Background: The semen cryopreservation has an important role in the male fertility preservation. Certainly, patients who are prone to become infertile due to surgical or medical treatments such as chemo- or radiotherapy for cancer treatment. In fact, semen cryostorage seems to be the only proven method that may offer these couples a chance of having children in the future. Objectives: This study was aimed to investigate the effects of cryopreservation protocols on human sperm parameters. Methods: Sixty semen samples with range of age (19-35) years were included in this study. Sperm parameters, were assessed pre- or post-cryopreservation. Cryopreservation protocols were done using SMART medium with either 15% dimethyl sulfoxide(DMSO) or 15% glycerol alone (as control group) or supplemented with either 0.25M or 0.5M of sucrose for treated groups. Crude data were statistically analyzed. Results: Generally, the results of the present study showed that the sperm parameters were significantly deteriorated post-thawing (P<0.05) as compared to precryopreservation. Both treated groups (G2 and G3) showed best results as compared to G1 (control groups). In contrast, treated group (G2) with 0.25 M of sucrose appeared better results than the as G3 group that treated with 0.5M of sucrose. Conclusion: Sperm parameters including concentration, motility, and morphology were deteriorated after cryopreservation. Using 0.25M sucrose reduced the impact of cryopreservation.
Background: The immune infertility caused by anti-sperm antibodies (ASAs) represented about 1020%- of infertility among the couples, the ASAs interfere with sperm parameters such as the sperm motility and sperm ability to penetrate cervical mucus, sperm-oocyte binding, and fertilization and embryo developments. Objectives: The present study designed to assess semen analysis, presence of ASAs and DNA fragmentation index as well as correlation within these parameters in normzoospermic Iraqi subjects Patients, Materials and Methods: A total number of Iraqi subjects (116) with range of age (2051-) years and their mean duration of infertility (4.70 ± 2.77). Seminal fluid for Macroscopic and Microscopic assessments done according to WHO 2010 criteria. The mixed agglutination reaction (MAR) test used to assess theirASAs in semen (direct method), seminal plasma and serum (indirect method); for the both IgG and IgA classes of antibodies and their distribution among different parts of spermatozoa as percentage. Results: The mean of IgG using direct method was (23.881.75±) and for indirect detection method the mean was (27.412.41±) with no significant difference (P<0.05) between the two methods. While the direct method for IgA detection mean (14.46 ±1.76) and the mean for indirect method of detection (6.860.39±) and there was significant difference (P>0.05) between the two methods. In addition to that, the distribution of IgG and IgA detected by direct method on sperm parts showed no significance difference except for the sperm tail; while the indirect method for IgA and IgG showed significant difference in distribution on sperm mid-piece. Conclusion: The correlation among sperm parameters and Immunoglobulin using direct and indirect methods showing variations in significance also in the correlation between the direct and indirect methods according to distributions on sperm surface
Background: Metformin is anti-hyperglycemic effect due to decrease of hepatic glucose production. Another effect, leading decrease insulin resistance, regarded a safe drug, treatment of choice for overweight. Objective: To investigate the effects of 3 concentration of MF administered orally to male mice on sperm parameters as model for human being. Materials and Methods: In current study, 80 male mice were taken with age ranging between 1.5-2 month and weights ranging between 25-30 grams males classified into four groups of a control group (G1) and treated group (G2, G3 and G4) doses of MF were employed, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 mg/mice daily to groups, given orally for 6 weeks and then the animals were scarified. Results Results have revealed a significant difference (P < 0.05) in sperm concentration for 3 groups compared to G1 group. Progressive motility (%) appeared with significant difference (P< 0.05) for G3 group as compared to other treated and G1 group. Furthermore, the result illustrated a significant decreased (P< 0.05) in the abnormal sperm morphology for G3 group compared with treated and control. However, sperm agglutination (%) confirmed that the G3 group exhibited highly statistical significant decrease (p≤0.001) compared to G1, G2 and G4. Conclusions From results of the present study, it was concluded that the administration of MF doses reduce sperm concentration .while, 0.4mg dose improve certain sperm parameters.
Background: All men have the natural desire to have their own biological children. Cryopreservation of male gametes is an important aspect of human fertility preservation. With the advancement in assisted reproductive technology, indication for sperm cryopreservation is expanding. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of cryopreservation by using Sperm Freeze TM kit on some sperm parameters for infertile patients. Materials and methods: Ninety five semen samples were taken from male patients. The seminal fluid analysis was performed according to the standard criteria of WHO (1999). The patients were divided into four groups depending on their sperm concentration and motility: Normozoospermic, oligozoospermic, asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic patients. Cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen was done by using Sperm Freeze TM kit for the samples and thawing was performed after three months. Results: In general, the post-thawing study revealed a considerable highly significant (P <0.001) decrease in the sperm parameters which include the means of sperm concentration, sperm motility, progressive motility and normal sperm morphology as compared to that of pre-cryopreservation. Whereas the percentage of immotile sperm was highly significant (p<0.05) increase as compared to pre-cryopreservation in all groups except for oligozoospermic patients in which there was a significant (p<0.05) increase. Conclusions: After semen cryopreservation, all parameters were significantly decreased.
