ascorbic-acid and Infertility--Male

Oxidative stress is a significant factor in male infertility, compromising sperm function and overall reproductive health. As male infertility garners increasing attention, effective therapeutic interventions become paramount. This review investigates the therapeutic role of antioxidants in addressing male infertility. A detailed examination was conducted on antioxidants such as vitamin C, E, B12, D, coenzyme Q10, zinc, folic acid, selenium, l-carnitine, l-arginine, inositols, and alpha-lipoic acid. This analysis examines the methodologies, outcomes, and constraints of current clinical studies. Antioxidants show notable potential in counteracting the negative effects of oxidative stress on sperm. Based on the evidence, these antioxidants, individually or synergistically, can enhance sperm health and reproductive outcomes. However, certain limitations in the studies call for careful interpretation. Antioxidants are integral in tackling male infertility attributed to oxidative stress. The current findings underscore their therapeutic value, yet there's a pressing need for deeper, comprehensive research. Future studies should focus on refining dosage guidelines, identifying potential side effects, and discerning the most efficacious antioxidant combinations for male infertility solutions.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Semen

The efficacy of the antioxidants vitamin E (VitE) and vitamin C (VitC) on male infertility is uncertain. Therefore, this research systematically assessed the influences of VitE and VitC on male infertility.. We did a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to analyze semen parameters, pregnancy rate, and adverse effects (AEs) between VitE and VitC groups and control groups by searching Cochrane Library, Excerpta Medica Database (Embase), PubMed, China Biology Medicine disc (CBMdisc), and Web of Science up to June 2020.. We screened 11 studies (832 patients) that met the inclusion criteria. The evidence quality ranged from moderate to low. The pregnancy rate was obviously better in the VitE group than in the control group (relative risk (RR) 1.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-3.41). Compared with the control group, VitE and VitC significantly improved progressive motility (standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.38, 95% CI 0.22-0.55), sperm concentration (SMD 0.21, 95% CI 0.09-0.34), sperm morphology (SMD 0.32, 95% CI 0.09-0.55), and total sperm number (SMD 0.28, 95% CI 0.12-0.43) without AEs.. This study suggests that VitC and VitE can improve the spousal pregnancy rate and semen parameters in infertile men without AEs.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Female; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Pregnancy; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Semen; Sperm Count; Vitamin E; Vitamins

This meta-analysis and systematic review investigated evidence of the effect of oral micronutrient supplementation on male fertility. Following searches of PubMed, Ovid/Ovid Medline(r) and Embase, 18 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis (seven studies) and/or the systematic review (12 studies). The meta-analysis showed significant improvement in semen parameters for selenium (200µg/day and 100µg/day) (standard mean difference [SMD] 0.64 for oligozoospermia, 1.39 for asthenozoospermia), L-carnitine (2 g/day) and acetyl-L-carnitine (LAC; 1 g/day) combined (SMD 0.57 for asthenozoospermia), and co-enzyme Q10 (200 and 300 mg/day) (SMD 0.95 for oligozoospermia, 1.48 for asthenozoospermia, 0.63 for teratozoospermia). The systematic review identified promising data for supplementation with 66 mg/day zinc combined with folic acid (5 mg/day), and the polyunsaturated fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 1.12 g/day) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 0.72 g/day). Pregnancy rate was evaluated in a limited number of trials (four in the meta-analysis, three in the systematic review). This analysis suggests supplementation with selenium (alone or combined with N-acetylcysteine), co-enzyme Q10 and the combinations L-carnitine + acetyl-L-carnitine, folic acid + zinc and EPA + DHA is beneficial in the treatment of male infertility. Because of the small number of available studies and low number of participants, further well-designed clinical studies are needed to obtain a better overview of efficient methods of treating male infertility.

Topics: Acetylcysteine; Administration, Oral; Ascorbic Acid; Dietary Supplements; Docosahexaenoic Acids; Eicosapentaenoic Acid; Folic Acid; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Minerals; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Selenium; Spermatozoa; Ubiquinone; Vitamin E; Vitamins

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) are necessary for the physiological function of sperm. Its concentration has to be kept on a level without the damage of cells. If this level is overdrawn sperm has pathological effect on many biological structures in the form of oxidative stress. Antioxidants have a key role for keeping of this balance. Oxidative stress is an important factor which causes problems with male fertility. The survey article is complexly concerned with the influence of RONS and antioxidants on male fertility. It outlines some possibilities of treatment and research on this actual issue of assisted reproduction.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Nitrogen Species; Reactive Oxygen Species; Spermatozoa

Increased generation of ROS causes the lipid oxidation of the membrane of spermatozoa, but antioxidant vitamins play an important role in reproduction and help clear away ROS and protect the sperm membrane from lipid oxidation. This review focused on the effect of antioxidant vitamins on male reproduction and in the treatment of male infertility.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Reactive Oxygen Species; Reproduction; Vitamin A; Vitamin E

The standard semen analysis frequently fails to identify subfertile males even when findings are normal and conversely often fails to identify fertile males with subnormal semen analyses. This has created the need to produce other tests of sperm physiology that will better distinguish a fertile from a subfertile specimen. Understanding more about the nature of the sperm defect should lead to the establishment of more specific and effective therapies. Until that time, it would still be reasonable to try some of the available empirical therapies even though they may work merely by a placebo mechanism.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Clomiphene; Female; Fertilization in Vitro; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Sperm-Ovum Interactions; Spermatocytes

Comparing the effectiveness of dietary vitamin C and weight loss exercises interventions for weight loss on semen characteristics in normal obese man.. A total number of 200 men were randomly allocated into two groups based on body mass index, exercise and vitamin C groups. Also, 50 men with normal spermogram were placed in a control group. In exercise group, a 6 months intensive exercise program was designed under a coach's supervision to reduce the body weight. In vitamin C group, 1,000 mg of vitamin C were given every other day as supplement.. Weight loss increased the volume of semen in participants with 25-30 (P = .02) and more than 30 body mass index (P = .001). The increased concentration of sperm per mL of semen in body mass index (BMI) 25-30 group (P = .01) and more than 30 (P = .003) BMI was significant. Improving sperm motility after two hours in participants with more than 30 (P = .01) BMI was significant. In vitamin C group, the improvement of sperm concentration in participants who had less than 25 (P = .01), between 25 and 30 (P = .01), more than 30 (P = .02) BMI was significant. Sperm motility improved in all three groups (P = .001, P = .02 and P = .003, respectively).. Weight loss can significantly increase semen volume, its concentration, its mobility and percentage of normal morphology. Consuming vitamin C significantly improves sperm concentration and mobility, but the semen volume and the percentage of normal morphology will not change significantly.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Dietary Supplements; Exercise Therapy; Fertility; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Retrospective Studies; Semen Analysis; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Vitamins; Young Adult

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 < 0.01). The proportion of DDS was also significantly reduced (P < 0.05). 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.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Asthenozoospermia; Carnitine; DNA Damage; DNA Fragmentation; Female; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Rate; Reproductive Techniques, Assisted; Spermatozoa; Ubiquinone; Vitamin E; Vitamins

Most studies examining the use of ICSI for cases of elevated sperm DNA fragmentation report poor pregnancy and implantation rates. ICSI with testicular sperm samples has recently been suggested for these cases. Here we test a less invasive approach based on oral antioxidant treatment prior to ICSI with ejaculated spermatozoa.. Thirty-eight men with an elevated (> or =15%) percentage of DNA-fragmented spermatozoa in the ejaculate were treated with antioxidants (1 g vitamin C and 1 g vitamin E daily) for 2 months after one failed ICSI attempt. In 29 (76%) of these cases this treatment led to a decrease in the percentage of DNA-fragmented spermatozoa, and a second ICSI attempt was performed. Outcomes of the two attempts were compared.. No differences in fertilization and cleavage rates or in embryo morphology were found between the ICSI attempts performed before and after the antioxidant treatment. However, a marked improvement of clinical pregnancy (48.2% versus 6.9%) and implantation (19.6% versus 2.2%) rates was observed after the antioxidant treatment as compared with the pretreatment ICSI outcomes.. Oral antioxidant treatment appears to improve ICSI outcomes in those patiens with sperm DNA damage, in whom this treatment reduces the percentage of damaged spermatozoa.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; DNA Fragmentation; Female; Humans; In Situ Nick-End Labeling; Incidence; Infertility, Male; Male; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Outcome; Sperm Injections, Intracytoplasmic; Spermatozoa; Vitamin E

Peroxidative damage induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been proposed as one of the major causes of defective sperm function. The ROS detected in semen reflect an imbalance between ROS generation and degradation. The objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between the oxidative and anti-oxidative potential in semen of infertile patients and healthy donors. Specimens were obtained from 28 patients and 18 healthy donors (controls). A conventional spermiogram, measurement of luminol-chemiluminescence (CL) in washed semen, and high performance liquid chromatography determination of ascorbic acid and urate concentrations in seminal plasma were performed. Oligozoospermic patients exhibited higher CL signals than controls (P < 0.001). Normozoospermic patients showed lower ascorbic acid (mean +/- SE: 491 +/- 46 microM, P < 0.04) and urate concentrations (320 +/- 22 microM, P < 0.009) than controls (612 +/- 35 and 426 +/- 26 microM respectively). Seminal plasma ascorbic acid was negatively correlated with the CL signals (P < 0.0006) and positively correlated with the percentage of spermatozoa with normal morphology (P < 0.006). This is the first report of a correlation between the anti-oxidant ascorbic acid in seminal plasma and ROS generation in human semen. Furthermore, the reduced ascorbic acid/urate concentrations found in semen of normozoospermic patients might be indicative of a reduced anti-oxidative protection.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Infertility, Male; Luminescent Measurements; Male; Oligospermia; Oxidation-Reduction; Reactive Oxygen Species; Semen; Uric Acid

