Level of Elements Present in Normal Human Seminal Plasma: A Study and Review

Abstract

Childlessness remains as a problem with the couple who suffer and they are psychologically and socially very much disturbed Husband, wife or both are likely to be responsible for infertility. Male infertility is on rise world over. Many group of workers are on this study now. Detailed study on semen shall give the exact clue to male fertility status. Other than semen parameters, the biochemistry of semen secured attention of several group of workers. Knowledge in inorganic chemistry of semen limited. Similar studies are in progress at different parts of the world. It is now known increase or decrease of some elements in semen lead to changes in sperm motility or semen quality. In relation to this, we tried to understand more about elements in semen. Considering electrolytes and metals are important for cell functions, few workers are involved in inorganic chemistry of semen study. The present study will improve the existing knowledge on elements in semen. Semen samples were supplied by 10 young, normal, healthy men. Samples were collected after maintaining an abstinence of five days. Collection was done around 9 am to exclude any chrono biological influence. From each sample, seminal plasma was separated at 1 and 3 hours and stored in deep freezer. After thawing and processing, samples were analyzed for elements in it using Inductively Couple Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICPMS). A total number of 28 elements were found in all samples. Their values differed between 1 and 3 hour, either more or less. Study concludes with supporting evidences showing the role of elements in sperm survival or function.