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Abstract Background Spermatogenesis is a highly regulated and complex process in which DNA methylation plays a crucial role. This study aimed to explore the differential methylation profiles in sperm DNA between patients with asthenospermia (AS) and healthy controls (HCs), those with oligoasthenospermia (OAS) and HCs, and patients with AS and those with OAS. Results Semen samples and clinical data were collected from five patients with AS, five patients with OAS, and six age-matched HCs. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) was performed to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in sperm cells among the different types of patients and HCs. A total of 6520, 28,019, and 16,432 DMRs were detected between AS and HC, OAS and HC, and AS and OAS groups, respectively. These DMRs were predominantly located within gene bodies and mapped to 2868, 9296, and 9090 genes in the respective groups. Of note, 12, 9, and 8 DMRs in each group were closely associated with spermatogenesis and male infertility. Furthermore, BDNF, SMARCB1, PIK3CA, and DDX27; RBMX and SPATA17; ASZ1, CDH1, and CHDH were identified as strong differentially methylated candidate genes in each group, respectively. Meanwhile, the GO analysis of DMR-associated genes in the AS vs. HC groups revealed that protein binding, cytoplasm, and transcription (DNA-templated) were the most enriched terms in the biological process (BP), cellular component (CC), and molecular function (MF), respectively. Likewise, in both the OAS vs. HC and AS vs. OAS groups, GO analysis revealed protein binding, nucleus, and transcription (DNA-templated) as the most enriched terms in BP, CC, and MF, respectively. Finally, the KEGG analysis of DMR-annotated genes and these genes at promoters suggested that metabolic pathways were the most significantly associated across all three groups. Conclusions The current study results revealed distinctive sperm DNA methylation patterns in the AS vs. HC and OAS vs. HC groups, particularly between patients with AS and those with OAS. The identification of key genes associated with spermatogenesis and male infertility in addition to the differentially enriched metabolic pathways may contribute to uncovering the potential pathogenesis in different types of abnormal sperm parameters.

Objective To explore the compatibility patterns of traditional Chinese medicine compound formulas for treating oligoasthenospermia in the national patent database, so as to provide reference for the treatment and development of new drugs for oligoasthenospermia. Methods Patent data on traditional Chinese medicine compounds for treating oligoasthenospermia from the "China Patent Publication and Announcement Website" from January 1.2000. to October 1.2023 were retrieved. The traditional Chinese medicine database was established using Excel12. 1.0.and the frequency of traditional Chinese medicine use of the included. traditional Chinese medicine compounds was analyzed based on the data mining function in the cloud platform of ancient and modern medical records (V2, 3, 7), On this basis, the traditional Chinese medicine flavor reduction and efficacy analysis were carried out the core drug pair was screened through drug association analysis. the drug classification of traditional Chinese medicine compounds for the treatment of oligoasthenospermia was obtained through cluster analysis, and the core prescription of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of oligoasthenospermia was screened through complex network analysis, Results A total of 189 traditional Chinese medicine compounds formulas meeting the criteria were included, involving 280 herbs, with a total frequency of use of 2 305 times. The most frequently used herbs were Cuscuta chinensis. Lycium barbarum. Epimedium brevicornum. Angelica sinensis and Rubus chingii. In terms of herbal properties, warm herbs were predominant, with a sweet taste, mainly attributed to the kidney liver and spleen meridians. The efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine such as strengthening tendons and bones and tonifying kidney yang,had relatively high frequencies of use. Core herb pairs identified through drug association analysis included "Lycium barbarum-Cuscuta chinensis" and "Cuscuta chinensis Epimedium brevicornum." Cluster analysis grouped 22. high-frequency Chinese herbs (25 times of use) into five categories. Complex network analysis identified "Wuzi Yanzong Pill" as the core formula for treating oligoasthenospermia with modifications, Conclusion Traditional Chinese medicine treatment for oligoasthenospermia primarily targets the core pathological mechanism of "kidney qi deficiency and kidney essence insufficiency", focusing on "tonifying the kidney to nourish essence" as the core therapeutic principle. Emphasis is placed on regulating the kidneys, liver, and spleen with commonly used herbs including those that strengthen tendons and bones and tonify kidney yang. The core prescription identified is composed of "Wuzi Yanzong Pill" with modifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spermatogenesis is a highly regulated and complex process in which DNA methylation plays a crucial role. This study aimed to explore the differential methylation profiles in sperm DNA between patients with asthenospermia (AS) and healthy controls (HCs), those with oligoasthenospermia (OAS) and HCs, and patients with AS and those with OAS. Results: Semen samples and clinical data were collected from five patients with AS, five patients with OAS, and six age-matched HCs. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) was performed to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in sperm cells among the different types of patients and HCs. A total of 6520, 28,019, and 16,432 DMRs were detected between AS and HC, OAS and HC, and AS and OAS groups, respectively. These DMRs were predominantly located within gene bodies and mapped to 2868, 9296, and 9090 genes in the respective groups. Of note, 12, 9, and 8 DMRs in each group were closely associated with spermatogenesis and male infertility. Furthermore, BDNF, SMARCB1, PIK3CA, and DDX27; RBMX and SPATA17; ASZ1, CDH1, and CHDH were identified as strong differentially methylated candidate genes in each group, respectively. Meanwhile, the GO analysis of DMR-associated genes in the AS vs. HC groups revealed that protein binding, cytoplasm, and transcription (DNA-templated) were the most enriched terms in the biological process (BP), cellular component (CC), and molecular function (MF), respectively. Likewise, in both the OAS vs. HC and AS vs. OAS groups, GO analysis revealed protein binding, nucleus, and transcription (DNA-templated) as the most enriched terms in BP, CC, and MF, respectively. Finally, the KEGG analysis of DMR-annotated genes and these genes at promoters suggested that metabolic pathways were the most significantly associated across all three groups. Conclusions: The current study results revealed distinctive sperm DNA methylation patterns in the AS vs. HC and OAS vs. HC groups, particularly between patients with AS and those with OAS. The identification of key genes associated with spermatogenesis and male infertility in addition to the differentially enriched metabolic pathways may contribute to uncovering the potential pathogenesis in different types of abnormal sperm parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionFerroptosis, induced by iron overload and an imbalance in redox homeostasis, promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to iron-dependent lipid peroxides (LPO) and oxidative stress. Lipid peroxidation induced by reactive oxygen species is essential for the progression of spermatogenesis. However, its imbalance can lead to reproductive system damage and oligoasthenospermia, a critical cause of oligoasthenospermia. Isatin (ISA) is a naturally occurring compound that is widely distributed in lobsters, crustaceans, shellfish and various plants. It exhibits significant antioxidant and anti-aging properties, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of oligoasthenospermia. This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of ISA on oligoasthenospermia and to elucidate the underlying molecular pathways.MethodsAll mice were divided into normal group, model group and treatment group. Both model group and treatment group received a single intraperitoneal injection of 30 mg/kg BUS to create the model of oligoasthenospermia. After 2 weeks, the treatment group received different doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg ISA by gavage for 28 days, and then mice were sacrificed and tested.ResultsThe results demonstrated that ISA effectively reversed busulfan-induced reproductive system damage in mice. This included the restoration of testicular histomorphology, improvement in sperm concentration and motility, regulation of serum sex hormone levels, and normalization of various oxidative indices in testicular tissue. Furthermore, ISA successfully reversed testicular ferroptosis by restraining the translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) into the nucleus and improved oligoasthenospermia through the glutathione (GSH)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) axis.DiscussionISA was found to effectively ameliorate oligoasthenospermia in mice, presenting a potential therapeutic option for patients with this condition.

This study examines the clinically comprehensive effects of Wuzi Shenqi Decoction, an acupoint application that combines traditional Chinese medicine with western medicine on male infertility with oligoasthenospermia of kidney-yang deficiency type. A total of 184 male infertiles with oligoasthenospermia who came to our hospital from April 2022 to June 2023 were randomly assigned to a study group (n = 92) and an experimental group (n = 92). The experimental group was treated with L-carnitine oral solution, while the study group was treated with Wuzi Shenqi Decoction combined with acupoint application based on the experimental group. Before and after treatment, clinical efficacy, semen parameters (semen volume, sperm density, sperm survival rate, sperm motility), sexual hormone parameters (follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), prolactin (PRL), estradiol), and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) syndrome scores were observed and compared between both groups. Before treatment, there was no significant difference in semen parameter index, sexual hormone index and TCM syndrome score between both groups (p > 0.05); after treatment, the semen parameter index and sexual hormone index in both groups were higher than before treatment, and the TCM syndrome score was diminished with a significant difference (p < 0.05). The overall response rate of the study group was 92.39%, which was significantly higher than that of the experimental group (72.83%) (p < 0.05). For male infertility patients with oligoasthenospermia of kidney-yang deficiency type, the use of Wuzi Shenqi Decoction combined with traditional Chinese medicine acupoint application plus L-carnitine oral solution can effectively improve the clinical symptoms of patients, improve semen quality, regulate sex hormone levels, which is worthy of clinical application.