Topics: Adult; Agglutination; Aging; Ascorbic Acid; Clinical Trials as Topic; Diet; Evaluation Studies as Topic; Fertility; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Semen; Spermatozoa

A prospective randomised trial was carried out to assess the effect of 9 months' treatment with either mesterolone or vitamin C in 368 men complaining of an infertile marriage. There was no significant difference in the wife's pregnancy rate between the two treatment groups. A separate analysis of the data was made to include only men with a low normal testosterone (less than 16 nmol/l) and low sperm density (less than 10 million/ml). This separate analysis was also restricted to men married to wives with normal test results for tubal patency and ovulation and again there was no difference in pregnancy rates between the two treatment groups. These results indicate that mesterolone therapy given in the absence of any defined endocrinopathy is of no benefit in promoting male fertility and furthermore we have been unable to find any subgroup who will respond. Improvements in the therapy of male infertility are only likely after a diagnosis has been defined.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Clinical Trials as Topic; Dihydrotestosterone; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Mesterolone; Random Allocation; Sperm Count; Testosterone

A prospective randomised trial was carried out to assess the effect of 6 months' treatment with either clomiphene citrate or vitamin C in 179 men complaining of infertile marriage. There was no significant difference in the wife's pregnancy rates between the 2 treatment groups. In order to detect a subgroup that might respond to clomiphene the results were analysed according to pre-treatment FSH and sperm density, with allowance being made for the result of the wife's tests, but still there was no significant difference in treatment response Vitamin C would seem a preferable and cheaper alternative treatment for male infertility.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Clinical Trials as Topic; Clomiphene; Female; Follicle Stimulating Hormone; Humans; Infertility, Male; Luteinizing Hormone; Male; Pregnancy; Prolactin; Sperm Count; Testosterone

Studies demonstrate that getting antioxidants in the course of treatment has a positive impact beneficial effect on fertility, especially on the quality of sperm. Because of that reason antioxidants are recommended as a potentially influential treatment for infertility in men. However, it is argued that this treatment is not based on sufficient evidence and has no effect on the rate of healthy pregnancy.. In this study, two different antioxidant combinations with different doses and contents were evaluated in terms of their effect on sperm parameters.. A total of 122 patients diagnosed with idiopathic infertility were enrolled in our multicenter study. The patients were divided into two different groups: The first group used a combination 2 × 1 sachet form (l-carnitine 1 g, acetyl-l-carnitine 0.5 g, fructose 1 g, citric acid 0.50 mg, selenium 50 µg, coenzyme Q10 20 mg, vitamin C 90 mg, zinc 10 mg, folic acid 200 µg, and vitamin B12 1.5 µg) and the second group used a combination tablets form 2 × 1 (l-carnitine 500 mg, selenium 50 µg, coenzyme Q10 20 mg, vitamin C 60 mg, zinc 15 mg, folic acid 400 µg, vitamin E, and ginseng 15 µg) for 6 months. The total semen volume, the total sperm number, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and lastly morphological findings of the patients were compared at the end of 6 months.. The mean age of the patients participating in the study was 30.8 ± 6.05 years. No significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of baseline sperm count. There was a significant difference between the baseline and sixth-month values of the patients using both combinations. However, no significant statistical difference was found between the groups according to the sixth-month data. The combinations of both antioxidants had a positive effect on sperm parameters, and the use of different doses and contents had a similar effect.. Both antioxidants respectively had a positive effect on sperm parameters and also the use of different doses and contents had a similar effect.

Topics: Acetylcarnitine; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Carnitine; Citric Acid; Female; Folic Acid; Fructose; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Pregnancy; Selenium; Semen; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin E; Young Adult; Zinc

Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is an extensively used plasticizer which has raised some concerns about its safety on human health. This study aimed at evaluating the effects of vanillic acid (VA) and vitamin C (VC) supplementation on DEHP-induced testicular toxicity. Thirty-five adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 7 groups (A-G) (n = 5) receiving distilled water; 250 mg/kg bw of DEHP only; 30 mg/kg bw of VA and 250 mg/kg bw of DEHP; 30 mg/kg bw of VC and 250 mg/kg bw of DEHP; 30 mg/kg bw of DEHP plus 30 mg/kg bw of VA and 30 mg/kg bw of VC; 30 mg/kg bw of VA only; and 30 mg/kg bw of VC only, respectively. At the end of the experiment, blood was taken from the heart via cardiac puncture and stored, semen was collected from the caudal epididymis for immediate sperm analysis, while the testes were excised and preserved for histological examination and biochemical analysis. The results showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in body weights, sperm motility, sperm volume, sperm viability and count, antioxidant levels, and reproductive hormonal levels, with a significant increase (P < 0.05) in sperm morphological defect and lipid peroxidation level in DEHP-only group compared with the control but was ameliorated after VA and VC administration compared to the DEHP-only treated animals. VA and VC supplementation attenuated the toxic effects of DEHP on the testicular functions, morphology, and semen characterization of the experimental adult male Wistar rats.. Male infertility is considered when identifiable female causes of infertility are excluded and semen quantity and quality fail to fulfil World Health Organization criteria. From conception through to adulthood, people are exposed to limitless environmental toxicants among which di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) commonly found in personal care products, cosmetics, and medical devices is prevalent. The present study elaborated on the importance of taking antioxidant-rich foods containing vitamin C and vanillic acid, such as those found in various fruits, olives, whole wheat, and cereal grains, in combating infertility caused by environmental toxicants. An experiment was carried out on rats to see the effect of vanillic acid and vitamin C supplementation on preventing DEHP-induced testicular toxicity. The testicles and semen were analyzed from five rats in each treated and control groups. The data led us to conclude that vanillic acid and vitamin C supplementation do have attenuating effects on DEHP-induced testicular toxicity, due to their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Diethylhexyl Phthalate; Female; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Rodent Diseases; Semen; Sperm Motility; Testis; Vanillic Acid; Vitamins

It is known that an altered redox balance interferes with normal spermatic functions. Exposure to genotoxic substances capable of producing oxidative stress (OS) can cause infertility in humans. The use of antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress contributes to the improvement in reproductive function. This study focused on an antigenotoxic evaluation of ellagic acid (EA) and ascorbic acid (AA) in combination against benzene genotoxic action on human spermatozoa in vitro. In addition to the evaluation of sperm parameters, damage in sperm genetic material and intracellular ROS quantification were assessed after AA, EA and benzene co-exposure using the TUNEL technique and DCF assay. The results showed that the combination of the two antioxidants generates a greater time-dependent antigenotoxic action, reducing both the sperm DNA fragmentation index and the oxidative stress. The genoprotective effect of AA and EA association in sperm cells lays the foundations for a more in-depth clinical study on the use of antioxidants as a therapy for male infertility.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Benzene; DNA Damage; Ellagic Acid; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Semen; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa

Male fertility is multifaceted and its integrity is as well multifactorial. Normal spermatogenesis is dependent on competent testicular function; namely normal anatomy, histology, physiology and hormonal regulation. Lifestyle stressors, including sleep interruption and even deprivation, have been shown to seriously impact male fertility. We studied here both the effects and the possible underlying mechanisms of vitamin C on male fertility in sleep deprived rats.. Thirty male Wistar albino rats were used in the present study. Rats were divided (10/group) into: control (remained in their cages with free access to food and water), sleep deprivation (SD) group (subjected to paradoxical sleep deprivation for 5 consequent days, rats received intra-peritoneal injections of vehicle daily throughout the sleep deprivation), and sleep deprivation vitamin C-treated (SDC) group (subjected to sleep deprivation for 5 consequent days with concomitant intra-peritoneal injections of 100 mg/kg/day vitamin C). Sperm analysis, hormonal assay, and measurement of serum oxidative stress and inflammatory markers were performed. Testicular gene expression of Nrf2 and NF-κβ was assessed. Structural changes were evaluated by testicular histopathology, while PCNA immunostaining was conducted to assess spermatogenesis.. Sleep deprivation had significantly altered sperm motility, viability, morphology and count. Serum levels of cortisol, corticosterone, IL-6, IL-17, MDA were increased, while testosterone and TAC levels were decreased. Testicular gene expression of Nrf2 was decreased, while NF-κβ was increased. Sleep deprivation caused structural changes in the testes, and PCNA immunostaining showed defective spermatogenesis. Administration of vitamin C significantly countered sleep deprivation induced deterioration in male fertility parameters.. Treatment with vitamin C enhanced booth testicular structure and function in sleep deprived rats. Vitamin C could be a potential fertility enhancer against lifestyle stressors.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Sleep Deprivation; Sperm Motility

Apoptotic and/or ROS-induced DNA fragmentation in sperm cells may contribute to the development of male infertility. As the known dietary antioxidant, ascorbic acid prevents ROS production and protects sperm cells from DNA damage. Here, we found that ascorbic acid has the ability to inhibit DNase I, one of the main endonucleases involved in DNA fragmentation during apoptosis. Site Finder and Molecular docking defined the ascorbic acid interactions with the most important residues of DNase I, including H-donor interactions with Asp 168 and Asn 170, and H-acceptor interaction with Asn 170. As a furan derivative, ascorbic acid could be considered a pioneer of substrate-based DNase I inhibitors. The results indicate to another possible mechanism for prevention of male infertility by ascorbic acid.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Apoptosis; Ascorbic Acid; Binding Sites; Cattle; Deoxyribonuclease I; DNA Fragmentation; Enzyme Inhibitors; Humans; Hydrogen Bonding; Infertility, Male; Male; Molecular Docking Simulation

