acid-phosphatase and Infertility--Male

Human seminal plasma is rich in potential biological markers for male infertility and male reproductive system diseases, which have an application value in the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility. The methods for the detection of semen biochemical markers have been developed from the manual, semi-automatic to the present automatic means. The automatic detection of semen biochemical markers is known for its advantages of simple reagent composition and small amount of reagents for each test, simple setting of parameters, whole automatic procedure with few errors, short detection time contributive to batch detection and reduction of manpower cost, simple calibration and quality control procedure to ensure accurate and reliable results, output of results in the order of the samples in favor of clinical diagnosis and treatment, and open reagents applicable to various automatic biochemistry analyzers. At present, the automatic method is applied in the detection of such semen biochemical markers as seminal plasma total and neutral alpha-glucosidase, acid phosphatase, fructose, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, zinc, citric acid, uric acid, superoxide dismutase and carnitine, sperm acrosin and lactate dehydrogenase C4, and semen free elastase, which can be used to evaluate the secretory functions of the epididymis, seminal vesicle and prostate, sperm acrosome and energy metabolism function, seminal plasma antioxidative function, and infection or silent infection in the male genital tract.. 人精浆富含潜在的男性不育和男性生殖系统疾病的生物标志物，对男性不育的诊断和治疗有应用价值。精液生化指标检测在经历了手工法、半自动法后，目前已进入全自动检测的时代。精液生化指标的全自动检测有如下优势：试剂组成简单，每个测试所用试剂量少；参数设置简单；全程自动化程序操作，误差小；检测时间短，适于批量检测，可大大节省人力成本；定标和质控操作简便，可确保检测结果准确可靠；结果按样本顺序输出，适应临床诊疗需要；开放型试剂，适用于各种全自动生化分析仪。目前已可用于全自动检测法的精液生化指标包括精浆总α-葡糖苷酶和中性α-葡糖苷酶，精浆果糖、酸性磷酸酶、γ谷氨酰转肽酶、锌、柠檬酸、尿酸、超氧化物歧化酶、肉碱，精子顶体酶和乳酸脱氢酶C4，以及精液游离弹性蛋白酶。这些指标可用于评估附睾、精囊和前列腺的分泌功能，精子顶体和能量代谢功能，精浆的抗氧化功能以及男性生殖道有无感染或隐性感染等。.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; alpha-Glucosidases; Biomarkers; Carnitine; Citric Acid; Epididymis; Fructose; gamma-Glutamyltransferase; Humans; Infertility, Male; Isoenzymes; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Male; Prostate; Semen; Seminal Vesicles; Spermatozoa

Immunological techniques have enabled us to see that mammalian sperm undergo complex surface changes during maturation in the male reproductive tract. Binding affinity and sperm surface binding domains have been demonstrated using immunocytochemical technique. Recent studies using monoclonal antibodies suggest that these highly specific probes are useful for detecting changes in the sperm surface during epididymal transit and in defining the role of these complex changes in sperm maturation and the process of fertilization. Studies involving immunological mapping of the sperm surface, in parallel with immunohistological and functional inhibition test, have provided important information concerning the role of individual sperm antigens in fertility. A better understanding of local antibody production and cell-mediated immune responses in the male reproductive tract has also led to the understanding of immunological infertility. Sperm membrane is comprised of multiple domains each of which is sharply demarcated, with a unique composition and physiological role.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Animals; Autoantigens; Epididymis; Fertility; Genitalia, Male; Humans; Immunohistochemistry; Infertility, Male; Male; Prostate; Prostatic Neoplasms; Sperm Maturation; Spermatozoa; Testis

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Animals; Autoimmune Diseases; Bacterial Infections; Ejaculation; Epididymis; Genital Diseases, Male; Genitalia, Male; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Methods; Prostate; Radiography; Semen; Seminal Vesicles; Species Specificity; Urinary Bladder; Vas Deferens

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Autopsy; Clinical Trials as Topic; Creatine Kinase; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Male; Prostate; Prostatitis; Semen; Seminal Vesicles; Spermatozoa; Testis; Vas Deferens; Zinc

To examine the relationship between seminal polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocytes and sperm functions (particularly sperm motility) in infertile men.. A prospective clinical study.. Assisted fertilization program in an academic research environment in France.. Infertile men (n = 138) evaluated and classified as follows: group A with no detectable PMN in semen, group B with less than 0.5 x 10(6)/mL, group C with 0.5-1 x 10(6)/mL, and group D > 1 x 10(6)/mL.. Seminal PMN, elastase concentrations, and sperm characteristics were analyzed. Seminal biochemical markers (free L-carnitine, citrate, zinc, acid phosphatase, and fructose) were measured.. Relation between seminal markers and sperm motility.. Grade "b" motility and epididymal carnitine were statistically significantly increased in group C. Acid phosphatase was the only seminal marker to be statistically significantly impaired in group D. Elastase was proportional to the degree of leukocytospermia.. These results suggest that sperm PMN originate from two regions: [1] the epididymis, where in small numbers and activated they may play a favorable role in sperm quality, and the [2] prostate, where their presence in large numbers, reflecting prostatitis, induces decreased secretion, especially of acid phosphatase.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Biomarkers; Carnitine; Humans; Infertility, Male; Leukocyte Count; Leukocyte Elastase; Male; Neutrophils; Prospective Studies; Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases; Semen; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Up-Regulation

