Hyperviscous Semen Causes Poor Sperm Quality and Male Infertility through Induction of Oxidative Stress

Abstract

Background/Aims: Semen hyperviscosity (SHV) is one of the significant factors involved in poor semen quality and male infertility. It also leads major problems during assisted reproduction techniques and in vitro fertilization process. Although influence of SHV on sperm quality, fertilization rate and male infertility have been widely considered, molecular and cellular mechanisms for these abnormalities are not well understood. In this review, we aimed to discuss the proposed cellular and molecular mechanisms of SHV on male reproductive system, the importance of oxidative stress (OS) and the mechanisms by which SHV induces OS and impairment of other antioxidants. Methods: A PubMed/Medline and EM-BASE search was performed using keywords: “hyperviscosity semen”, “oxidative stress”, and “male infertility”. Conclusion: OS induced by reactive oxygen species can be considered as a major mechanism in patients with hyperviscosity semen that is associated with DNA fragmentation, lipid peroxida-tion and sperm membrane disintegrity, apoptosis, depletion of antioxidants, and subsequently poor sperm quality and male infertility. Therefore, antioxidant therapy may improve main pathological effects of hyperviscosity semen, especially oxidative damages and inflammation, on sperm quality and function. Further, randomized controlled studies are necessary to confirm these results and make a comparison between effects of various antioxidants such as N-acethyl-cysteine and Curcumin on fertility problem in patients with hyperviscous semen.

The Relationship between Seminal Fluid Hyperviscosity and Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review

“…It has been reported that seminal fluid hyperviscosity, which is characterized by a thick and coagulated appearance, occurs in 12-29% of ejaculates [12]. A retrospective study conducted by Elia et al [13] reported that hyperviscosity occurs in 26.2% of male partners of infertile couples [13].…”

“…Leukocytes can also have an important role in the development of hyperviscosity [12]. Patients with higher seminal fluid viscosity have increased concentrations of leukocytes compared to patients with normal viscous semen.…”

“…Interestingly, some studies have reported a correlation between hyperviscosity and oxidative stress [12]. Seminal fluid hyperviscosity leads also to low levels of seminal plasma fructose, ascorbic acid, calcium, and zinc.…”

“…Seminal fluid hyperviscosity leads also to low levels of seminal plasma fructose, ascorbic acid, calcium, and zinc. Fructose and ascorbic acid are mainly produced by the seminal vesicles, whereas calcium and zinc are biomarkers of prostatic activity [12]. These trace elements are important for spermatogenesis, energy production, defence against ROS, and the fertilization process [12].…”

Diagnostic value of routine semen analysis in clinical andrology

“…The ejaculate may also appear in red-brown nuances due to the presence of erythrocytes (haematospermia), while a yellowish colour could be due to liver diseases or consumption of certain vitamins/drugs. (Harchegani, Rahmani, Tahmasbpour, & Shahriary, 2019). Furthermore, infection and inflammation of accessory glands are also associated with semen hyperviscosity (Elia et al, 2009).…”