As an environmental endocrine disruptor, Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) affects blood-testis barrier (BTB)-associated proteins expression, which compromises BTB integrity and causes infertility. Notably, DEHP-induced testicular toxicity is related to oxidative stress, but the specific mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, we sought to investigate this mechanism and determine whether vitamin C and vitamin E administration would attenuate the BTB impairment induced by DEHP in vivo and by Mono-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate (MEHP) in vitro, respectively. HE staining and EM found that DEHP exposure led to spermatogenesis dysfunction and BTB disruption, respectively. The Western blot and immunofluorescence results showed that DEHP exposure caused BTB impairment through oxidative stress-mediated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Furthermore, Vitamin E and vitamin C could alleviate the oxidative stress, block DEHP-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction and BTB disruption by inhibiting p38 MAPK signaling pathway. In summary, vitamin E and vitamin C are good candidates for the treatment of DEHP-induced male infertility.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Blood-Testis Barrier; Diethylhexyl Phthalate; Endocrine Disruptors; Infertility, Male; Male; p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Spermatogenesis; Vitamin E; Vitamins

Toxicological studies have demonstrated the relation between use of agrochemicals and fertility issues within males. Thus, the present study aimed to elucidate the propensity of cypermethrin (CYP) in bringing testicular germ cell apoptosis and effective attenuation by vitamins C and E in caprines. Reproductive toxicity of CYP was evaluated using histomorphological, cytological, and biochemical changes in the testicular germ cells in dose-dependent (1, 5, 10 μg/mL) and time-dependent (4, 6, 8 h) manner. Histological and ethidium bromide/acridine orange fluorescence staining exhibited that vitamins C and E (0.5 and 1.0 mM) successfully diminished the CYP-induced testicular germ cells apoptosis. CYP exposure along with vitamins C and E supplementation also resulted in significantly increased ferric reducing antioxidant power activity along with the antioxidant enzymes, namely catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione-s-transferase, and decreased lipid peroxidation in testicular germ cells. Thus, vitamins C and E ameliorated CYP-induced testicular germ cell apoptosis, thereby preventing spermatogonial cells degeneration and male infertility.

Topics: Acridine Orange; Animals; Antioxidants; Apoptosis; Ascorbic Acid; Catalase; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Ethidium; Fluorescence; Glutathione Transferase; Goats; Infertility, Male; Insecticides; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Oxidative Stress; Pyrethrins; Spermatogonia; Superoxide Dismutase; Vitamin E

Diabetes mellitus in human and animal models has been correlated with low sperm count, testicular abnormalities, high levels of germ cell death, and oxidative stress. In this study, we focus on three questions: (1) Is germ cell apoptosis stage-specific in diabetic male rats? (2) Could ascorbic acid (AA) reverse oxidative and histological damage and restore testicular dysfunction? (3) Could AA treatment restore fertility parameters in diabetic rats? Adult Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: control, diabetic, control plus AA, and diabetic plus AA. Seminiferous tubules underwent severe histological damage, together with a change in frequency of some stages of the seminiferous cycle, and germ cell apoptosis was increased in a stage-dependent manner in diabetic rats. We found a significant decrease in testosterone and higher levels of lipid peroxidation in diabetic rats when compared with controls. A major finding was that AA reversed the histological damage and peroxidation levels to control levels in diabetic rats, but testosterone levels remained unchanged. The pregnancy rate was decreased in females that mated with diabetic rats and those treated with AA, but the litter size was only reduced in the second case. Interestingly, spermatozoa from diabetic and AA-treated rats showed reduced motility and hyperactivation, but only diabetic rats had higher levels of apoptosis when compared with controls. These results suggest that treatment with AA reverses testicular damage in diabetic rats but is insufficient to restore testosterone levels, sperm motility, and fertility in a rat model.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Apoptosis; Ascorbic Acid; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Spermatogenesis; Spermatozoa; Testis; Vitamins

There are growing evidences that the semen of infertile male population shows higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels concomitant with lower antioxidant capacity compared to those detected in semen of fertile population. The plasma membrane of the sperm cell, which has high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, renders it particularly sensitive to ROS. The aim of this study was to compare the sperm parameters (concentration, motility, morphology and vitality) and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), as marker of lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide (NO), ascorbic acid (AA), total (GSHt) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in viable sperm in a group of 38 infertile patients and in a group of 55 control subjects with unknown reproductive potential. The comparison between variables in infertile patients and controls revealed that the sperm quality was reduced in the infertile group, whereas the levels of NO, AA and GSH were significantly increased in viable spermatozoa from infertile men; however, the endogenous levels of MDA were similar in infertile and control groups. Based on our results, we could speculate that the rise of GSHt and AA levels in viable sperm of infertile group help partially to counteract the damaging effect of ROS and partly prevent a substantial LPO. The observation of the concomitant increase of NO and antioxidant indices in viable spermatozoa of infertile subjects is a novel finding and we think that these results can be useful since the viable sperm population is conceivably used in assisted reproductive technology.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Malondialdehyde; Middle Aged; Nitric Oxide; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Semen Analysis; Spermatozoa; Young Adult

This study aimed to investigate the effects of tomato juice consumption on seminal plasma lycopene levels and sperm parameters in infertile men.. Subjects were male infertility patients with poor sperm concentration (<20×10 6/mL) and/or motility (<50%). Following a fourweek observation period, subjects were randomly assigned among three groups: a tomato juice group, an antioxidant group, and a control group. The subjects in the tomato juice group and the antioxidant group daily consumed one can of tomato juice (containing 30 mg of lycopene) or one antioxidant capsule (containing vitamin C 600 mg, vitamin E 200 mg, and glutathione 300 mg), respectively, for 12 weeks (feeding period). Seminal plasma lycopene levels and sperm parameters were measured every 6 weeks during the feeding period.. Forty-four patients completed the study (control group: 12, antioxidant group: 15, tomato juice group: 17). In the tomato juice group, plasma lycopene level was significantly increased at the 12th week of the feeding period. Moreover, a decrease in seminal plasma white blood cells and an increase in sperm motility in the tomato juice group were statistically significant at the 12th and 6th weeks, respectively, compared to the control group. In the antioxidant capsule group, no significant improvement was observed in semen parameters.. In conclusion, regular consumption of tomato juice seems to improve sperm motility in infertile patients. This is the first report to show that commercially available food, such as tomato juice, might be beneficial for male infertility.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Beverages; Carotenoids; Fruit; Glutathione; Humans; Infertility, Male; Leukocytes; Lycopene; Male; Malondialdehyde; Phytotherapy; Semen; Solanum lycopersicum; Sperm Motility; Vitamin E

This study was aimed to assess the antioxidant enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds in semen of infertile men. Seventy-four infertile patients were grouped according to their clinical diagnosis: genitourinary infection, varicocele, idiopathic infertility. Semen samples of fertile men represent the control. Semen characteristics were evaluated by light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM data was quantified with a mathematical formula, which provides numerical scores. Spectrophotometric and HPLC methods were used to measure the amount of reduced (GSH), oxidised glutathione (GSSG), ascorbic acid (AA) and malondialdehyde (MDA, marker of lipid peroxidation) and the activity of glutathione reductase, catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase. Infertile groups showed significantly decreased values of sperm parameters vs.. In infection and varicocele groups, the seminal MDA levels were significantly increased when compared to controls (p < 0.001), indicating an alteration of oxidative status and a peroxidative damage. In infection and varicocele groups, AA levels were reduced (p < 0.05) vs. control; in the varicocele group, the GSH levels were also decreased (p < 0.05). Significantly higher CAT activity was observed in infection and varicocele groups vs. fertile men (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05 respectively). The GSH/GSSG ratio was significantly decreased in varicocele and idiopathic infertility groups vs. control (p < 0.01). The study of the alteration of a single parameter of oxidative stress or of the antioxidant system may not have a relevant clinical value to estimate male fertilising potential and the background of infertility causes, since complex and multifactorial mechanisms are involved in different pathologies. In our study, each pathology is characterised by a definite pattern of markers such as MDA and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant compounds. In the different pathologies related to infertility, the identification of the complex of involved parameters could be useful in the diagnosis, prognosis and in the choice of a possible treatment such as specific antioxidant supplements.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Catalase; Glutathione; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Malondialdehyde; Oxidative Stress; Semen; Spermatozoa; Urinary Tract Infections; Varicocele; Young Adult

Oxidative stress, decreased antioxidant capacity, and impaired sperm mitochondrial function are the main factors contributing to male infertility. The goal of the present study was to assess the effect of the per os treatment with Carni-Q-Nol (440 mg L-carnitine fumarate + 30 mg ubiquinol + 75 IU vitamin E + 12 mg vitamin C in each softsule) in infertile men on sperm parameters, concentration of antioxidants (coenzyme Q10,  CoQ(10-TOTAL), γ, and α-tocopherols), and oxidative stress in blood plasma and seminal fluid. Forty infertile men were supplemented daily with two or three Carni-Q-Nol softsules. After 3 and 6 months of treatment, improved sperm density was observed (by 48.9% and 80.9%, resp.) and after 3-month treatment the sperm pathology decreased by 25.8%. Concentrations of CoQ(10-TOTAL) (ubiquinone + ubiquinol) and α-tocopherol were significantly increased and the oxidative stress was decreased. In conclusion, the effect of supplementary therapy with Carni-Q-Nol showed benefits on sperm function in men, resulting in 45% pregnancies of their women. We assume that assessment of oxidative stress, CoQ(10-TOTAL), and α-tocopherol in blood plasma and seminal fluid could be important metabolic biomarkers in both diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.

