The ‘-ics’ of male reproduction: genomics, epigenetics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics

Abstract

Purpose of reviewTo review the most current findings, from the past 2 years, in various ‘-ics’ fields in male infertility, with a specific focus on nonobstructive azoospermia, the most severe form, and varicocele, the most common correctable cause of male infertility.Recent findingsRecent studies confirm previously identified causes and identify previously unknown genetic mutations as causes for nonobstructive azoospermia and varicocele.SummaryInfertility is a common problem for couples with approximately half of cases attributable to male factor infertility. Although advances in assisted reproductive technology have permitted many more men with infertility to father biological children, the majority of infertile men continue to have unknown causes. The recent explosion of the ‘-ics’ fields, including genomics, epigenetics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics, has shed light on previously unknown causes for various diseases. New information in these fields will not only shed light on the pathogenesis of these conditions but also may shift the paradigm in clinical testing that may allow clinicians to provide more precise counseling and prognostic information for men with infertility.

The Evolving Landscape of Male Varicocele Pathophysiology in the Era of Multi-Omics: A Narrative Review of the Current Literature

“…The next-generation omics advances (proteomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, etc.) have begun to provide insight into understanding the pathophysiology of infertility associated with varicoceles [13]. These studies have identified numerous molecular changes in men with varicoceles, including regional hypomethylation or reduced expression of spermatogenesis-related proteins, which may reduce sperm viability and negatively impact fertility [14].…”