AbstractContext Guilu-Erxian-Glue (GLEXG) is a traditional Chinese formula used to improve male reproductive dysfunction.Objective To investigate the ferroptosis resistance of GLEXG in the improvement of semen quality in the oligoasthenospermia (OAS) rat model.Materials and methods Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were administered Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside, a compound extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. (Celastraceae), at a dose of 40 mg/kg/day, to establish an OAS model. Fifty-four SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: sham, model, low-dose GLEXG (GLEXGL, 0.25 g/kg/day), moderate-dose GLEXG (GLEXGM, 0.50 g/kg/day), high-dose GLEXG (GLEXGH, 1.00 g/kg/day) and vitamin E (0.01 g/kg/day) group. The semen quality, structure and function of sperm mitochondria, histopathology, levels of oxidative stress and iron, and mRNA levels and protein expression in the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway, were analyzed.Results Compared with the model group, GLEXGH significantly improved sperm concentration (35.73 ± 15.42 vs. 17.40 ± 4.12, p

Guilu-Erxian-Glue (GLEXG) is a traditional Chinese formula used to improve male reproductive dysfunction. To investigate the ferroptosis resistance of GLEXG in the improvement of semen quality in the oligoasthenospermia (OAS) rat model. Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were administered Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside, a compound extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. (Celastraceae), at a dose of 40 mg/kg/day, to establish an OAS model. Fifty-four SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: sham, model, low-dose GLEXG (GLEXGL, 0.25 g/kg/day), moderate-dose GLEXG (GLEXGM, 0.50 g/kg/day), high-dose GLEXG (GLEXGH, 1.00 g/kg/day) and vitamin E (0.01 g/kg/day) group. The semen quality, structure and function of sperm mitochondria, histopathology, levels of oxidative stress and iron, and mRNA levels and protein expression in the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway, were analyzed. Compared with the model group, GLEXGH significantly improved sperm concentration (35.73 ± 15.42 vs. 17.40 ± 4.12, p < 0.05) and motility (58.59 ± 11.06 vs. 28.59 ± 9.42, p < 0.001), and mitigated testicular histopathology. Moreover, GLEXGH markedly reduced the ROS level (5684.28 ± 1345.47 vs. 15500.44 ± 2307.39, p < 0.001) and increased the GPX4 level (48.53 ± 10.78 vs. 23.14 ± 11.04, p < 0.01), decreased the ferrous iron level (36.31 ± 3.66 vs. 48.64 ± 7.74, p < 0.05), and rescued sperm mitochondrial morphology and potential via activating the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway. Ferroptosis resistance from GLEXG might be driven by activation of the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway. Targeting ferroptosis is a novel approach for OAS therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligoasthenospermia is the primary cause of infertility. However, there are still enormous challenges in the screening of critical candidates and targets of oligoasthenospermia owing to its complex mechanism. In this study, stem cell factor (SCF), c-kit, and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) biosensors were successfully established and applied to studying apoptosis and autophagy mechanisms. Interestingly, the detection limit reached 2.787 × 10−15 g/L, and the quantitative limit reached 1.0 × 10−13 g/L. Furthermore, biosensors were used to investigate the interplay between autophagy and apoptosis. Schisandrin A is an excellent candidate to form a system with c-kit similar to SCF/c-kit with a detection constant (KD) of 5.701 × 10−11 mol/L, whereas it had no affinity for SCF. In addition, it also inhibited autophagy in oligoasthenospermia through antagonizing TRPV1 with a KD of up to 4.181 × 10−10 mol/L. In addition, in vivo and in vitro experiments were highly consistent with the biosensor. In summary, high-potency schisandrin A and two potential targets were identified, through which schisandrin A could reverse the apoptosis caused by excessive autophagy during oligoasthenospermia. Our study provides promising insights into the discovery of effective compounds and potential targets via a well-established in vitro-in vivo strategy.

Oligoasthenospermia is the primary cause of infertility. However, there are still enormous challenges in the screening of critical candidates and targets of oligoasthenospermia owing to its complex mechanism. In this study, stem cell factor (SCF), c-kit, and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) biosensors were successfully established and applied to studying apoptosis and autophagy mechanisms. Interestingly, the detection limit reached 2.787 × 10−15 g/L, and the quantitative limit reached 1.0 × 10−13 g/L. Furthermore, biosensors were used to investigate the interplay between autophagy and apoptosis. Schisandrin A is an excellent candidate to form a system with c-kit similar to SCF/c-kit with a detection constant (K D) of 5.701 × 10−11 mol/L, whereas it had no affinity for SCF. In addition, it also inhibited autophagy in oligoasthenospermia through antagonizing TRPV1 with a K D of up to 4.181 × 10−10 mol/L. In addition, in vivo and in vitro experiments were highly consistent with the biosensor. In summary, high-potency schisandrin A and two potential targets were identified, through which schisandrin A could reverse the apoptosis caused by excessive autophagy during oligoasthenospermia. Our study provides promising insights into the discovery of effective compounds and potential targets via a well-established in vitro - in vivo strategy. Discovery of Schisandrin A regulating the interplay of autophagy and apoptosis of oligoasthenospermia by targeting the SCF/c-kit and TRPV1 via biosensors coupled with in vivo and in vitro investigation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Oligoasthenospermia (OAT) is the most common cause of male infertility, and the annual incidence of the disease continues to increase due to changing lifestyle habits, increased work pressure and increased environmental pollution. A variety of nonpharmacological therapies have been reported to be effective for treating OAT; however, there is a lack of direct evidence comparing these different nonpharmacological therapies. Therefore, the optimal strategy has yet to be identified. Objectives A network meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nonpharmacological treatments for OAT, thus providing an evidence-based medical reference for the clinical treatment of oligoasthenospermia. Methods The Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Weipu (VIP), Wan Fang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and China Biomedical Literature (CBM) databases were searched from inception to April 2022 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined nonpharmacological treatments for oligozoospermia. Grey literature was also searched. Studies that met the quality criteria were analysed using Stata 16.0 and Review Manager 5.4 software. Results A total of 4629 publications were initially retrieved; ultimately, 38 RCTs were analysed, including 8 nonpharmacological therapies and 3080 patients. Each intervention outperformed the sham intervention and no treatment approaches in terms of improved efficacy. In terms of improved total effective rate and sperm concentration, warming acupuncture may be the most effective treatment (SUCRA = 80.1% and 93.4%, respectively). Electroacupuncture perhaps resulted in the best improvement in sperm motility a% and a + b% (SUCRA = 96.6% and 82.0%, respectively). In terms of the incidence of adverse reactions, the three safest interventions probably were no treatment, warming acupuncture, and sham intervention (SUCRA = 88.0%, 68.8% and 62.9%, respectively). In terms of improving the reproductive hormones FSH, LH, and T, the best interventions perhaps were hyperbaric oxygen, 2 Hz TEAS, and electroacupuncture (SUCRA = 85.1%, 96.8% and 99.4%, respectively). Conclusions Nonpharmacological treatments for oligoasthenospermia have good clinical efficacy. Warm acupuncture and electroacupuncture have better overall efficacy and safety. These treatment approaches can be recommended based on the actual situation. If a patient is complicated with varicoceles, they should be removed before symptomatic treatment. Due to the limitations of the quality of the included studies, the findings need to be further validated.

