Showing papers on "Semen analysis published in 2013"

BMI in relation to sperm count: an updated systematic review and collaborative meta-analysis

Abstract: BACKGROUND The global obesity epidemic has paralleled a decrease in semen quality. Yet, the association between obesity and sperm parameters remains controversial. The purpose of this report was to update the evidence on the association between BMI and sperm count through a systematic review with meta-analysis. METHODS A systematic review of available literature (with no language restriction) was performed to investigate the impact of BMI on sperm count. Relevant studies published until June 2012 were identified from a Pubmed and EMBASE search. We also included unpublished data (n = 717 men) obtained from the Infertility Center of Bondy, France. Abstracts of relevant articles were examined and studies that could be included in this review were retrieved. Authors of relevant studies for the meta-analysis were contacted by email and asked to provide standardized data. RESULTS A total of 21 studies were included in the meta-analysis, resulting in a sample of 13 077 men from the general population and attending fertility clinics. Data were stratified according to the total sperm count as normozoospermia, oligozoospermia and azoospermia. Standardized weighted mean differences in sperm concentration did not differ significantly across BMI categories. There was a J-shaped relationship between BMI categories and risk of oligozoospermia or azoospermia. Compared with men of normal weight, the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for oligozoospermia or azoospermia was 1.15 (0.93-1.43) for underweight, 1.11 (1.01-1.21) for overweight, 1.28 (1.06-1.55) for obese and 2.04 (1.59-2.62) for morbidly obese men. CONCLUSIONS Overweight and obesity were associated with an increased prevalence of azoospermia or oligozoospermia. The main limitation of this report is that studied populations varied, with men recruited from both the general population and infertile couples. Whether weight normalization could improve sperm parameters should be evaluated further.

Decline in semen concentration and morphology in a sample of 26 609 men close to general population between 1989 and 2005 in France

Abstract: study question: Are temporal trends and values of semen quality parameters in France identifiable in partners of totally infertile women? summary answer: Among a sample of 26 609 partners of totally infertile women undergoing an assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures in the whole of France over a 17-year period, there was a continuous decrease in semen concentration of about 1.9% per year and a significant decrease in the percentage with morphologically normal forms but no global trend for motility. what is known already: A global decrease in human sperm quality is still debated as geographical differences have been shown, and many criticisms have risen concerning studies with small and biased study populations or inappropriate statistical methodology. However, growing biological, toxicological, experimental and human exposure data support the endocrine disruptors’ hypothesis assuming that fetal exposure to endocrine disruptors could impair reproductive outcomes. study design, size, duration: This was a retrospective and descriptive study using data registered by Fivnat, the professional association in charge of statistics for ART in France during the 1989– 2005 study period. Data were provided by 126 main ART centres over the whole metropolitan territory. The source population included 154 712 men, aged 18– 70, who were partners of couples undergoing their first ART cycle and for whom semen quality indicators (concentration, total motility and percentage of morphologically normal forms), measured on fresh ejaculated semen, were available. participants/materials, setting, methods: The study population was 26 609 partners of women who had both tubes either absent or blocked. The temporal trends for each indicator of semen quality were modelled using a generalized additive model that allowed for nonlinear relationships between variables and were adjusted for season and age. In-depth sensitivity analyses included the reiteration of the analysis on data from a second spermiogram available for each man and on another subsample of men diagnosed as fertile. Variables such as centre, technique (standard in vitro fertilization or intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection) and an interaction factor between technique and time were also included in the model. main results and the role of chance: There was a significant and continuous decrease in sperm concentration of 32.2% [26.3– 36.3] during the study period. Projections indicate that concentration for a 35-year-old man went from an average of 73.6 million/ml [69.0– 78.4] in 1989 to 49.9 million/ml [43.5– 54.7] in 2005. A significant, but not quantifiable, decrease in the percentage of sperm with morphologically normal forms along the 17-year period was also observed. There was no global trend but a slight, significant increase in total motility between 1994 and 1998 was observed. The results were robust after sensitivity analysis. limitations, reasons for caution: Socioeconomic status could not be controlled for. Despite universal access to medical services in France, couples undergoing ART are expected to have a higher educational level on average compared with those of the general population. Therefore, the real values in the general population could be slightly lower than those presented and the decrease possibly stronger, as the population study is less likely to smoke or be overweight, two factors known to impair semen quality.