Background: Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal toxicant, present widely in our environment and workplaces.It is well known that cadmium causes adverse effects on male reproductive organs and reproductive functions in experimental animals. Objective: This experiment was designed to find out the effect of cadmium on some histological and hormonal parameters of the reproductive system of adult male rats. Methods: thirty mature albino male rat were used (Rattus rattus norvegicus albinus), as a mammalian model. these animals were divided into two groups, 15 rat / group after labeling them. The control group (G1) was orally administrated with distilled water during the 4 weeks period of the experiment and the experimental group (G2) was orally administrated with 20 ml cadmium chloride (200 mg/1L body weight) during the 4 weeks. First of all, the rat were anesthetized, after that blood aspiration using anesthetic cardiac puncture and the serum was separated and store at -20°C until assessment of FSH, LH and testosterone hormones. After that, the weight of reproductive organs (testis,epididymus and seminal vesicle) was recorded. These organs were fixed with 10% formal saline for histological study. Results: The statistical analysis shows a significant (P< 0.05) decrease in the weight of the testes and seminal vesicles when compared with control group. The results of the sperm parameters show a significant (P< 0.05) decrease in sperm concentration and a highly significant (p≤0.01) decrease in sperm motility in treated group as compared to control. The result of testicular sections in treated group shows a decrease in thickness of germ cells layer, widening of the central seminiferous tubules lumen and prominent germ cells population necrosis. Multiple vacuoles were seen within the tubules. Sertoli cells were abnormal in number and shape as compared to control. A peritubular fibrotic change had been seen also in the testicular sections. The result also shows a highly significant decrease in diameters of seminiferous tubules, primary spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes, spermatids and increase in interstitial space when treated with cadmium compared with control group. The Levels of serum hormones shows a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the levels of testosterone and LH hormones mean in the treated group,while highly significant (ps0.01) increase in the FSH hormone mean in the treated group when compared to the levels mean of the hormone in the control group.. Conclusion: In conclusion, these findings suggest that cadmium administration with 20 ml cadmium chloride (200 mg/1L body weight) for 4 weeks during the adulthood induced damage in the reproductive organs and lead to impair the functions of sperm parameters and cause histological and hormonal alterations.
Background: Semen preparation techniques were developed to separate motile sperm that are morphologically normal from seminal plasma to optimize successful assisted reproductive technology cycles which seem to be the most effective options in cases of a male factor infertility. Objective: The objective of the present study was to compare between outcomes of two sperm preparation techniques for asthenozoospermic patients includes:1-Centrifugation swim up technique.2-Glass wool filtration technique. Subjects, Materials and Methods: Fifty three infertile males were participated in this study during their attendance to the Infertility Clinic at High Institute for Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies; Al-Nahrain University. Semen samples were collected and SFA was done according to WHO (2010 and 1999). Each semen sample was divided into two aliquots. The first one prepared using centrifugation swim up technique, while the other one prepared using glass wool filtration technique then sperm parameters were assessed for both techniques and the results were statistically analyzed. Results: After in vitro sperm activation using both techniques, there was significant reduction (P<0.05) in the sperm concentration, significant improvement (P<0.05) in the percentages of sperm motility and morphologically normal sperm when compared to pre-activation. Present study appeared that the glass wool filtration technique resulted in significantly (P<0.05) better results for sperm concentration and total number of progressive motile sperm than the swim-up technique. The present study proved that there was significant (P<0.05) improvement in sperm parameters (increment for sperm motility (%), progressive sperm motility (%), total number of progressive motile sperm and normal sperm morphology (%), while reduction for round cell count and sperm agglutination percent) for all cases using glass wool filtration techniques. In contrast, there was failure of sperm activation for 10 cases using centrifugation swim up technique. Conclusions: From results of the present study, the sperm parameters outcomes using glass wool filtration technique was superior to the outcomes of centrifugation swim up technique when prepare semen of asthenozoospermic patients.