Background: Oligoasthenospermia (OAT) is the most common cause of male infertility, and the annual incidence of the disease continues to increase due to changing lifestyle habits, increased work pressure and increased environmental pollution. A variety of nonpharmacological therapies have been reported to be effective for treating OAT; however, there is a lack of direct evidence comparing these different nonpharmacological therapies. Therefore, the optimal strategy has yet to be identified. Objectives: A network meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nonpharmacological treatments for OAT, thus providing an evidence-based medical reference for the clinical treatment of oligoasthenospermia. Methods: The Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Weipu (VIP), Wan Fang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and China Biomedical Literature (CBM) databases were searched from inception to April 2022 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined nonpharmacological treatments for oligozoospermia. Grey literature was also searched. Studies that met the quality criteria were analysed using Stata 16.0 and Review Manager 5.4 software. Results: A total of 4629 publications were initially retrieved; ultimately, 38 RCTs were analysed, including 8 nonpharmacological therapies and 3080 patients. Each intervention outperformed the sham intervention and no treatment approaches in terms of improved efficacy. In terms of improved total effective rate and sperm concentration, warming acupuncture may be the most effective treatment (SUCRA = 80.1% and 93.4%, respectively). Electroacupuncture perhaps resulted in the best improvement in sperm motility a% and a + b% (SUCRA = 96.6% and 82.0%, respectively). In terms of the incidence of adverse reactions, the three safest interventions probably were no treatment, warming acupuncture, and sham intervention (SUCRA = 88.0%, 68.8% and 62.9%, respectively). In terms of improving the reproductive hormones FSH, LH, and T, the best interventions perhaps were hyperbaric oxygen, 2 Hz TEAS, and electroacupuncture (SUCRA = 85.1%, 96.8% and 99.4%, respectively). Conclusions: Nonpharmacological treatments for oligoasthenospermia have good clinical efficacy. Warm acupuncture and electroacupuncture have better overall efficacy and safety. These treatment approaches can be recommended based on the actual situation. If a patient is complicated with varicoceles, they should be removed before symptomatic treatment. Due to the limitations of the quality of the included studies, the findings need to be further validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Modeling methods for busulfan-induced oligoasthenozoospermia are controversial. We aimed to systematically review the modeling method of busulfan-induced oligospermia and asthenozoospermia, and analyze changes in various evaluation indicators at different busulfan doses over time. Methods: We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed databases, Web of Science, the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Service System until April 9, 2022. Animal experiments of busulfan-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction were included and screened. The model mortality and parameters of the evaluation indicators were subjected to meta-analysis. Results: Twenty-nine animal studies were included (control/model: 669/1829). The mortality of mice increased with busulfan dose. Significant spermatogenesis impairment occurred within 5 weeks, regardless of busulfan dose (10–40 mg/kg). Testicular weight (weighted mean difference [WMD]: − 0.04, 95% CI: − 0.05, − 0.03), testicular index (WMD: − 2.10, 95% CI: − 2.43, − 1.76), and Johnsen score (WMD: − 4.67, 95% CI: − 5.99, − 3.35) were significantly decreased. The pooled sperm counts of the model group were reduced by 32.8 × 106/ml (WMD: − 32.8, 95% CI: − 44.34, − 21.28), and sperm motility decreased by 37% (WMD: − 0.37, 95% CI: − 0.47, − 0.27). Sperm counts decreased slightly (WMD: − 3.03, 95% CI: − 3.42, − 2.64) in an intratesticular injection of low-dose busulfan (4 − 6 mg/kg), and the model almost returned to normal after one seminiferous cycle. Conclusion: The model using low-dose busulfan (10 − 20 mg/kg) returned to normal after 10 − 15 weeks. However, in some spermatogenesis cycles, testicular weight reduction and testicular spermatogenic function damage were not proportional to busulfan dose. Sperm counts and motility results in different studies had significant heterogeneity. Standard protocols for sperm assessment in animal models were needed to reduce heterogeneity between studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Oxidative stress is a key player in the development of idiopathic male infertility (IMI), and various antioxidants have been used for the treatment of IMI with inconsistent results. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a cofactor and an antioxidant that may improve semen parameters and reduce oxidative stress in patients with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia (OA). Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effect of CoQ10 on semen parameters and antioxidant markers in patients with idiopathic OA. Methods: Fifty patients with idiopathic OA and 35 fertile controls were enrolled in this prospective controlled study. All participants underwent a comprehensive fertility assessment. All patients received CoQ10 (300 mg/day) orally once daily for 3 months. Semen parameters, seminal CoQ10 levels, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured in patients and controls at the start of the study and after 3 months. Results: Treatment with CoQ10 resulted in increased sperm progressive motility (p<0.05), total motility (p<0.01), seminal TAC (p<0.01), SOD (p<0.05), GPx (p<0.001), and seminal CoQ10 (p<0.001) levels and reduced ROS (p<0.01) in patients as compared to baseline. Sperm concentration and motility were also significantly correlated with antioxidant measures and seminal CoQ10 levels (r=0.38-0.57). Conclusion: CoQ10 therapy (300 mg/day for 3 months) improved sperm motility and seminal antioxidant markers in patients with idiopathic OA. Therefore, CoQ10 could be a promising treatment for patients with idiopathic infertility and may improve their fertility potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Oligoasthenospermia is one of the main causes of male infertility. Researchers usually use chemical drugs to directly damage germ cells to prepare oligoasthenospermia models, which disregards the adhesion and migration between spermatogenic cells and Sertoli cells. TAp73 is a critical regulator of the adhesin of germ cell; thus, we sought to explore a novel oligoasthenospermia model based on TAp73 gene suppression. Methods Mice in the Pifithrin‐α group were injected intraperitoneally with 2.5 mg/kg Pifithrin‐α (TAp73 inhibitor) daily for 30 consecutive days. Reproductive hormone levels and epididymal sperm quality, as well as the network morphology of Sertoli cells were tested. Results Sperm density, motility, and the relative protein and mRNA expression of TAp73 and Nectin 2 were obviously decreased in the Pifithrin‐α group compared with the normal control group. No significant distinction was observed in the relative mRNA and protein expression of ZO‐1. Furthermore, the tight junctions (TJs) and apical ectoplasmic specialization (ES) were destroyed in the Pifithrin‐α group. Conclusion The above results indicate that we successfully established a new oligoasthenospermia mouse model. This study provides a foundation for further exploration of the roles of TAp73 genes during spermatogenesis and provides new research objects for further oligospermia research and future drug discovery.

Objective: To investigate the effect of Xuduan Zhongzi prescription on the expression of HSP60 and HSP90 in testicular spermatogenic cells and semen quality of oligozoospermia and asthenospermia model rats. Methods: A total of 40 SPF male rats were randomly divided into 10 blank control group and 30 model group. After successful modeling, the model group was divided into model control group, levocarnitine group and Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group with 10 rats in each group. The rats in levocarnitine group and Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group were given corresponding drugs by gavage according to the equivalent measurement of humanbody, the blank control group and model control group were given the same amount of normal saline by gavage, and the rats in each group were killed after 8 weeks of continuous administration. Take the left epididymis of each group for sperm quality detection, take the left testis of each group, observe the histomorphological changes by HE staining, and detect the expression of HSP60 and HSP90 in testicular tissue by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Results: HE staining showed that compared with the blank control group, the convoluted tubules in the model group were significantly atrophic, degenerated and irregularly arranged, the spermatogenic epithelium showed a large number of vacuoles, Sertoli cell degeneration, obvious inflammatory infiltration in stromal cells, stromal cell proliferation, scattered rows of epithelial cells, a large number of exfoliation and degeneration, and sperm were rare. After the intervention of Xuduan Zhongzi prescription, the above lesions were significantly improved, the structure of seminiferous tubules was relatively regular and orderly, denser than that of the model group, sertoli cells and stromal cells increased significantly, the seminiferous epithelium was thicker than that of the model group, with rich layers, and a large number of sperm could be seen in the lumen. Immunohistochemistry and Western Blot showed that the expression of HSP60 and HSP90 increased significantly after the intervention of Xuduan Zhongzi prescription in model rats (P<0.01). The sperm quality test results showed that compared with the blank control group, the sperm concentration and activity rate in the model group decreased significantly, (P<0.01). After continuous seed cutting, the sperm concentration and activity rate of model rats were significantly increased, (P<0.01). Conclusion: Xuduan Zhongzi prescription may inhibit the apoptosis of testicular spermatogenic cells in oligoasthenospermia model rats by increasing the expression of HSP60 and HSP90, so as to improve sperm quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligoasthenospermia (OAS) is a global human developmental disease and the most common type of male infertility. There are currently no sufficiently effective therapeutic strategies for OAS. Wuziyanzong Pill (WZYZP) is a traditional Chinese prescription for the clinical treatment of male infertility, and its efficacy is well known in China. Therefore, due to the complexity of traditional Chinese medicine, the specific mechanism of action of WZYZP on OAS has not been elucidated. Astragalin (AG), one of the main active substances in WZYZP, has good antioxidant effect. The aim of this research is to investigate whether AG, the active substance in WZYZP, can treat OAS by promoting Nrf2 nuclear translocation and inhibiting ferroptosis. The OAS model was established by intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide, and the therapeutic effects of AG and WZYZP on OAS were evaluated by detecting sperm quality, sex hormone levels and testicular pathological changes after intragastric administration of AG and WZYZP. Western blot was used to measure the expression levels of TFR1, SLC7A11, GPX4 and FTH1. The nuclear translocation of Nrf2 was detected by immunofluorescence staining and nuclear/intracellular expression of Nrf2. The results showed that AG could improve sperm quality and serum sex hormone levels in OAS rats, reduce the expression of testicular Fe 2+ and TFR1, up-regulate testicular SLC7A11, GPX4 and FTH1, and inhibit testicular ferroptosis. At the same time, AG can promote the expression and nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in the testis of OAS rats. AG can alleviate OAS via promoting nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and