Sperm DNA damage has a negative association with live-birth rates after IVF

Abstract: Sperm DNA damage has a negative impact on pregnancy rates following assisted reproduction treatment (ART). The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between sperm DNA fragmentation and live-birth rates after IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The alkaline Comet assay was employed to measure sperm DNA fragmentation in native semen and in spermatozoa following density-gradient centrifugation in semen samples from 203 couples undergoing IVF and 136 couples undergoing ICSI. Men were divided into groups according to sperm DNA damage. Following IVF, couples with 50% sperm DNA fragmentation had a much lower live-birth rate of 13%. Following ICSI, no significant differences in sperm DNA damage were found between any groups of patients. Sperm DNA damage was also associated with low live-birth rates following IVF in both men and couples with idiopathic infertility: 39% of couples and 41% of men with idiopathic infertility have high sperm DNA damage. Sperm DNA damage assessed by the Comet assay has a close inverse relationship with live-birth rates after IVF. Sperm DNA damage has a negative impact on assisted reproduction treatment outcome, in particular, on pregnancy rates. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between sperm DNA fragmentation and live-birth rates after IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The alkaline Comet assay was employed to measure sperm DNA fragmentation in native semen and in spermatozoa following density-gradient centrifugation in semen samples from 203 couples undergoing IVF and 136 couples undergoing ICSI. Men were divided into groups according to sperm DNA damage and treatment outcome. Following IVF, couples with 50% sperm DNA fragmentation had a much lower live-birth rate of 13% following IVF. Following ICSI, there were no significant differences in levels of sperm DNA damage between any groups of patients. Sperm DNA damage was also associated with the very low live-birth rates following IVF in both men and couples with idiopathic infertility: 39% of couples and 41% of men have high level of sperm DNA damage. Sperm DNA damage assessed by the Comet assay has a close inverse relationship with live-birth rates after IVF.

PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonate) in serum is negatively associated with testosterone levels, but not with semen quality, in healthy men

Abstract: study question: Is exposure to perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) associated with testicular function (reproductive hormone levels and semen quality) in healthy men? summary answer: PFOS levels were significantly negatively associated with serum testosterone (total and calculated free), but not with any other reproductive hormones or semen quality. what is known already: In animals, some PFCs have endocrine disrupting potential, but few studies have investigated PFCs in relation to human testicular function. Previously, we and others have observed a negative association between serum PFC levels and sperm morphology. The potential associations with reproductive hormones remain largely unresolved. study design, size, duration: A cross-sectional study of 247 men was conducted during 2008– 2009. participants/materials, setting, methods: Healthy men from the general population, median age of 19 years, gave serum and semen samples. Serum samples were analysed for total testosterone (T), estradiol (E), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and inhibin-B and 14 PFCs, including perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS). Semen samples were analysed according to the WHO criteria. main results and the role of chance: PFOS levels were negatively associated with testosterone (T), calculated free testosterone (FT), free androgen index (FAI) and ratios of T/LH, FAI/LH and FT/LH. Other PFCs were found at lower levels than PFOS and did not exhibit the same associations. PFC levels were not significantly associated with semen quality. PFOS levels in these samples collected in 2008– 2009 were lower than in our previous study of men participating in 2003. limitations, reasons for caution: Results were robust to adjustment for relevant confounders; however, the possibility of chance associations due to multiple testing or effects of uncontrolled confounding cannot be ruled out. wider implications of the findings: Our previous findings of decreased sperm morphology in the most highly PFC exposed men were not replicated, possibly due to a lack of highly exposed individuals; however, a recent independent study also did corroborate such an inverse association. The negative association between serum PFOS and testosterone indicates that testosterone production may be compromised in individuals with high PFOS exposure.