Topics: Administration, Oral; Adult; alpha-Tocopherol; Ascorbic Acid; Biomarkers; Carnitine; Drug Combinations; Female; Fertility Agents; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Ubiquinone; Vitamin E

A high-fat diet (HFD) promotes the oxidative stress formation, which in turn has hazardous effects on reproductive system and fertility. The present study examines the potential positive effects of a restricted high-fat diet (RHFD) and antioxidants consumption on sperm parameters and testis tissue in rats.. Male rats (n = 48) were divided into four groups (12 in each group): control group (Cont), HFD group, RHFD, and RHFD with astaxanthin and vitamins E and C group (RHFDA). After 12 weeks, serum analysis and sperm parameters study were performed. Sections of fixed testes were stained with Hematoxilin and Eosin to study the histological changes. A one-way ANOVA was used to compare the data.. HFD fed animals presented significant increase in weight load and serum low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) levels (P < 0.05). The sperm count in RHFD was lower than three other groups (P < 0.05) and sperm motility of RHFDA group was significantly higher than HFD and RHFD groups (P < 0.05). The histological study was showed a significant increase in spermatogonium number in RHFDA compared to three other groups (P < 0.05). The number of spermatocyte I and spermatid in RHFD was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than Cont and HFD groups.. HFD and obesity can affect sperm parameters and spermatogenesis and antioxidants consumption may improve their quality. Although the RHFD is a benefit way in weight loss and decrease of LDL-C of serum, but it is suggested that is not effective on sperm quality improvement.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Caloric Restriction; Diet, High-Fat; Infertility, Male; Lipoproteins, LDL; Male; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatids; Spermatocytes; Vitamin E; Xanthophylls

To search for new sources of safe and inexpensive antioxidant agents which can be used to treat various oxidative stress-related diseases, the phenolic contents of leaf of Tetracarpidium conophorum were characterized and its effect on pro-oxidant induced oxidative stress in rat's genitals for the first time was investigated.. The aqueous extract of the plant was prepared, the antioxidant activities of the extract were then evaluated using spectrophotometric method.. The result revealed that the introduction of aqueous extract of the plant caused significant concentration-dependent decrease (P < 0.05) in the MDA content of the Fe(2+)-stressed testes and penis homogenates. The least MDA production occurred at the highest concentration of the extract (0.625 mg/mL). However, characterization of the extract with HPLC revealed that its major constituents were gallic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, coumarin, rutin, quercitrin, quercetin, kaempferol and luteolin. Also, the result revealed that the ABTS* scavenging ability of the extract was 4.60 mmol/100 g while its vitamin C content was 23.49 mg/g which indicated that the plant is very rich in vitamin C. Furthermore, the extract scavenged DPPH, NO, OH* radicals and chelated Fe(2+) in a dose-dependent manner.. The inhibitory effect of Tetracarpidium conophorum leaves could be attributed to the high levels of quercitrin, quercetin and luteolin and the mechanism through which these compounds possibly do this, could be by their radical scavenging abilities.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Euphorbiaceae; Flavonoids; Genitalia, Male; Infertility, Male; Iron Compounds; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Oxidation-Reduction; Oxidative Stress; Phenols; Phytotherapy; Plant Extracts; Plant Leaves; Rats, Wistar; Reactive Oxygen Species; Vitamins

Infertile males with varicocele have the highest percentage of sperm cells with damaged DNA, compared to other infertile groups. Antioxidant treatment is known to enhance the integrity of sperm DNA; however, there are no data on the effects in varicocele patients. We thus investigated the potential benefits of antioxidant treatment specifically in grade I varicocele males. Twenty infertile patients with grade I varicocele were given multivitamins (1500 mg L-Carnitine, 60 mg vitamin C, 20 mg coenzyme Q10, 10 mg vitamin E, 200 μg vitamin B9, 1 μg vitamin B12, 10 mg zinc, 50 μg selenium) daily for three months. Semen parameters including total sperm count, concentration, progressive motility, vitality, and morphology were determined before and after treatment. In addition, sperm DNA fragmentation and the amount of highly degraded sperm cells were analyzed by Sperm Chromatin Dispersion. After treatment, patients showed an average relative reduction of 22.1% in sperm DNA fragmentation (p = 0.02) and had 31.3% fewer highly degraded sperm cells (p = 0.07). Total numbers of sperm cells were increased (p = 0.04), but other semen parameters were unaffected. These data suggest that sperm DNA integrity in grade I varicocele patients may be improved by oral antioxidant treatment.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Carnitine; Cell Survival; Dietary Supplements; DNA; DNA Damage; DNA Fragmentation; Female; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Pregnancy; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Ubiquinone; Varicocele; Vitamin B Complex; Vitamin E; Zinc

Tetracarpidium conophorum (Mull. Arg.) Hutch. & Dalz is one of the many medicinal plants used for ages in folklore as male fertility enhancers. The current study evaluates the effect of the plant leaf extract on alcohol - induced reproductive toxicity in male rats.. Thirty rats were randomly divided into six groups of five animals each; Group 1 (positive control) received normal saline only; Group 2 (ethanol alone) were given only 30 % ethanol orally at 7 ml/kg body weight per day, thrice in a week; Group 3, 4, 5 were given ethanol and co-treated with 50 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg and 1000 mg/kg body weight of leaf extract respectively while Group 6 were given ethanol and co-treated with a fertility drug, clomiphene citrate. All the drugs were given daily and the experiment lasted for twenty one consecutive days.. Alcohol ingestion resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in water, food intake and marked elevation of lipid peroxidation as assessed by the accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the reproductive tissues. Precisely, MDA level was elevated in the testis, epididymis, seminal vesicle and prostate gland by 81 %, 63 %, 95 % and 91 %, respectively. Furthermore, levels of total protein, reduced glutathione (GSH), vitamin C and activities of antioxidant enzymes in the reproductive tissues were significantly (p < 0.0001) reduced in ethanol-ingested rats. Interestingly, co-administration of T. conophorum with ethanol led to almost complete inhibition of lipid peroxidation thereby enhancing antioxidant status of the reproductive tissues.. Overall, T. conophorum ameliorates oxidative reproductive toxicity induced by ethanol in male rats and its ameliorative effect comparable well with the fertility drug, clomiphene citrate.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Ethanol; Euphorbiaceae; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Malondialdehyde; Oxidative Stress; Plant Extracts; Plant Leaves; Rats; Rats, Wistar

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an important component of antioxidative defense systems and plays an important role in protecting spermatozoa from oxidative damage. In this study, we assessed seminal SOD activity, its association with semen parameters, and also genetic and non-genetic factors contributing to the determination of SOD activity in infertile men.. Semen samples were obtained from 435 male infertility patients. Sperm DNA damage levels were detected with the Tdt-mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in SOD2 and SOD3 genes were genotyped using OpenArray platform.. We found that seminal SOD activity was positively associated with sperm concentration and overall motility, whereas inversely with sperm DNA fragmentation. In addition, infertile men with SOD2 rs4880 CC variants showed a low level of SOD activity when compared with TT carriers (Mean ± SD: 268.3 ± 102.3 and 342.8 ± 98.2, respectively, P = 0.005). Those who consumed vitamin C/E (≥3 times per week) had a significantly higher SOD activity level than those who did not (mean ± SD: 379.8 ± 93.3 and 332.2 ± 94.9, respectively, P = 0.001).. Seminal SOD activity and other factors influencing SOD activity play a role in determining sperm fertilization potential and male infertility.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Asian People; DNA Fragmentation; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Semen; Semen Analysis; Sperm Motility; Superoxide Dismutase; Vitamin E

Abnormal spermatozoa frequently display typical features of oxidative stress, i.e. excessive level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depleted antioxidant capacity. Moreover, it has been found that a high level of oxidatively damaged DNA is associated with abnormal spermatozoa and male infertility. Therefore, the aim of our study was the comparison of oxidative stress/DNA damage in semen and blood of fertile and infertile men. The broad range of parameters which describe oxidative stress and oxidatively damaged DNA and repair were analyzed in the blood plasma and seminal plasma of groups of fertile and infertile subjects. These parameters include: (i) 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (8-oxoGua) levels in urine; (ii) 8-oxodG level in DNA isolated from leukocytes and spermatozoa; (iii) antioxidant vitamins (A, C and E) and uric acid. Urinary excretion of 8-oxodG and 8-oxoGua and the level of oxidatively damaged DNA in leukocytes as well as the level of antioxidant vitamins were analyzed using HPLC and HPLC/GC/MS methods. The results of our study demonstrate that 8-oxodG level significantly correlated with every parameter which describe sperm quality: sperm count, motility and morphology. Moreover, the data indicate a higher level of 8-oxodG in sperm DNA compared with DNA of surrogate tissue (leukocytes) in infertile men as well as in healthy control group. For the whole study population the median values of 8-oxodG/10(6) dG were respectively 7.85 and 5.87 (p=0.000000002). Since 8-oxodG level in sperm DNA is inversely correlated with urinary excretion rate of 8-oxoGua, which is the product of OGG1 activity, we hypothesize that integrity of spermatozoa DNA may be highly dependent on OGG1 activity. No relationship between the whole body oxidative stress and that of sperm plasma was found, which suggests that the redox status of semen may be rather independent on this characteristic for other tissues.