inhibiting ferroptosis of testis., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest in our work and the manuscript was published with the consent of all authors. On behalf of my co-authors, I would like to state that the work described here is original research that has never been published before and is not under consideration for publication elsewhere., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Objective: To investigate the protective mechanism of Xuduan Zhongzi prescription against epididymal oxidative damage in oligoasthenospermia model rats. Methods: Forty SD rats were randomly divided into blank group, model group, Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group (10g/ kg)and L-carnitine group(0.1g/kg). Except blank group, all induced oligoasmospermia. The blank group and model group were given normal saline intragastric administration, the Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group was given Xuduan Zhongzi prescription solution intragastric administration, and the L-carnitine group was given L-carnitine intragastric administration. HE staining was used to observe the epididymis structure after 8 weeks. The concentration and activity rate of epididymis sperm were measured by sperm quality. MRNA and protein expression levels of Nrf2, NQO1 and γ -GCs in epididymis were detected by RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry. Results: ①HE staining: in the blank group, the epididymis tubes were arranged tightly and regularly, the tissue structure was complete, the epithelial cells were arranged orderly, and the lumen sperm were numerous and evenly distributed. The epididymis of model group showed structural atrophy, loose arrangement, enlarged mesenchyme, increased cell debris and significantly reduced sperm cells. Compared with the model group, the lumen lesions of epididymis in Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group and L-carnitine group were significantly improved, and the amount of normal sperm in lumen was increased and the distribution was uniform. ② Results of sperm quality comparison among each group: sperm density and sperm motility rate: compared with blank group, sperm density and sperm motility rate in other groups were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and sperm density and sperm motility rate in model group were significantly decreased (P < 0.05); Compared with model group, the sperm density and motility rate in Xuduan Zhongzi prescription group and L-carnitine group were significantly increased (P < 0.05). ③RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry: Compared with the blank group, the mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2, NQO1 and γ -GCs in epididymal rats in model group were significantly decreased (P<0.05), while the mRNA and protein levels of Nrf2, NQO1 and γ -GCs were significantly increased in L-carnitine group and Continua seed formula group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Xuduan Zhongzi prescription can reduce oxidative stress damage and improve sperm quality of oligoasthenospermia. The mechanism may related to promoting the activation of Nrf2-NQO1/γ-GCS pathway in epididymis of oligoasthenospermia rats, and up-regulate the expressions of Nrf2, NQO1 and γ-GCS proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene mutation has been clearly defined in congenital absence of the vas deferens (CAVD), which is an important cause of obstructive azoospermia. However, the association between oligoasthenospermia and CFTR gene mutation remains controversial. To confirm this issue, 151 infertile Chinese men were screened for CFTR mutation by NGS approach, including 18 CAVD patients, 72 patients with severe oligoasthenospermia and 61 controls with normal sperm parameters. Frequency of mutation in exons of CFTR gene were 66.7% in CAVD patients (12/18) (p < 0.001) and 8.33% in severe oligoasthenospermic patients (6/72) (p < 0.05), both of which were significantly more frequent than that in the controls (0/61). In terms of introns mutation of CFTR gene, there was no significant difference in frequency of 5T between oligoasthenospermic men (5/144, 3.47%) and the controls (4/122, 3.28%) (p = 0.645). In addition, 6 novel mutations in exons of CFTR gene in this study (c.3736A>G, c.635T>G, c.482delA, c.1858C>T, c.2042A>T, c.1586A>C) have not been reported in the Cystic Fibrosis Mutation Database before. Thus, our study provides evidence that CFTR gene mutation may be the aetiology of severe oligoasthenospermia other than CAVD. It may be necessary to screen for CFTR mutations in men with severe oligoasthenospermia before receiving assisted reproductive technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Question: Is there an association between male fertility and spermatozoa mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and genome rearrangements?Summary Answer: Normal spermatozoa not only have a lower mtDNA copy number but also more DNA rearrangements than spermatozoa of men with severe oligoasthenospermia (SOA).What Is Known Already: While there is a consensus that mtDNA content is decreased in the most fertile spermatozoa, the role of mtDNA sequence alteration in male infertility is unclear. High-throughput sequencing, which allows an exhaustive analysis of mtDNA rearrangements and mutations, could be helpful in this context, but has yet to be used.Study Design, Size, Duration: This is an observational study of semen samples obtained from 44 men undergoing ART at an academic infertility centre in France, from October 2018 to November 2020. The men were classified into two groups: 20 men in the SOA group and 24 men with normal semen parameters in the control group.Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: For each patient and control, mtDNA was isolated from sperm fractions from the 40% and 90% layers of the density gradient. The average mtDNA content of each sample was assessed using digital PCR. Deep sequencing was performed using next-generation sequencing. Signal processing and base calling were performed via the embedded pre-processing pipeline, the variants were analysed using an in-house workflow and a dedicated tool, based on soft-clipping, was used to study large mtDNA rearrangements. The distribution and the type of rearrangements and variants were compared between patients with SOA and controls on one hand, and between the 40% and 90% gradient layers, on the other hand.Main Results and the Role Of Chance: The mtDNA content of spermatozoa in the SOA group was significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.0001). Moreover, mtDNA content was significantly higher in spermatozoa from the 40% layer (the most fertile spermatozoa) compared to the 90% layer, both in the SOA (P = 0.02) and the control group (P < 0.0001). The frequency of large mtDNA deletions and duplications was significantly higher in the control group (P = 0.002). Most of these rearrangements are potentially related to DNA breaks and their number was reduced by the removal of the linear mtDNA from the samples. Heteroplasmic variants were found more frequently in the SOA group (P = 0.05) and in the 40% layer (P = 0.03), but none had any obvious functional consequence.Limitations, Reasons For Caution: Our findings are novel and significant but should be verified in larger cohorts and other types of male infertility.Wider Implications Of the Findings: Our findings suggest that sperm mtDNA rearrangements are not necessarily associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and male infertility. Instead, they seem to be concomitant with the process of mtDNA content reduction in the most potentially fertile spermatozoa. Furthermore, they refute the hypothesis that, in the case of mtDNA alteration, a compensatory mechanism allows an increase in mtDNA copy number to rectify the energy deficit. The increased frequency of mtDNA rearrangements in the most fertile spermatozoa is a novel result that offers new insight into the relation between sperm quality and mtDNA.Study Funding/competing Interest(s): This work was supported by Angers University Hospital (grant AOI CHU Angers 2018), Angers University and the French national research centres INSERM and CNRS. There are no competing interests.Trial Registration Number: N/A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the therapeutic effects and pharmacological mechanisms of Yishen Xingyang capsule (YXC) in oligoasthenospermia (OA) rats. Methods: Forty-eight male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into eight groups of six rats each: normal control (NC); model control (MC); three different positive drug (PD); and low-, medium-, and high-dose YXC groups. A rat model of OA was established by administering glucosides of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F (GTW). After YXC administration, penile erectile function was observed. The epididymis, blood, and testes of the rats were harvested for analysis of sperm quality, sex hormone levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smad signaling pathway. Results: Compared with that in the MC group, penile erectile function in the YXC groups and three PD groups increased (all P

Runjing Decoction (RJD) is a prescription of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of oligoasthenospermia. However, the molecular mechanism of RJD on oligoasthenospermia still remains unknown. A model of oligoasthenospermia was induced in 30 Sprague Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide at 35 mg/kg per day for 5 days and treated by intragastric RJD (13.5 g/kg) or L‐carnitine (100 mg/kg) for 14 days. The body weight, testis and epididymis weight, grade A spermatozoa, grade B spermatozoa, the percentage of sperm forward motility (PR%), the sperm activity rate and the sperm density of rats were evaluated before and after RJD treatment. The testis apoptosis was determined by TUNEL staining. The expressions of RXFP1, FoxO1, PI3K, Akt, Bax and Bcl‐2 were determined by qRT‐PCR and Western blot, respectively. After RJD treatment, the grade A spermatozoa, sperm PR%, sperm activity and sperm density were significantly increased relative to those in model rats. Cell apoptosis of testis tissue was reversed by RJD. RJD suppressed cell apoptosis, inhibited the expression of RXFP1, FOXO1, PI3K, AKT and Bax, and promoted the expression levels of Bcl‐2 in testicular tissue of oligoasthenospermia rats. RJD could alleviate sperm quality and testis damage in oligoasthenospermia rats by inhibiting RXFP1/AKT/FOXO1 pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of the Speroton complex therapy in combined treatment of oligoasthenospermia in patients with varicocele after microsurgical phlebectomy of varicose veins of the spermatic cord.Materials and methods. Microsurgical phlebectomy of the spermatic cord was performed in 40 men (mean age 33.0 ± 2.3 years) with oligoasthenospermia and varicocele. The patients were divided into 2 groups: the main group included 20 men who were treated with the Speroton complex for 3 months in the postoperative period, and the control group included 20 men who did not take Speroton. The spermogram parameters were evaluated before and after the operation.Results. Three months after the start of treatment, a statistically significant improvement in spermogram indicators was noted in all study groups. It was determined that combined therapy that included the Speroton complex administration for 3 months, statistically significantly led to the more considerable increase in sperm parameters than in control group: the sperm concentration increased to 38.6 and 28.9 mln/ml, respectively, the percentage of progressive motile sperm – to 49.2 and 39.4 %, the percentage of motile forms – to 72.2 and 43.8 %, viable forms – to 67.8 and 58.1 %, and the percentage of sperm with DNA fragmentation decreased to 12.1 and 17.2 %, respectively, in the main and control groups.Conclusion. Combined treatment with postoperative Speroton therapy for men of reproductive age with infertility and varicocele determines the more significant improvement in the parameters of sperm than performing only surgical correction of varicocele.