Use of hyaluronan in the selection of sperm for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): significant improvement in clinical outcomes—multicenter, double-blinded and randomized controlled trial

Abstract: study question: Does the selection of sperm for ICSI based on their ability to bind to hyaluronan improve the clinical pregnancy rates (CPR) (primary end-point), implantation (IR) and pregnancy loss rates (PLR)? summary answer: In couples where ≤65% of sperm bound hyaluronan, the selection of hyaluronan-bound (HB) sperm for ICSI led to a statistically significant reduction in PLR. what is known and what this paper adds: HB sperm demonstrate enhanced developmental parameters which have been associated with successful fertilization and embryogenesis. Sperm selected for ICSI using a liquid source of hyaluronan achieved an improvement in IR. A pilot study by the primary author demonstrated that the use of HB sperm in ICSI was associated with improved CPR. The current study represents the single largest prospective, multicenter, double-blinded and randomized controlled trial to evaluate the use of hyaluronan in the selection of sperm for ICSI. design: Using the hyaluronan binding assay, an HB score was determined for the fresh or initial (I-HB) and processed or final semen specimen (F-HB). Patients were classified as .65% or ≤65% I-HB and stratified accordingly. Patients with I-HB scores ≤65% were randomized into control and HB selection (HYAL) groups whereas patients with I-HB .65% were randomized to non-participatory (NP), control or HYAL groups, in a ratio of 2:1:1. The NP group was included in the .65% study arm to balance the higher prevalence of patients with IHB scores .65%. In the control group, oocytes received sperm selected via the conventional assessment of motility and morphology. In the HYAL group, HB sperm meeting the same visual criteria were selected for injection. Patient participants and clinical care providers were blinded to group assignment. participants and setting: Eight hundred two couples treated with ICSI in 10 private and hospital-based IVF programs were enrolled in this study. Of the 484 patients stratified to the I-HB . 65% arm, 115 participants were randomized to the control group, 122 participants were randomized to the HYAL group and 247 participants were randomized to the NP group. Of the 318 patients stratified to the I-HB ≤ 65% arm, 164 participants were randomized to the control group and 154 participants were randomized to the HYAL group.

Effects of oral antioxidant treatment upon the dynamics of human sperm DNA fragmentation and subpopulations of sperm with highly degraded DNA.

Abstract: The primary aim of this study was to determine the effect of oral antioxidant treatment (1500 mg of l-Carnitine; 60 mg of vitamin C; 20 mg of coenzyme Q10; 10 mg of vitamin E; 10 mg of zinc; 200 μg of vitamin B9; 50 μg of selenium; 1 μg of vitamin B12) during a time period of 3 months upon the dynamics of sperm DNA fragmentation following varying periods of sperm storage (0 h, 2 h, 6 h, 8 h and 24 h) at 37 °C in a cohort of 20 infertile patients diagnosed with asthenoteratozoospermia A secondary objective was to use the sperm chromatin dispersion test (SCD) to study antioxidant effects upon a specific subpopulation of highly DNA degraded sperm (DDS) Semen parameters and pregnancy rate (PR) were also determined Results showed a significant improvement of DNA integrity at all incubation points (P < 001) The proportion of DDS was also significantly reduced (P < 005) Semen analysis data showed a significant increase in concentration, motility, vitality and morphology parameters Our results suggest that antioxidant treatment improves sperm quality not only in terms of key seminal parameters and basal DNA damage, but also helps to maintain DNA integrity Prior administration of antioxidants could therefore promote better outcomes following assisted reproductive techniques

Optimization of spermatogenesis-regulating hormones in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia and its impact on sperm retrieval: a multicentre study.