Background: Male obesity is associated with physiological changes that can negatively affect male fertility. Obese men have demonstrated a 3-fold increase in the prevalence of oligozoospermia when compared with men with normal Body Mass Index (BMI). Objective: To estimate the role of aromatase enzyme in decreasing sperm parameters in obese infertile men. Subjects, Materials and Methods: Seventy obese infertile male (patients) and twenty obese fertile male (control) are enrolled in this study. Seminal fluid analysis done according to criteria of WHO (2010). Results: A significant negative correlation was found between human cytochrome enzyme and sperm concentration, progressively motile sperm, non-progressively motile sperm, immotile sperm and normal morphology. Conclusion: The present study showed clearly that male obesity negatively impacts fertility through direct association between increased (BMI) and semen parameters. The results suggest that increased estrogen as a result of aromatization in the fatty tissue, reflected through the increase in human cytochrome enzyme (aromatase), may be an important mechanism for the hypoandrogenemia and altered sperm parameters.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a polysaccharide, that composed in the extracellular matrix of the cumulus cells, and considered to take function in choosing mature spermatozoa. The Sperm-hyaluronic binding assay (HBA) is significant diagnostic instrument for suspected male infertility when examining the semen. The HBA slide supplies the ratio of mature binding sperm in the specimen. To evaluate sperm parameters, and to evaluate the (HBA Score percentage (%) before and after activation. Twenty-five infertile couples a sharer in this current study through their attendance to the Al Nahrain University. Males undergoing seminal fluid analysis were done according to (WHO 2010, and WHO 1999). Sperm parameters assessed and calculate the HBA Score% pre-and-post-direct swim-up technique, the results were statistically tested. In Post-activation there was considerable increment noticed in the progressive motility and morphology of spermatozoa, likewise significant improvement in the (HBA score %). Furthermore, considerable reduction in the concentration, agglutination of spermatozoa and round cells count, when compared to pre-activation. The mean of binding of spermatozoa to hyaluronan pre-activation (direct swim-up technique) was less than normal limit for normozoospermic males. However, it significantly improves post-activation.
Exposure to radiation of various forms is one of the many environmental, health, and lifestyle variables that have been linked in recent years to an increase in the rate of male infertility. According to data from several recently published studies, mobile phone use may negatively affect sperm parameters, which may lower male fertility. Ninety-seven samples of semen from fertile and infertile individuals were sent to the "High Institute for Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies. Al-Nahrain University in Baghdad, between November 2022 and May 2023. The samples were split into four groups: normozoospermia (n = 40), asthenozoospermia (n = 25), oligozoospermia (n = 16), and teratozoospermia (n = 16). Each group was further divided into two groups based on the amount of time spent using a mobile phone each day: less than 4 hours per day and equal to or more than 4 hours per day. A routine seminal fluid analysis was carried out to measure the sperm parameters and test the deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation rate using an acridine orange stain. Samples exposed to electromagnetic waves of cell phones showed a significant decrease in DNA normality. deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation index (p < 0.001) in normozoospermia patients exposed to more than 4 hours/day of non-ionizing electromagnetic waves. The results of deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation index after treatment were shown a significant improvement compared to before the treatment in all fertile and infertile groups. Electromagnetic waves emitted from cell phones are associated with a decrease of deoxyribonucleic acid normality when exposure for <4hours/day. The study recommend that men of reproductive age avoid keeping their cell phones in the hip pocket and front pants pocket which may negatively affect spermatozoa deoxyribonucleic acid integrity and impair male fertility.
Background: Human growth hormone (HGH) is undisputedly a potent hormone with a wide variety of biological effects. The anabolic actions of human growth hormone have made it attractive as a potential agent for catabolic problems in a wide range of clinical conditions. Objectives: In the present study, we investigated the possible relationship between levels of HGH in serum (S. HGH) and seminal plasma (Sp. HGH) and semen parameters in normozoospermic (NZS) men and infertile patients. Materials and Methods: In total, 66 infertile patients with azoospermia (AZS; no. 52), asthenozoospermia (AsZS; no. 6) and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OATZS; no. 8), and normozoospermic men (NZS; no. 12) were included in this study. From each subject, semen and blood samples were taken to assess seminal plasma and sperm parameters and levels of S. HGH and Sp. HGH; respectively. Results: The highest S. HGH was evaluated in AZS patients when compared to NZS and other infertile groups. Significant elevation (P<0.05) in the level of S. HGH was assessed for AZS patients as compared to NZS men. In contrast, the level of Sp. HGH in NZS men was significantly elevated (P<0.05) when compared to AZS patients only. Positive and significant correlations were noticed between levels of Sp. HGH and semen liquefaction time in NZS, AZS and OATZS groups. In NZS men, positive and significant correlation were observed between Sp. HGH and semen volume and negative and significant correlations were detected between Sp. HGH and percentages of sperm motility, progressive motility, immobility and agglutination. Conclusion: Our study represents the first study in Iraq showing that the level of HGH in serum and seminal plasma affect male fertility and sperm parameters in normozoospermic males and infertile patients. Further biochemical and molecular studies are recommended to investigate the mode of action of HGH and its receptors in relation to fertility.