To evaluate the correlation of the level of free L-carnitine with accessory gland markers and its clinical significance.. Semen samples from 30 fertile men and 222 infertile patients were collected by masturbation. The measurement of the semen quality was carried out by computer-assisted semen analysis system. The seminal plasma components of free L-carnitine, alpha-glucosidase, fructose and acid phosphatase were determined. The results obtained were statistically calculated with an SPSS 12.0 program to evaluate the difference between the control group and the infertile one and the correlation of the free L-carnitine levels with the seminal plasma components of alpha-glucosidase, fructose and acid phosphatase.. The concentration of free L-carnitine (P < 0.01) and the activity of alpha-glucosidase (P < 0.05) were significantly reduced in the infertile group as compared with the control, with no significant difference in the concentration of fructose and the activity of acid phosphatase between the two groups. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between seminal plasma free L-carnitine level and alpha-glucosidase activity (r = 0.504, P < 0.001.. The determination of free L-carnitine level in seminal plasma is a useful test in the evaluation of epididymal function, which may serve as a guidance for the clinical treatment of male infertility as well as for the study on the mechanisms of male reproduction.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; alpha-Glucosidases; Carnitine; Case-Control Studies; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen

This study was to investigate the relationship among zinc, acid phosphatase levels in seminal plasma and sperm parameters in infertile male.. The activities of zinc and acid phosphatase in seminal plasma were detected and leucocytes was stained and counted in 169 infertile men and 21 normal fertility as control.. Acid phosphatase levels in infertile groups were significantly lower than those in the normal control when grouped both in terms of sperm vitality and density( P < 0.01), but no statistical differences were observed among infertile groups (P > 0.05). Further, zinc levels in necrospermia groups were lower than those in the control (P > 0.05). The leucocyte numbers in infertile groups were larger than those in the control when grouped according to sperm density (P < 0.001), and the same results were obtained when grouped in terms of sperm vitality except in the necrospermia group (P > 0.05). Acid phosphatase and zinc levels were not correlated with leucocyte counting (r = 0.088, P = 0.162; r = 0.119, P = 0.057).. The descent of acid phosphatase and ascent of leucocyte number in seminal plasma can result in the fall of sperm vitality and density, and can be used to be diagnostic indexes of male infertility. Seminal zinc levels in infertile groups were lower than those in the control, but there was no statistical significance.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Case-Control Studies; Humans; Infertility, Male; Leukocyte Count; Male; Middle Aged; Semen; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Zinc

To investigate the significance of prostate specific antigen (PSA) examination in seminal plasma of infertile patients.. Eighty-five infertile patients were collected randomly. The level of PSA in seminal plasma was detected by ELISA method. The correlations between PSA and several seminal parameters including sperm density, motility and acid phosphatase (ACP) were analyzed.. The PSA, ACP concentrations and sperm motility in 65 cases of abnormal liquefaction patients were obviously lower than those in normal liquefaction patients(P < 0.01). But there were no significant differences in sperm density among the three groups(P > 0.05). PSA levels were significantly correlated with ACP and sperm motility(P < 0.01).. The seminal PSA in infertile patients is markedly correlated with semen liquefaction. The abnormal quality and quantity of PSA can result in a depression of sperm motility and subinfertility.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Prostate-Specific Antigen; Semen; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility

The present study was designed to determine the response of human epididymis, seminal vesicles and prostate function after a 5-day course of clomiphene citrate in men attending an infertility service. In 45 men, the secretions of the epididymis, seminal vesicles and prostate were assessed by measurements of seminal alpha-glucosidase, fructose and acid phosphatase, respectively. Subjects were classified as normal or abnormal: abnormal men were defined as those who either had history of a sexually transmitted disease (STD), leukocytospermia, hypoandrogenism, or a low response of Leydig cells to clomiphene stimulation; and normal subjects were those who did not have these conditions. Mean serum testosterone luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were significantly increased after the short course with clomiphene citrate. After clomiphene citrate stimulation, the men in the normal group showed significantly increased marker levels of the seminal vesicles (P < 0.02) and prostate (P < 0.05), but not of the epididymis (P : NS). Men classified as abnormal showed no response according to the markers of the seminal vesicles and epididymis. Men with history of STD and abnormal basal values of acid phosphatase did not respond to the treatment. Men with history of STD but normal basal values of seminal acid phosphatase increased significantly in their levels of seminal acid phosphatase after clomiphene stimulation (P < 0.02). Multivariate analysis showed that the basal serum testosterone level was the only variable in predicting the probability of response to the clomiphene in terms of true-corrected seminal fructose, seminal acid phosphatase and seminal alpha-glucosidase levels. In fact, a high response of the seminal vesicles was observed in men with the highest basal serum testosterone levels (0.45 +/- 0.17; coefficient of regression +/- standard error; P < 0.018). However, a high response in terms of seminal acid phosphatase (P < 0.004) or alpha-glucosidase (P < 0.037) was observed in men with low basal serum testosterone levels. In conclusion, in the normal men, true-corrected fructose and acid phosphatase but not alpha-glucosidase in semen increased after duplicate androgen stimulation. An absence of response was observed in cases with history of STD/leukocytospermia or hypoandrogenism.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; alpha-Glucosidases; Biomarkers; Clomiphene; Epididymis; Estrogen Antagonists; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Multivariate Analysis; Prostate; Semen; Seminal Vesicles; Testosterone