Abstract: Study Type – Therapy (outcomes) Level of Evidence 2a What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Clomiphene citrate, hCG and human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) are widely used in treatment of oligospermia, because they increase FSH and testosterone which are essential for spermatogenesis. Finding a sperm in non-obstructive azoospermia for intracytoplasmic sperm injection is a challenge and much effort is required to reach the optimum method of sperm retrieval. The study shows that a new protocol of clomiphene citrate, hCG and hMG in the treatment of non-obstructive azoospermia achieves an increase in the levels of FSH, LH and total testosterone to the target levels that we set. Our target level of FSH was 1.5 times its initial level and for serum testosterone it was 600–800 ng/dL. Using our described medical treatment protocol in cases of non-obstructive azoospermia, sperm may be found in patients' ejaculate (∼11%) and if they remain azoospermic they will have a greater likelihood of sperms being obtained in testicular sperm extraction. OBJECTIVE • To evaluate the effect of optimizing serum level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone on sperm retrieval for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. PATIENTS AND METHODS • A total of 612 patients with non-obstructive azoospermia were evaluated with routine history, physical examination and hormonal assessment. • Of these, 116 patients underwent microsurgical (micro)-testicular sperm extraction (TESE) without any medical treatment and formed the control group and the remaining 496 patients were administered clomiphene citrate in a titrated dose. • Patients were classified into four groups according to their response to clomiphene citrate. Group 1: patients with an obvious increase in FSH and total testosterone (n= 372). Group 2: patients showing an increase in FSH with no or little increase in LH and total testosterone (n= 62). For these patients we continued with clomiphene citrate and added human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). Group 3: patients with no increase in the levels of the three hormones (n= 46). Group 4: included patients with continuously decreasing serum testosterone levels in response to the increasing dose of clomiphene citrate (n= 16). Accordingly, patients in groups 3 and 4 discontinued clomiphene citrate and started hCG and human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG). • Semen analyses were performed periodically and, in patients who remained azoospermic, micro-TESE was performed. RESULTS • Sperm were noted in 54 patients (10.9%) in semen analysis after treatment in all groups (with no significant difference) at a mean (sd) concentration of 2.3 (4.1) million/mL. • For the 442 patients who remained azoospermic after treatment, successful sperm retrieval was significantly higher (57%) compared with the control group (33.6%). CONCLUSION • For patients with non-obstructive azoospermia, clomiphene citrate, hCG and hMG administration, leading to an increased level of FSH and total testosterone, results in an increased rate of sperm in the ejaculate and increased likelihood of successful micro-TESE.

Body mass index in relation to semen quality and reproductive hormones in New Zealand men: a cross-sectional study in fertility clinics

Abstract: STUDY QUESTION Is there an association between body mass index (BMI) and routine semen analysis parameters in adult men? SUMMARY ANSWER No significant correlation was found between BMI and semen parameters measured with the exception of normal sperm morphology. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Multiple cross-sectional studies have found inconsistent results, with two meta-analyses finding no correlation between BMI and semen parameters. A relationship between BMI and male reproductive hormones, particularly total testosterone, has been established in several studies and a systematic review. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Cross-sectional study of 511 men recruited at the time of semen analysis over 4 years (2008-2012). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Men presenting for semen analysis for any reason at participating fertility clinics in Auckland, New Zealand were recruited, with BMI measured or self-reported at this time. Exclusion criteria included azoospermia and pathological conditions of male genital tract. Conventional BMI categories were used (underweight 25 kg/m(2)), while 19 men (3.72%) had a BMI of 35-40 kg/m(2) and 7 men (1%) had a BMI of >40 kg/m(2). No significant correlation was found between BMI and the semen parameters measured with the exception of normal sperm morphology (r = 0.12, P = 0.024), although this finding is derived from only 330 samples. Overweight and obese men showed no significantly increased relative risk of abnormal semen parameters. Of the reproductive hormones, significant negative relationships with BMI were found for total testosterone (r = -0.35, P = <0.0001), free testosterone (r = -0.25, P = <0.0012) and SHBG (r = -0.44, P = <0.0001). Multiple linear regression analysis also showed that BMI had a marginally significant effect on normal sperm morphology (effect estimate =0.47, P = 0.038). In addition, <2 days of abstinence was negatively associated with semen volume (effect estimate =-0.80, P = 0.0074) and summer season was negatively associated with sperm concentration (effect estimate =-14.9, P = 0.020). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The power of this study is limited by the relatively small overall sample size, although it does have one of the largest proportions of obese men (23.3%) in published cross-sectional studies. The study involved samples from men attending a fertility clinic, who are likely to have a lower semen quality and higher rate of pathology compared with the general population, therefore limiting the possible generalization of this study to all adult men. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings are consistent with those of other cross-sectional studies as well as two meta-analyses but do disagree in part with the most recent meta-analysis (which found significant odds ratios for oligozoospermia and azoospermia with increased BMI) and with studies measuring DNA fragmentation index. Therefore a definitive conclusion on the effect of BMI on semen quality remains uncertain while our data reinforce previous findings that BMI is negatively associated with male reproductive hormones. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) All funding for this study was from New Zealand academic and charitable sources including: Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland (New Zealand), the Mercia Barnes Trust of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Nurture Foundation for Reproductive Research. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