Background: Carnitines are widely distributed in nature and their potential health benefits have been popularized. The carnitines exert a substantial antioxidant action. It is often sold as a nutritional supplement. The use of carnitine showed some promise in treatment of male infertility. Objectives: This study was designed to investigate the effects of L-carnitine (LC) administered to pregnant mice on some reproductive parameters of male offspring. Methods: Ninety mature male offspring mice (age: 6 weeks) were divided originally into two groups depending on the pregnant mothers were administered either 0.5 mg/Kg L-carnitine (Treated group) or distilled water (Control group) throughout pregnancy period. Whole body and testicular weight, diameter of seminiferous tubules, thickness of spermatogenic cell layers, levels of serum gonadotropins and sperm parameters were assessed. Results: In the present study, weight of whole body and testes of the male mice offspring group where mothers treated with 0.5 mg/Kg L-carnitine throughout gestation period was significantly increased (P<0.05) as compared to the control group. Further, significant increment (P<0.05) was observed in the thickness of spermatogenic cell layers and diameter of seminiferous tubules for the treated group as compared to the control group. Also, levels of serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone (LH) in the treated group showed significant elevation (P<0.05) as compared to the control group. Sperm parameters for the treated group were enhanced significantly (P<0.05) as compared to the control group. Conclusion: Administration of low dose of L-carnitine to pregnant mice improved reproductive performance of male offspring. Further molecular studies are recommended to investigate the effects of L-carnitine administered to pregnant mice on quality and quantity of acrosomal enzymes for male offspring.
Background: Semen cryopreservation is a useful tool for preserving fertility for men involved in ART program who have been diagnosed with cancer and will undergo chemotherapy, radiotherapy or testicular surgery. Objective: The objective of this study to evaluate the effect of honey bee supplemented to cryoprotectant medium on post-thaw sperm DNA integrity ,morphology and round cells. Subjects ,Materials and Methods: Thirty semen samples were collected from 30 infertile patients. After assessment of semen analysis, semen samples were divided into 3 aliquots (0.7ml for each sample) and mixed with 1 ml of cryopreservation solution (G1,control) alone, enriched with 5% honey bee(G2) with 10% honey bee (G3) for cryopreservation. Current study used the acridine orange test to investigate the effect of honey bee in two concentration (5%, 10%) on the integrity of sperm chromatin structure pre-and post cryopreservation. Cryopreservation was done at -196 Co in liquid nitrogen and thawing was performed after six months. Direct swim up technique was used for in vitro sperm preparation post-thawing, sperm parameters were assessed and data were statistically analyzed pre-and post-thawing. Results: The results show there was a significant(P<0.05) increase in the percentage of morphologically normal sperm for all groups post-thawing, particularly for G3 group that was significantly (P<0.05) increased as compared to G1 and G2 groups, In contrast, non-significant differences (P>0.05) were observed between G1 and G2 groups. Sperm DNA fragmentation percentage (%) was significantly(P<0.05) increased in G1 post thawing without any additives as compared to pre-cryopreservation , where as in G2 and G3 sperm DNA fragmentation were increased but not significantly as post-cryopreservation groups. Also the results show that there were no significant differences between G2 and G3 whereas G3 gives better result as compared to G1 with significant differences. Round cells counts for all groups of post cryopreservation were significantly(P>0.05) decreased as compared to pre-cryopreservation. Non significant (P>0.05) differences in the round cells counts among all the groups of post -thawing in spite of G3 group has the lowest mean. Conclusions: From these results we concluded that supplementation of 10% of honey bee to the freezing cryoprotectant medium gives best protection to the morphology and DNA integrity of human sperm.
Background: There are many factors and media affecting sperm characters which are defined by classical parameters namely, concentration, motility and morphology, according to standard World Health Organization (WHO). Objectives: To study the effect of incubation time on certain sperm function parameters following in vitro centrifugation technique by sperm wash, FertiCult medium for the purpose of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) in couples presenting sub-fertility. Methods: Two groups of 40 semen samples (group 1: fertile men with normal semen parameters and group 2: abnormal semen parameters) underwent sperm activation test (SAT) in the ART laboratory, High Institute of Infertility Diagnosis & ART/Al-Nahrain University. Semen analysis was assessed in standard WHO (1999). Wash and spin activation technique by FertiCultTM medium was done for all samples. The tubes which was sealed, inclined vertically and kept at 37°C for 30 minute. The supernatant contained actively motile sperms was transferred to another test tube to separate that active sperm from pellet and record sperm parameters after. Results: There is a significant (p<0.05) improvement in certain sperm parameters after 30min. of incubation following SAT in both groups compared to before activation and following 30min. incubation in SAT. Certain sperm characters are significantly decline in group 2 after 1 hr. incubation compared to before activation. Conclusions: Sperm activation test is very important method to perform before undergone artificial insemination (AIH). Incubation of prepared sperm in vitro by sperm wash, FertiCult medium is benefit for the first half hour to all semen samples to have a success in artificial insemination.
The toxic effect of drugs and environmental chemicals on the human reproductive system has become a major health concern. Lead is recognized as the most dangerous of the toxic metals and a major threat to the biological systems of both human and animals. In this study we detect the effect of two types of antioxidants: flaxseed and zinc, on the toxicity of low dose of lead acetate on reproductive organs of male mice, this study was conduct. Two groups of mature male mice,exposed to low dose of lead, were administered either zinc sulphate (0. 5mg/kg body weight/day) or flaxseed oil (2.5% of total daily food intake), for 6 weeks. The results showed that lead caused a significant reduction in the total body weight, testicular weights & adverse effects on sperm parameters, while the concomitant administration of antioxidants caused elevation in these weights with significant improvement in sperm quality as compared to the only lead treated group. It is concluded that lead, like all other heavy metals, could induce oxidative stress and the concomitant administration of antioxidants (zinc or flaxseed) can ameliorate the toxic effect of lead on reproduction.