Topics: 8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxyguanosine; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Deoxyguanosine; DNA; DNA Damage; Fertility; Guanine; Humans; Infertility, Male; Leukocytes; Male; Oxidative Stress; Semen; Smoking; Spermatozoa

A cross-sectional study was designed by targeting 120 male workers occupationally exposed to lead from a battery-manufacturing industry situated at the Patancheru industrial area, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India, to see the impact of lead on testicular dysfunction with reference to infertility. Further, the study was designed to see the in vivo effect of an antioxidant in the form of vitamin C, prophylactically administered at the dose of 1000 mg/day for five consecutive days in a week for 3 months.. Blood samples and semen samples were collected from 120 men in the study group exposed to lead, and 120 healthy human subjects, who have no history of exposures to chemicals, were selected as controls for comparison. The mean age of the workers who participated in this study falls in the range of 25-55 years. The semen samples were collected with due consent of the industrial workers to perform the conventional semen analysis and the measure of sperm DNA fragmentation by the comet assay.. Industrial workers showed a statistically significant increase in sperm motility (p<0.001), sperm total count (p<0.001), and a statistically significant decrease in abnormal sperm morphology (p<0.001) after vitamin C prophylaxis. The comet assay also showed similar results, where there is a statistically significant decrease in alkaline-labile sites and a statistically significant decrease in the mean tail length of the comet when compared to the control group (p<0.001) after vitamin C prophylaxis.. This study leads us to conclude that the lead compound interferes with the testicular function, inducing its activity and also by exerting its effect on sperm DNA, leading to fragmentation. Further, the prophylaxis with antioxidant treatment may offer protection against the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced DNA damage, which is a major cause in the etiology of male infertility.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Comet Assay; Cross-Sectional Studies; DNA Fragmentation; Humans; India; Infertility, Male; Lead; Male; Middle Aged; Occupational Exposure; Semen; Semen Analysis; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Treatment Outcome

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of electromagnetic radiation from conventional cellular phone use on the oxidant and antioxidant status in rat blood and testicular tissue and determine the possible protective role of vitamins C and E in preventing the detrimental effects of electromagnetic radiation on the testes.. The treatment groups were exposed to an electromagnetic field, electromagnetic field plus vitamin C (40 mg/kg/day) or electromagnetic field plus vitamin E (2.7 mg/kg/day). All groups were exposed to the same electromagnetic frequency for 15, 30, and 60 min daily for two weeks.. There was a significant increase in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules with a disorganized seminiferous tubule sperm cycle interruption in the electromagnetism-exposed group. The serum and testicular tissue conjugated diene, lipid hydroperoxide, and catalase activities increased 3-fold, whereas the total serum and testicular tissue glutathione and glutathione peroxidase levels decreased 3-5 fold in the electromagnetism-exposed animals.. Our results indicate that the adverse effect of the generated electromagnetic frequency had a negative impact on testicular architecture and enzymatic activity. This finding also indicated the possible role of vitamins C and E in mitigating the oxidative stress imposed on the testes and restoring normality to the testes.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Cell Phone; Electromagnetic Radiation; Infertility, Male; Male; Rats; Testis; Vitamin E

Worldwide statistics agree that at least one out of six couples has fertility problems. If the male gamete is the origin of this problem, it is generally admitted that the oxidative stress is involved. Modern life has obviously increased fertility problems through pesticides, xenoestrogenes, endocrine disrupting chemicals involved in plastic technology such as polychlorinated bisphenyls, bisphenol A, phthalates and alkylphenols… and other cosmetic additives. An important part of these compounds increases oxidative stress, at least in part. Oxidative stress is more than probably at the origin or recurrent increasing pathologies such as endometriosis. If the oocyte is theoretically able to repair oxidative stress linked decays such as DNA fragmentation and oxidation of bases, its capacity is finite and decreasing with age. In order to decrease DNA repair charge, reducing or even avoiding the generation of DNA damages related to reactive oxygen species through consumption of antioxidants compounds is often tempting: however Reasons will be provided to break from current treatments given haphazardly in the population in the age of reproduction, as well as the potential risks of over-exposure. Furthermore recommended treatments, in relation with the new concepts in oxidative stress, will be specified.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Dietary Supplements; DNA Damage; DNA Repair; Female; Humans; Infertility; Infertility, Female; Infertility, Male; Male; Oocytes; Oxidative Stress; Selenium; Spermatozoa; Superoxide Dismutase; Ubiquinone

To determine seminal antioxidant capacity, oxidative stress markers, and their association with semen quality as oxidative stress is considered to be a major etiological factor in male infertility.. Semen samples were obtained from 138 men and categorized on the basis of sperm count, motility, and morphology. Seminal oxidative and antioxidant markers are as follows: lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyls (PC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), thiols, and ascorbic acid were determined.. Sperm count significantly correlated positively with progressive sperm motility and normal morphology. Sperm count and normal morphology showed significant negative correlation with LPO and PC. Sperm count and progressive motility showed significant positive relationship with SOD. The SOD, CAT, and thiols positively whereas LPO and PC negatively associated with elevated sperm count.. Insufficient antioxidant enzymes and increased oxidative stress may attribute to the risk of declining semen quality and hence protective role for antioxidant enzymes against the oxidative damage cannot be ruled out.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Catalase; Causality; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Middle Aged; Oxidative Stress; Protein Carbonylation; Semen Analysis; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Sulfhydryl Compounds; Superoxide Dismutase; Young Adult

In this article, we focus on the fundamental role of vitamin C transporters for the normal delivery of vitamin C to germ cells in the adluminal compartment of seminiferous tubules. We argue that the redox status within spermatozoa or in semen is partly responsible for the etiology of infertility. In this context, antioxidant defence plays a critical role in male fertility. Vitamin C, a micronutrient required for a wide variety of metabolic functions, has long been associated with male reproduction. Two systems for vitamin C transport have been described in mammals. Facilitative hexose transporters (GLUTs), with 14 known isoforms to date, GLUT1-GLUT14, transport the oxidized form of vitamin C (dehydroascorbic acid) into the cells. Sodium ascorbic acid co-transporters (SVCTs), SVCT1 and SVCT2 transport the reduced form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). Sertoli cells control germ cell proliferation and differentiation through cell-cell communication and form the blood-testis barrier. Because the blood-testis barrier limits direct access of molecules from the plasma into the adluminal compartment of the seminiferous tubule, one important question is the method by which germ cells obtain vitamin C. Some interesting results have thrown light on this matter. Expression of SVCT2 and some isoforms of GLUT transporters in the testis have previously been described. Our group has demonstrated that Sertoli cells express functionally active vitamin C transporters. Kinetic characteristics were described for both transport systems (SVCT and GLUT systems). Sertoli cells are able to transport both forms of vitamin C. These findings are extremely relevant, because Sertoli cells may control the amount of vitamin C in the adluminal compartment, as well as regulating the availability of this metabolite throughout spermatogenesis.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Biological Transport; Glucose Transport Proteins, Facilitative; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Mammals; Mice; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Seminiferous Epithelium; Sertoli Cells; Sodium-Coupled Vitamin C Transporters

Cryopreservation of human semen can cause DNA damages, which compromise the fertilization and normal embryo development. The present study showed that the antioxidant resveratrol prevents these damages both in fertile and infertile men. The addition of ascorbic acid before cryopreservation can reduce DNA damages only in infertile men. Although further studies are needed, the present work showed that resveratrol could be considered in human cryopreservation procedures to avoid/minimize DNA damages and preserve sperm integrity.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Cryopreservation; DNA Damage; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Infertility, Male; Male; Resveratrol; Semen Preservation; Stilbenes

Significantly higher levels of oxidants (malonaldehyde and nitric oxide) and reduced levels of antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and ascorbic acid) are seen in semen of infertile men with varicocele. Seminal oxidative stress (OS) seen in men with varicocele is associated with sperm motility and grade of varicocele.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Case-Control Studies; Catalase; Glutathione Peroxidase; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Malondialdehyde; Nitric Oxide; Oxidants; Semen; Semen Analysis; Superoxide Dismutase; Up-Regulation; Varicocele

The deleterious effect of free radicals on spermatozoa was assessed by estimating malondialdehyde and vitamins E and C in seminal plasma and their relation with different sperm parameters. Twenty-two fertile controls with 74 primary infertile males were analysed in the department of biochemistry, SCB Medical College, Cuttack. Seminal malondialdehyde level was observed to be raised in all infertile groups except azoospermic cases in comparison to control. Levels of vitamins E and C were significantly low in the infertile cases (p < 0.001) in relation to control. Significant positive correlation between malondialdehyde with total sperm count and leucocyte count (p < 0.01) indicates their dual contribution towards free radical generation. The negative association of semen malondialdehyde with normal sperm motility and morphology suggests damaging effect of free radicals on sperm membrane integrity. Marked negative correlation of seminal malondialdehyde with both the vitamins signifies their protective utilisation during oxidative phenomenon. In conclusion, understanding the physiologic and pathologic effects of free radicals on sperm function will help in designing new and effective treatment strategies in male infertility.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Case-Control Studies; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Malondialdehyde; Semen; Semen Analysis; Vitamin E

Topics: 8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxyguanosine; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Deoxyguanosine; DNA, Mitochondrial; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Semen; Spermatozoa; Sulfhydryl Compounds; Varicocele

To investigate the causal role of oxidative-stress status on human sperm motility.. To demonstrate that sperm with higher oxidative damage have a lower antioxidant capacity.. University hospital infertility center.. Seventy-eight semen samples were obtained from 35 healthy donors who had normal semen characteristics and from 43 infertile or subfertile males.. The levels of oxidative damage (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine [8-OHdG] and lipid peroxides) and antioxidants (retinol, alpha-tocopherol, ascorbate, and protein thiols) in the spermatozoa and/or seminal plasma were measured.. We analyzed the specific content of 8-OHdG and lipid peroxides by using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-electrochemical detection and HPLC-fluorescence analysis, respectively. Retinol and alpha-tocopherol were analyzed by using an HPLC system, whereas ascorbate and protein thiols were determined by using spectrophotometry. 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine was visualized by immunofluorescent staining with an anti-8-OHdG antibody that was conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate conjugate. Lipid peroxides in spermatozoa were stained with a fluorescent dye, C11-BODIPY(581/591).. Statistically significant negative correlations were revealed between sperm motility and 8-OHdG and between motility and lipid peroxides. Statistically significant positive correlations were found between sperm motility and the levels of retinol, alpha-tocopherol, ascorbate, and protein thiols of seminal plasma. 8-Hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and lipid peroxides in spermatozoa were found to be present mostly in mitochondria.. Oxidative stress and oxidative damage were increased significantly in spermatozoa with declined motility, and the antioxidant capacities in the spermatozoa and seminal plasma were lower in males who had infertility or subfertility.