The hypo-osmotic swelling test for evaluation of sperm membrane integrity.

Abstract: A functional membrane is requisite for the fertilizing ability of spermatozoa, as it plays an integral role in sperm capacitation, acrosome reaction, and binding of the spermatozoon to the egg surface. The hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) test evaluates the functional integrity of the sperm's plasma membrane and also serves as a useful indicator of fertility potential of sperm. The HOS test predicts membrane integrity by determining the ability of the sperm membrane to maintain equilibrium between the sperm cell and its environment. Influx of the fluid due to hypo-osmotic stress causes the sperm tail to coil and balloon or "swell." A higher percentage of swollen sperm indicates the presence of sperm having a functional and intact plasma membrane. Here, we present the detailed protocol for performing the HOS test and explain the results for interpretation.

High prevalence of isolated sperm DNA damage in infertile men with advanced paternal age.

Abstract: Background Sperm DNA damage is associated with male infertility, lower pregnancy rates and pregnancy loss.

Association of Sleep Disturbances With Reduced Semen Quality: A Cross-sectional Study Among 953 Healthy Young Danish Men

Abstract: Several studies have found an association between sleep duration and morbidity and mortality, but no previous studies have examined the association between sleep disturbances and semen quality. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 953 young Danish men from the general population who were recruited in Copenhagen at the time of determination of fitness for military service between January 2008 and June 2011. All of the men delivered a semen sample, had a blood sample drawn, underwent a physical examination, and answered a questionnaire including information about sleep disturbances. Sleep disturbances were assessed on the basis of a modified 4-item version of the Karolinska Sleep Questionnaire, which includes questions on sleep patterns during the past 4 weeks. Sleep disturbances showed an inverse U-shaped association with sperm concentration, total sperm count, percent motile and percent morphologically normal spermatozoa, and testis size. Men with a high level of sleep disturbance (score >50) had a 29% (95% confidence interval: 2, 48) lower adjusted sperm concentration and 1.6 (95% confidence interval: 0.3, 3.0) percentage points' fewer morphologically normal spermatozoa than men with a sleep score of 11-20. This appears to be the first study to find associations between sleep disturbances and semen quality. In future studies, investigators should attempt to elucidate mechanistic explanations and prospectively assess whether semen quality improves after interventions restoring a normal sleeping pattern.

Sperm DNA fragmentation analysis using the TUNEL assay.

Abstract: Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate-nick end labeling or the TUNEL assay is an important technique in the assessment of DNA damage. Semen samples are routinely assessed microscopically to assess their fertilization ability. In addition to routine semen analysis, the use of the TUNEL assay can provide information on the level of DNA damage present within a sample. This chapter provides a practical walk-through guide aimed at directing a researcher or a clinical facility interested in setting up and using TUNEL and flow cytometry or fluorescence microscopy for sperm DNA analysis.

Increased pregnancy after reduced male abstinence.

