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One of the most important concerns in assisted reproduction (ART), and in particular ICSI, is the quality of sperm DNA. Oxidative stress is one of the major causes of damage to DNA and attempting to reduce generation of DNA damage related to reactive oxygen species (ROS) through consumption of antioxidants is often tempting. However, current antioxidant treatments, given irrespectively of clinically quantified deficiencies, are poorly efficient, potentially detrimental and over-exposure is risky. Here we discuss new treatments in relation to present day concepts on oxidative stress. This discussion includes stimulation of endogenous anti-ROS defense i.e. glutathione synthesis and recycling of homocysteine, the epicentre of multiple ROS-linked pathologies.

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., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Abstract: 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. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]