Male infertility is a global health issue affecting over 20 million males. A spermatogenesis-related cell differentiation abnormality causes teratozoospermia (TZS). Extensive research has linked TZS to poor fertilization outcomes at assisted reproductive technology (ART) centers as well as to spontaneous pregnancies. This study used Glycyrrhiza glabra (Gg) and Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) media to establish a culture medium that aimed to improve certain sperm functions of teratozoospermic men in vitro. A total of fifty semen samples were examined. The World Health Organization 2021 and 1999 standards were used to evaluate certain sperm parameters and the DNA fragmentation index. Platelet-rich plasma and Gg extract were utilized as a medium for in vitro preparation and activation of semen samples complaining of teratozoospermia factor. Following activation by the utilization of the density gradient approach and the combination of Gg and PRP medium, there was a statistically significant ( p <0.001) improvement in certain sperm function metrics. These improvements included a higher percentage of morphologically normal sperm, a rise in active motility, and a drop in the DNA fragmentation index. The density gradient technique, regardless of the medium used in this investigation, resulted in a significant enhancement of morphologically normal sperms with other certain sperm parameters and a decrease in the DNA fragmentation index.
This study was designed to assess the effect of different concentrations of L-carnitine and Co enzyme Q10 (COQ10) supplied to SMART Pro-medium on human sperm motility and sperm grade activity ( progressive, non-progressive and immotile) during in vitro sperm activation. Eighty seven samples of semen of infertile and fertile men were randomly collected from the subjects at the High Institute for Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies / Al-Nahrain University. The mean age of the men was (32.034 ± 0.57) years with mean duration of infertility (4.644 ± 0.25) years. Seminal fluid analyses were done involving macroscopic and microscopic examinations according to WHO criteria. Swim-up technique was dependent for in vitro sperm activation , the washed samples were divided before using centrifugation swim-up technique into 3 groups: control group (G1) without L-carnitine and CoQ10. While, in G2, G3 two concentrations of L-carnitine and CoQ10 (20 µg , and 40 µg ) were used. Moreover, all groups within post-activation enriched with SMART-Pro media. The sperm motility and sperm grade activity were evaluated after the addition of L-carnitine and COQ10. The results showed a significant (P<0.05) differences were showed in sperm motility and sperm grade activity of post-activation when compared with the pre-activation. In G2 and G3, with dose of ( 20 µg and 40 µg) of L-carnitine and CoQ10, the results showed a significant (P<0.05) increase in the percentages of sperm motility, progressive sperm motility in spite of the increase in the percentages of sperm motility, progressive sperm motility in G3 compared to G2, there was non significant (P>0.05) differences between G2 and G3. The results for non-progressive sperm motility% and total progressive sperm motility millions/ mL. for 40 µg ( G3) groups were significantly (P< 0.05) decreased when compared to control group (G1) with non-significant (P>0.05) differences between 20µg (G2) group, with significant (P< 0.05) decreased in immotile sperm percentage in post-activation when compared to the pre-activation. From the results of the study, it can be concluded that the addition of 40 µg of L-carnitine and CoQ10 to washed sperms can improve sperm motility and sperm grade activity in vitro. Data were analyzed statistically using complete randomized design (CRD) (one way ANOVA).
Background: Male obesity is associated with physiological changes that can negatively affect male fertility. Obese men have demonstrated a 3-fold increase in the prevalence of oligozoospermia when compared with men with normal Body Mass Index (BMI). Objective: To find the correlation between Aromatase enzyme with the following hormones (follicle stimulating hormone(FSH), Luteinizing hormone(LH), Estradiol(E2), and testosterone) in the obese infertile male. Subjects, Materials and Methods: Seventy obese infertile male (patients) and twenty obese fertile male (control) are enrolled in this study. Aromatase enzyme, FSH, LH, E2 and testosterone hormones were measured in their serum. All serum samples were measured by ELISA method. Results: Median human cytochrome enzyme level was significantly higher in patients than in control group, 87.55+ 12.48 pg./ml versus 56.95+9.88 pg./ml, P= 0.014. In patients group, a significant positive correlation was found between human cytochrome enzyme, FSH, and LH. Conclusions: The present study showed clearly that male obesity negatively affects fertility through changes in hormone levels. The results suggest that increased estrogen because of aromatization in the fatty tissue, reflected through the increase in human cytochrome enzyme (aromatase), may be an important mechanism for the hypoandrogenemia and altered sperm parameters.