Objective: To evaluate whether intergroup differences in the risk of maternal pregnancy complications after in vitro fertilization (IVF) vary with male factor., Design: A post hoc exploratory secondary analysis of data from a multicenter, randomized, controlled noninferiority trial (NCT03118141)., Setting: Academic fertility centers., Patient(s): A total of 1,131 subfertile women with complete recording of their male partner's semen parameters during the trial were enrolled. All participants underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection followed by frozen embryo transfer (ET) as part of their assisted reproductive technology treatment protocol., Intervention(s): Women were divided into the oligoasthenospermia (n = 405) and normospermia (n = 726) groups according to the quality of male sperm., Main Outcome Measure(s): Pregnancy complications, principally including the incidence of preeclampsia., Result(s): Notably, we found that the risk of maternal preeclampsia was significantly higher in the oligoasthenospermia group than in the normospermia group. After adjustments for confounding factors by multivariate logistic regression analysis, the incidence of preeclampsia in the oligoasthenospermia group was still significantly higher than that in the normospermia group (6.55% vs. 3.60%; odds ratio, 0.529; 95% confidence interval, 0.282-0.992). However, there were no significant differences in terms of embryo quality, cumulative live birth rate, other pregnancy complications, or neonatal outcomes between the 2 groups., Conclusion(s): Oligoasthenospermia was associated with a higher risk of maternal preeclampsia in subfertile couples undergoing IVF-ET treatment. In clinical practice, it is essential to thoroughly evaluate the sperm quality and quantity of male partners before IVF-ET. Further research is needed to establish the causal relationships between semen quality and adverse pregnancy complications, particularly preeclampsia, and explore potential interventions., Competing Interests: Declaration of Interests L.G. has nothing to disclose. A.G. has nothing to disclose. X.L. has nothing to disclose. S.T. has nothing to disclose. F.S. has nothing to disclose. Y.S. has nothing to disclose. Z.-J.C. has nothing to disclose. Y.C. has nothing to disclose. Y.L. has nothing to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Researches have proposed that obesity might contribute to development of oligoasthenospermia. This study was performed to confirm whether obesity contributes to oligoasthenospermia as well as the underlying mechanisms in mice fed with a high fat diet (HFD). Meanwhile, the actions of metformin, a drug of well-known weight-lowering effect, on sperm quality in obese mice were investigated. Our results showed that HFD feeding reduced sperm quality and steroid hormone levels in mice, associated with disruptions in testicular histomorphology and spermatogenesis. Moreover, obesity increased sperm apoptosis. These effects could be prevented by metformin treatment in HFD-fed mice. Mechanistically, an increasement in lipid contents associated with decreased hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) protein expression in testes in HFD-fed mice was observed, which could be improved by metformin treatment. Then, the model of TM4 mouse Sertoli cells stimulated with palmitic acid (PA) was used to investigate the potential effect of lipid retention on testicular apoptosis and sperm quality reduction. In consistent, PA exposure elevated lipid contents as well as apoptosis in TM4 cells, which could also be improved by metformin treatment. Of note, the protein expression of HSL was reduced stimulated by PA in TM4 cells, also rescued by metformin. Then, anti-apoptosis effect of metformin would be lost with the deficiency of HSL. In summary, our study propose that obesity contributes to oligoasthenospermia by increasing sperm apoptosis induced by impaired lipid hydrolysis due to HSL down-regulation, which could be prevented with metformin treatment via regulating the expression of HSL in testis in mice. • Obesity could reduce sperm quality by increasing apoptosis of sperm in mice. • HSL inhibition and reduced lipid utility account for obesity-oligoasthenospermia in mice. • Impairments of obesity on male fertility might be reversible by treatment of metformin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The function and regulatory mechanisms of 5-methylcytidine (m5C) in oligoasthenospermia remain unclear. In this study, we made a mouse model of oligoasthenospermia through the administration of busulfan (BUS). For the first time, we demonstrated that m5C levels decreased in oligoasthenospermia. The m5C levels were upregulated through the treatments of 5-methylcytidine. The testicular morphology and sperm concentrations were improved via upregulating m5C. The cytoskeletal regenerations of testis and sperm were accompanying with m5C treatments. m5C treatments improved T levels and reduced FSH and LH levels. The levels of ROS and MDA were significantly reduced through m5C treatments. RNA sequencing analysis showed m5C treatments increased the expression of genes involved in spermatid differentiation/development and cilium movement. Immunofluorescent staining demonstrated the regeneration of cilium and quantitative PCR (qPCR) confirmed the high expression of genes involved in spermatogenesis. Collectively, our findings suggest that the upregulation of m5C in oligoasthenospermia facilitates testicular morphology recovery and male infertility via multiple pathways, including cytoskeletal regeneration, hormonal levels, attenuating oxidative stress, spermatid differentiation/development and cilium movement. m5C may be a potential therapeutic agent for oligoasthenospermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antler glue is a classic medicinal to enhance sexual function in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which was first recorded in Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (Shennong′s Classic of the Materia Medica). Vinegar-processing is a classic method of processing traditional Chinese medicine. The method of preparing antler glue by boiling antlers in vinegar and then concentrating them is recorded in Lei Gong Pao Zhi Lun (Master Lei′s Discourse on Medicinal Processing). In modern times, the typical processing method of antler glue is water extraction and concentration. However, it is not clear whether there is a difference in the effect of these two processing methods on the chemical composition and pharmacological activity of antler glue. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2020) records that the processing method of antler glue is water extraction and concentration. But Lei Gong Pao Zhi Lun differs in Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2020) , which records the processing method of vinegar extraction and concentration. The effect of the two processing methods on antler glue's chemical composition and pharmacological activity is unknown. So this study aimed to elucidate the difference between different processing methods on the chemical composition and the treatment effect on oligoasthenospermia of antler glue. So the automatic amino acid analyzer is used to determine the amino acid content of two different processing methods of antler glue. Proteomics was performed to detect the protein components of two different processing methods of antler glue and analyze them. Cyclophosphamide-induced mice models of oligoasthenospermia were used to study the different pharmacological effects of antler glue in two different processing methods. An automatic sperm analyzer observed the quantity and quality of sperm in mice epididymis. Serum sex hormone testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in mice were tested using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining was used to analyze pathological alterations in mouse testicular tissue. The transcriptome has been used to reveal the potential mechanism of antler glue in treating oligoasthenospermia. Mitochondrial complex activity assay kits were used to assay the activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I–V in mouse testicular tissue. Western blot was used to determine the expression of related proteins in mouse testicular tissue. Vinegar-processing can increase the alanine, proline, and glycine content in antler glue, reduce the length of protein peptides in antler glue, and produce a variety of unique proteins. Vinegar-processed antler glue (VAG) increased sperm density, sperm survival, sperm viability, and serum sex hormone levels in oligozoospermic mice. It reversed testicular damage caused by cyclophosphamide, and the effects were differently superior to those of water-processed antler glue (WAG). In addition, transcriptomics and related experiments have shown that VAG can increase the expression of Ndufa2, Uqcr11, Cox6b1, and Atp5i genes and proteins in mouse testis, thus promoting adenosine diphosphate (ATP) synthesis by increasing the activity of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I, III, IV and V. By promoting the oxidative phosphorylation process to produce more ATP, VAG can achieve the therapeutic effect of oligoasthenospermia. Vinegar-processing method can increase the content of active ingredients in antler glue. VAG increases ATP levels in the testes by promoting the process of oxidative phosphorylation to treat oligozoospermia. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effect of nontense vaginal hydrocele in male partner with oligoasthenospermia on the success rates of the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Patients and Methods: Enrolled patients (n = 60) were divided into two groups: Group I who have oligoasthenospermia with nontense vaginal hydrocele (study group) and Group II who have oligoasthenospermia with no hydrocele group (control group). The primary outcomes included the fertilization and pregnancy rates whereas the secondary outcomes included any complications occurred. Results: There were no differences in demographic characteristics between both groups. Semen parameters were poorer in the hydrocele group than in the nonhydrocele group regarding count and motility (P < 0.001). The volume of testis was reduced significantly in the hydrocele group (P < 0.001). The results of ICSI regarding fertilization rate, number and quality of developed embryos, and pregnancy rates are not statistically different between both groups. Conclusion: Hydrocele affects both sperm count and motility, but it has no effects on ICSI outcomes. Clinical pregnancy rate was comparable in patients with or without hydrocele. Hence, the surgical management of hydrocele before ICSI is not recommended.