Topics: 8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxyguanosine; alpha-Tocopherol; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Deoxyguanosine; DNA Damage; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lipid Peroxides; Male; Mitochondria; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Semen; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa; Sulfhydryl Compounds; Vitamin A

We examined changes due to oxidative damage to spermatozoa and alterations in antioxidant capacity in subfertile patients with varicocele before and after varicocelectomy in a prospective study.. A total of 30 young subfertile male patients with varicocele were recruited in this study. Varicocele was diagnosed by physical examination and Doppler ultrasound. Semen analysis was performed in the 30 patients before and 6 months after varicocelectomy using a computer assisted semen analyzer. The parameters for evaluating oxidative stress changes were 4977 bp deletion of mitochondrial DNA in sperm, as detected by polymerase chain reaction, the 8-OHdG (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine) content in spermatozoa DNA, as measured by a high performance liquid chromatography electrochemical method, and seminal plasma protein thiols and ascorbic acid, as measured by spectrophotometric methods.. Semen quality, including motility, morphology and sperm density, was improved in 22 patients (73.3%) after varicocelectomy. The incidence of 4977 bp deletion of mitochondrial DNA in sperm was 40% (12 of 30 patients) and 13.3% (4 of 30) before and after surgery, respectively. Mean +/- SD 8-OHdG content in sperm DNA, and seminal plasma protein thiols and ascorbic acid were 10.27 +/- 2.24/10(5) 2'-deoxyguanosine, 0.77 +/- 0.75 nmole/ml and 1.87 +/- 0.40 mg/dl before operation, and 5.95 +/- 1.46/10(5) 2'-deoxyguanosine, 3.00 +/- 1.17 nmole/ml and 3.12 +/- 0.94 mg/dl after surgery, respectively. The incidence of 4977 bp deletion of mitochondrial DNA in sperm and the level of 8-OHdG in sperm DNA were decreased, and seminal plasma protein thiols and ascorbic acid were increased significantly in all 30 patients after varicocelectomy. Also, in the 8 patients in whom semen quality did not improve after surgery a significant decrease in 8-OHdG in sperm DNA, and a significant increase in seminal plasma protein thiols and ascorbic acid were observed.. Subfertile patients with varicocele had a significant decrease in oxidative damage in sperm DNA and an increase in antioxidant capacity in seminal plasma after varicocelectomy, indicating that surgery is effective treatment in such patients.

Topics: 8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxyguanosine; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Deoxyguanosine; DNA, Mitochondrial; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Prospective Studies; Semen; Spermatozoa; Sulfhydryl Compounds; Varicocele

Experimental induction of diabetes mellitus in animal models using chemical diabetogens is demonstrated to impair testicular function progressively leading to decreased fertility. Although, both steroidogenic and spermatogenic dysfunctions have been reported, the role of oxidative stress mechanism/s has been less understood. We have investigated the induction of oxidative damage during early diabetic phase in testis and epididymal sperm (ES) in mice administered an acute dose of streptozotocin (STZ). Our results show enhanced lipid peroxidation in testis (cytosol and mitochondria) and ES and increased ROS production as early as 5 days. Further, significant perturbations in the activities of antioxidant enzymes in testis/ES and enhanced protein carbonyl content were suggestive of increased oxidative stress during early diabetic phase. STZ-induced oxidative damage in both compartments was amenable for attenuation by treatment with oral supplements of either ascorbic acid (10mg/(kg(bw)day)) or taurine (1g/(kg(bw)day)). Furthermore, the oxidative impairments in testis/ES were persistent during the progressive phase (as measured at 2 and 4 weeks of sampling) and were associated with significant increase DNA damage (testis) and higher incidence of abnormal sperms. Interestingly, mating of STZ treated males sequentially for a period of 5 weeks with virgin untreated females resulted in a significant increase in the male-mediated dominant lethal-type mutations during the first 3 weeks, indicating a stage-specific genotoxic effect on post-meiotic germ cells. Based on the occurrence of oxidative impairments in STZ-treated mice both during both early and progressive phase, it is hypothesized that oxidative stress mechanisms may be wholly or in part contribute towards the development of testicular dysfunction and degeneration under situations of experimentally induced diabetes in animal models.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Blood Glucose; Body Weight; Catalase; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental; DNA Damage; Epididymis; Female; Fertility; Glutathione Peroxidase; Glutathione Transferase; Infertility, Male; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Mice; Mutation; Organ Size; Oxidative Stress; Protein Carbonylation; Reactive Oxygen Species; Sperm Count; Spermatozoa; Streptozocin; Superoxide Dismutase; Taurine; Testis; Testosterone; Time Factors

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have a negative impact on sperm DNA, leading to the formation of oxidative products such as 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroxyguanosine. This compound causes fragmentation and, thus, has a mutagenic effect. Patient treatment with oral antioxidant vitamins is, therefore, standard practice for male infertility, in an attempt to decrease formation of ROS and improve fertility. In this study, the DNA fragmentation index and the degree of sperm decondensation were measured using the sperm chromatin structure assay before and after 90 days treatment with antioxidant vitamins associated with zinc and selenium. Antioxidant treatment led to a decrease in sperm DNA fragmentation (-19.1%, P < 0.0004), suggesting that at least part of the decay was linked to ROS. However, it also led to an unexpected negative effect: an increase in sperm decondensation with the same order of magnitude (+22.8%, P < 0.0009). The opening of interchain disulphide bridges in protamines may explain this aspect, as antioxidant vitamins, especially vitamin C, are able to open the cystin net, thus interfering with paternal gene activity during preimplantation development. This observation might explain the discrepancy observed concerning the role of these antioxidant treatments in improving male fertility.

Topics: Adjuvants, Immunologic; Administration, Oral; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Disulfides; DNA Fragmentation; Fertilization in Vitro; Guanosine; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Oxygen Species; Sperm Injections, Intracytoplasmic; Spermatozoa

Leukocytes are often present in human seminal plasma and more frequently in infertile men. Leukocytospermia is associated with sperm morphological and functional alterations. Immune cell activation leads to an increase of free radical production, without any antioxidant defence activation. Leukocyte presence during sperm maturation and migration through male genital tract and consequently exposure to reactive oxygen species led to sperm alteration: axonemal, acrosomal and nuclear structure damage, associated with necrosis. In order to evaluate the immune-modulating and antioxidative activity of beta-glucan, fermented papaya and lactoferrin associated with vitamins C and E, we analysed sperm characteristics of selected infertile male with astheno-teratospermia and abacterial leukocytosis.. We selected 20 patients referred to our Sterility Centre for semen analysis with leukocyte concentration higher than 1x106 cell/mL. Seminal quality evaluation was performed according to WHO guidelines (1999) using Papanicolau and eosin staining, before and after three months of treatment with beta-glucan, papaya, lactoferrin, vitamin C and E.. After therapy, seminal analysis showed a significant reduction of leukocyte concentration and an increase of sperm motility and normal sperm morphology.. Our results suggest that a combined immunomodulating and antioxidant treatment protect sperm cells during maturation and migration through the male genital tract, resulting in a functional rescue demonstrated by the improvement of semen quality.

Topics: Adjuvants, Immunologic; Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; beta-Glucans; Carica; Case-Control Studies; Drug Therapy, Combination; Fruit; Humans; Infertility, Male; Lactoferrin; Leukocytosis; Male; Middle Aged; Phytotherapy; Spermatozoa; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin E

To assess the relation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants in the internal spermatic vein blood compared to the peripheral venous blood.. Sixty-eight infertile oligoasthenozoospemic patients associated with varicocele were investigated. During inguinal varicocelectomy, blood samples of internal spermatic as well as median cubital veins were withdrawn. Three ROS factors (malondialdehyde [MDA], hydrogen peroxide H(2)O(2), nitric oxide [NO]) and four antioxidants (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [Cat], glutathione peroxidase [GPx] and vitamin C) were estimated in these blood samples.. Mean levels of tested ROS factors were significantly higher in the internal spermatic venous blood compared to those in the peripheral one (mean+/-SD) (MDA 18.7+/-1.4 nmol/mL vs. 15.4+/-1.4 nmol/mL, H(2)O(2) 43.6+/-8.0 micromol/mL vs. 30.8+/-8.1 micromol/mL, NO 2.3+/-0.5 nmol/L vs. 1.6+/-0.4 nmol/L, P<0.01). Mean levels of tested antioxidants were significantly lower in the internal spermatic venous blood compared to those in the peripheral one (superoxide dismutase 1 690.7+/-130.0 U/mL vs. 1 818.5+/-143.0 U/mL, catalase 38.9+/-6.1 mol/L vs. 47.9+/-10.2 mol/L, GPx 20.4+/-8.1 U/mL vs. 23.0+/-8.4 U/mL, vitamin C 0.3+/-0.1 vs. 0.4+/-0.1 mg/dL, P<0.05).. Internal spermatic venous blood of infertile male cases associated with varicocele demonstrated elevated levels of ROS and decreased levels of antioxidants compared to peripheral venous circulation.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Catalase; Glutathione Peroxidase; Humans; Hydrogen Peroxide; Infertility, Male; Male; Malondialdehyde; Middle Aged; Nitric Oxide; Prospective Studies; Reactive Oxygen Species; Spermatic Cord; Superoxide Dismutase; Varicocele; Veins

