Results:
- In vitro incubation with 50 microM CoQ10 significantly increased motility in asthenospermic sperm samples.
- In vivo CoQ10 treatment led to a significant improvement in fertilization rates from 10.3% to 26.3% in patients with prior low rates.
Conclusions:
- Coenzyme Q10 administration shows potential for improving sperm function and fertilization rates in specific patient groups.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying CoQ10's beneficial effects on male fertility.