The clinical value of biochemical analysis of sperm is still unclear. In this study, we evaluated the potential of several biochemical markers in the seminal plasma (zinc, citrate, acid phosphatase, fructose and neutral alpha-glucosidase) as a screening method in male infertility investigation.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; alpha-Glucosidases; Biomarkers; Citrates; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Semen; Spermatozoa; Zinc

This project was undertaken to determine whether there is any correlation between sperm counts and motility and the level of prostatic acid phosphatase (PAcP). Fifty-six patients were studied in this series-those with normospermia (Group A,n = 19); mild oligospermia (Group B,n = 18) and very severe oligospermia (Group C,n = 19). Each group was further subdivided into 2 groups-those who were 25-35 years old and those 36 years old and above. The results in this age group are discussed and it was found that individuals with very severe oligospermia (sperm counts 1-20x10(5)/mL) showed a positive correlation (p = 0.009) in the age group 36 years and above. The results have to be treated with caution since a statistically significant result was only displayed in one group, ie, individuals over the age of 35 years and very low sperm counts.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Biomarkers; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Prostate; Semen; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility

Diamine oxidase (DAO), an enzyme which degrades polyamines, is present at a very high level in human seminal plasma and is assumed to come mainly from the prostate. The possible relationships between DAO activity and biochemical markers of accessory sex glands were evaluated in 139 men in barren marriages. Four groups were formed: normozoospermic (n = 41), asthenozoospermic (n = 29), oligoasthenozoospermic (n = 35) and azoospermic (n = 34). DAO activity was the highest in the asthenozoospermic group and was significantly different from that in the azoospermic one. For all specimens, a positive correlation was demonstrated between DAO activity and the prostatic markers citric acid and acid phosphatase. However, DAO activity was correlated with citric acid only in the oligoasthenozoospermic and the azoospermic groups. Acid phosphatase and citric acid were linked in all groups. These results implicate the DAO enzyme in changes in sperm metabolism leading to a loss of motility and suggest that DAO comes partly from the upper part of the genital tract (testis and/or epididymis), in addition to the prostatic gland secretion, accounting for the absence of correlation with prostatic markers in normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic groups.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Biomarkers; Carnitine; Citrates; Citric Acid; Fructose; Genitalia, Male; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Infertility, Male; Male; Oligospermia; Prostate; Semen; Sperm Motility

The lipid composition of seminal plasma was studied in 15 control subjects and 21 patients consulting for hypofertility and showing a chronic infection of the urogenital tract. In the infected patients a significant reduction in total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and total phospholipids was noted. Moreover, there is a significant correlation between the rates of total cholesterol and prostatic acid phosphatases and the rates of phospholipids and proteins in seminal plasma. Knowing the role of lipids in the phenomena of maturation and capacitation of spermatozoa, such modifications enable us to understand better the functional anomalies of sperm observed in patients with chronic infection of the urogenital tract and also enable us to explain the effects of the infection on fertility.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Chronic Disease; Humans; Infections; Infertility, Male; Lipids; Male; Male Urogenital Diseases; Proteins; Semen

Both the adenylate cyclase activity and the motility of human sperm were stimulated by bicarbonate with the same concentration dependency. The correlation between bicarbonate levels in semen and the motility of sperm from the patients with male infertility was investigated. Bicarbonate in semen was found to originate mainly from the seminal vesicles, and a significant positive correlation was observed between bicarbonate levels and volume of semen. The motility of infertile sperm was also found to correlate positively to the seminal levels of bicarbonate. These results suggest that the lowered levels of bicarbonate in semen are at least in part responsible for the poor sperm motility in infertile patients, as a result of the failure in the activation of sperm adenylate cyclase.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adenylyl Cyclases; Bicarbonates; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Sodium; Sodium Bicarbonate; Sperm Motility