One-half of the genome is delivered by the sperm, and a healthy sperm is needed for fertilization, fetal development, and child wellbeing. Abnormal sperm DNA can impact any of these processes. The measurement of sperm DNA fragmentation has been added to some medical andrology laboratories as a crucial addition to the standard analysis of the semen. Sperm DNA fragmentation has also been linked to male infertility including idiopathic male infertility. Some degree of controlled DNA nicking is essential for adequate DNA compaction, but excessive sperm DNA fragmentation is usually associated with reduced male fertility potential, reduced fertilization, poor embryo quality, recurrent pregnancy loss and poor assisted reproductive techniques outcomes. Semen samples from 50 infertile males (as 19 asthenozoospermia, 7 oligozoospermia, 13 normospermia and 11 combined defects) were analyzed for sperm DNA fragmentation. This study followed the World Health Organization 2010 guidelines to assess the sperm parameters. Sample were collected by masturbation and put in a 37 °C incubator to be liquefied, then they were placed in a centrifuge (3000 rpm for 10 min) to extract the pellet, which was used for assessment of DFI% by anillin blue staining. Negative significant correlation (p = 0.023) between morphologically normal sperms and DFI % was found in normozoospermia group. The objective of this study is to examine the correlation of DFI among different seminal fluid categories (normozoospermia, oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia and, combined).
Background: The procedures of assisted reproductive technologies have been developed during recent years and have been revealed the need for new suitable and effective techniques of sperm treatment in the laboratory. Objectives: This study is designed to normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic compare the semen outcomes of two in vitro sperm activation techniques and evaluate their efficiency, namely; Glass wool filtration technique and a new technique of Glass wool filtration combined with Pentoxifylline. Subjects, Materials and Methods: Fifty five semen samples were collected from the patients, fifteen were obtained from normozoospermic men, forty were obtained from asthenozoospermic men who at tend the infertility clinic were involved in this study. Sperm parameters were assessed according to WHO (2010 and 1999). Post-activation of each sample were divided into two aliquots, the first one : using Glass wool filtration technique , the second : using Glass wool filtration technique with Pentoxifylline. Results: A significant increase of sperm motility, progressive sperm motility and morphologically normal sperm when using Glass wool filtration technique combined with Pentoxifylline as compared to Glass wool filtration technique. Regarding sperm agglutination and Round cells count the study showed the best results by decreasing their levels when using Glass wool filtration technique combined with Pentoxifylline as compared to Glass wool filtration technique alone. Conclusions: From the results of the present study, the sperm function parameters outcome when using glass wool filtration technique combined with Pentoxifylline were superior to other technique since it yields better sperm function parameters rather than the outcome of glass wool filtration ; respectively especially when using a low quality of semen samples such as decreased sperm function parameters (sperm motility) so it was fit in cases of asthenozoospermia which taken as an example of infertile group within this study.
The integrity of sperm deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and chromatin is very important for genetic material transmission into offspring. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the correlation between sperm deoxyribonucleic acid integrity and sperm parameters. The current study was conducted on 96 semen samples. This study was done at the High Institute for Infertility Diagnosis and Assisted Reproductive Technologies, Al-Nahrain University, for the period between November 2020 and May 2021. The samples were collected, and seminal fluid analysis was performed according to World Health Organization guidelines. Sperm Chromatin Dispersion test was performed. The results showed that the deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation of sperms in infertile men in this study was higher than reported in fertile men in previous studies, indicating deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation (DNA) is actively contributing at least partially to male infertility. In terms of enrolled men, sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation (SDF) showed a significant positive correlation with round cell count.
Background: The increasing prevalence of infertility cases is becoming a major public health problem in developing countries due to changes in diet and lifestyle. Objectives: Black Carrot Extract BCE (Daucuscarota) plays an important role as fertility agent due to its antioxidant and anti-proliferative properties. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify the effects of different concentrations of BCE on the outcome of in vitro human sperm activation of infertile patients. Methods: Thirty two semen samples were prepared which served as a control, using direct swim-up technique. Modified Earl's medium (MEM) was used only in group 2 (G2) and two concentrations of BCE (10µg/1ml and 20µg/1ml) were added to culture media MEM of groups 3 (G3) and 4 (G4) for in vitro sperm activation (ISA). Results: A highly significant (P<0.001) correlation was noticed between G4 with G2 and G3 in progressive motility when activation by adding 20µg/1ml of BCE to culture media as compared to G3 (which adding 10µg/1ml of BCE to culture media) and G2 (activation with culture media only). Moreover, swim-up activation technique with culture media and by both adding (10µg/1ml and 20µg/1ml of BCE respectively) to culture media enhancement in the (sperm motility, progressive sperm activity and sperm morphology). Conclusion: The high concentration of BCE is effective in the enhancement of progressive sperm activity during in vitro human sperm activation.