This study was carried out to monitor the effect of oral supplementation of vitamin C on various semen parameters in oligospermic, infertile, otherwise healthy individuals. Various semen parameters, including sperm motility, sperm count, and sperm morphology, were studied before and after the vitamin C treatment. A total of 13 infertile patients were included. Their ages ranged between 25 and 35 years. They had no genital infection or varicocele. Physical examination and other routine laboratory investigations were normal. General semen analysis revealed oligozoospermia (mean sperm count was 14.3 +/- 7.38 x 10(6) sperms/mL, mean sperm with normal morphology was 43 +/- 7.87%, and mean sperm motility was 31.2 +/- 9.61%). Testicular biopsy was not done. These patients received in an open trial of 1,000 mg of vitamin C twice daily for a maximum of 2 months. Results showed that the mean sperm count was increased to 32.8 +/- 10.3 x 10(6) sperms/mL (P < .001) after 2 months of vitamin C intake. The mean sperm motility was increased significantly to 60.1 +/- 8.47% (P < .001), and mean sperms with normal morphology increased significantly to 66.7 +/- 4.77% (P < .001). This study showed that vitamin C supplementation in infertile men might improve sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology and might have a place as an additional supplement to improve the semen quality towards conception.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Dietary Supplements; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa

This work aimed to assess the relationship of seminal ascorbic acid levels with smoking in infertile males. One hundred and seventy men were divided into four groups: nonobstructive azoospermia [NOA: smokers (n = 20), nonsmokers (n = 20)]; oligoasthenozoospermia [smokers (n = 30), nonsmokers (n = 20)]; asthenozoospermia [smokers (n = 20), nonsmokers (n = 20)] and normozoospermic fertile men [smokers (n = 20), nonsmokers (n = 20)]. The patients underwent medical history, clinical examination, conventional semen analysis and estimation of ascorbic acid in the seminal plasma calorimetrically. There was a significant decrease in the mean seminal plasma ascorbic acid levels in smokers versus nonsmokers in all groups (mean +/- SD; 6.03 +/- 2.18 versus 6.62 +/- 1.29, 7.81 +/- 1.98 versus 9.44 +/- 2.15, 8.09 +/- 1.98 versus 9.95 +/- 2.03, 11.32 +/- 2.15 versus 12.98 +/- 12.19 mg dl(-1) respectively). Fertile subjects, smokers or not, demonstrated significant higher seminal ascorbic acid levels than any infertile group. Seminal plasma ascorbic acid in smokers and nonsmokers was correlated significantly with sperm concentration (r = 0.59, 0.60, P < 0.001), sperm motility (r = 0.65, 0.55, P < 0.001) and negatively with sperm abnormal forms per cent (r = -0.53, -0.50, P < 0.001). Nonsignificant correlations were elicited with semen volume (r = 0.2, 0.09) or liquefaction time (r = 0.03, 0.06). It is concluded that seminal plasma ascorbic acid decreased significantly in smokers and infertile men versus nonsmokers and fertile men, and is significantly correlated with the main sperm parameters: count, motility and normal morphology. Also, cigarette smoking is associated with reduced semen main parameters that could worsen the male fertilizing potential, especially in borderline cases.

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Fertility; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Smoking; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa

Ascorbic acid has recently been reported to protect sperm DNA from the damage induced by exogenous oxidative stress in vitro. But, there is no report on seminal ascorbic acid and sperm DNA fragmentation in infertile men. In this study, we asked whether sperm DNA damage correlates with seminal ascorbic acid levels. Sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) was analysed in 75 men by flow cytometry after acridine orange staining. We also measured the levels of seminal plasma ascorbic acid and total antioxidant capacity. Abnormal sperm DNA integrity (DFI >or= 30%) was observed in 12% of the patients with normal semen parameters and in 52% of the patients with abnormal semen parameters. There were significant correlations between the level of DFI and conventional semen parameters including sperm count, motility and morphology (r = -0.29, -0.55 and -0.53 respectively; p < 0.05). Seminal ascorbic acid level was significantly lower in the patients with leucospermia than the patient with normal semen parameters. Interestingly, a significantly greater percentage of men with abnormal DFI were observed in the patients with low levels of seminal ascorbic acid compared with those with normal or high levels of ascorbic acid (59% vs. 33%, p < 0.05). Men with insufficient seminal ascorbic acid frequently have sperm DNA damage.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Chromatin; DNA; DNA Fragmentation; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxidative Stress; Semen; Sperm Count; Sperm Motility; Spermatozoa

We seek to determine whether dietary and supplement intake of specific micronutrients (zinc and folate) and antioxidants (vitamins C, E and beta-carotene) is associated with semen quality.. Ninety-seven healthy, non-smoking men provided semen and were interviewed. Average daily nutrient intake from food and supplements was derived from a self-administered food frequency questionnaire. Intake levels were summarized as low, moderate and high. Semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, progressive motility and total progressively motile sperm count (TPMS) were measured.. After controlling for covariates, a high intake of antioxidants was associated with better semen quality but, in almost all cases, there was no clear dose relationship in that moderate intake groups had the poorest semen quality. For example, positive associations were observed between vitamin C intake and sperm number as reflected in the higher mean count (P=0.04), concentration (P=0.05) and TPMS (P = 0.09); between vitamin E intake and progressive motility (P = 0.04) and TPMS (P = 0.05); and between beta-carotene intake and sperm concentration (P = 0.06) and progressive motility (P = 0.06). Folate and zinc intake were not associated with improved semen quality.. In a convenience sample of healthy non-smoking men from a non-clinical setting, higher antioxidant intake was associated with higher sperm numbers and motility.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Aging; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; beta Carotene; Dietary Supplements; Folic Acid; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Nutrition Assessment; Semen; Sperm Motility; Vitamin E; Zinc

To study the detrimental effects of cyclophosphamide on the testicular androgenic and gametogenic activities through endocrine inhibition and/or induction of oxidative stress in male albino rats and to evaluate the protective effect of ascorbic acid.. The testicular D5, 3b-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD), 17b-HSD, peroxidase and catalase activities along with the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and conjugated dienes in testicular tissue were measured for the evaluation of testicular oxidative stress. The plasma testosterone (T) level was measured by immunoassay. Various germ cells at stage VII of spermatogenic cycle were quantified from testicular stained sections.. Cyclophosphamide treatment results in a significant inhibition in the testicular D5, 3b-HSD and 17b-HSD activities, a decrease in plasma T level and a diminution in the counts of various germ cells. Moreover, this treatment was also associated with a significant inhibition of the peroxidase and catalase activities along with high levels of MDA and conjugated dienes in the testis. All these changes were reversed by ascorbic acid co-administration.. Cyclophosphamide treatment at the dosage used caused testicular gametogenic and androgenic disorders as well as induced testicular oxidative stress that can be reversed by ascorbic acid co-administration.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Body Weight; Catalase; Cyclophosphamide; Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases; Infertility, Male; Lipid Peroxidation; Male; Mutagens; Peroxidase; Rats; Rats, Wistar; Spermatogenesis; Testosterone

To examine glutathione S-transferase M1 (GST M1) gene polymorphism and male infertility in Taiwanese patients with varicocele, 80 young male patients with varicocele (group 1), 62 young male patients with subclinical varicocele (group 2) and 60 normal young males (group 3) were recruited in this study.. GST M1 null homozygous genotype [GST M1-] and the occurrence of a 4977 bp deletion of sperm mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) were determined by polymerase chain reaction. The 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) content of sperm DNA was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography.. The frequencies of GST M1- genotype were 43.8, 41.9 and 45% for patients in groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively. In group 1 patients with GST M1- genotype, the frequency of the presence of the 4977 bp deletion in sperm mtDNA (54.3%) was significantly higher than that of the patients without the 4977 bp deletion in sperm mtDNA (45.7%, OR: 2.63, P = 0.04). Patients of groups 1 and 2 with GST M1- genotype had significantly higher 8-OHdG content in sperm DNA and lower protein thiols and ascorbic acid in seminal plasma than those with GST M1+ genotype.. GST M1- genotype predisposes to increased oxidative damage to sperm of patients with varicocele.

Topics: 8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxyguanosine; Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Deoxyguanosine; DNA, Mitochondrial; Gene Deletion; Gene Frequency; Genotype; Glutathione Transferase; Homozygote; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Polymorphism, Genetic; Reference Values; Semen; Sulfhydryl Compounds; Varicocele

Isoflavones are plant compounds, proposed to have health benefits in a variety of human diseases, including coronary heart disease and endocrine-responsive cancers. Their physiological effects include possible antioxidant activity, therefore suggesting a role for isoflavones in the prevention of male infertility. The aim of this study was to test the antioxidant effects of the isoflavones genistein and equol on sperm DNA integrity, assessed in vitro after hydrogen peroxide-mediated damage, using the comet assay. Pre-treatment with genistein or equol at doses of 0.01-100 micromol/l significantly protected sperm DNA against oxidative damage. Both ascorbic acid (10-600 micromol/l) and alpha-tocopherol (1-100 micromol/l) also protected. Compared with ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol, added at physiological concentrations, genistein was the most potent antioxidant, followed by equol, ascorbic acid, and alpha-tocopherol. Genistein and equol added in combination were more protective than when added singly. Based on these preliminary data, which are similar to those observed previously in lymphocytes, these compounds may have a role to play in antioxidant protection against male infertility.

Topics: alpha-Tocopherol; Anticarcinogenic Agents; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Comet Assay; DNA Damage; Genistein; Humans; Hydrogen Peroxide; Infertility, Male; Isoflavones; Male; Models, Chemical; Spermatozoa

Seminal plasma protects spermatozoa from the detrimental effects of reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide. We investigated the lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence in cell-free seminal plasma from andrological patients. The seminal plasma was separated from cells by centrifugation. In all seminal plasmas studied lucigenin-dependent chemiluminescence (LCL) was detected. The LCL showed a strong pH-dependence. The signal was stable if samples were stored at +4 degrees C for up to 4 days or up to 8 days at -80 degrees C. Filtration of the samples (0.45 and 0.22 microm pore size) did not lower their luminescence. The addition of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbic acid oxidase (AAO) lowered LCL nearly to baseline values while trolox and desferal showed moderate effect, whereas allopurinol had no effect. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrated ascorbyl radicals in seminal plasma. Physiological concentrations of ascorbic acid yielded SOD-inhibitable lucigenin-chemiluminescence. The nitroblue-tetrazolium assay showed that ascorbic acid in buffer solution produced formazan. Superoxide-anion radicals were not detected in seminal plasma by the spin-trap DEPMPO due to their low steady state concentration. It is concluded that in seminal plasma ascorbate reacts with molecular oxygen yielding ascorbyl radicals and superoxide anion. If lucigenin is added to seminal plasma, reducing substances present, such as ascorbate, reduce lucigenin to the corresponding radical; this radical reacts with molecular oxygen and also forms O2-. So LCL in human seminal plasma results from the autoxidation of ascorbate and the oxidation of the reduced lucigenin. While the physiological relevance of the former mechanism is unknown, the latter is an artifact.