This study established an oligoasthenospermic rat model using tripterygium glycosides (TGs) and investigated the mechanism by which Qilin pills (QLPs) ameliorate reproductive hypofunction. Thirty‐two male Sprague Dawley rats were allocated to four equal‐sized groups: (1) the control group received continuous physiological levels of saline; (2) the oligoasthenospermia model group was induced with TGs by daily intragastric administration for 28 days; (3 and 4) oligoasthenospermic rats were treated intragastrically with low dose (1.62 g kg−1 d−1) and high dose (3.24 g kg−1 d−1) of QLPs once daily for 60 days. The QLP‐treated rats showed a marked increase (p <.05) in testicular mass, testicular index and semen parameters compared with the untreated rats. Histopathologically, the QLP‐treated groups exhibited restored seminiferous tubules in contrast to the model group. Reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde levels were dramatically decreased (p <.05) in the testes of the QLP‐treated rats. QLP treatment partly reverted (p <.05) the circulatory levels of reproductive hormones (FSH, LH, testosterone, prolactin and SHBG) and hepatic and renal function (AST, Cr and urea). Our results showed that oral QLP treatment had a curative effect on the testicular mass, sperm quality, testicular pathomorphology, antioxidants, plasmatic hormones, and liver and renal function of rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Male factor is incriminated in approximately 50% of cases of infertility. The metabolomic approach has recently been used in the assessment of sperm quality and male fertility. Materials and methods: We analyzed the metabolomic signatures of the seminal plasma in 20 men with severe oligoasthenospermia (prewash total motile sperm count < 5.106) (SOA) and compared it to 20 men with normal semen parameters, with a standardized approach of targeted and quantitative metabolomics using high‐performance liquid chromatography, coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, and the Biocrates Absolute IDQ p180 kit. Results: Among the 188 metabolites analyzed, 110 were accurately measured in the seminal plasma. A robust model discriminating the two populations (Q2(cum) = 55.2%) was obtained by OPLS‐DA (orthogonal partial least‐squares discriminant analysis), based on the drop in concentrations of 37 metabolites with a VIP (variable important for projection) greater than 1. Overall, in men with SOA, there was a significant decrease in: 17 phosphatidylcholines and four sphingomyelins; acylcarnitines, with free L‐carnitine being the most discriminating metabolite; polyunsaturated fatty acids; six amino acids (glutamate, aspartate, methionine, tryptophan, proline, and alanine); and four biogenic amines (spermine, spermidine, serotonin, and alpha‐aminoadipate). Discussion: Our signature includes several metabolic changes with different impacts on the sperm quality: a change in phospholipid composition and the saturation of their fatty acids that is potentially linked to the deterioration of sperm membranes; a carnitine deficiency that can negatively impact the energy production via fatty acid oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation; and a decreased level of amino acids and biogenic amines that can lead to dysregulated metabolic and signaling pathways. Conclusion: We provide a global overview of the metabolic defects contributing to the structural and functional alteration of spermatozoa in severe oligoasthenospermia. These findings offer new insights into the pathophysiology of male factor infertility that could help to develop future specific treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate reproductive outcomes of artificial insemination and IVF with donor sperm (AID or IVF-D) for male-factor couples with a history of unsuccessful ICSI attempt. Methods: This retrospective cohort includes couples with severe male-factor infertility who failed ICSI treatment, and subsequently underwent semen donation treatment. We report the following outcomes: (1) live birth rates in AID and IVF-D treatment for couples with severe male infertility factors and prior ICSI failures; (2) paternal impact on embryo development of the same oocyte cohort; (3) prognostic factors in obtaining a live birth with donor semen. Results: Of 92 women with failed ICSI cycles (26 with multiple attempts), 45 couples underwent AID treatment. Live birth rate per cycle of AID was 18.9%. Fifty-three patients underwent IVF-D including 6 couples who previously did not conceive with AID. Embryological outcomes including fertilization, viable cleavage embryos, and blastocyst formation rates were significantly lower in ICSI cycles with partner sperm compared with IVF-D (P < 0.01). Logistic regression analysis showed that female age and the severity of spermatogenetic disorder are prognostic factors in obtaining a live birth with donated sperm. Conclusion: Couples with severe male infertility factor (azoospermia or extreme oligoasthenospermia) and a history of unsuccessful ICSI cycles benefit from treating with donor sperm. ICSI fertilization, embryo viability, and progression of the embryo to the blastocyst stage are significantly deteriorated by semen parameters. The prognostic factors identified may help couples plan their treatment and prepare for their parenthood journey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the effect of nontense vaginal hydrocele in male partner with oligoasthenospermia on the success rates of the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Patients and Methods: Enrolled patients (n = 60) were divided into two groups: Group I who have oligoasthenospermia with nontense vaginal hydrocele (study group) and Group II who have oligoasthenospermia with no hydrocele group (control group). The primary outcomes included the fertilization and pregnancy rates whereas the secondary outcomes included any complications occurred. Results: There were no differences in demographic characteristics between both groups. Semen parameters were poorer in the hydrocele group than in the nonhydrocele group regarding count and motility (P < 0.001). The volume of testis was reduced significantly in the hydrocele group (P < 0.001). The results of ICSI regarding fertilization rate, number and quality of developed embryos, and pregnancy rates are not statistically different between both groups. Conclusion: Hydrocele affects both sperm count and motility, but it has no effects on ICSI outcomes. Clinical pregnancy rate was comparable in patients with or without hydrocele. Hence, the surgical management of hydrocele before ICSI is not recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effect of total flavonoids of Cuscuta chinensis (TFCC) on oxidative stress injury in testis and epididymis, and serum levels of reproductive hormones in an oligoasthenospermia (OAS) mice model. Methods: Thirty male Wistar mice were randomly assigned to three groups of 10 mice each: control group, OAS group and TFCC group. With the exception of control group, OAS was orally induced in the mice with ornidazole. The TFCC group received TFCC. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined. Serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone were also measured. Results: The levels of ROS and MDA in the testis and epididymis significantly increased in OAS group, when compared to control mice (p < 0.05). However, TFCC administration significantly reduced their levels in these tissues (p < 0.05). In contrast, SOD activity significantly decreased in the testis and epididymis of mice in OAS group, relative to control group, but increased significantly after TFCC exposure (p < 0.05). Serum FSH and LH were markedly elevated in OAS group, but treatment with TFCC significantly reduced the levels of these hormones (p < 0.05). Conclusion: These results suggest that TFCC effectively improves sperm quality and reduces oxidative damage in testis and epididymis of mice with oligoasthenospermia via a mechanism involving the regulation of serum levels of reproductive hormones. Thus, TFCC may be useful in the treatment of oligoasthenospermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is classified as an elective dysmetabolic thesaurotic pneumoalveolitis and characterized by the presence within the alveoli of the lungs of myriad of tiny calculi. The classic presentation of the chest radiography is unmistakable with multiple small "sand-like" opacities diffusely involving both lung fields. We present a case of male infertility for hypoposia and severe oligoasthenospermia in a young patient with recurrent haematuria and small calcifications in the seminal vesicles similar to pulmonary microliths. PAM was diagnosed on routine chest radiography, com- puter tomography (CT), transbronchial biopsy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL).