Swim up is the most popular technique of sperm preparation, in which sperm is selected on motility and ability to swim out the plasma of the semen. The goal of this research is to compare the influence of adding platelet rich plasma (PRP) and phosphate buffer saline in semen prepared by swim – up technique. This research included 119 semen sample evaluated according to sperms parameters stated in WHO and divided into 2 groups. The first group treated with equal quantity of phosphate buffer saline (250) μm contain 10% human serum albumin (HSA) while second group treated with equal quantity of phosphate buffer saline (250) μm contain 10% human serum albumin (HSA) and 2% platelet rich plasma. The samples are prepared by swim – up method. Applying swim up technique using-PBS+PRP (HAS) medium resulted in highest sperm parameters in a highly significant manner (p < 0.001). The values were far better in Swim -up PBS (HAS) with added 2% PRP than those produced by swim up –PBS (HAS) alone. The statistical analysis shows that the variations between Swim up-PBS (HAS) with addition 2% PRP media and swim -up PBS (HAS) were highly significant.
Background: Zygote produce from once a sperm fertilizes an egg cell. Then, the zygote (unicellular) will begin chain of cellular cleavages to produce multicellular mass, its embryo, the differentiated to different tissues and organism. The development of the embryo is called embryogenesis. Coenzyme Q10, is an antioxidant produced in the body. It boosts cellular energy and may enhance the immune system. CoQ10 is present and measurable in seminal fluid, the concentration of CoQ10 directly correlates with both sperm count and motility. It is beneficial in the prevention and treatment a wide range of health problems. Objectives: The present study was aimed to investigate the possibility of using coenzyme Q10 to improvein vitro fertilization (IVF), and early embryonic development (ED) in mice as a model for human being. Methods: Superovulation program was achieved to mature healthy female mice with age 10-12 weeks and weight 24-26 gm. After sacrificing female, oocytes were collected and incubated within CO2 incubator for less than 1 hour. Sperm were collected from vas deference of males. Sperm parameters were assessed after 30 min. ofincubation. Mature oocytes were divided into three groups according to theconcentrations of CoQ10 including G1 (control group; SMART medium only), G2 (treated group; SMART medium enriched with 20 M CoQ10) and G3 (treated group; SMART medium enriched with 40 M CoQ10). IVF technique was performed for 3 groups, and assessment of IVF (%), embryonic development stage (%) and abnormal embryo morphology (%) for each embryo stage. Results: Results of the present study appeared significant increment (P<0.05) in the percentages of IVF for both treated groups as compared to the control groups. Also, significant increase (P<0.0P) in the IVF (%) was observed when using 40 M CoQ10 as compared to 20 M CoQ10. Non significant differences (P>0.05%) in the 8-cells embryo stage were assessed among control and treated groups. Conclusion: From the results of the present study it wasconcluded that the coenzyme Q10 (40µM) enriched to the culture medium improved percentage of in vitro fertilization and no effect on embryonic development.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI), it is a type of artificial insemination, used to treat infertility by which the Sperm that have been prepared and placed directly into the woman’s uterus around the time of ovulation. The main purpose of this procedure is to enable the sperm to swim into the fallopian tubes and fertilize a ready egg in order to lead to a natural pregnancy. IUI can be coordinated with the normal cycle with fertility or medications depending on the reasons for infertility The IUI outcome still low about 20-25% so adding number of biochemical factors to the culture medium which are essential to regulate the fertility potential of spermatozoa, for example, platelet-activating factor (PAF) which is a unique and novel signaling phospholipid that has multiple biologic properties have been tried. To determine the effect of adding the PAF into the culture medium to prepare and activate the semen samples of non-male factor infertility (normal semen analyses). This study was carried out in the Infertility Unit, AL-Hussein Teaching Hospital, Al-Nassirya City, through the period from 30th of October 2020 till 17th of April 2021. The study included thirty couples who are complaining from infertility (they failed to conceive after one year at least of regular unprotected intercourse. The frequency distribution of enrolled infertile men with normozoospermia Baseline characteristics of seminal fluid analysis of males with normozoospermia those with PAF are Semen volume ml, pH, Sperm concentration before million/ml, Sperm motility %, morphologically normal sperm %, were Mean ±SD (3.10 ±1.23, 7.39 ±0.03, 46.67 ±15.31, 1.33 ±3.52, 36.00 ±5.07) respectively. Certain sperm parameters were highly improved after in vitro activation by PAF medium of Normozoospermic samples.
Background: Obesity has been defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health while the Body mass index (BMI) is a simple index of the weight-to-height ratio that is commonly used in classifying overweight and obesity in adult populations. Many semen parameters alteration can be ascribed to obesity like decreased sperm concentration, abnormal morphology, compromised chromatin integrity and abnormal motility. Many evidences showed an adverse effect of excess body fat on spermatogenesis. Methods: A total sample size composed of (70)infertile men were grouped into three groups according to published BMI ranges as follows: normal weight, overweight and obese.A single semen sample was collected for each infertile men.Heightin (m) and weight in (kg) were recorded on day of semen collection.BMI was calculated as BMI= Kg\m2. Sperm parameters evaluated according to World Health Organization guidelines.Quantitation of the IL-6 in seminal plasma were accomplished using commercially available ELISA kit. Results: In the current study, a positive correlation was found between body mass index and IL-6, on the contrary, a significant negative correlation was found among IL-6 level and progressive sperm motility and sperm concentration as well. Conclusion: There is an increase of IL-6 from the adipose tissue with increasing BMI. The IL-6 cause reduction of the sperm motility by increasing the level of ROS. The obesity reduces the spermatogenesis by androgenic deficiency results in low sperm concentration and motilitywhich it may be the main reason of their infertility.