Topics: Acridines; Adult; Allopurinol; Antioxidants; Ascorbate Oxidase; Ascorbic Acid; Chromans; Deferoxamine; Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy; Free Radicals; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Infertility, Male; Luminescent Measurements; Male; Oxidants; Oxidation-Reduction; Oxygen; Oxygen Consumption; Reactive Oxygen Species; Semen; Semen Preservation; Superoxide Dismutase; Temperature

To determine the level of oxalate in seminal plasma and to correlate it with andrologic variables.. Laboratory examination.. University-based department of andrology and department of clinical chemistry.. One hundred male outpatients with infertility.. Isolated seminal plasma was stored for 120 days at -20 degrees C.. Levels of oxalic acid in seminal plasma.. Oxalate levels in seminal plasma depend on the degradation of ascorbic acid to oxalic acid during storage. There was a linear nonenzymatic increase of oxalate with storage time. After 120 days of storage, the values were 133 +/- 50 micromol/L (n = 100). Oxalic acid correlated significantly with the number of sperm head anomalies, the pH value, and the age of the donors and correlated negatively with the volume of ejaculate.. Oxalic acid in seminal plasma may influence male fertility.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Calcium; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oxalates; Oxalic Acid; Semen; Specimen Handling; Time Factors

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Female; Fertilization in Vitro; Humans; Hydrogen Peroxide; In Vitro Techniques; Infertility, Male; Male; Reactive Oxygen Species; Sperm Head; Sperm Motility; Vitamin E

DNA integrity in sperm is essential for the accurate transmission of genetic information and therefore the maintenance of good health in future generations. The ELISA and Comet assays, two techniques that detect DNA damage in cells, are compared in this study of DNA integrity in human sperm. Both techniques rely on alkaline unwinding for the release of single strands of DNA from the nucleus. The ELISA detects single strands immunochemically whereas the Comet assay measures single strands drawn out by electrophoresis, stained with ethidium bromide and quantified by image analysis. The two techniques, both modified for use with sperm, detect similar levels of baseline DNA damage along with similar dose-dependent patterns of induced damage by X-ray irradiation at 10 and 30 Gy (P < 0.05). The assays are also comparable in the detection of a significant protective effect by ascorbic acid (300 and 600 microM) and alpha-tocopherol (30 and 60 microM) on DNA integrity, both at baseline levels and following X-ray irradiation (p < 0.01). The advantages and disadvantages of each technique are discussed.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; DNA; DNA, Single-Stranded; Electrophoresis, Agar Gel; Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; Fertility; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Spermatozoa; Vitamin E

Topics: Administration, Oral; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Drug Combinations; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Treatment Failure; Vitamin E

The integrity of sperm DNA is crucial for the maintenance of genetic health. A major source of damage is reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation; therefore, antioxidants may afford protection to sperm DNA. The objectives of the study were, first, to measure the effects of antioxidant supplementation in vitro on endogenous DNA damage in spermatozoa using the single cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay and, second, to assess the effect of antioxidant supplementation given prior to X-ray irradiation on induced DNA damage. Spermatozoa from 150 patients were prepared by Percoll centrifugation in the presence of ascorbic acid (300, 600 microM), alpha tocopherol (30, 60 microM), urate (200, 400 microM), or acetyl cysteine (5, 10 microM). DNA damage was induced by 30 Gy X-irradiation. DNA strand breakage was measured using the comet assay. Sperm DNA was protected from DNA damage by ascorbic acid (600 microM), alpha tocopherol (30 and 60 microM) and urate (400 microM). These antioxidants provided protection from subsequent DNA damage by X-ray irradiation. In contrast, acetyl cysteine or ascorbate and alpha tocopherol together induced further DNA damage. Supplementation in vitro with the antioxidants ascorbate, urate and alpha tocopherol separately has beneficial effects for sperm DNA integrity.

Topics: Acetylcysteine; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Cell Separation; DNA; DNA Damage; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Infertility, Male; Male; Povidone; Reactive Oxygen Species; Reproductive Techniques; Silicon Dioxide; Spermatozoa; Uric Acid; Vitamin E

To measure individual antioxidants in sperm and seminal plasma from fertile and infertile men to determine if any particular antioxidant is reduced in infertile men.. Semen samples were prepared by a discontinuous Percoll gradient to separate sperm and seminal plasma, and the antioxidant concentrations of each were assessed. Samples also were screened for phorbol ester-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity.. Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Clinical Biochemistry, The Queen's University of Belfast, Northern Ireland.. Fifty-nine male patients attending our infertility center: 18 men whose wives had ongoing pregnancies from IVF with normozoospermic semen profiles, 20 infertile men with normozoospermic and 21 men with asthenozoospermic semen profiles.. Ascorbate, urate, sulphydryl groups, tocopherol and carotenoid concentrations were measured in sperm and seminal plasma from fertile and infertile men.. In seminal plasma, ascorbate contributes almost twice as much as urate and thiol levels are about one third of ascorbate. Ascorbate levels in seminal plasma of asthenozoospermic individuals (+ROS) are significantly reduced. In sperm, thiols contributed most and ascorbate only a fraction of the total.. In seminal plasma, ascorbate, urates, and thiols are the major antioxidants present. In contrast, within sperm, this group is the major contributor. In samples exhibiting ROS activity, ascorbate concentrations in the seminal plasma are significantly reduced.

Topics: Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Carotenoids; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Spermatozoa; Sulfhydryl Compounds; Uric Acid; Vitamin A; Vitamin E

An animal unable to synthesize ascorbic acid uniquely mimicks human and non-human primates. Therefore, in this study we used the rainbow trout, a teleost fish, as the model animal to study the importance of dietary ascorbic acid on the fertilizing ability of sperm. A high concentration of ascorbic acid in semen plays a key role in maintaining the genetic integrity of sperm cells, by preventing oxidative damage to sperm DNA. This study will show that the concentration of ascorbic acid in seminal plasma reflects the dietary intake of vitamin C. The concentration of ascorbic acid in seminal plasma of fish declined significantly in groups fed either an ascorbate-free diet (from 4.74 +/- 0.9 to 0.16 +/- 0.08 microgram ml-1) or an ascorbate-rich diet (from 37.9 +/- 4.7 to 17.7 +/- 3.2 microgram ml-1) during the spermiation season. The relationship between ascorbate status and fertility was studied in six groups of fish fed graded levels of ascorbic acid, which spermiated over a 150-day-period. Sperm from individual males was used to fertilize several batches of eggs. When the seminal plasma ascorbate concentration decreased to 7.3 microgram ml-1 a significant decrease of fertilization rate and the hatching rate of embryos resulted. This is the first evidence that dietary ascorbate level directly affected sperm quality and influenced male fertility in a scurvy-prone vertebrate.

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Diet; Disease Models, Animal; Embryo, Nonmammalian; Female; Fertilization; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Oncorhynchus mykiss; Primates; Semen; Spermatozoa

Seventy infertile men with chronic prostatitis were treated by prostatic massage and wide-spectrum chemotherapy as basic treatment to which intraprostatic injection of zinc or vitamin C with or without ultrasound application was added as a new line of treatment. Comparison showed no significant improvement of the additive treatment over the conventional treatment used alone. Pus cells in the expressed prostatic smear diminished significantly after treatment, which was associated with significant increase of percentage of motile spermatozoa and significant decrease of abnormal forms. Bacterial flora was studied in comparison with findings in 20 cases of infertile males without prostatitis; staphylococci predominated in both patient and control groups.

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Chronic Disease; Escherichia coli; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Middle Aged; Prostate; Prostatitis; Semen; Staphylococcus; Streptococcus; Ultrasonic Therapy; Zinc

Topics: Animals; Ascorbic Acid; Depression, Chemical; Guinea Pigs; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Sperm Agglutination

Topics: 3-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases; Animals; Antibody Formation; Ascorbic Acid; DNA; Female; Immune Sera; Infertility, Male; Male; Rabbits; Rats; Spermatogenesis-Blocking Agents; Spermatozoa; Testis

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Cryptorchidism; Dihydrotestosterone; Female; Follicle Stimulating Hormone; Gonadotropins; Humans; Infertility, Male; Klinefelter Syndrome; Male; Netherlands; Oligospermia; Pregnancy; Sperm Motility; Testis; Testosterone; Vas Deferens

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Female; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Testosterone

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Ascorbic Acid; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Epididymis; Female; Infertility, Male; Male; Nutrition Disorders; Rats; Selenium; Semen; Spermatogenesis; Spermatozoa; Testis; Vitamin E

Topics: Adult; Ascorbic Acid; Ejaculation; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Spermatozoa

Topics: Adult; Amino Acids; Ascorbic Acid; Clomiphene; Gonadotropins; Humans; Infertility, Male; Liver Extracts; Male; Testosterone; Thyroid Hormones; Vitamin A; Vitamins

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Humans; In Vitro Techniques; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen

Topics: Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Infertility; Infertility, Male; Male; Semen; Vitamin A; Vitamin E; Vitamins