Abstract: This study was conducted to test the hypothesis that continuous epididymal sperm depletion after recurrent ejaculations (REC) in contrast to a period of abstinence (ABS) results in a decreased level of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) and a consequent increased rate of pregnancy. Forty couples undergoing intra-cytoplasmic injection (ICSI) were asked to abstain from ejaculation for a period of 4 days and then ejaculate once per day for a period of 4 days, followed by a period of abstinence for 12 hours; sperm samples obtained after ABS and REC were assessed for volume, concentration, motility, and SDF and compared in 25 of the patients. Additionally, and in a different experiment, the pregnancy rate of this experimental group (40 couples) was compared to a control group of 150 couples in which the males had abstained from ejaculation for 4 days prior to ejaculation. Sperm selection was performed using density gradient centrifugation prior to ICSI. Semen quality in the REC group that was assessed over the course of the ejaculation schedule showed a decrease in semen volume (67%) and SDF (27%) following sperm selection; there was no difference for sperm motility or sperm concentration. When the pregnancy rate between the 40 couples in the REC group and 150 couples in the control ABS group were compared, the REC group had a pregnancy rate of 56.4% (25/40), whereas the ABS rate was only 43.3% (65/150) (p= 0.030). We conclude that recurrent ejaculation every 24 hours for four days with a final abstinence of 12 hours, combined with sperm selection using density gradient centrifugation, produces a significant increase in pregnancy rate when using ICSI. As ICSI was the strategy selected for fertilization, we propose that the observed reduction in SDF was the primary factor leading to improved reproductive outcome.

Sperm quality and its relationship to natural and assisted conception: British Fertility Society Guidelines for practice

Abstract: Reports on the influence of semen parameters on natural or assisted pregnancy are contradictory, suggesting that the many confounding variables which contribute to outcome have not been taken into account. However, it is possible to derive some consensus for both natural and assisted conception by focussing on studies which use WHO-recommended semen analysis on relatively large populations, applying appropriate statistics and accounting for ‘female factors’. The concentration of progressively motile sperm has consistently been shown to be the most predictive factor with regard to outcome. Around 64% of studies suggest that a reasonable chance of success with artificial insemination requires at least 5 × 106 motile sperm and this is supported by the WHO's revised reference range for natural conception. Sperm morphology remains controversial, with a lack of standardisation across centres, the adoption of ever-stricter scoring criteria and changing reference values. Antisperm antibodies do not appear...

Does intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection improve embryo development? A randomized sibling-oocyte study

Abstract: Study question Does high-magnification sperm selection influence oocyte fertilization and further embryo development? Summary answer The present study did not show a difference in oocyte fertilization rate, nor in embryo development between high-magnification intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection (IMSI) and conventional ICSI. What is known already The presence of nuclear vacuoles in sperm seems to influence embryo development and more specifically blastocyst formation. The use of high magnification for morphological sperm selection prior to ICSI has been associated with higher pregnancy rates and lower miscarriage rates. Study design, size, duration A prospective sibling-oocyte study was conducted, including 350 ICSI cycles to alleviate male infertility. Cycles were included from March 2010 to November 2011. Participants/materials, setting, methods On the day of treatment, a high-magnification sperm morphology was assessed on at least 200 spermatozoa. Primary endpoints were oocyte fertilization rate and embryo development. Because embryo transfers were not randomized, the clinical outcome (clinical pregnancy rate per transfer cycle) was descriptive. However, the embryologist selecting the embryos for transfer was blinded for the sperm selection procedure. Main results and the role of chance IMSI morphology was assessed in 330 semen samples, resulting in the following distribution: 18.1 ± 14.8% Grade I, 15.2 ± 10.3% Grade II, 12.3 ± 9.1% Grade III and 54.4 ± 23.2% Grade IV. Oocyte fertilization rate was 79.1 and 77.3% after IMSI and ICSI, respectively (NS, paired t-test). Embryo development was similar in both treatment groups up to Day 5 of preimplantation development. Comparable numbers of IMSI-only (n = 125) and ICSI-only (n = 139) embryo transfers were performed. Clinical pregnancies with fetal heart beat were equally distributed over transfers with embryos from IMSI-only (34.4%) or ICSI-only treatment (36.7%). Limitations, reasons for caution The clinical outcome remains descriptive. No firm conclusions could be drawn on cycle rank as a possible indication for IMSI. Wider implications of the findings The prevalence of vacuoles in normal-shaped spermatozoa is as low as 27.5%. A routine application of IMSI in unselected artificial reproductive technology patients cannot be advocated. Study funding/competing interest(s) None.