In a study involving 176 males attending an infertility clinic and 88 controls awaiting elective vasectomy, the semen acid phosphatase activity was found to be significantly higher in the former group (p less than 0.001). However, no definite relationship of semen acid phosphatase level to ejaculate volume, sperm motility, viability, morphology, seminal zinc, magnesium or fructose was observed in either group. The distribution of acid phosphatase in the males attending the infertility clinic, unlike that of the controls, was found to be bimodal. 32 presumably infertile males had acid phosphatase values exceeding the control mean +/- 2 SD. These 32 nevertheless did not have a significantly different mean ejaculate volume, sperm motility, morphology or viability, when compared with the group with normal acid phosphatase levels. Causes of the bimodal distribution of concentrations of acid phosphatase are discussed.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Spermatozoa

The measurement of biochemical markers in human seminal plasma is important in the evaluation of male infertility. We recommend the measurement of one representative substance for each organ involved in seminal fluid production as a routine diagnostic tool: The initial fructose level for seminal vesicular function, citrate or acid phosphatase for the prostate gland and free carnitine as an index of epididymal function. A biochemical analysis of seminal fluid enables us to detect disturbances of the male adnexal organs and may lead to more exact therapy.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Carnitine; Citrates; Citric Acid; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adenosine Triphosphatases; Alkaline Phosphatase; Cell Differentiation; Histocytochemistry; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Sertoli Cells; Spermatogenesis; Spermatozoa; Testis; Thiamine Pyrophosphatase

Sperm examination, quantitative sperm culture, citric acid, acid phosphatase, and fructose were assayed in three groups of men: fertile controls without significant bacteriospermia (group I), infertile men with significant bacteriospermia; idiopathic infertile men (group II), and infertile men with varicocele (group III). Level of significance of bacteriospermia was greater than or equal to 10(4) germs/ml of ejaculate. In group II, motility and typical morphology percentages were lower, independently of the degree and the nature of bacteriospermia. Incidence of pathogenic bacteria was higher than in group III and linked to the degree of bacteriospermia. Fructose was unaltered in the two groups of infected men. No modification of prostatic markers was observed in any groups, except in group II, where they decreased when bacteriospermia was lower than 10(5) germs/ml and when biological pattern of semen evoked chronic prostatitis. Thus, the presence of germs in ejaculate alters the motility and the typical morphology percentages but does not result in any obvious modifications of biochemical markers of prostate and seminal vesicles. For idiopathic infertile men, it is suggested that the quantitative criterion of pathogenic bacteriospermia is a germ count greater than or equal to 10(5)/ml.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Citrates; Citric Acid; Fructose; Genital Diseases, Male; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Prostate; Semen; Seminal Vesicles; Sperm Count; Spermatozoa; Varicocele

The biochemical analysis of human semen is based on assays of certain compounds in the ejaculate, which are secreted by the prostate (acid phosphatase, citrate, zinc), the seminal vesicles (fructose), and the epididymis (free carnitine). The information provided by seminal biochemistry is relevant not only for the investigation of male sterility, but also to endocrinology, urology and pharmacology. In the case of excretory azoospermia, the carnitine level is lower than 300 nmoles, which allows a differentiation between secretory and excretory azoospermia. Occlusions can be located by measuring prostatic and vesicular markers: they are normal if the occlusion is deferential or epididymal; if the fructose level is zero and the level of prostatic markers is high, there is an occlusion in the ejaculatory ducts or a bilateral deferential agenesia. The information provided by seminal biochemistry in the investigation of male sterility remains limited. It will probably be enhanced when spermatozoon biochemistry is better understood.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Carnitine; Citrates; Citric Acid; Epididymis; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oligospermia; Prostate; Semen; Seminal Vesicles; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Zinc

Male infertility is best tested by determining the ability of sperm to reach the site of fertilization by semen analysis and by mucus-sperm interaction tests, and by determining the ability of the sperm to enter the egg by the hamster egg-human sperm penetration assay. If conducted in a careful fashion, the tests provide useful information for preparing a treatment plan.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Biopsy; Blood Group Antigens; Cervix Mucus; Female; Fertilization; Forensic Medicine; Genitalia, Male; Gonadal Steroid Hormones; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Infertility, Male; Male; Paternity; Precipitin Tests; Semen; Specimen Handling; Sperm Agglutination; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Testis

Fucosyl transferase was recovered in soluble form in human seminal plasma. The enzyme had very little activity, as it was structurally bound to prostasomes, which are membrane-surrounded organelles in seminal plasma. The fucosyl transferase activity was recorded on Sephadex G200 chromatography of seminal plasma (supernatant after ultracentrifugation) in one single peak coinciding with that of prostate-specific acid phosphatase. Studies on healthy men and on men with prostatic cancer suggest a prostatic origin of fucosyl transferase activity; two of the men with prostatic cancer displayed 50-95% decreased activities. Antiandrogenic therapy in another man with cancer resulted in substantial reductions in seminal plasma contents of fucosyl transferase, ATPase, acid phosphatase and fructose suggesting a role of testosterone in their secretions.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adenosine Triphosphatases; Adult; Fructose; Fucosyltransferases; Hexosyltransferases; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Prostate; Prostatic Neoplasms; Semen; Sialyltransferases; Vasectomy; Zinc

Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) - a specific marker of prostatic secretion - has been analyzed by radioimmunoassay in samples of urine voided before and after massage of the prostate. In all patients there was an increase in urine PAP concentration after massage irrespective of the occurrence of expressed prostatic secretion. The mean PAP values increased from 4.9 to 45.8 micrograms/l. No significant change in urine creatinine concentration was observed. No lactoferrin was detected in the urine which should indicate that no secretion from the seminal vesicles was expressed into the urethra during massage of the prostate. Analysis of PAP in urine after massage of the prostate could increase the value of a urine sediment and microbial analysis in the investigation of male infertility.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Massage; Prostate; Radioimmunoassay

The efficiency of Pygenum africanum treatment was tested on a population where the acid phosphatase activity was shown to be reduced at two successive examinations. The treatment caused an increase in acid phosphatase activity and total protein secretion. However, the fact that the men who had IgA present in their ejaculate reacted more favorably to the treatment shows that Pygenum africanum is more efficient in cases where there is no prostate gland inflammation.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Humans; Immunoglobulin A; Infertility, Male; Male; Plant Extracts; Prostate; Proteins; Semen; Sperm Count

Analyses of split ejaculates and urine voided before and after prostatic massage have been used to evaluate the origin of beta2-microglobulin (b2m) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in human semen. CEA and b2m were present in rather high concentrations in all the fractions of the split ejaculates. The urine voided after massage of the prostate also contained increased levels of CEA and beta2-microglobulin. Split ejaculates, selected from the electrophoretic pattern obtained for each fraction, revealed that b2m in seminal plasma originates from the prostate and seminal vesicles in equal amounts. Besides the "free" b2m in seminal plasma, human semen contains a sperm-bound b2m fraction. Carcinoembryonic antigen was found in the highest concentrations in the second fraction of split ejaculates indicating that it originates mainly from the prostate.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; beta 2-Microglobulin; Carcinoembryonic Antigen; Ejaculation; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Massage; Prostate; Semen

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Clinical Enzyme Tests; Humans; Infertility, Male; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Malate Dehydrogenase; Male; Semen

Levels of zinc and magnesium were estimated in the seminal plasma of 83 men having various infertility problems. There was a wide overlapping of Zn and Mg mean values among the groups of normal and infertile men, a significant reduction in Mg mean value (but not Zn) only in the group with infection of the accessory genital glands, a very high positive correlation between Zn and Mg mean values in all groups, and a high positive correlation between either Zn or Mg and acid phosphatase (but neither fructose nor sperm count and forward progression) in men with infection, but not in the other groups. Measurement of Mg in seminal plasma can, in combination with other parameters of prostatic function, give useful information regarding male infertility problems, particularly in the case of infection of the accessory genital glands.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Humans; Infections; Infertility, Male; Magnesium; Male; Middle Aged; Semen; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Varicocele; Zinc

Two forms of human Sertoli cell disorders were characterized enzyme histochemically from the testicular biopsy material of infertile and subfertile patients. Sertoli cell asthenia: a slight injury of the Sertoli cell with exfoliation of individual germ cells; marked by the rarefaction of reaction zones of thiamine pyrophosphatase (TPPase) and a decrease in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Sertoli cell insufficiency: severe Sertoli cell damage with the formation of a "puff" and a heavy exfoliation of germ cells (dislocation of Sertoli cell nucleus and cytoplasm along with the related germ cells into the lumen of seminiferous tubule); marked by a heterogeneous activity pattern of TPPase, the disappearance of LDH, maintenance of a slightly weakened activity of alkaline phosphatase, and an increase of acid phosphatase. In the case of Sertoli-cell-only syndrome, the high prismatic Sertoli cells showed strong acid phosphatase activity with scattered weak TPPase reaction, whereas the flat or cube-like Sertoli cells exhibited weak acid phosphatase activity with only one small round reaction zone of TPPase in each cell. In addition, the frequency of the occurrence of Sertoli cell asthenia, Sertoli cell insufficiency, and Sertoli-cell-only syndrome is reported, and its correlation with the andrological diseases discussed.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Alkaline Phosphatase; Histocytochemistry; Humans; Infertility, Male; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Male; Middle Aged; Phosphoric Monoester Hydrolases; Sertoli Cells; Thiamine Pyrophosphatase

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Antigens; Beta-Globulins; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lactoferrin; Male; Oligospermia; Prostate; Semen

