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Human sperm motility and lipid peroxidation in different ascorbic acid concentrations: an in vitro analysis
1Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
Andrologia
|December 4, 1998
Summary
Ascorbic acid (AA) below 1000 microM enhances sperm motility and viability by reducing oxidative stress. Higher AA concentrations, however, damage sperm and increase lipid peroxidation.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Biochemistry
- Oxidative stress research
Background:
- Spermatozoa are susceptible to oxidative damage, impacting male fertility.
- Lipid peroxidation (LPO) is a marker of cellular damage caused by free radicals.
- Ascorbic acid (AA) is a known antioxidant with potential benefits for sperm health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dose-dependent effects of ascorbic acid (AA) on human sperm motility, viability, and lipid peroxidation (LPO).
- To determine the optimal concentration of AA for protecting spermatozoa from oxidative damage.
Main Methods:
- Human spermatozoa were incubated in Ringer-Tyrode solution with varying AA concentrations (50–4000 microM).
- Sperm motility and viability were assessed.
- Malondialdehyde (MDA) generation, an indicator of LPO, was measured.
Main Results:
- AA concentrations below 1000 microM significantly improved sperm motility and viability.
- Lower AA concentrations led to a decrease in MDA generation, indicating reduced LPO.
- AA concentrations at or above 1000 microM resulted in a sharp decline in sperm motility and viability.
- Higher AA concentrations correlated with increased LPO.
Conclusions:
- Ascorbic acid exhibits a dose-dependent effect on human spermatozoa.
- Optimal protection against oxidative damage is observed with AA concentrations below 1000 microM.
- Supraphysiological concentrations of AA (≥1000 microM) are detrimental to sperm health, increasing LPO.