The utility of sperm DNA damage assay using toluidine blue and aniline blue staining in routine semen analysis

Abstract: Objective: The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship among male age, strict morphology, and sperm chromatin structure and condensation. Methods: Sperm samples from a total of 100 men underwent semen analysis, and sperm chromatin structure and condensation were assessed with toluidine blue (TB) and aniline blue (AB) tests. Results: Prevalence of strict morphology of less than 4%, and abnormal sperm chromatin structure and condensation did not show any statistically significant differences according to male age ( p = 0.605, p = 0.235, and p = 0.080). No significant correlation was demonstrated among age of male partners, strict morphology, and abnormal sperm chromatin structure using TB and AB tests. However, abnormal sperm chromatin condensation was positively associated with sperm chromatin structure (r = 0.594, p = 0.000) and showed negative correlation with strict morphology (r = -0.219, p = 0.029). Conclusion: The tests for sperm chromatin condensation showed a significant association with strict morphology. Further study is needed to elucidate the relationship between clinical outcome and sperm chromatin tests.

Anandamide modulates human sperm motility: implications for men with asthenozoospermia and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia

Abstract: What are the levels of anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamide, AEA) in human seminal plasma and how are these related to abnormal spermatozoa?Seminal plasma AEA levels were lower in men with asthenozoospermia and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia compared with normozoospermic men.AEA, a bioactive lipid, synthesized from membrane phospholipids may signal through cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) to regulate human sperm functions and male reproduction by modulating sperm motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction in vitro. Local AEA levels are regulated by the synthetic and degradative enzymes, NAPE-PLD and FAAH, respectively. How the deregulation of this endogenous signalling pathway affects human sperm function(s) is not clear.This was a cross-sectional study of 86 men presenting at an infertility clinic for semen analysis over a period of 2 years.AEA was quantified, by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, in seminal plasma from 86 volunteers. Using qRTPCR, CB1, CB2, NAPE-PLD and FAAH transcript levels were determined in spermatozoa from men with normozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and teratozoospermia. Normal spermatozoa were exposed in vitro to methanadamide (meth-AEA) to determine its effect on sperm motility, viability and mitochondrial activity.Seminal plasma AEA levels (mean SEM) were significantly lower in men with asthenozoospermia (0.080 0.01 nM; P 0.05) or oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (0.083 0.01 nM; P 0.05) compared with normozoospermic men (0.198 0.03 nM). In addition, the levels of spermatozoal CB1 mRNA were significantly decreased in men with asthenozoospermia (P 0.001) or oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (P 0.001) compared with normozoospermic controls. Supra-physiological levels of meth-AEA decreased sperm motility and viability, probably through CB1-mediated inhibition of mitochondrial activity.The inhibitory effect of meth-AEA was only shown in vitro and may not reflect what happens in vivo.As the regulation of the endocannabinoid system appears to be necessary for the preservation of normal sperm function and male fertility, there may be implications for the adverse reproductive consequences of marijuana use. Exocannabinoids, such as (9)-THC, are likely to compete with endocannabinoids at the cannabinoid receptors, upsetting the finely balanced endocannabinoid signalling system. The importance of the endocannabinoid system makes it an attractive target for pharmacological interventions to control male fertility.This work was funded in part by miscellaneous educational funds from the University Hospitals of Leicester National Health Services Trust to support the Endocannabinoid Research Laboratory of University of Leicester. The authors declare no competing interests.

Boar seminal plasma components and their relation with semen quality

Abstract: Select boar seminal plasma (SP) components and their relation to semen quality were investigated. Thirty nine boars from three artificial insemination (AI) centers were divided into group A (GA: > 80% normal sperm and >70% motility) and group B (GB: < 80% normal sperm and < 70% motility). Each ejaculate was collected and semen volume, concentration, sperm motility (computer aided semen analysis; CASA), morphology, and vitality (both eosin nigrosin staining) were investigated. The SP was separated and analyzed for aspartate-amino-transferase (AST), γ-glutamyl-transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and the concentrations of sodium (Na), potassium (K), chloride (Cl), calcium (Ca), phosphate (PO43-), magnesium (Mg), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) were assessed. Repeated measures (2 months interval) were conducted in eight boars of GA from one AI center. The activity of GGT (r = -0.482) and ALP (r = -0.459) was moderately associated (p < 0.05) with ejaculate volume and strongly associated with co...