Clomiphene citrate was administered as a 50 mg oral daily dose to 44 normogonadotrophic (serum FSH 2-10 mIU/ml) subfertile men for 3 months. The treatment resulted in significant increases in FSH and LH concentrations, whereas prolactin remained unchanged. Serum testosterone and oestradiol both increased highly significantly. The increased testosterone levels suggest that the elevated LH levels had not led to "down regulation" of Leydig cell LH/hCG receptors, neither had the greatly increased estradiol led to depletion of these receptors. This is suggested to be a result of the blocking of testicular oestradiol receptors by the estrogen antagonist, clomiphene. Sperm count increased highly unchanged. The spermatic fluid concentrations of zinc and magnesium ions were also increased, whereas fructose remained unchanged. The katalytic activity of acid phosphatase in spermatic fluid increased highly significantly, whereas the concentration of the main prostate-specific acid phosphatase, as measured by a specific radioimmunological method, remained unchanged. Therefore, the increased Zn and Mg ion concentrations may be responsible for activation of acid phosphatase (s) in semen, or the treatment led to increased secretion of other prostatic acid phosphatase(s) than the main enzyme. However, it is clear that the secretion of the main prostatic acid phosphatase into semen is under different control than that of Zn++ and Mg++.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Clomiphene; Enzyme Activation; Estradiol; Follicle Stimulating Hormone; Humans; Infertility, Male; Luteinizing Hormone; Magnesium; Male; Semen; Sperm Count; Testosterone; Zinc

The activities of NADH2-diaphorase, leucine aminopeptidase, and acid phosphatase were studied histochemically in spermatozoa and seminal plasma of 28 ejaculates from 13 men with proven fertility and in 31 ejaculates from 29 men living in infertile marriages. The enzyme activities were correlated with the spermiogram. The NADH2-diaphorase activity was located exclusively in the midpiece of the spermatozoa, while the activities of leucine aminopeptidase and acid phosphatase seemed to be located only on the surface. A positive correlation was found between the NADH2-diaphorase activity and the spermatozoal motility, density, and morphology.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Dihydrolipoamide Dehydrogenase; Histocytochemistry; Humans; Infertility, Male; Leucyl Aminopeptidase; Male; Semen; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa

Determinations of fructose, zinc, magnesium and acid phosphatase were performed in seminal plasma from male partners in 225 barren couples. No specific changes in the concentrations of these substances could be observed in men showing either visible or palpatory abnormalities of the external genitals, the prostate or of the seminal vesicles, extreme changes in the number, morphology or motility of the sperms, increased sperm antibody titre or abnormal serum levels of testosterone or gonadotrophins. However, when the prostatic fluid contained numerous leukocytes, the concentrations of zinc, magnesium and acid phosphatase were significantly lower than in men having a cytologically normal prostatic fluid. Determinations of these substances may thus be of aid in the diagnosis of chronic prostatovesiculitis.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Magnesium; Male; Middle Aged; Reference Values; Semen; Zinc

Pathological seminal liquids were studied by using cellulose acetate electrophoresis as well as biochemical doses of proteins, acid phosphatases, reducing sugars, and zinc. It was also possible to show the frequent total absences of vesicular secretion, less frequent than prostatic secretion and less than the two at the same time. It was also shown that reductions were more frequent in prostatic secretion than in vesicular secretion. This method may also be a valuable assistance in the diagnosis of certain urogenital infections. The dissociation between prostatic secretions of acid phosphatases and zinc may lead to the diagnosis of the infection in the posterior or lateral lobes of the prostate.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Carbohydrate Metabolism; Electrophoresis, Cellulose Acetate; Genital Diseases, Male; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Prostate; Proteins; Semen; Seminal Vesicles; Urologic Diseases; Zinc

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Alanine Transaminase; Aspartate Aminotransferases; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen

The study of spermiograms, conducted on patients consulting for sterility, showed relationships between motility and other variable factors of the sperm. Testicular and prostatic factors are involved in immediate asthenospermia, whereas factors are involved in secondary asthenospermia.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Fructose; Glucose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Time Factors

A lectin-like hemagglutinin, human seminal lectin (HSL), has been demonstrated in human seminal plasma. It appears to be naturally secreted by all parts of the male reproductive system. High HSL activity was associated with infertility. HSL agglutinated erythrocytes from all of the species tested and agglutination was enhanced by trypsinization of erythrocytes. HSL activity was specifically but weakly inhibited by sugars containing a galactose moiety and was sedimentable by ultracentrifugation. As HSL had properties similar to decapacitation factors, it may play a role in fertilization and could be one of the causes of male infertility.

Topics: ABO Blood-Group System; Acid Phosphatase; Animals; Cattle; Chickens; Erythrocytes; Galactose; Goats; Hemagglutination Tests; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lectins; Male; Rabbits; Raffinose; Semen; Sheep; Sperm Count; Swine; Ultracentrifugation

Free and bound acid phosphatase were investigated biochemically and electrophoretically in male sterile and fertile plants. Scutella at the 72-hr seedling stage and anthers with enclosed reproductive tissue at the premeiosis, meiosis, and mature developmental stages were tested. Biochemical data show that while the total amount of free acid phosphatase behaved similarly in fertile and sterile plants, specific activities decreased in fertile plants and remained unchanged or increased in sterile plants. Total amounts of bound acid phosphatase increased significantly in fertile plants while specific activities decreased. In sterile anthers both specific activity and amount of bound acid phosphatase decreased significantly (except cms-S). Electrophoretic results indicated that the basic form of the enzyme was very similar in each location.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Fertility; Infertility, Male; Lysosomes; Male; Meiosis; Pollen; Seeds; Zea mays