The objective of the research was to investigate the potential correlation between serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels and sperm parameters such as sperm concentration, sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology. A hundred male patients voluntarily participated in the study at a private andrology clinic in Al Najaf Al Ashraf City, Iraq, between October 2023 and November 2023. The patients were divided into four groups: 26 patients with oligozoospermia, 21 patients with asthenozoospermia, 28 patients with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT), and those with normozoospermia. Semen quality was evaluated by conducting a semen analysis according to the 2021 World Health Organization guidelines. The ELISA method was employed to measure the levels of AMH in serum samples. Biotechnology Instrument, USA, manufactured the ELIZA components that were used. The average age of the participants was 30.85 ± 0.70 years, BMI was 27.60 ± 0.58 kg/m2, and serum AMH was 2.08 ± 0.11 ng/ml. We did not find any negative or positive correlation between AMH levels in the blood with sperm concentration, sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology in all study groups. The results of this study showed that serum AMH is an unreliable marker for predicting spermatogenic abnormalities.
In about 40% of infertile couples, the husband was found to be either the single or a contributing cause of infertility and the systemic management ready for those couples with male infertility are restricted. 135 couples with infertility shared herein; the husbands required in vitro activation for their sperm samples, their wives however; had no fertility problem and were submitted ovarian induction protocol. However; Sperm preparation was done using both, the centrifugation indirect swim-up technique with Global medium and density gradient with ALLGrad solution. While ALLGrad 45% is a ready-to-be-used upper layer. There was an acceleration in seminal parameters after preparation using both various techniques. So, a highly significant increment (P≤0.001) in the percentages of progressive forward motility was in grades (A and B) and grade (A) progressive sperm motility, also a significant enhancement (P≤0.05) in percentage of morphologically normal sperms when applying density gradient mechanism in relation to centrifugation swim-up technique. This study concludes that the use of density gradient mechanism with ALLGrad solution and Global culture medium are more efficient in achieving better percentages of progressive forward motility grades (A and B), grade (A) progressive motility and morphologically normal values of spermatozoa than centrifugation indirect swim-up technique by using Global culture medium. However, it was found there was a non-significant difference when we use both techniques concerning other sperm parameters.
Back ground: Optimal IVF and embryo culture conditions depend on the composition of culture media being the most important determinants of successful in vitro interaction of the gametes and subsequent embryo development. ATP is fundamental factor to maintain the life, by providing energy, and controlling the cell function and metabolism. Objective: To investigate the effect ATP supplied to culture medium on fertilization rate and in mice as model for human being. Materials and Methods: The female mice (90) were superovulated using superovulation program (SOP) to produce large number of oocyte were divided into three groups, G1 inseminated with vassal sperm in vitro alone (control) , G2 inseminated with vassal sperm in vitro using SMART enriched with ATP(1.25mM). While, G3 inseminated with vassal sperm in vitro using SMART medium enriched with ATP (2.5mM). Mouse spermatozoa were collected from both vas deferens. Then sperm parameters were assessed after 30 min. IVF technique was performed for 3 groups. Results: The results of the present study appear, significantly increment (P<0.05) in the IVF (%) was observed when using 2.5 mM ATP as compared to 1.25 mM ATP and control group. Conclusions: The result showed that addition of high ATP concentration (2.5 mM) enriched to the culture medium improved percentage of in vitro fertilization.
Background: Tribulus terrestris (TT), Phoenix dactilyfera (Pd) and Nasturtium officinale (No) were believed to have fertility-enhancing effects and given by herbalists in Baghdad to men who need to increase their fertility capacity. Objectives: To investigate the possibility that aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the plants mixture can counteract the adverse effect of theobromine on reproductive system of male mic. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty mature male mice were injected intraperitoneally with 250 mg/kg/day of theobromine for four weeks. Then the males were treated intraperitonially with different dose levels of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of a mixture of the three plants for four weeks to evaluate their effects on body weight, reproductive organs weight, sperm parameters, hormones level and reproductive performance. Results: Both extracts showed a significant enhancement in all parameters studied. Almost all these results showed a dose dependent pattem with the ethanolic extract being the more effective than aqueous extract in all parameters. Conclusions: Mixture of the three plants seems to counteract the action of theobromine on the reproductive system of male mice through enhancing the concentration and motility of spermatozoa, increasing epididymis and seminal vesicles weight which are an indicator of testosterone production which brought about the stimulation of all male reproductive organs.