Balanced chromosomal translocations in men: relationships among semen parameters, chromatin integrity, sperm meiotic segregation and aneuploidy

Abstract: Purpose To analyse relationships between semen parameters, sperm chromatin integrity and frequencies of chromosomally unbalanced, disomic and diploid sperm in 13 Robertsonian and 37 reciprocal translocation carriers and to compare the results with data from 10 control donors.

Semen parameters in fertile US men: the Study for Future Families.

Abstract: SUMMARY Establishing reference norms for semen parameters in fertile men is important for accurate assessment, counselling and treatment of men with male factor infertility. Identifying temporal or geographic variability in semen quality also requires accurate measurement of semen parameters in well-characterized, defined populations of men. The Study for Future Families (SFF) recruited men who were partners of pregnant women attending prenatal clinics in Los Angeles CA, Minneapolis MN, Columbia MO, New York City NY and Iowa City IA. Semen samples were collected on site from 763 men (73% White, 15% Hispanic/Latino, 7% Black and 5% Asian or other ethnic group) using strict quality control and well-defined protocols. Semen volume (by weight), sperm concentration (hemacytometer) and sperm motility were measured at each centre. Sperm morphology (both WHO, 1999 strict and WHO, 1987) was determined at a central laboratory. Mean abstinence was 3.2 days. Mean (median; 5th–95th percentile) values were: semen volume, 3.9 (3.7; 1.5–6.8) mL; sperm concentration, 60 (67; 12–192) 9 10 6 /mL; total sperm count 209 (240; 32–763) 9 10 6 ; % motile, 51 (52; 28–67) %; and total motile sperm count, 104 (128; 14–395) 9 10 6 respectively. Values for sperm morphology were 11 (10; 3–20) % and 57 (59; 38–72) % normal forms for WHO (1999) (strict) and WHO (1987) criteria respectively. Black men had significantly lower semen volume, sperm concentration and total motile sperm counts than White and Hispanic/ Latino men. Semen parameters were marginally higher in men who achieved pregnancy more quickly but differences were small and not statistically significant. The SFF provides robust estimates of semen parameters in fertile men living in five different geographic locations in the US. Fertile men display wide variation in all of the semen parameters traditionally used to assess fertility potential.

Semen quality of male partners of infertile couples in Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

Abstract: Objectives : The objective was to evaluate seminal fluid indices of male partners of infertile couples so as to identify the current status of the contributions of male factor to infertility in our environment. Materials and Methods : This is a prospective study of the seminal fluid indices of consecutively consenting male partners of infertile couples seen at the Fertility and Endocrinology Research unit of the Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Perinatology, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Ile-Ife between May 2004 and June 2008. Results : The results of the semen analysis of 661 male partners of the infertile couples were retrieved and analyzed. The patterns of semen parameters noted in infertile males were oligozoospermia, teratozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, azoospermia, oligoteratozoospermia, oligoasthenozoospermia, and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, asthenoteratozoospermia found in 25.6%, 18.5%, 11.5%, 6.2%, 3.2%, 2.3%, 2.1%, and 0.9%, respectively. Among the age groups, age group 31-40 had a higher prevalence of oligozoospermia (13.3%) while among the occupational groups, the civil servants had the highest prevalence of oligozoospermia (12%). There was a high of level of leucocytospermia and bacterial infections in both normospermic and oligospermic semen. Conclusion : This study showed a high rate of abnormal semen quality of male partners of infertile couple in our environment and is an indication for the need to focus on the management of this condition and the institution of preventive program for male infertility. There is urgent need for advocacy for men to accept responsibility for their contribution to infertility and to reduce stigmatization and ostracizing of women for infertility. Key words : Abnormal semen parameters, infertility, male partners, semen analysis