The diagnosis of male adnexitis is difficult and the influence of this condition on fertility is still a matter of debate. With the intention to define diagnostic criteria a comprehensive study of biochemical and morphological features of semen, plus culture for microorganisms, was performed in patients who were assessed for infertility during a four year period. The following parameters were considered of diagnostic value: a) history of urogenital infection and/or abnormal rectal palpation. b) significant alterations in the expressed prostatic fluid and/or urinary sediment after prostatic massage. c) 1. Uniform growth of more than 10(3) pathogenic bacteria, or more than 10(4) non-pathogenic bacteria per ml, in culture of diluted seminal plasma. c) 2. Presence of more than 10(6) (peroxidase positive) leucocytes per ml of ejaculate. c) 3. Signs of disturbed secretory function of the prostate or seminal vesicles. The diagnosis of infection is accepted if either of the following combinations if found: a + b, a + c (1 or 2 or 3), b + c (1 or 2 or 3), c1 + c2, c1 + c3, c2 + c3.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Bacterial Infections; Fructose; Genital Diseases, Male; Humans; Infertility, Male; Leukocytes; Male; Prostate; Prostatitis; Semen; Seminal Vesicles

Alkaline and acid phosphatase activity was measured in the ejaculate of normo-, oligo-, and azoospermic males. Due to the considerable scattering no correlation was found between sperm density and enzyme activity. Phosphatase activities were very similar in the fertile and infertile groups. On the basis of this observation phosphatase activity measurements are not recommended in clinical practice.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Alkaline Phosphatase; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oligospermia; Semen

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adolescent; Adult; Aged; alpha-Fetoproteins; Animals; Carcinoembryonic Antigen; Child; Chorionic Gonadotropin; Clinical Enzyme Tests; Dogs; Genital Diseases, Male; Humans; Immunoenzyme Techniques; Infant; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Prostatic Neoplasms; Testicular Neoplasms; Testis; Urinary Bladder; Urinary Bladder Neoplasms; Urologic Diseases

Ejaculates and testicular biopsies of two infertile men were examined at ultrastructural and cytochemical levels. The two patients presented spermiograms in which all the spermatozoa had globular heads. Wide Golgi areas and large masses of annulatae lamellae were evident during spermatogenesis. Abnormal acrosomal vesicles were evident during early spermatid stage. Among the late spermatids, there was a small group characterized by a fibrous sheath showing considerable malformation, and "spindle shaped body." In Sertoli cells, detached acrosomes undergoing degeneration were noted. Low TPPase activity was found in Golgi complex and in abnormal acrosomal vesicles of early spermatids. As regards acid phosphatase, was localized in spermatocytes and in early spermatids, but not in late spermatids and mature spermatozoa. Leydig cells had high phosphatase activity.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Histocytochemistry; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Sertoli Cells; Sperm Head; Spermatids; Spermatogenesis; Spermatozoa; Testis; Thiamine Pyrophosphatase

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adenosine Triphosphate; Animals; Dehydroepiandrosterone; Drug Combinations; Gonadotropins, Equine; Infertility, Male; Male; Mice; Testis; Testosterone; Vitamin B Complex

The values of the transaminases (GOT, GPT) and the acid phosphatase in the ejaculate do not differ between men of known fertility and infertile men.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Alanine Transaminase; Aspartate Aminotransferases; Fertility; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen

Carnitine determinations in human seminal fluid were shown to be useful in assessing epididymal and seminal vesicle function and in locating blockages in the male reproductive tract. The carnitine concentrations in 50 samples of seminal fluid ranged from 15 to 530 mug/ml (as carnitine-HCl). The patients could be divided into four classes. Patients with normal seminal vesicle and epididymal function had values of 250 mug/ml or above. Those with a defective epididymis and a functional seminal vesicle had intermediate carnitine levels (100 to 200 mug/ml) and normal fructose values in the seminal fluid. Patients with a defective seminal vesicle but a functional epididymis had intermediate carnitine concentrations and low fructose levels. Extremely low carnitine values (less than 100 mug/ml) were found in seminal fluid from patients whose epididymis and seminal vesicle both were defective. The possible role of carnitine in sperm maturation was discussed.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Carnitine; Epididymis; Epididymitis; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Inositol; Male; Oligospermia; Semen; Seminal Vesicles

Critic acid was determined in the ejaculate in 100 cases. No significant correlations between citric acid values and other parameters of the spermiogram were found. In accordance with literary data we found low citric acid values in prostatitis and hypogonadism.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Citrates; Fructose; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Hypogonadism; Infertility, Male; Male; Prostatitis; Semen; Sperm Motility

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Aspartate Aminotransferases; Calcium; Citrates; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Potassium; Semen; Sperm Motility

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Cell Count; Colorimetry; Electrophoresis; Fructose; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Infertility, Male; Inositol; Male; Prostate; Proteins; Semen; Seminal Vesicles; Staining and Labeling