Background: Tong Jing Yi Hao Formula (TJYHF) is a Traditional Chinese medicine used for oligoasthenospermia (OAS) treatment. However, the role of TJYHF against OAS is unclear. This study was an initial attempt to solve this problem., Methods: Rats were randomly allocated to normal, ornidazole (Orn), levocarnitine (450 mg/kg), low-dose TJYHF (6.5 g/kg) and high-dose TJYHF (26 g/kg) groups, each consisting of six rats. Oral administration of Orn (400 mg/kg) for 4 weeks was used to induce OAS, followed by oral doses of the respective drugs for an additional 4 weeks. Parameters, including the testicular index, epididymis index, testicular volume, sperm parameters, sex hormone levels, histological changes and markers of oxidative stress, were evaluated to assess the effects of treatment. The potential mechanism involved in the therapeutic effects of TJYHF was studied by evaluating the activity and expression levels of key molecules within the reactive oxygen species (ROS)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) pathway., Results: Compared with healthy rats, the Orn-induced rats demonstrated decreases in testicular index, epididymis index, testicular volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, percentage of forwarding sperm motility, total sperm motility, testosterone, spermatogenic epithelium, reproductive cell, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione and increases in sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation index, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and malondialdehyde. In the testicles, an enhancement in the ROS level and phosphorylation levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38) was observed after Orn challenge. Moreover, the protein expression levels and immunostaining intensity of p38 and HIF-1α increased, indicating the activation of the ROS/MAPK/HIF-1 pathway. All of the aforementioned changes exhibited statistical significance ( p < 0.01). Compared with Orn-induced rats, TJYHF effectively rescued the Orn-induced aforementioned disorders. Mechanistically, TJYHF suppressed the ROS level and ERK1/2, JNK and p38 phosphorylation levels. Besides, it reduced the protein expression levels and immunostaining intensity of p38 and HIF-1α, demonstrating the inactivation of the ROS/MAPK/HIF-1 pathway. Notably, the aforementioned enhancements demonstrated statistical significance ( p < 0.01)., Conclusions: TJYHF exerted a beneficial effect on reproductive function in OAS rats through the inhibition of the ROS/MAPK/HIF-1 pathway., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2023 The Author(s).)

Abstract: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a micronutrient supplementation (MS) combined with avanafil on sperm function. Oligoasthenospermic men (n = 217) were treated daily for 90 days with either an MS (45 men, Group A), l‐carnitine (44 men, Group B), MS plus avanafil (43 men, Group C) or avanafil (43 men, Group D); another group of 42 men with oligoasthenospermia (Group E) received no treatment. Sperm parameters were evaluated before and after the end of treatment in each Group A, B, C and D respectively. The same sperm parameters were measured in each participant of Group E before and at the 90‐day experimental period. Within Groups A, C or D, the total percentage of motile spermatozoa, the hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST) result and the percentage of hyperactivated spermatozoa after incubation under conditions known to induce sperm capacitation were significantly greater after MS or MS plus avanafil treatment, or avanafil treatment than before the respective treatment. We suggest that MS or MS plus avanafil combined administration or avanafil alone improves sperm membrane permeability with an overall result improvement in sperm motility, outcome of HOST and increase in the percentage of hyperactivated spermatozoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that HE4 cancer biomarker promoted cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth in mouse xenograft models. Interestingly, HE4 levels are significantly increased in the seminal plasma of oligoasthenospermia patients, raising a question on HE4 role(s) in spermatogenesis. We constructed an HE4 overexpression mouse model (HE4-OE), and observed that HE4-OE male adult mice had small testes, low sperm counts, and elevated serum/testis testosterone levels. These mice exhibited disorganized seminiferous tubules and impaired spermatogenesis. HE4 overexpression concentrated in Leydig cells, and these cells had hyperplasia and increased testosterone biosynthesis. Mechanistic studies indicated that the impaired spermatogenesis was likely caused by a local and direct action of HE4 in the testis rather than by a hypothalamus/pituitary-initiated dysregulation. The new findings reveal a novel HE4 function in male reproductive system, and suggest the existence of a subtype of primary oligoasthenospermia characterized by HE4 overexpression, Leydig cell hyperplasia, and elevated testosterone levels. • Oligoasthenospermia patients exhibit increased levels of HE4 in seminal plasma. • Transgenic mice overexpressing HE4 have small testes, low sperm counts, and elevated serum/testis testosterone levels. • HE4 overexpressing mice exhibit disorganized seminiferous tubules, impaired spermatogenesis, and Leydig cell hyperplasia. • There might be a subtype of primary oligoasthenospermia manifesting as HE4 overexpression and Leydig cell hyperplasia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qilin pill has been used in the management of oligoasthenospermia. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of Qilin pill as an adjunctive therapy on semen parameters in oligoasthenospermic men. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, CNKI, and VIP databases until June 2016. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated Qilin pill as an adjunctive therapy in oligoasthenospermic were included. Dichotomous data and continuous data were calculated as the risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) with their 95% confidence interval (CI), respectively. Eight RCTs involving 778 patients were identified. Adjunctive treatment with Qilin pill significantly improved the semen volume (MD 0.50 mL; 95% CI 0.42-0.59), sperm concentration (MD 5.01 × 106 /mL; 95% CI 3.28-6.75), sperm motility (MD 7.54%; 95% CI 5.64-9.45), grade A sperm (MD 9.75%; 95% CI 4.05-15.45), serum testosterone level (MD 1.66 nM; 95% CI 0.40-2.92), and pregnancy rate (RR 1.46; 95% CI 1.08-1.99) during follow-up. However, differences in the serum follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormone levels were not significant. Adjunctive treatment with Qilin pill significantly improves the sperm quality in patients with oligoasthenospermia. However, further trials are necessary to investigate the efficacy of Qilin pill on oligoasthenospermia-induced male infertility. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wuzi-Yanzong-Wan (WZYZW) is a classic Chinese herbal preparation, which has a significant clinical efficacy in tonifying the kidney and benefiting the sperm, and is widely used in the treatment of oligoasthenospermia with a long history. TAp73 inhibition results in the decrease of sperm quality, but the therapeutic mechanism of WZYZW on oligoasthenospermia caused by TAp73 gene inhibition remains elusive. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether TAp73 suppression leads to oligoasthenospermia and the application of WZYZW treatment in condition of TAp73 suppression. C57BL/6 male mice were injected with Pifithrin-α (2.5 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for 30 days to induce TAp73 suppression model, with WZYZW at 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 g/kg were administrated in parallel. The blood, testis and epididymis were collected, with organ coefficient calculated. Makler sperm counter was used to analyze the density, motility, survival and malformation rate of sperm. Apoptosis of sperm was analyzed by flow cytometry. Serum hormone levels were determined using ELISA. HE staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to observe histopathological changes of testis in blood-testis barrier (BTB), ectoplasmic specialization (ES) and other cell junctions. Expressions of cell adhesion factors including TAp73, Integrin-α6, N-cadherin, Nectin-2 and Occludin were determined by RT-PCR and western blotting. Compared to control mice, TAp73 inhibition dramatically decreased the epididymal coefficient, sperm quality, and serum testosterone (T) level, while increasing apoptosis in sperm in mice. HE staining and TEM showed that the tight junction (TJ) and apical ES structure were seriously abnormal in the testis in mice with TAp73 inhibition. Additionally, the expression of Occludin protein was elevated, while that of TAp73, Integrin-α6, N-cadherin, and Nectin-2 reduced in model mice. WZYZW treatment ameliorated testicular spermatogenic dysfunctions in TAp73 suppressed mice, restoring the decreased sperm quality, serum T level and testicular histopathological changes of TJ and ES, as well as decreasing sperm malformation rate and apoptosis. Moreover, WZYZW reversed the expressions of Occludin, TAp73, Integrin-α6, N-cadherin and Nectin-2 in TAp73 suppressed mice. By impairing spermatogenesis and maturation, TAp73 inhibition led to oligoasthenospermia in mice. WZYZW could rescue the oligoasthenospermia associated with TAp73 inhibition via affecting the dynamic remodeling of cellular junctions in testicular tissues in mice. [Display omitted] • Effects of WZYZW on sperm quality, hormone levels and testis tissue in TAp73 inhibition model mice. • WZYZW significantly improved cellular junctions in testicular tissue in TAp73 suppressed mice. • WZYZW significantly upregulated TAp73, Integrin-α6, N-cadherin, Nectin-2 and downregulated Occludin gene and protein expressions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spermatogenesis is a highly specialized cell differentiation process regulated by the testicular microenvironment. During the process of spermatogenesis, phagocytosis performs an essential role in male germ cell development, and its dysfunction in the testis can cause reproduction defects. MerTK, as a critical protein of phagocytosis, facilitates the removal of apoptotic substrates from the retina and ovaries through cooperation with several phagocytosis receptors. However, its role in mammalian spermatogenesis remains undefined. Here, we found that 30-week-old MerTK−/− male mice developed oligoasthenospermia due to abnormal spermatogenesis. These mice showed damaged seminiferous tubule structure, as well as altered spermatogonia proliferation and differentiation. We also found that Sertoli cells from MerTK−/− mice had decreased phagocytic activity on apoptotic germ cells in vitro. Moreover, a transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that the pivotal genes involved in spermatid differentiation and development changed expression. These results indicate that MerTK is crucial for spermatogenesis, as it regulates the crosstalk between germ cells and Sertoli cells. This provides us insight into the molecular mechanism of MerTK on spermatogenesis and its implications for the diagnosis and treatment of human male infertility. [Display omitted] • MerTK-deficient mice showed severe oligoasthenospermia in an age-dependent way. • Loss of MerTK disrupts spermatogonia and spermatids development. • MerTK enables Sertoli cells to recognize and phagocytosis on apoptotic germ cells. • MerTK regulates expression of genes involved in the process of spermatogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Myo-inositol (MI) is a precursor for the synthesis of phosphatidylinositol polyphosphates (PIPs). The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of its administration on semen parameters of male patients undergoing anin vitrofertilization cycles. Methods:In vivostudy. Samples were semen of 62 patients divided into three different groups: healthy fertile patients (Group A); patients with oligoasthenospermia (OA) (Group B); control group (CTR). The collected samples were analyzed by optic microscopy in order to evaluate semen’s volume, spermatozoa’s number and motility before and after density-gradient separation method. These parameters were evaluated before and after administration of 4000 mg/die of MI and 400 µg of folic acid for 2 months. The results were analyzed statistically with Student'st-test. Results: After treatment there was a significant increase of basal and after density-gradient separation method spermatozoa concentration in Group B, and a significant increase of spermatozoa count after density-gradient separation method in Group A. The motility values were higher in healthy men than patients with OA before treatment, but there was no improvement in both groups after treatment. Conclusions: Exogenous administration of MI significantly improves semen’s parameters both in patients with OA and in normal fertile men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oligoasthenospermia (OAZ) is the most common element contributing to male infertility. However, the etiology of OAZ remains unknown in the majority of cases. Growing evidence indicates that exosomal circular (circ)RNAs may exhibit potential as biological markers for the detection of various disorders. The available information on exosomes derived from seminal plasma is limited. The present study investigated the composition and role of circRNAs in exosomes isolated from seminal plasma of patients with OAZ. Exosomes were isolated from the seminal plasma of 12 patients with OAZ and 12 matched healthy controls. Thereafter, RNA sequencing was performed using exosomes from both groups to identify circRNAs associated with OAZ. The sequencing data revealed a total of 14,991 circRNAs. Among these, 7,635 were upregulated and 7,356 were downregulated in patients with OAZ. Gene Ontology functional enrichment analysis revealed that the differentially expressed exosomal circRNAs were primarily enriched in 'protein binding', 'intracellular organelles' and 'cellular metabolism'. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis revealed that the differentially expressed exosomal circRNAs were enriched in 'ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis', 'endocytosis' and 'RNA transport', which are involved in spermatogenesis-related pathways. Then seven differentially expressed circRNAs were predicted and validated as putative upstream targets and their target genes also were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. CircRNA-microRNA-mRNA network was constructed to predict their potential functions. The findings provide a preliminary foundation for identifying the potential diagnostic value of critical exosomal circRNAs involved in OAZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Infertility is a common condition with important psychological، economic، demographic، and medical implications. Demand for infertility services has grown substantially even though the prevalence of infertility has been stable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effect of single dose of sildenafil on seminal parameters in young، infertile patients with oligoasthenospermia. Subjects and Methods: Twelve young، infertile men with oligoasthenospermia from an academic hospital as well as a male infertility center and clinical andrology laboratories were enrolled in to this study. A single dose of sildenafil (50 mg) administered and the semen samples were collected 1 hour after treatment. Changes in sperm parameters evaluated after sildenafil administration، compared with the basal conditions. Result: Sperm progressive motility improved (median value، 32.7 % vs. 28.2%) 1 hour after the administration of 50mg sildenafil as well as semen pH (median value 7.82 vs 7.94). No significant changes in sperm morphology، total sperm motility، rapid progressive sperm motility، semen volume and sperm concentration after sildenafil treatment. Conclusion: The data suggest that single dose of Sildenafil causes improvement in sperm progressive motility in patients with oligoasthenospermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is believed to be both the source and target of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mtDNA genetic alterations have been reported to be associated with molecular defects in the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) system. In order to investigate the potentially susceptible mtDNA genetic variants to oligoasthenospermia, we conducted a two-stage study in 921 idiopathic infertile men with oligoasthenospermia and 766 healthy controls using comprehensive molecular analysis. In the screen stage, we used next generation sequencing (NGS) in 233 cases and 233 controls to screen oligoasthenospermia susceptible mitochondrial genetic variants. In total, seven variants (C5601T, T12338C, A12361G, G13928C, A15235G, C16179T and G16291A) were screened to be potentially associated with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia. In the validation stage, we replicated these variants in 688 cases and 533 healthy controls using SNPscan. Our results demonstrated that the genetic alteration of C16179T was associated with idiopathic male infertility (odds ratio (OR) 3.10, 95% CI 1.41–6.79) ( p = 3.10 × 10 − 3 ). To elucidate the exact role of the genetic variants in spermatogenesis, two main sperm parameters (sperm count and motility) were taken into account. We found that C16179T was associated with both low sperm count and motility, with ORs of 4.18 (95% CI 1.86–9.40) ( p = 1.90 × 10 − 4 ) and 3.17 (95% CI 1.40–7.16) ( p = 3.50 × 10 − 3 ), respectively. Additionally, A12361G was found to be associated with low sperm count, with an OR of 3.30 (95% CI 1.36–8.04) ( p = 5.50 × 10 − 3 ). These results indicated that C16179T influenced both the process of spermatogenesis and sperm motility, while A12361G may just only participate in the process of spermatogenesis. Further investigation in larger populations and functional characterizations are needed to validate our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] To discuss the effects of mango seed kernels on mice with kidney-Yang deficiency and oligoasthenospermia. [Methods] Mice model with kindey-Yang deficiency was established by intramuscular hydrocortisone, so as to observe the effects of mango seed kernels on swimming time, viscera index and freeze resistance capability of mice with kindey-Yang deficiency. The mice model with oligoasthenospermia was established by administration of tripterygium glycosides, so as to observe the effects of mango seed kernels on sperm quality of mice with oligoasthenospermia. [Results] Mango seed kernels could improve the swimming time, viscera index and freeze resistance capability of mice with kindey-Yang deficiency. Besides, mango seed kernels could enhance the sperm density, sperm survival rate, sperm motility, and reduce the malformation rate of mice with oligoasthenospermia. [Conclusions] Mango seed kernels had the function of tonifying kidney-Yang and showed certain therapeutical effects on oligoasthenotspermia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) is classified as an elective dysmetabolic thesaurotic pneumoalveolitis and characterized by the presence within the alveoli of the lungs of myriad of tiny calculi. The classic presentation of the chest radiography is unmistakable with multiple small "sand-like" opacities diffusely involving both lung fields. We present a case of male infertility for hypoposia and severe oligoasthenospermia in a young patient with recurrent haematuria and small calcifications in the seminal vesicles similar to pulmonary microliths. PAM was diagnosed on routine chest radiography, computer tomography (CT), transbronchial biopsy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Male infertility refers to a male's inability to cause pregnancy in a fertile female. It seems the large portion of this category of infertility, has roots in genetic factors. PROTAMINE family is one of the most important genes which are involved in male factor infertility. Hence, the aim of this study is to evaluate PROTAMINE1 and PROTAMINE2 (P1 and P2) genes expression in oligoasthenospermic individuals and intrauterine insemination (IUI) candidate couples' sperms. Materials and Methods: Samples were gathered from the patients referred to the Isfahan Infertility Center of Shahid Beheshti, 80 semen samples were in IUI candidates groups and 16 semen samples were in oligoasthenospermia group was collected. The outcome of IUI procedure was followed up after 14 days. Through these samples, 16 couples achieved pregnancy (IUI+) and from the top of the list, 16 semen samples with negative β-HCG were obtained (IUI−). After RNA extraction from sperms, PROTAMINE genes family expression was evaluated in our three groups by real time-reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Results: Our study revealed that P1 gene expression has no significant differences between IUI−, IUI+, and oligoasthenospermia groups, whereas P2 gene expression showed significant differences between oligoasthenospermia with two IUI groups. Main sperm parameters have no significant differences between IUI groups. Conclusion: This study reveals P1 and P2 genes expression value have no significant differences between IUI− and IUI+. On the other hand, P2 gene expression value has significant differences between oligoasthenospermia with two IUI groups.