Histochemical studies of the rat epididymis after treatment with alp ha-chlorohydrin (U-5897) are presented. 14 sexually mature male rats received either daily subcutaneous injections of 50 mg U-5907/kg body weight or distilled water for 20 days. The animals were sacrificed the day following the last injection. U-5897 induced temporary sterility as demonstrated by blocked transport of spermatozoa, and spermatogenic cells eliminated from the spermatogenic epithelium which became blocked in the caudal part of the epididymis. This resulted in the distension of the segment of the distal part of the epididymal duct and to the thinning of the epithelium which lined the altered segment. Alkaline and acid phosphatases, nonspecific esterases, succinate and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenases and reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide tetrazolium reductase in the unchanged part of the epididymal duct were comparable to control rats whereas the altered part of the epididymis showed these activities to much weaker degrees or to be absent altogether.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Alkaline Phosphatase; Animals; Epididymis; Esterases; Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase; Infertility, Male; Male; NADH, NADPH Oxidoreductases; Propylene Glycols; Rats; Spermatozoa; Succinate Dehydrogenase

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Androgens; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Testis; Testosterone

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Animals; Atrophy; Autoimmune Diseases; Endoplasmic Reticulum; Esterases; Histocytochemistry; Hyperplasia; Infertility, Male; Lymphocytes; Macrophages; Male; Microscopy, Electron; Organ Size; Phagocytosis; Rats; Spermatozoa; Testis

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adenosine Triphosphatases; Animals; Calcinosis; Infertility, Male; Male; Manganese Poisoning; Rabbits; Succinate Dehydrogenase; Testis

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Cell Movement; Cell Survival; Cervix Mucus; Female; Fertility; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Methods; Middle Aged; Regression Analysis; Semen; Spermatozoa; Temperature; Time Factors

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adolescent; Adult; Alanine Transaminase; Alkaline Phosphatase; Aspartate Aminotransferases; Blood Cells; Calcium; Genital Diseases, Male; Humans; Infertility, Male; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Malate Dehydrogenase; Male; Middle Aged; Potassium; Semen; Sodium; Spermatozoa

Freshly ejaculated semen specimens from 20 normal fertile, 11 subfertile, and 20 vasectomized men whose semen analyses had reached complete azoospermia were compared. The mean levels of seminal acid phosphatase were significantly higher in the vasectomized men. The mean values of sialic acid in normal and postvasectomy seminal plasmas were similar, in contrast to the lower values in oligospermic men. No significant differences were observed in seminal plasma proteins, alkaline phosphatase, and fructose levels. No correlation was found between seminal alkaline phosphatase and fructose levels and sperm concentration. Azoospermia occurring after vas ligation was attributed to high phosphatase values.

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Alkaline Phosphatase; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Neuraminic Acids; Proteins; Semen; Vas Deferens

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Cell Movement; Citrates; Cystic Fibrosis; Fertility; Fructose; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Spermatozoa

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adenosine Triphosphatases; Adolescent; Adult; Alcohol Oxidoreductases; Alkaline Phosphatase; Androstanes; Androsterone; Biopsy; Dehydroepiandrosterone; Dihydrolipoamide Dehydrogenase; Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase; Humans; Infertility, Male; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Male; Middle Aged; NAD; Oxidoreductases; Succinate Dehydrogenase; Testis

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Alkaline Phosphatase; Glucosyltransferases; Humans; Infertility, Male; Leucyl Aminopeptidase; Male; NAD; Nucleosides; Nucleotidyltransferases; Oxidoreductases; Phosphoric Monoester Hydrolases; Spermatozoa; Succinate Dehydrogenase; Testicular Diseases; Transferases

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Alanine Transaminase; Alkaline Phosphatase; Aspartate Aminotransferases; Electrophoresis, Disc; Enzymes; Humans; Infertility, Male; Isoenzymes; Klinefelter Syndrome; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Leucyl Aminopeptidase; Male; Semen

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Semen; Spermatozoa; Testis; Testosterone; Varicocele

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Calcium; Carbohydrates; Citrates; Cystic Fibrosis; Fructose; Fucose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Magnesium; Male; Neuraminic Acids; Nitrogen; Potassium; Proteins; Semen; Sodium; Spermatozoa; Vas Deferens; Zinc

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Alkaline Phosphatase; Female; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Pregnancy; Staining and Labeling; Succinate Dehydrogenase; Testis

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adolescent; Adult; Citrates; Cystic Fibrosis; Epididymis; Female; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Female; Infertility, Male; Male; Pregnancy; Semen; Spermatozoa; Vas Deferens

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Adult; Alkaline Phosphatase; Humans; Infertility, Male; Isoenzymes; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Male; Semen

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Alkaline Phosphatase; Biomedical Research; DNA; Histocytochemistry; Infertility; Infertility, Male; Male; Spermatozoa

Topics: Acid Phosphatase; Esterases; Histocytochemistry; Humans; Infertility; Infertility, Male; L-Lactate Dehydrogenase; Lipids; Male; Testis